Toaru Majutsu no Index Painted prison chronicles

Life in prison had a handful of benefits.

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

It was, in a way, an introvert paradise.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Suddenly, Accelerator was touched and forcibly turned around.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The elegant lady placed a hand on her cheek.

"My my, is it so apparent?"

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

She eyed him carefully.

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

"HUH?!"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"QLIPOTH PUZZLE!"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Yes, I am afraid so"

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

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

(MEANWHILE)

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

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

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

It was the silence of death.

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

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

Someone screamed. Someone screamed in that distant darkness.

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

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

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

"Did you enjoy your little test journey?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But then...

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

"Let's do it again"

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

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

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

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

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

Almost like…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Touma broke into loud coughing fit, shakily standing up.

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

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

He wiped off the sweat of his brow.

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

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

"I-Index-san?"

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

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

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

Touma sighed, putting his hand over Index's head

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

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

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

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

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

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

Touma actually felt teary eyed for a moment.

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

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

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

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

*Growl*

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

"B-But still… can you give me food?"

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

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

Touma went on to prepare breakfast for the eagerly waiting nun

"By the way, where is Othinus?"

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

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

There was a notification sound.

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

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

But regardless…

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

"Touma? Is something wrong?"

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

"Touma! You can't just-"

And then he was gone.

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

(SOME TIME EARLIER)

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

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

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

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

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

"Oi! Small, Medium, and Large!"

Amazora, Kaibi, and Rikuri froze in their tracks.

"I am not small!"

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

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

"SHUT IT! FIRST ONE WHO LAUGHS WILL-"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Ka..."

"... mi..."

"...jou?!"

(...)

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

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

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

"I told you to can it!"

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

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

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

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

Accelerator groaned slightly, before answering

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

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

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

As for Last Order...

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

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

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

Meanwhile, couple of tables away...

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

Three girls looked at each other.

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

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

"Eeeeh? But wifey sounds cute..."

"Both of you, behave yourselves"

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

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

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

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

The sisters almost recoiled at the coldness of last words.

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

She sighed and put the teacup down.

"Forgive me for getting so sentimental"

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

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

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

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

Shiina looked in surprise at her panting son.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Ghhh?!"

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

"HELLO SAVIOUR'S MOTHER!"

Last Order pounced forward and embraced Shiina without embarrassment.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shiina nodded in understanding, before bowing apologetically.

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

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

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

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

"You are friends, right?"

"Yes"

"No"

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

"More like acquaintances..."

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

"More than once actually..."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Is everything alright with your friend?"

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

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

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

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

(SOME TIME LATER)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She smiled in approval, her cheeks reddening slightly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shiina smiled before walking back into living room.

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

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

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

To me in ten years from now,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Till I see me from your own eyes,

Kamijou Touma.

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

The meaning of its young sender was clear nonetheless.

"Gggggh..."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

He traced the paper with his fingers.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(10 MINUTES EARLIER, IN THE LIVING ROOM)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shiina motioned at Amazora.

"Come here, I will put those on you"

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

"There. That's all better"

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

Amazora smiled back at Shiina.

"Thank you, Shiina-san"

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

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

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

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

"Eh heh heh..."

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

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

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

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

Shiina sighed, putting her hand on the cheek.

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

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

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

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

To think of the sound of that...

Kamijou Amazora

Kamijou Kaibi

Kamijou Rikuri

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"What are we looking at?"

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

"Tatsu... gami?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shiina's arms shivered, almost unnoticeably.

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

"Yes? What is it?"

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

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

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

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

Shiina's looked back at the photos.

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

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

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

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

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

"What horrible people..." Rikuri whispered.

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

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

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

Shiina sighed, standing up and walking to the window

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

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

"Khhh..."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Touma-san..."

Touma walked to his mother and smiled.

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

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

Touma suddenly embraced Shiina, who looked down in surprise.

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

"Touma-san..."

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

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

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

"That's your phone, hero"

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

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

BZZZT!

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

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

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

"You took it? But why?"

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

"Again, WHY?!"

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

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

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

And with that, they left.

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

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

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

"... an excellent opportunity!"

"Wait, what?!"

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

"Wha-... but..."

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

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

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

1ST MEETING: MISAKA MIKOTO

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

"Yes, likewise, Shiina-san"

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

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

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

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

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

"Oh?"

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

"Friends? Just friends?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Oh no, is mama causing you problems?"

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

"H-Hwah?!"

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

Mikoto cringed and questioned in an apologetic tone.

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

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

(MEANWHILE, AT TOKYO UNIVERSITY, FACULTY OF MATHEMATICS)

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

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

(AND BACK...)

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

"Huh? WHAT?!"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2ND MEETING: HASAKO & MAIDONO

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Right..."

The machine started and started to ascend before...

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meanwhile, in the air, Shiina regained her breath

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

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

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

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

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

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

The girls looked at one another.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

POOF!

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

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

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

(SOME TIME LATER...)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"With respect..."

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

(LATER...)

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

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

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

"Environments?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(FLASHBACK)

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

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

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

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

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

THUMP!

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

"What happened? Did we crash into something?"

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

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

"Confirmed! We are being lifted up!"

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

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

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

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

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

Her finger began to make a circle in the air.

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

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

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

(BACK TO THE PRESENT)

"Ah, good times, good times"

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

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

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

"Do we intend to sunbath here?"

"Yes. We can talk while doing it"

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

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

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

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

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

POOF!

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

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

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