Shiage Hamazura begins as a Level 0 esper within Skill-Out, a group of powerless individuals opposing Academy City's hierarchy. Reluctantly assuming leadership after Komaba Ritoku's death, he abandons the group following a failed mission and a decisive defeat by Touma Kamijou, which challenges his worldview blaming higher-level espers. He subsequently joins the dark side organization Item, performing menial tasks like driving and information gathering. Significant development occurs when Takitsubo Rikou, a Level 4 esper and Item member, risks herself to protect him from the Level 5 esper Kakine Teitoku. This act challenges his belief that Level 0s are disposable and higher-level espers are inherently oppressive, forming a deep emotional bond with Takitsubo that becomes his primary motivation. During the Battle Royale arc, he rebels against Item's leader, Mugino Shizuri (the fourth-ranked Level 5), after she kills member Frenda Seivelun and displays willingness to sacrifice comrades. Despite having no esper abilities, he defeats Mugino through tactical ingenuity, exploiting her psychological state with improvised weapons and environmental hazards, establishing himself as an anomaly within Academy City's power structure. His development continues as he prioritizes protecting Takitsubo, who suffers from drug side effects. Fleeing Academy City during World War III to secure her medical treatment, he negotiates with hostile factions and uncovers the "Parameter List"—a confidential document revealing Academy City pre-determines esper potential, explaining his Level 0 status. This revelation resolves his lingering inferiority complex, allowing him to recognize his worth is defined by actions rather than external validation. Later, he demonstrates increased empathy and a broader sense of justice. He defends a Russian settlement from mercenaries, convinces the magician Acqua of the Back to value his life, and forgives Mugino, expressing a desire to reunite Item. His actions repeatedly disrupt the plans of Academy City's director, Aleister Crowley, highlighting his role as an unpredictable force. His skills include tactical analysis, weapon improvisation (e.g., creating compressed gas guns), security system hacking, proficiency with firearms and vehicles, and street-fighting prowess. These pragmatic abilities compensate for his lack of supernatural powers.