Maki found a spot on the bleachers, sitting beside Inumaki, Panda, and Yuta. They all watched intently as Hiro and Toudo prepared to face off.
Panda, his eyes fixed on the two combatants, said, "Toudo is one of Kyoto's prodigies. Hiro must be really strong if Gojo thinks this match will be interesting."
Yuta nodded in agreement. "It'll definitely be interesting. We've never actually seen Hiro train."
Maki chimed in, "That's because Gojo has been training him privately. He was thought to be the child of the prophecy, after all."
Panda's expression turned thoughtful. "So, Hiro must be a real prodigy if he's made significant progress in such a short time."
The group settled in to watch, the air thick with anticipation. The upcoming spar between Hiro and Toudo wasn't just a test of strength, but also a revealing moment for Hiro's true abilities and potential.
Gojo settled beside the group, his gaze fixed on Hiro and Toudo as they prepared for the match. "Not exactly," he said, responding to their earlier conversation. "I've had my suspicions for a while that Hiro wasn't the child of the prophecy."
Maki turned to him, curious. "How so?"
Gojo explained, "The prophecy spoke of a sorcerer with immense cursed energy, exceptional talent, and unparalleled destructive power. Hiro doesn't quite fit that description. His cursed energy isn't extraordinary, barely a class 3. His technique isn't particularly powerful, and he's not naturally talented in Jujutsu."
Yuta, puzzled, asked, "Then why, if he's not that strong, would you let him face Toudo?"
Gojo smiled, his eyes twinkling with admiration. "I never said Hiro was weak. While he may lack natural talent, he's an incredibly hard worker, almost to the point of madness. His training sessions would go on for hours, and he'd still continue with physical training long after we were done. His progress is a testament to his relentless effort. I've never met anyone who pushes themselves as hard as he does."
The group looked back at Hiro, a new understanding dawning on them. Hiro's journey at Jujutsu High wasn't just about raw power or talent; it was about determination, perseverance, and the sheer will to improve against all odds.
Continuing the scene:
---
Gojo leaned back, watching Hiro and Toudo with an analytical eye. "That being said, I don't necessarily think Hiro can beat Toudo," he mused.
Maki looked surprised. "Really? But with all his training and effort?"
Gojo nodded. "Effort and training are vital, but they don't always guarantee victory, especially against someone like Toudo, who's not only strong but also experienced."
Panda interjected, "But isn't it a bit risky? I mean, Toudo's known for his overwhelming strength."
Gojo's smile widened. "That's exactly why it's a good match. Hiro needs to understand the difference between hard work and actual combat experience. It's a valuable lesson."
Yuta, frowning slightly, added, "But what if Hiro gets seriously hurt? We've seen Toudo in action before."
Gojo's expression sobered. "That's a risk in any fight, but I trust Hiro's resilience. Besides, this will give him a clearer picture of where he stands."
Inumaki, who had been silent, simply uttered, "Tuna."
Everyone chuckled, easing the tension slightly. Gojo's gaze returned to the impending match. "This is more than just a fight. It's a learning experience for Hiro, a chance to gauge his own abilities and understand what it truly means to be a Jujutsu sorcerer."
Aoi Toudo watched intently as Hiro wrapped his hands with bandages. In his mind, he assessed his opponent. "Doesn't look particularly strong, a bit on the lean side, and his aura isn't exactly imposing," Toudo thought to himself.
Curious, Toudo called out, "Why the hand wraps? Preparing for a boxing match instead?"
Hiro, finishing up the last of the bandaging, looked up and replied, "Just a habit from my boxing days."
With his hands properly wrapped, Hiro then proceeded to remove his shirt, revealing his physique. Toudo couldn't hide his surprise as he took in the sight of Hiro's well-defined muscles, each one a testament to years of rigorous boxing training. His body was a landscape of strength and endurance, honed by countless hours in the gym.
Then, Toudo's eyes fell upon a prominent scar adorning Hiro's abdomen, a stark reminder of his recent encounter with Naoya. The scar added a layer of depth to Hiro's appearance, a physical manifestation of his resilience and his journey into the world of Jujutsu sorcery.
Toudo's initial assessment shifted. This wasn't just another first-year student; Hiro was a seasoned fighter with a history etched into his very skin. The upcoming spar suddenly seemed more intriguing to Toudo, as he realized that Hiro might just present a challenge he hadn't initially anticipated.
Mai settled into the seat behind Maki, her eyes still on Hiro. "I have to say, Hiro's more attractive than I thought," she commented casually, a hint of flirtation in her tone.
Maki, without turning to look at her sister, responded dryly, "Is that all you're thinking about right now?"
Mai leaned forward, resting her chin on the back of Maki's seat. "Can't help it. He's quite the sight, especially with that scar. Adds a bit of mystery, don't you think?"
Maki sighed, trying to focus on the impending match. "We're here to watch a fight, not to rate his attractiveness."
Mai chuckled softly. "Oh, come on, Maki. Even you have to admit, there's something about him. I've never seen you so flustered around anyone before."
Maki's cheeks colored slightly, but she kept her gaze fixed ahead. "I'm not flustered. I'm just... concerned about the match."
"Concerned, right," Mai teased, a playful smirk on her face. "Well, I'm just enjoying the view."
With a dramatic flourish, Toudo ripped off his shirt, revealing his own impressively sculpted physique. Hiro watched, perplexed. "Why'd he have to tear it off? Just taking it off normally would have been fine," he thought to himself.
Toudo, now shirtless, turned to Hiro and asked unexpectedly, "So, how do you like your girls?"
Hiro, taken aback by the sudden shift from preparation to personal questions, replied, "I've already answered that one." He pointed towards Maki in the stands and shouted, "I like them like Maki!"
Toudo chuckled at Hiro's declaration. "Poor taste, but at least you're not boring," he said with a grin.
Hiro, not missing a beat, retorted, "Maybe, but unlike you, I'm handsome."
The tension in the air was palpable as Hiro and Toudo faced off, their gazes locked in a silent challenge. The spectators leaned forward, their attention riveted on the two combatants.
Without warning, Hiro lunged forward, throwing a punch with the speed and precision honed from his boxing days. Toudo, with his exceptional reflexes, dodged effortlessly, a smirk playing on his lips.
But Hiro's move was a feint, a clever ruse. As Toudo dodged, Hiro followed up with a swift and powerful uppercut. The punch connected, but Toudo barely seemed phased by the impact, absorbing the blow with a surprising ease.
"Not bad," Toudo commented, still smiling. "But you'll have to do better than that."
Hiro, undeterred, responded with a series of quick jabs, each one aimed to test Toudo's defense. Toudo parried each attack, his movements fluid and confident.
The crowd watched in awe as the two fighters exchanged blows, their styles contrasting yet equally impressive. Hiro's boxing skills were evident in his footwork and punches, while Toudo's Jujutsu prowess allowed him to counter and maneuver with remarkable agility.
Toudo, seizing an opening, launched a counterattack, his movements a blur. Hiro managed to block the initial strikes, but Toudo's relentless assault pushed him back.
"Come on, Hiro! Is that all you've got?" Toudo taunted, pressing his advantage.
Hiro, breathing heavily, grinned despite the pressure. "Just getting started," he replied, readying himself for the next round of their intense battle.
Toudo, with a burst of energy, launched into a relentless assault, his strikes coming in fast and hard. Hiro, struggling to keep up, parried and dodged, but Toudo's experience and power were overwhelming. Each of Toudo's blows was a demonstration of his mastery, pushing Hiro to the brink.
Hiro tried to counter, but Toudo's fluid movements and precise strikes left little room for retaliation. With a swift combination of kicks and punches, Toudo sent Hiro reeling back, the force of the attacks evident in Hiro's staggered stance. The crowd gasped as Hiro struggled to maintain his footing.
Undaunted, Hiro attempted to regain his rhythm, throwing a series of jabs and crosses. However, Toudo's defense was impenetrable. He effortlessly dodged Hiro's punches, countering with devastating blows that landed with precision. Hiro's resilience was being tested to its limits.
Toudo, seizing an opening, landed a heavy blow to Hiro's side, sending him stumbling. The crowd winced as Hiro clenched his teeth, pain flashing across his face. Toudo's superiority in the fight was clear, his dominance over Hiro growing with each passing second.
But just as it seemed Hiro was on the verge of defeat, he found an opening. With a swift move, he delivered a powerful hook to Toudo's liver. The impact was immediate – Toudo doubled over in pain, a rare moment of vulnerability.
Hiro, panting, said through gritted teeth, "No matter how much you train, that spot's always vulnerable." He then added, "If that hurt, brace yourself, because I'm about to give you a real beating."
Suddenly, Hiro's demeanor changed. He muttered, "Cursed Technique: Manipulation of Cursed Energy." Electricity began to crackle and dance around his body, illuminating him with a fierce and wild energy. The air around him buzzed with the power of his cursed energy, now visible and potent.
The crowd watched in awe as Hiro's body became a conduit for the electric energy, his eyes reflecting the intensity of his newfound power. This was a side of Hiro they hadn't seen before – a testament to his dedication and the hidden depths of his abilities.
Toudo, recovering from the liver shot, looked up to see Hiro transformed, his interest piqued. "So, you've been holding back," he said, a grin spreading across his face.
The battle, already intense, escalated to new heights as Hiro, now charged with cursed energy, prepared to launch his counterattack. The clash between the two fighters was about to reach its climax, a showdown of raw power and skill.
Maki, watching Hiro's electrifying transformation, turned to Gojo. "What's Hiro's technique about?"
Gojo explained, "He manipulates cursed energy, converting it into different forms of energy, like electricity or fire. The technique has great potential as it offers a variety of applications. Right now, he can only use it to enhance his body with electricity."
On the field, Hiro's movements became a blur, his speed amplified by the coursing electricity. Toudo struggled to track him, his eyes straining to follow Hiro's rapid movements. Hiro landed a series of lightning-fast punches, each strike energized by his cursed energy.
Gojo continued, "Hiro's technique boosts his body's speed. It accelerates his cells, metabolism, and cognitive processes. It's a significant boost, but he's still far from reaching my speed or Naobito Zenin's."
Gojo smirked, "However, I wouldn't be surprised if he surpasses Naobito's speed in the future."
The fight between Hiro and Toudo intensified. Hiro, empowered by his cursed energy, darted around Toudo, delivering swift and powerful strikes. Toudo, adapting to Hiro's speed, began countering with strategic blocks and well-timed attacks.
Hiro's fists crackled with electric energy as he landed a punch to Toudo's torso, but Toudo retaliated with a strong kick, forcing Hiro to backpedal. The exchange was a mesmerizing dance of attack and defense, showcasing both fighters' skills.
Toudo, now anticipating Hiro's movements, managed to grab his arm during a strike, using Hiro's momentum to throw him off balance. Hiro, however, twisted mid-air and landed on his feet, the electricity around him sparking more intensely.
The crowd was captivated by the display of power and technique. It was clear that this was no longer just a spar; it was a battle of wills, a testament to the fighters' resolve and strength. Each movement, each strike, was a display of their growing prowess in the world of Jujutsu sorcery.
Hiro, facing Toudo squarely, declared, "I prefer a direct exchange of blows." The air around them crackled with tension as they prepared for a more intense and physical bout.
The ensuing exchange was brutal and unrelenting. Hiro, empowered by his cursed energy, delivered a series of electrified punches. Each hit connected with a thud, reverberating through the air. Toudo, unfazed, countered with his own powerful strikes, his fists meeting Hiro's with equal force. Blood spattered with each collision, marking their bodies and the ground around them.
Hiro's punch landed squarely on Toudo's jaw, a spray of blood following the impact. Unyielding, Toudo returned with a crushing blow to Hiro's ribs, eliciting a sharp grunt of pain. The sound of flesh and bone meeting in violent confrontation filled the arena.
Both fighters, faces smeared with blood and sweat, reveled in the intensity of the fight. Hiro, his eyes alight with fervor, exclaimed, "This is what I'm looking for!"
Toudo, equally exhilarated, roared back, "This is fun!" He launched another fierce attack, his fists moving in a blur.
As the savage exchange continued, Gojo commented from the sidelines, "They're pushing each other to the limits. This is the kind of battle that forges true sorcerers."
Maki, watching intently, added, "Hiro's really holding his own. I didn't expect him to match Toudo blow for blow."
Mai, her eyes wide with excitement, said, "It's almost hard to watch, but I can't look away. They're incredible."
Hiro and Toudo continued to trade blows, neither willing to back down. The clash was more than just a test of physical strength; it was a demonstration of their indomitable spirits and unyielding determination. The air was thick with the raw energy of battle, each moment more intense than the last. The brutal exchange of punches and kicks was a testament to their prowess and an unforgettable display of the power of Jujutsu sorcery.
Toudo began to gain the upper hand, his blows landing with punishing precision. He unleashed a series of brutal punches to Hiro's face. Each impact was met with a sickening sound, as Hiro's head snapped back from the force. Blood streamed from his nose and a cut above his eye, painting his face red.
A particularly savage uppercut from Toudo sent Hiro staggering, his vision blurring. Hiro tried to guard, but Toudo's relentless assault broke through his defenses, pummeling him with blow after blow.
Finally, Hiro's legs gave out, and he collapsed to the ground, his body battered and bruised.
From the sidelines, Gojo observed, "He's pushed himself too far. Toudo's experience is overwhelming him."
Maki, concern etched on her face, said, "He's tough, but there's only so much punishment one person can take."
Against all odds, Hiro struggled to his feet, swaying unsteadily. Bloodied and beaten, he declared with a raspy voice, "I'm not done yet."
Toudo, acknowledging Hiro's resilience, launched another brutal attack. He delivered a flurry of blows to Hiro's torso, each one echoing through the silent arena. Hiro's attempts to retaliate were sluggish, his body no longer able to keep pace with his spirit.
With each punishing hit, Hiro's defenses weakened, his body inching closer to its limit. Toudo's fists were relentless, driving Hiro back with every strike. The spectacle was both awe-inspiring and harrowing, a display of the harsh realities of their world.
The onlookers watched with bated breath, witnessing the extraordinary determination and resilience that defined a Jujutsu sorcerer. Hiro's refusal to yield, even in the face of overwhelming odds, was a testament to his unbreakable will.
Toudo, pausing for a moment, acknowledged Hiro's unyielding spirit. "You've got guts, I'll give you that."
In a sudden burst of energy, Hiro retaliated. He landed a solid punch on Toudo's face, sending a spray of blood across Hiro's own battered features. Seizing the moment, Hiro unleashed a fierce combination of punches: a left hook to Toudo's jaw, followed by a swift uppercut, and then a right cross that landed squarely on Toudo's cheek.
The crowd gasped as Toudo stumbled backward, finally falling to the ground with a heavy thud.
Maki leaned forward, her eyes wide with admiration. "He's incredible. Even after taking such a beating, he's still fighting."
Gojo, watching intently, nodded. "Hiro's willpower is exceptional. He turns his desperation into strength."
Mai, observing the fight, remarked, "Looks like Hiro's more than just a pretty face. He's got real talent."
Toudo, getting back to his feet, wiped the blood from his mouth and grinned. "This is really fun!"
The battle continued, with Hiro now matching Toudo's intensity. Each exchange was a testament to their resilience and skill.
Maki watched Hiro, her fascination evident. His determination and strength, his will to match Toudo blow for blow, captivated her.
Yuta, sitting next to Maki, noticed her intense focus on Hiro. A twinge of something akin to jealousy flickered in his eyes, but he quickly masked it with a look of concentration on the fight.
Toudo, sensing an opportunity, shifted his focus to Hiro's legs, delivering a series of punishing kicks. "Boxers have weak legs," he taunted, his kicks landing with precision on Hiro's thighs.
Seizing the moment, Toudo closed the distance, grabbing Hiro around the waist. With a powerful heave, he executed a suplex, lifting Hiro and slamming him back-first onto the ground. The impact sent a shockwave through Hiro's body, leaving him momentarily dazed and gasping for air.
As Hiro lay on the ground, Toudo stood over him, remarking, "If you rely too much on boxing, you won't be able to use all your weapons. That makes you vulnerable."
Hiro, refusing to stay down, rolled away and pushed himself to his feet, wincing from the pain. As Toudo lunged for his legs, attempting another takedown, Hiro anticipated the move. He countered with a swift and powerful uppercut that caught Toudo off-guard. The force of the blow lifted Toudo off his feet, sending him crashing to the ground.
Panting, Hiro stood over Toudo and said, "Never underestimate the power of boxing."
Maki, watching the scene unfold, couldn't help but be impressed by Hiro's resilience and adaptability. Despite the odds, he was finding ways to use his boxing skills effectively against a seasoned Jujutsu fighter.
Gojo nodded in approval. "Hiro's learning to integrate his boxing with cursed techniques. That's the key to his growth."
Yuta, still watching Maki's reactions, felt a mix of admiration for Hiro's determination and a growing sense of rivalry. The fight was not just a physical battle but also a clash of styles and disciplines, with Hiro proving the effectiveness of his unique approach.
Hiro, breathing heavily from the intensity of the fight, declared, "Time to end this." He extended his finger towards the sky and called out, "Come forth, Lightning Dragon." The sky above began to roil as electricity gathered, forming a massive, crackling energy.
However, before Hiro could unleash his technique, Gojo swiftly intervened, placing himself between Hiro and Toudo. He wore a smile, but his tone was firm. "That's enough, Hiro."
Hiro, frustrated, started to protest, but Gojo cut him off. "You haven't mastered that technique yet. Plus, you're out of energy. Trying to use it now would only fry your brain."
Hiro, realizing the truth in Gojo's words, shrugged his shoulders in reluctant agreement.
Toudo, meanwhile, had gotten back to his feet, brushing the dust off himself. He looked at Hiro with a newfound respect and said, "That was an interesting fight."
As the dust settled from the interrupted showdown, Hiro, still exuding his characteristic arrogance despite the exhaustion, straightened up. "Well, I guess we'll never know who the real winner is," he said with a smirk.
Maki and Mai approached the two fighters, their expressions a mix of concern and admiration.
Maki, eyeing Hiro's battered form, said, "You really don't know when to quit, do you?"
Hiro shrugged nonchalantly. "Quitting's not in my nature. Besides, I was just getting started."
Mai, with a playful glint in her eye, teased, "Looks like you were about to get more than just started. That last move was something else."
Toudo, wiping sweat from his brow, chuckled. "He's got spirit, I'll give him that. It was a good match."
Hiro, turning to Maki, asked, "So, what do you think? Did I live up to your expectations?"
Maki, trying to maintain her usual stoic demeanor, couldn't hide a small smile. "Maybe a little," she admitted. "But don't let it get to your head."
Mai, watching the exchange between Hiro and Maki, added, "Seems like you've made quite the impression, Hiro."
Hiro, his confidence undiminished by the grueling spar, grinned. "Just doing what I do best."
Gakuganji and Tsuna stood at a distance, their eyes still fixed on the group of young sorcerers, with Hiro at the center. The aftermath of the intense spar lingered in the air, a testament to the passion and skill displayed.
Tsuna, her gaze thoughtful, turned to Gakuganji. "What do you make of Hiro Takashi?" she asked, her voice carrying a hint of curiosity.
Gakuganji, his expression contemplative, replied, "He's a unique case. Exceptionally strong-willed and determined. His approach to Jujutsu is unconventional, but it's effective."
Tsuna nodded slowly, her eyes still on Hiro. "He doesn't fit the prophecy, but he certainly has qualities that make him stand out. His resilience and adaptability are remarkable."
Gakuganji agreed, "Indeed. He may not be the child of the prophecy, but he possesses a rare kind of strength. It's not just physical; there's a depth to his character that's quite extraordinary."
Tsuna smiled faintly, "Perhaps it's his spirit and determination that will shape his path in ways we can't foresee."
Their conversation hinted at a growing interest in Hiro's potential, not just as a sorcerer but as an individual who might play a significant role in the world of Jujutsu. His journey was just beginning, and the paths it could take were as intriguing as they were unpredictable.
__________
The morning sun streamed through the windows, casting a warm, golden glow over Hiro's room. It was a beautiful, sunny day, perfect for what Hiro had been eagerly anticipating. Today was the day of his date with Maki, a promise made long ago on the wager that he would become the world boxing champion with a knockout - a bet he had won.
Hiro sprang out of bed, his energy palpable. He moved to his closet, selecting his outfit with care. He chose a crisp, clean shirt, making sure it was perfectly ironed, and paired it with a pair of stylish, well-fitted jeans. He wanted to look his best, knowing that first impressions mattered, especially on such a significant day.
In front of the mirror, Hiro took extra time styling his hair, ensuring every strand was in place. He splashed on a bit of cologne, not too much, just enough to add a touch of charm. His reflection in the mirror showed a young man not just excited for a date, but also proud of the journey he had taken to get to this moment.
With one last look in the mirror, Hiro nodded in satisfaction. He was ready to meet Maki, not just as a fellow Jujutsu sorcerer or a boxing champion, but as someone genuinely interested in spending time with her. Today wasn't just about fulfilling a bet; it was about taking a step forward in their evolving relationship.
Hiro, standing confidently in front of the mirror, admired his reflection with a satisfied grin. He adjusted his collar, gave his hair one final check, and chuckled to himself.
"Looking good, Hiro," he said to his reflection. "Maki's pretty lucky, huh? Not every day you get to go out with a world champion and a rising Jujutsu sorcerer."
He gave himself a final approving nod, his confidence evident in his posture. Hiro was no stranger to self-assurance, both in the ring and outside of it. Today, he felt particularly good about how he looked and the strides he had made in life.
"Alright, Hiro, let's make this a day to remember," he said to himself, his excitement for the day ahead clear in his eyes. With one last glance at his reflection, he turned and headed out, ready to meet Maki and enjoy what promised to be a memorable day.
Maki entered the common room, her appearance noticeably different from her usual attire. Instead of her typical practical clothes, she wore a casual yet stylish outfit, her hair neatly styled.
Panda, who was lounging in the room, looked up and did a double-take. "Wow, Maki, you look... different. What's the occasion?" he asked, a hint of curiosity in his voice.
Maki, slightly self-conscious but trying not to show it, replied, "I'm meeting Hiro. We're going out."
Panda's eyes widened in surprise. "A date with Hiro? That's unexpected. You two have been getting along better lately, huh?"
Maki shifted uncomfortably. "It's not a date. It's just... we made a bet a while ago, and I'm keeping my end of the deal."
Panda chuckled, "Sure, sure, just a bet. But you do know it's okay to call it a date, right?"
Maki rolled her eyes but couldn't hide a small smile. "Let's just drop it, Panda. I'm just going out, that's all."
Panda raised his hands in a gesture of surrender. "Alright, no more teasing. You two have fun."
Maki, with a quick nod, headed towards the exit. Despite her reluctance to admit it, there was a hint of excitement in her step, a subtle indication that this outing with Hiro meant more to her than just settling a bet.
Maki stepped out into the sunlit patio, where Hiro was already waiting for her. The sunlight caught in his blonde hair, making it shimmer, and his blue eyes sparkled even behind his sunglasses. He turned as he heard her approach, a grin spreading across his face.
"Wow, Maki, you look great!" Hiro exclaimed, clearly impressed.
Maki felt a flush of warmth at the compliment but tried to keep her composure. "Thanks. You don't look too bad yourself," she replied, allowing a small smile to show.
Hiro chuckled, "I had to make an effort, right? Can't have you thinking I'm not taking this seriously."
Maki nodded, a bit of amusement in her eyes. "So, where are we going? You haven't told me anything about what you've planned."
Hiro's grin widened, "It's a surprise. But I promise you'll like it. Trust me."
Maki raised an eyebrow but decided to go along with it. "Alright, I'll trust you. But you better impress me, Hiro."
Hiro offered his arm in a gentlemanly fashion. "Shall we then? Our adventure awaits."
Maki hesitated for a moment before accepting his arm. As they walked off together, there was a sense of anticipation in the air, the beginning of what promised to be an interesting and possibly revealing day for both of them.
___________
In the sweltering heat of the midday sun, a figure ascended the steps leading to the prestigious Jujutsu High School. Each step was deliberate, showcasing a sense of purpose and determination. Sweat trickled down his forehead, a testament to the intensity of the sun overhead.
His voice, deep and resonant, broke the silence. "The sun's at its peak," he murmured to himself, wiping the sweat from his brow with a swift, practiced motion.
He ran a hand through his hair, which was impeccably styled back, not a strand out of place despite the heat. His presence was commanding, his every move exuding confidence and strength.
Upon reaching the top of the stairs, he paused, taking a moment to survey his destination. The facade of Jujutsu High loomed before him, its imposing structure casting a long shadow.
Standing at the entrance was none other than Gojo Satoru, his eyes covered with his signature blindfold, a welcoming smile on his face.
"Welcome to Jujutsu High, Yamada," Gojo greeted him, his voice carrying a friendly, yet authoritative tone. "We've been expecting you."
Yamada, taking in the sight of the school and its famous instructor, nodded in acknowledgment. "Thank you," he replied, his voice steady. "I look forward to what lies ahead."
Inside a traditional Japanese-style room at Jujutsu High, Gojo and Yamada sat across from each other, a low table between them. The room was serene, with sliding doors open to a garden where the gentle rustling of leaves whispered in the breeze. Sunlight filtered through the paper screens, casting a soft, dappled light across the tatami floor.
They were having tea, the steaming cups emitting a fragrant aroma that filled the room with a sense of calm. Gojo, ever the gracious host, poured the tea with practiced ease, his movements fluid and precise.
As they sipped their tea, Gojo broached the topic of the prophecy. "There's been talk of a prophecy, and a diviner is interested in meeting you," he said, watching Yamada for any reaction.
Yamada remained composed, unfazed by the mention of the prophecy. He took a measured sip of his tea, savoring the warmth and flavor, then set his cup down with a quiet clink against the wooden table.
Gojo, intrigued by Yamada's stoicism, leaned forward slightly. "I'm curious about your cursed technique. What can you tell me about it?"
Yamada looked directly at Gojo, his expression still calm. "My technique is the manipulation of dark matter," he stated matter-of-factly. "It allows me to control and reshape the very fabric of darkness."
Gojo raised his eyebrows, impressed by the revelation. "Dark matter, that's quite a rare and powerful ability," he commented, his tone reflecting genuine interest.
Yamada nodded, a hint of pride in his eyes. "It's a technique that comes with its challenges, but I've learned to harness it effectively."
Yamada, setting his tea cup down, shifted the conversation. "How is life at the school? What can I expect from my fellow students?" he asked with a hint of curiosity.
Gojo leaned back, his expression turning thoughtful. "The first-year students are quite a unique bunch. There's Maki Zenin, strong-willed and skilled with weapons; Yuta Okkotsu, quiet but immensely powerful; Panda, an anomaly with a heart of gold; and Toge Inumaki, who communicates with onigiri ingredients but is potent with his cursed speech."
He paused, a smile playing on his lips. "And then there's the newest addition, Hiro Takashi, a world boxing champion with a knack for surprising everyone."
At the mention of Hiro, Yamada's interest visibly piqued. He leaned in slightly, his demeanor indicating more than just casual curiosity.
Gojo, noticing the change in Yamada's expression, asked, "Do you know him? Hiro Takashi?"
Yamada nodded slowly, a faint smile appearing. "Yes, Hiro and I are old friends. We grew up together. I heard about his success in boxing, but I didn't know he had joined the Jujutsu world."
Gojo's interest deepened. "That's quite a coincidence. Hiro's made quite the impact since he arrived. It seems like you'll have a lot to catch up on."
Yamada's eyes reflected a mixture of nostalgia and anticipation. "Indeed. It will be interesting to see how he has changed."
Yamada, intrigued by Gojo's description of Hiro, leaned forward slightly. "How strong would you say Hiro is in the grand scheme of things?" he inquired.
Gojo took a moment to contemplate before answering. "Well, we have Megumi Fushiguro, the Ten Shadows user; Yuta Okkotsu with Rika, a formidable pair; and of course, there's me with my Six Eyes. And let's not forget the child of the prophecy. Despite all that, I would bet that Hiro Takashi will be among the strongest, if not the strongest. He has the mindset for it."
Yamada smiled, a distant look in his eyes as he remembered something from the past. "Hiro always promised he'd be the strongest when we were kids," he said softly, more to himself than to Gojo.
Turning back to Gojo, Yamada's smile turned into a grin. "But he won't have it easy. I'm here now, and I plan to give him a run for his money."
Gojo, amused by Yamada's confident declaration, chuckled. "I'm sure Hiro will appreciate the challenge. It seems like Jujutsu High is about to get even more interesting with both of you here."
As Gojo and Yamada continued their conversation, the sliding door of the room quietly opened, and Principal Gakuganji entered, accompanied by the aged diviner. The atmosphere in the room shifted subtly, a sense of solemnity accompanying their arrival.
Gakuganji bowed slightly in greeting. "Apologies for the interruption, but it seems the time has come for our diviner to meet Yamada."
The diviner, her steps slow and measured, moved closer to Yamada, her eyes wise and perceptive. She reached out, her hand trembling slightly with age, and gently took Yamada's hand in hers. Closing her eyes, she seemed to concentrate deeply, her brow furrowing as she tapped into her powers.
Yamada watched her with a calm demeanor, patiently waiting as the diviner connected with his energy. The room fell silent, the only sounds being the faint rustling of leaves outside and the diviner's steady breaths.
A subtle energy filled the air, almost tangible, as the diviner delved into the depths of Yamada's spirit. Her face, lined with age and wisdom, remained composed, yet there was a flicker of something – curiosity, perhaps, or surprise – that crossed her features.
After a moment that felt like an eternity, the diviner opened her eyes, releasing Yamada's hand. She looked up at him, her expression inscrutable, yet there was a hint of recognition in her gaze.
Gojo, watching the scene unfold, asked, "Well? What do you see?"
The diviner remained silent for a moment, collecting her thoughts. The anticipation in the room was palpable as everyone awaited her response, the air charged with the potential of her revelation.
The diviner, Tsuna, looked directly at Yamada, her voice steady yet imbued with a sense of gravity. "You, Yamada, are the child of the prophecy."
Yamada's expression remained unchanged, betraying no surprise or emotion at the revelation. He simply nodded in acknowledgment, as if he had been expecting this all along.
Gojo, ever the one to lighten the mood, quipped, "Well, that sure spices things up. Jujutsu High never disappoints with its surprises."
Tsuna, having conveyed her message, turned to leave the room with Gakuganji. As they walked through the quiet hallways of the school, the diviner's expression turned contemplative.
In the dimming light of the late afternoon, Tsuna and Gakuganji made their way through the long, echoing hallway of Jujutsu High. The aging wood underfoot creaked softly with each step they took, adding a rhythmic undertone to their solemn procession. Shadows stretched across the floor from the setting sun, creating a dance of light and darkness that seemed almost symbolic of the conversation at hand.
The air was thick with a sense of ancient knowledge and secrets, the kind that lingered in the walls of such a storied institution. Tsuna's cane tapped gently against the wooden floor, punctuating the silence with a steady, almost hypnotic beat. Gakuganji, walking beside her, carried himself with a quiet dignity, his gaze fixed ahead, yet keenly aware of every word the diviner spoke.
As they reached the midpoint of the corridor, Tsuna paused, her eyes narrowing slightly as if focusing on a distant thought. The brief halt in their movement brought a heightened sense of anticipation, a silent recognition that her next words carried significant weight.
Finally, Tsuna spoke, her voice low and imbued with a gravity that filled the hallway. "In Yamada's heart..." she began, letting the words hang in the air for a moment, "...there lurks a hint of darkness."
The statement echoed softly in the hallway, its implications slowly sinking in. Gakuganji turned to her, his expression now etched with concern. "Darkness?" he echoed, the word seeming to carry the weight of a much deeper meaning.
"Yes," Tsuna confirmed, her gaze steady and serious. "His power and his destiny are intertwined with the prophecy, but so is the shadow within him. It's a subtle presence, yet undeniable. This will be a challenge, not just for Yamada himself, but also for those who guide him."
The pair resumed walking, their steps slow and measured as they continued down the hallway. The revelation about the darkness within Yamada added a layer of complexity to the prophecy and to his future at Jujutsu High. It was a reminder that power and destiny often came with their own trials and tribulations, a truth well understood within the walls of this ancient school.