Crouched low, I narrowly dodged a blow aimed directly at my ear. Immediately following, a sweeping left hook came my way, which I managed to block with my forearm. For a fleeting moment, we both paused, the dull thud of flesh meeting flesh echoing in the silence. After a brief second, the fight resumed, but this time, I seized the initiative. I caught my opponent's wrist, moving closer to attempt flipping him over my shoulder. However, he reacted swiftly, bending his knees and lowering his center of gravity, thus remaining firmly on the ground.
"Quick reflexes," I noted internally. It wasn't surprising that Sukuna's vessel showcased such impressive physical prowess, rivaling my own. The only drawback was his lack of experience, and that was precisely the reason for my presence.
Still grasping Yuji's wrist, I quickly twisted my body and delivered a sharp elbow to his side. The tactic worked flawlessly; he momentarily lost his focus, grimacing in pain. Seizing the opportunity, I moved behind him and performed a basic sweep, effectively throwing him off balance. As he fell, Yuji managed to roll, even attempting an upward kick to my chin. My reflexes, honed by a master who taught me through unpredictable and intricate methods, allowed me to lean back, narrowly evading his kick. Immediately, I countered by pinning one of his legs with my right foot and locking the other in a painful hold around the Achilles tendon.
My enhanced hearing picked up the sound of his muscles stretching to their limits, accompanied by a disturbing cracking noise.
"I give up! I give up!" Yuji conceded, tapping the ground with his palm in surrender.
"Not bad; you lasted just over ten minutes this time," I remarked, releasing him from the lock and standing up. "But you're still nowhere near my record with Sato..."
I was cut off mid-sentence by a sudden sweep. Instinctively, I leaped aside to dodge.
"It's good to see you embracing my teachings," I commended Yuji, smiling widely.
He muttered something under his breath as he started to get up, but I was quick to act, striking his shin sharply and throwing him off balance once more. A palm strike aimed at his chest came next, but to my surprise, he managed to block it. Determined, Yuji tried to pull me down along with him. His resolve was commendable, albeit futile. As my body angled parallel to the ground, I thrust my right leg forward and tensed my back muscles, preventing a fall onto Yuji.
A tense silence enveloped us—two figures frozen in an odd tableau: one on the ground gripping the other's collar, and the other balanced with one leg extended, poised at the shoulder level of the first.
Feeling the awkwardness between us, I opted for a headbutt to dissipate the tension. Yuji, caught off guard, grimaced as a sharp pain shot through his nose, and I could feel blood from his forehead trickling down onto mine.
"What's your forehead made of?!" Yuji exclaimed, pushing himself away with his feet and clutching his nose.
"I'm not that tough," I quipped, wiping the blood off my forehead with a sleeve already stained. "You haven't seen Maki in action... Forget I mentioned her."
"Maki?" The newcomer inquired, curiosity piqued.
"A classmate of mine. You'll be meeting her soon," I assured him.
"Really?! Am I finally getting a break?" Yuji's demeanor instantly brightened, radiating an almost puppy-like joy mixed with relief.
"And to think, I've only been training you for a week," I muttered, somewhat irritated. "But Satoru mentioned the 'exchange' event is approaching, so yes, you'll get your break."
"But it won't last long," I thought to myself, unable to suppress a smirk.
In truth, Yuji was perhaps the second person, after Maki, who seemed to somewhat enjoy our rigorous training sessions. Despite occasionally losing his temper, he showed a sincere eagerness to strengthen his abilities and absorbed knowledge voraciously. It was this eagerness that likely contributed to his significant improvement since his 'death'. My initial concern that missing the fight with Mahito might hinder his progress proved unfounded. Fate, or perhaps inevitability, ensured Yuji still developed and honed the "Divergent Fist".
"Your control over cursed energy still needs work," I remarked, recalling the first time Yuji unleashed the "Divergent Fist" on me, and couldn't help but shake my head. "Your new technique is basic at best. It has its uses, but you can't rely on it as your main strategy."
"I get it," Yuji responded, his head tilted in thought. "But your explanation of cursed energy still eludes me..."
"Cursed energy is interpreted differently by each sorcerer," I explained nonchalantly. "My own understanding of it is somewhat unique, so don't feel discouraged," I added, patting him on the shoulder, and then a thought of one of my close friends crossed my mind. "Actually, you'll probably meet someone soon who can explain what being a sorcerer entails in a way that'll make sense to you."
"How's that?"
"Through fists, of course."
"I'm not as dense as you think," Yuji retorted, looking slightly offended.
"It's not about intellect. You simply adapt quicker in actual combat situations... Not the kind we've been practicing these past seven days, but in scenarios where real threats are involved," I explained thoughtfully. "Moreover, it's crucial for you to engage with opponents who are on par or slightly stronger than you."
"Absolutely," Yuji chuckled, breaking the tension. "It's been ages since I've battled someone I could actually defeat. I've nearly forgotten the thrill of victory. Do you reckon I could outmatch Megumi?"
"If you're more adept at manipulating cursed energy than Mei's ten-year-old sibling, then yes, I believe you stand a chance," I said, unable to suppress a grin at the thought of Yuji deflating Megumi's ego.
"I'm not that inept," Yuji protested under his breath.
"You don't get it.," I replied, laughter escaping me. "That boy can execute a domain technique at such a tender age. Comparing you to him... Are you certain you're even a sorcerer?" I teased, unable to help myself.
"One day, I'll wipe that smirk off your face," Yuji retorted, sighing heavily.
"Join the queue," came a familiar, teasing voice.
"Sensei!" Yuji's face lit up with joy. He sometimes reminds me so much of an eager puppy.
"You'd be surprised at how many are lining up to humble this youngster," Satoru chimed in, affectionately tousling Yuji's hair.
"Who wouldn't want to straighten out that smug look?" Yuji shot back with a grin.
Choosing to ignore their jibes, I contemplated the aftermath of the "Exchange." Once it concluded, Yuji would undoubtedly have to eat his words, perhaps regretting them more than once. I might even arrange a training session with Maki to ensure he truly learns his lesson.
"So, when does the 'Exchange' begin?" I inquired, turning towards Satoru.
"The inaugural event is set for Monday," the white-haired sorcerer responded.
That meant it was tomorrow... What could possibly be going through his mind? Last year, he convened us several days prior to the "Exchange" to strategize and prepare, yet this year, he seemed content to throw Yuji, with his unconventional method of channeling cursed energy, into the fray with no prior preparation.
"Perhaps this is precisely what he needs," I mused silently, observing Yuji's boundless energy and cheer.
"Feeling nostalgic?" Satoru inquired, a sly smirk playing on his lips as he observed me.
"Not in the slightest. Why do you ask?"
"You seem out of spirits," he remarked, a note of dissatisfaction in his voice. "Remember, this is only your second 'Exchange.' You'll reconnect with familiar faces. Plus, you'll get to collaborate closely with your team."
"Is Sukehiro participating as well?" Yuji interjected, surprised.
"Absolutely," Satoru responded promptly.
"No," I countered simultaneously.
Our gazes locked, or more accurately, I found myself staring at his eyes beneath the black blindfold.
"How come I wasn't informed?" Satoru questioned.
"You never asked," I replied nonchalantly, not concealing the slight amusement at his irritation.
"But why? I thought this was our chance to fight side by side," Yuji interjected, his disappointment palpable. "Imagine showcasing the prowess of two close-combat sorcerers. Besides, the more the merrier, right?"
"I have prior commitments," I stated flatly, avoiding further explanation.
"Do Maki and the others know about your absence?" Satoru inquired, shifting his focus back to me.
"Are you asking if they're aware I won't be participating in the exchange, or about my other engagements?" I sought clarification from the white-haired sorcerer.
"It's clear you haven't disclosed your upcoming obligations to anyone," Satoru noted, his annoyance barely masked even beneath the blindfold.
"They're aware," I affirmed with a slight nod. "And frankly, they're rather pleased about it."
"Eh?! Why would they be?" Yuji's surprise was palpable.
"Because during last year's event, your senior single-handedly outclassed the students from the Kyoto school," Satoru explained, his laughter barely contained. "And it was in a team battle, no less..."
"Don't take his words to heart," I told Yuji, offering a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "I didn't go that far — I simply overpowered one individual, and the others received a mild reprimand."
"Your anger towards Maki's sister was notable," Satoru teased, his tone playful as he feigned innocence. "It was rather endearing how you intervened on her behalf... like a knight in shining armor."
"Looking back, it certainly wasn't a dull time," I remarked, choosing to overlook Satoru's jests. Sometimes, it's best to let his barbs pass without comment. Turning my attention to Yuji, I added, "If you encounter a formidable opponent with a scar on his face, do me a favor and extend my regards."
"Huh?" Yuji's confusion was evident. "Why don't you convey that message yourself?"
"The likelihood is you'll cross paths with him before I do," I explained, scratching my head as I contemplated how Todo would receive Yuji. "Make sure to pass on my message after he poses his characteristic inquiry."
"And what might that be?"
"You'll know it when you hear it," I assured him with a smirk. "Trust me, you'll recognize it immediately."
***
Already astride my motorcycle, I felt the unexpected weight of Satoru's hand on my shoulder.
"Can we talk?" It was unusual for Satoru to start a conversation this way, marking a deviation from our usual interactions.
"Of course," I replied, setting my helmet on my knee to give him my full attention.
"What's going on?" Now that we were alone, Satoru seized the moment to delve into the matter at hand.
"Why can't I simply enjoy a ride around Tokyo? Or perhaps visit the hot springs in Hakone?" I countered, trying to deflect his probing.
"You could, certainly. But I know you well enough to recognize that you wouldn't leave your classmates right before such a critical event," Satoru responded, his tone so measured that, despite all my heightened senses and abilities as an "Otherworlder," I was unable to gauge his thoughts. "So, I'll ask again: what's happening?"
Feeling cornered by Satoru's persistence, I retorted with a teenage-like obstinacy, "I think I'll respond in kind: stay out of my life."
"You give yourself too much credit, Sukehiro. At a time when every sorcerer's contribution is crucial, do you think I enjoy spending time questioning you? If it were solely up to me, you'd be free to pursue your path as a sorcerer akin to Yuki. However, given the recent emergence of a group of cursed spirits, I've advocated for increased surveillance over sorcerers from magical schools.
"Are you suggesting we emulate the very adversaries we stand against?" I couldn't hide my shock, a mixture of disbelief and indignation coursing through me. Was it possible that Satoru, a figure I held in high esteem, had lowered himself to their level?
"I'm concerned there's a 'mole' among us, someone who disclosed my whereabouts the night I was attacked. Furthermore, if the curse you encountered is linked to the ones I've faced, the situation escalates in severity," Satoru elaborated, pausing momentarily. "Shoko's investigation into Junpei unveiled a grim possibility: the cursed spirit that transformed Junpei might enable anyone to become a sorcerer. Thus, until we resolve this, I'm interested in your plans."
I shook my head, understanding yet unwilling to accept Satoru's authoritative stance.
"Do you suspect me of being a spy?"
Satoru's laugh was one of scorn and disbelief.
"That's not what I implied."
"Then what brings you here?" I challenged, puzzled by his evasive reply.
"Sukehiro, what did you expect? You inform me of your plans to leave during the exchange, amidst an unknown threat looming over our friends. Naturally, this prompted me to confront you. A special rank sorcerer engaging in secretive actions, evading the scrutiny of both the sorcerer council and his mentor. Haven't we seen this scenario unfold before?" Satoru's voice carried a mix of bewilderment and frustration.
My anger surged anew.
"I remember our initial encounter, where you were adamant about me enrolling in the magic school. Reluctant as I was, I admit I'm thankful for the opportunity. However, if you believe that gives you the right to dictate my actions or pry into my affairs, you're sorely mistaken," I retorted, my frustration evident in my deep frown. "A traitor, you say? Unlike you, I consistently fulfill my duties with utmost dedication, not wasting time admiring my own reflection."
"Exorcising curses," Satoru interjected, his eyebrows arching in surprise, a hint of amusement in his tone. "Has banishing curses become so noble that it now serves as a measure of loyalty or betrayal? Will you hide behind this your entire life? For what? A self-congratulatory pat on the back?"
"I don't need guidance from someone who acts solely for personal gratification," I replied, maintaining an unexpected calm despite Satoru's provocations. "You seek an answer? I'm about to undertake a task beyond your wildest dreams. I'm going to assist someone, driven by morality, not ego."
Refusing to engage further, I donned my helmet, ignited the engine of my motorcycle, and sped away from Satoru.
Did I comprehend his perspective? Indeed, I did. Could I embrace it? Absolutely not. Complaints were the last thing on my mind, yet burdened with the responsibility for the lives of those dear to me, Satoru's opinions held no weight.
I pushed "Nerona" to its limits, zooming past cityscapes turned golden by the night's allure. The late evening breeze caressed my neck as the urban din filled my ears in disjointed waves.
Dismissing the earlier exchange from my thoughts, I focused on the future. Why dwell on bygones when there's still potential for change? The next chapter awaiting my influence involved altering the destiny of someone harshly tested by fate, yet unyieldingly resilient.