บท 8: Riko Amanai
The summer sun blazed down on the outdoor basketball court, its heat radiating off the concrete in shimmering waves. Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto were engaged in an intense game of one-on-one, their movements a blur of speed and precision. Sweat glistened on their brows as they darted back and forth across the court, each trying to outmaneuver the other.
On a nearby bench, Yuno Rentaro sat with his nose buried in a thick, leather-bound book. His ruby-red eyes scanned the pages intently through his rectangular glasses, seemingly oblivious to the commotion on the court. Beside him, Shoko Ieiri watched the game with mild interest, occasionally glancing at Yuno from the corner of her eye.
Geto, momentarily distracted from the game, noticed Shoko's proximity to Yuno. His eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of jealousy crossing his face. He caught the ball Gojo had just passed to him and held it, his mind formulating a plan.
"Hey, Yunichi!" Geto called out, using the affectionate nickname. "How about you put that book down and show us what you've got?"
Yuno looked up, his expression neutral. "I'm not particularly interested in playing basketball, Suguru," he replied calmly.
Geto's lips curved into a challenging smirk. "What's the matter? Afraid you can't keep up?"
Gojo, sensing the rising tension, decided to add fuel to the fire. "I've got an idea," he announced, his blue eyes twinkling with mischief. "How about a one-on-one match between Geto and Yuno? Winner gets to take Shoko out for dinner."
Shoko's eyes widened at the suggestion. She turned to Yuno, a mixture of hope and excitement in her voice. "Free food sounds great, Yuno. Why don't you show them what you can do?"
Yuno sighed, closing his book with a soft thud. "I don't see how my playing basketball has any correlation with taking you to dinner, Leiri," he said, his tone matter-of-fact.
Geto stepped forward, spinning the ball on his finger. "Come on, Yunichi. Or are you scared I'll beat you in front of Shoko?"
Something flickered in Yuno's eyes - a spark of competitiveness that rarely showed itself. He stood up slowly, adjusting his glasses. "Very well," he said, his voice calm but with an underlying edge. "If it will put an end to this nonsense, I'll play."
As Yuno walked onto the court, Gojo leaned in close to Geto. "You sure about this?" he whispered. "You don't know what Yuno's capable of."
Geto brushed off the concern with a confident grin. "How good could he be? He spends all his time reading or doing jujutsu. I've got this in the bag."
Yuno took off his glasses, handing them to Shoko for safekeeping. As he turned back to face Geto, there was a subtle change in his demeanor. His posture straightened, and a focused intensity replaced his usual aloof expression.
"First to five points?" Yuno suggested, his voice cool and collected.
Geto nodded, tossing the ball to Yuno. "You can start. You'll need all the help you can get."
As Yuno caught the ball, his hands seemed to mold around it perfectly. He bounced it once, twice, the rhythm steady and controlled. Suddenly, he was in motion.
Geto blinked, momentarily stunned by Yuno's speed. The usually reserved boy was now a blur of movement, his feet barely seeming to touch the ground as he weaved past Geto's defense. Before anyone could react, Yuno had reached the hoop and executed a perfect layup.
The ball swished through the net, and a stunned silence fell over the court.
"What... what just happened?" Gojo asked, his jaw hanging open.
Shoko clapped her hands excitedly. "Go, Yuno!" she cheered, a bright smile on her face.
Geto shook off his surprise, his competitive spirit flaring. "Lucky shot," he growled, retrieving the ball. "Let's see you do that again."
But as the game progressed, it became clear that Yuno's first point was no fluke. He moved with a grace and agility that seemed at odds with his usually reserved demeanor. Every dribble was precise, every feint calculated. Geto, despite his best efforts, found himself constantly on the defensive.
Yuno's red eyes seemed to glow with an inner fire as he played. He executed a series of complex moves - crossovers, spin moves, and even a fade-away jump shot that left Geto grasping at air.
As the score reached 4-0 in Yuno's favor, Geto was panting heavily, frustration evident on his face. "How... how are you this good?" he gasped between breaths.
Yuno paused, the ball balanced perfectly on his fingertips. "I was the captain of my middle school basketball team," he stated matter-of-factly. "I joined initially because the coach said it would improve my reflexes and spatial awareness for jujutsu. I found I had a natural aptitude for the sport."
Gojo burst out laughing. "You never cease to amaze, Yunichi! Who would have thought our bookworm was a secret basketball prodigy?"
Shoko beamed with pride. "That's incredible, Yuno! Why didn't you ever tell us?"
Yuno shrugged, his expression returning to its usual calm. "It never came up in conversation. Besides, I gave up competitive sports to focus on my jujutsu training."
Geto, his competitive spirit somewhat dampened by the revelation, managed a rueful smile. "I guess I underestimated you, Yunichi. But the game's not over yet!"
With renewed determination, Geto made one last push. He managed to steal the ball from Yuno and score a point, but it was too little, too late. With a final, elegant three-pointer, Yuno sealed his victory, 5-1.
As the ball swooshed through the net for the final time, a small, satisfied smile tugged at the corners of Yuno's lips. He turned to Geto, extending his hand. "Good game, Suguru."
Geto, despite his disappointment, clasped Yuno's hand firmly. "You're full of surprises, Yunichi. I won't underestimate you again."
Gojo clapped both of them on the back. "That was some show, guys! But I believe we have a winner, and a dinner date to arrange."
Yuno's smile faded, replaced by his usual serious expression. "I told you, I have no interest in-"
But Shoko had already bounded up to him, her eyes shining with excitement. "That was amazing, Yuno! I can't believe you've been hiding such talent all this time."
For a moment, Yuno's composure slipped, a faint blush coloring his cheeks. "It's not... I mean, it was just a game, Leiri."
Gojo grinned mischievously. "A game with high stakes, Yunichi. Don't forget, you've won the privilege of taking Shoko out to dinner."
Yuno sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I never agreed to those terms, Satoru."
But Shoko was already tugging on his arm, her smile bright and hopeful. "Come on, Yuno. You won fair and square. Besides, when was the last time we all went out together? It'll be fun!"
Yuno looked at Shoko, then at his other friends. Gojo was grinning widely, while Geto tried to hide his disappointment behind a forced smile. Finally, Yuno's shoulders relaxed slightly.
"Very well," he conceded. "I suppose a group dinner wouldn't be inappropriate. But I'm not calling it a date."
Shoko's face fell slightly at his words, but she quickly plastered on a smile. "Great! I know this wonderful ramen place nearby. They have the best tonkotsu broth in town!"
As the group began to disperse, gathering their belongings and discussing dinner plans, Geto pulled Yuno aside.
"You may have won this round, Yunichi," he said in a low voice, "but don't think this changes anything. I meant what I said before - I won't lose to you, not when it comes to Shoko."
Yuno met Geto's gaze steadily. "I've told you before, Suguru. I'm not interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with Leiri or anyone else. My focus is on my duties as a jujutsu sorcerer."
Geto's eyes narrowed. "Your words say one thing, but your actions... Well, just remember, I'm watching you, Yunichi."
As Geto walked away, Yuno stood still for a moment, his red eyes distant. He glanced at Shoko, who was laughing at something Gojo had said, then down at his own hands, still tingling from the exertion of the game.
For a brief moment, a flicker of uncertainty crossed Yuno's face. He quickly suppressed it, schooling his features back into their usual calm mask. But as he rejoined his friends, a small part of him wondered if perhaps there was more to his feelings than he cared to admit.
The sun was beginning to set as the group left the basketball court, casting long shadows across the concrete. As they walked, their voices filled with laughter and friendly banter, Yuno found himself at the back of the group, observing his friends with a mix of fondness and confusion.
Shoko fell into step beside him, her eyes bright with excitement. "I still can't believe you were a basketball captain, Yuno. Are there any other hidden talents you're keeping from us?"
Yuno adjusted his glasses, a habit he had when he was thinking. "I wouldn't call them hidden talents, Leiri. They're simply skills I've acquired that haven't been relevant to our current situations."
Shoko laughed, the sound light and melodious. "Always so modest. You know, it was really impressive watching you play. You looked... different out there."
Yuno raised an eyebrow. "Different? How so?"
"Well," Shoko said, a slight blush coloring her cheeks, "you looked more... alive, I guess. Like you were truly enjoying yourself. It was nice to see."
Yuno was silent for a moment, considering her words. "I suppose I did find some enjoyment in the game," he admitted. "It's been a while since I've played."
As they continued walking, Yuno found his thoughts drifting. The adrenaline from the game was still coursing through his veins, making him more aware of his surroundings - the warmth of the setting sun on his skin, the faint scent of cherry blossoms in the air, and the closeness of Shoko beside him.
Yuno found himself walking through the corridors of a departmental building, his mind drifting back to the conversation he had with Professor Yaga earlier that morning. The memory played out vividly in his mind's eye.
"Yuno, I need to ask you a favor," Yaga had said, his usually stern face etched with concern.
Yuno had arched an eyebrow, his crimson eyes focused intently on the professor. "What's the matter?" he inquired, his voice calm and measured.
Yaga sighed, running a hand through his unkempt hair. "Master Tengen specifically requested that Satoru Gojo and Suguru Geto be in charge of protecting the Star Plasma Vessel."
"Riko Amanai," Yuno stated, more as a confirmation than a question.
Yaga nodded, a wry smile tugging at his lips. "But you know what those two are capable of. Could you go and keep an eye on them? I'd feel more at ease knowing you're there."
Yuno removed his glasses, revealing the full intensity of his ruby-red eyes. "Actually, I had already foreseen that you would ask this of me."
"Ah, you looked into the future, eh?" Yaga chuckled. "Tell me, how will all this turn out?"
Yuno fell silent for a moment, his expression growing serious. "Professor, you know I can't reveal anything about the future. Even the smallest detail could create a butterfly effect, altering the course of events in ways we can't predict."
Yaga nodded solemnly, understanding the weight of Yuno's words.
Returning to the present, Yuno continued his purposeful stride down the hallway. The polished floor reflected the fluorescent lights above, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere. As he rounded a corner, an unexpected sight greeted him.
A young woman, dressed in what appeared to be a maid's uniform, was perched atop a cursed spirit. The spirit's grotesque form contrasted sharply with the girl's delicate appearance. Yuno's keen eyes immediately recognized the curse as one of Suguru's manipulated spirits.
The girl's gaze fell upon Yuno, recognition flickering in her eyes as she took in his uniform. "You," she called out, her voice echoing slightly in the empty corridor. "Are you with them?"
Yuno arched an eyebrow, his expression remaining neutral. "You're referring to Gojo and Geto?" he asked, his tone even.
The girl nodded, her posture relaxing slightly. "I'll take you to them," she offered, gesturing for Yuno to approach.
As Yuno walked towards her, he introduced himself with a slight bow. "I'm Yuno Rentaro."
"Misato Kuroi," she replied, returning the gesture.
They both entered the elevator, the doors closing with a soft chime. As they began their ascent, Yuno turned to Misato, his crimson eyes searching her face. "Has there been any trouble?" he inquired, his voice tinged with a hint of concern.
Misato nodded, a small sigh escaping her lips. "Yes, but your friends have been quite helpful. They seem like good people."
The elevator doors slid open, revealing a scene that could only be described as peculiar. Gojo was tugging at Riko's legs, while Geto pulled at her arms. The girl in question was shouting, her face red with exertion and frustration.
"Ahhh! You insolent fools!" Riko cried out, her voice echoing through the spacious room.
"Miss!" Misato exclaimed, her eyes wide with shock.
Yuno stepped forward, his calm demeanor a stark contrast to the chaos before him. "You two," he addressed Gojo and Geto, his voice cutting through the commotion like a blade. "What exactly do you think you're doing?"
Startled by Yuno's sudden appearance, both Gojo and Geto released their hold on Riko, causing her to fall unceremoniously to the floor.
"Yunichi!" Gojo exclaimed, his blue eyes wide with surprise. "What are you doing here?"
Geto smirked, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Isn't it obvious? He's here to make sure you don't screw things up."
Yuno sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "Actually, I'm here to ensure that neither of you 'screw things up', as you so eloquently put it."
As Riko picked herself up from the floor, dusting off her clothes, her gaze fell upon Yuno. Her eyes seemed to light up, a genuine smile spreading across her face. "Rentaro-san!" she exclaimed, her earlier frustration seemingly forgotten.
Yuno's expression softened slightly as he returned her smile. "It's been a while, Riko," he said, his voice warm.
"Will you be looking after me too?" Riko asked, hope evident in her voice.
Yuno nodded, his posture straightening slightly. "Yes, your safety will be my priority."
Riko's smile widened, a look of relief washing over her features. "How wonderful! Much better than these two insolent fools."
Geto and Gojo turned to her, their expressions a mix of disbelief and indignation. Gojo, never one to hold his tongue, quipped, "You're quite the rude little girl, aren't you? No wonder you don't have any friends!"
Riko's face flushed with anger. "I DO HAVE FRIENDS!" she shouted, her voice rising several octaves. "AT SCHOOL, I BEHAVE NORMALLY!"
Realizing she had raised her voice, Riko glanced nervously at Yuno, worried that someone as calm and serious as him might be put off by her outburst. To her surprise, Yuno's lips curved into a small, understanding smile.
"Don't worry," he said, his voice reassuring. "Those two tend to bring out the worst in everyone."
Gojo's jaw dropped in mock offense. "Hey! Why do you always smile at girls but look at us like we smell bad all day?"
Yuno's expression returned to its usual stoic state as he turned to Gojo. "Because that's the equivalent of spending time with you," he replied dryly.
Suguru couldn't help but laugh at the exchange, earning a glare from Gojo. "Don't laugh, you traitor!" Gojo grumbled.
Riko, seeming to enjoy the banter, chimed in. "Looks like you got what you deserved."
Gojo turned his attention back to Riko, his blue eyes narrowing playfully. "Such an egocentric girl. And here I was, trying to cheer you up before you fuse with Tengen."
Riko's expression turned serious, her chin lifting slightly. "That's how commoners think. Master Tengen and I will become one. He will be me, and I will be him. My will shall live on through him."
Yuno remained silent, knowing the harsh truth behind Riko's words. She would die, and Tengen would simply take her body. The knowledge weighed heavily on him, but he kept his face impassive.
Riko suddenly turned to Misato, her eyes wide with realization. "Misato, what time is it?"
"It's not yet noon, Miss," Misato replied promptly.
Riko's expression turned to one of panic. "It's so late! I have to go to school!"
Misato stepped forward, her brow furrowed with concern. "Miss, I don't think it's appropriate for you to go."
Yuno, sensing the tension, intervened. "Let her go," he said, his voice calm but authoritative. "Master Tengen asked us to fulfill her wishes. Between the three of us, we should be able to keep her safe."
Riko's face lit up at Yuno's words, and she nodded enthusiastically. With the decision made, the group of five left the apartment and began their walk to Riko's school.
As they walked, Gojo's keen eyes noticed the long case slung over Yuno's shoulder. "Yunichi," he called out, curiosity evident in his voice, "did you bring your katana?"
Yuno nodded, his hand unconsciously moving to touch the case. "Yes, I thought it might be necessary."
Geto, walking on Yuno's other side, raised an eyebrow. "It's rare for you to use it," he observed.
Riko, who had been listening intently to their conversation, turned to Yuno with wide, curious eyes. "Why is it rare for you to use it, Rentaro-san?" she asked, her voice filled with genuine interest.
Yuno's lips curved into a small smile as he began to explain. "You see, my katana has the ability to cut through anything. However, the difficulty lies in the fact that to cut something, it requires a specific movement and breathing technique. For example, the motion needed to cut a door is different from cutting a sheet of paper, and cutting a tree is different from cutting a special grade weapon. It's a very complex tool to use effectively."
As Yuno finished his explanation, Gojo couldn't help but interject. "Seriously, why do you only smile at girls?" he asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and frustration.
Yuno's expression returned to its usual stoic state as he replied, "I don't know what you're talking about."
As they continued their walk to Riko's school, the group fell into a comfortable rhythm. The bustling city streets provided a stark contrast to the gravity of their mission, with pedestrians rushing by and the sounds of traffic creating a constant background hum.
Yuno found himself observing his companions, each lost in their own thoughts. Gojo, usually boisterous and carefree, seemed unusually pensive, his blue eyes scanning their surroundings with a vigilance that belied his casual demeanor. Geto, on the other hand, maintained his cool composure, but Yuno could sense an underlying tension in the way he carried himself.
Riko walked slightly ahead of the group, her steps light and almost bouncy, as if the weight of her destiny hadn't fully settled on her young shoulders. Misato stayed close to her charge, her eyes constantly darting around, alert for any potential threats.
As they approached a busy intersection, Yuno's hand instinctively moved to the case containing his katana. A flicker of movement in his peripheral vision caught his attention, and he turned his head slightly to get a better look. In that moment, his crimson eyes widened almost imperceptibly as a vision of the near future flashed before him.
Without hesitation, Yuno's hand shot out, grabbing Riko's arm and pulling her back just as a cyclist came speeding around the corner, narrowly missing where Riko had been standing moments before.
Riko stumbled back, her eyes wide with shock. "Rentaro-san..." she breathed, her voice barely above a whisper.
Yuno's expression remained calm, but his eyes were intense as they scanned the area. "Are you alright, Riko?" he asked, his voice low and steady.
Riko nodded, a faint blush coloring her cheeks as she realized Yuno was still holding her arm. "Yes, thank you," she murmured, her eyes meeting his for a brief moment before quickly looking away.
Gojo whistled low, impressed by Yuno's quick reflexes. "Nice save, Yunichi," he said, his usual grin returning to his face. "Looks like bringing you along was a good idea after all."
Geto nodded in agreement, his eyes narrowing slightly as he looked at the retreating cyclist. "We can't afford to let our guard down, even for a moment," he said, his voice tinged with a hint of frustration.
As they resumed their walk, Yuno found himself lost in thought. The vision he had seen wasn't just of the cyclist – there were other, more ominous shadows lurking at the edges of his foresight. He knew that this simple trip to school was just the beginning of what promised to be a challenging and potentially dangerous mission.
The group finally arrived at Riko's school, the building looming before them like a fortress of normality in their extraordinary world. As they approached the gates, Riko turned to face her protectors, her expression a mix of excitement and nervousness.
"Thank you for escorting me," she said, bowing slightly. Her eyes lingered on Yuno for a moment longer than necessary before she continued, "Will you be staying nearby?"
Yuno nodded, his eyes scanning the school grounds. "We'll maintain a perimeter around the school. Try to go about your day as normally as possible, but if you sense anything unusual, don't hesitate to call for us."
Riko smiled, a genuine warmth in her expression that seemed to soften her usually haughty demeanor. "I will. Thank you, Rentaro-san."
As Riko disappeared into the school building, Yuno turned to his companions. "We should split up to cover more ground. Gojo, take the east side of the school. Geto, you cover the west. I'll monitor the front and back entrances."
Gojo raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Oh? Taking charge now, are we, Yunichi?"
Yuno met Gojo's gaze steadily. "Unless you have a better suggestion?"
Geto chuckled, placing a hand on Gojo's shoulder. "Come on, Satoru. You know Yuno's plans are usually the most efficient."
With a dramatic sigh, Gojo relented. "Fine, fine. But don't think this means you're the boss, Yunichi!"
As they took up their positions, Yuno found a quiet spot near the front gate where he could observe without drawing attention. His mind was racing, trying to piece together the fragments of the future he had glimpsed earlier. Something was coming – something that could potentially change everything.
Yuno stood at the school gate, his crimson eyes scanning the surroundings with a keen intensity. Beside him, Misato fidgeted nervously, her gaze darting between the students streaming out of the building and the vigilant figure of her companion. The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the courtyard, creating an interplay of light and darkness that seemed to mirror the complex thoughts swirling in Yuno's mind.
As he stood there, Yuno found himself reflecting on the vision he had experienced the day before. In that glimpse of the future, there had been no cyclist, no near-miss that had required his intervention. The realization sent a chill down his spine, causing his fingers to tighten imperceptibly on the strap of his katana case.
"This is bad," Yuno murmured, his voice barely audible over the chatter of passing students.
Misato turned to him, her brow furrowed with concern. "What's wrong, Rentaro-san?"
Yuno shook his head slightly, unwilling to share the full extent of his concerns. "Nothing to worry about for now," he replied, his tone measured and calm despite the turmoil in his thoughts.
Unbeknownst to Yuno and his companions, they were being observed from afar. In a dimly lit room overlooking the school, a figure stood silently at the window. Rin Haruka's white hair was tinged with dust, a testament to the neglected state of his surroundings. His eyes, sharp and calculating, were fixed on the group below.
"Ah, Yuno Rentaro," Rin mused, a mirthless smile playing on his lips. "We've finally reached the canonical moment. The original timeline dictates that Riko Amanai dies at the hands of Toji Fushiguro, but you've changed that line by saving her. This will trigger a cascade of events that now won't happen, like Geto becoming an evil sorcerer."
Rin's fingers traced patterns in the dust on the windowsill as he continued his monologue. "Honestly, I was resigning myself to it, trying to make Geto see the dark side in other ways. For example, I made him fall in love with Shoko – it's so easy to manipulate an adolescent mind. However, that won't be necessary now. I'll ruin your plan, Yuno Rentaro. I'm about to change the future."
Back at the school gate, Yuno's mind was racing, analyzing the situation from every angle. This wasn't the first time the future had changed, he realized. Geto falling in love with Shoko hadn't been foreseen, and by this point, the Q organization should have already attempted to kidnap Riko.
These deviations led Yuno to consider two possibilities. The first was that each time he glimpsed the future, the very act of knowing it caused destiny to change – the famous butterfly effect. But he quickly discarded this theory. The future didn't typically change drastically until a canonical event occurred, and these events tended to happen regardless of attempts to prevent them.
This left the second, more troubling option: someone was actively changing the future. Perhaps someone with a power similar to his own, or at least with knowledge of what was supposed to happen. The possibility, while unsettling, wasn't entirely far-fetched.
In his hidden room, Rin moved a piece on a chessboard, his eyes gleaming with a mix of amusement and determination. "Ah, Yuno," he murmured, "you are like Plato, which makes me your Diogenes."
Yuno, still lost in thought, found his mind drifting to the very same historical figures. The parallels were striking, he realized. Just as he sought to prevent Riko Amanai's death and Suguru's descent into darkness, Plato had attempted to define and categorize the world through his philosophical teachings.
And just as Diogenes had challenged Plato's ideas with his cynical worldview, there was likely someone out there with a different perspective on the timeline – someone who believed the original course of events should unfold, unable or unwilling to consider the deeper implications of the changes Yuno sought to make.
Yuno's mind wandered to the famous anecdote of Plato and Diogenes. Plato had defined man as a "featherless biped," to which Diogenes had responded by presenting a plucked chicken, declaring, "Behold! I've brought you a man." This story illustrated the fundamental difference in their approaches to understanding the world – Plato with his abstract definitions, and Diogenes with his practical, often cynical, demonstrations.
In much the same way, Yuno realized, he was attempting to redefine the future, to shape it according to his understanding of what was right and necessary. And somewhere out there, his own Diogenes was likely working to maintain the original timeline, perhaps unable to grasp the full implications of the changes Yuno sought to make, just as Diogenes had been unable to fully appreciate the depth of Plato's philosophical constructs.
The thought that his opponent might subscribe to the Cynic school of philosophy – with its emphasis on living in accordance with nature and rejecting conventional desires – added another layer of complexity to the situation. It suggested that whoever was working against him might view Yuno's attempts to alter fate as unnatural or even harmful in the grand scheme of things.
As these thoughts churned in Yuno's mind, the hours ticked by without incident. The sun began to dip towards the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink. Finally, Riko emerged from the school building, flanked by Gojo and Geto.
"It was quite a normal day," Riko remarked, her voice tinged with a mix of relief and disappointment.
Geto nodded, his brow furrowed slightly. "Too normal, I'd say."
Gojo stretched his arms above his head, a lazy grin spreading across his face. "Maybe they've given up?"
Misato, ever the optimist, chimed in, "Well, that would be good news, wouldn't it?"
Yuno, however, felt a knot of tension forming in his stomach. This lack of action was far from good news – it was a clear indication that the future was being drastically altered. At this rate, his carefully laid plans to defeat Toji Fushiguro would be rendered useless.
Taking a deep breath to center himself, Yuno made a decision. He needed to steer events back towards the original timeline as much as possible. "Let's go to Okinawa," he suggested, his voice calm and steady.
Gojo's eyes widened in surprise. "Huh? Are you crazy? We should head back to the school."
Yuno shook his head, his expression remaining neutral. "Riko doesn't want to go to the sorcerer's school yet. I thought we could go to Okinawa and visit the beach. Compared to Tokyo, there are fewer evil sorcerers there."
As Gojo opened his mouth to protest, Yuno found himself thinking, "That's what you were supposed to say originally, you white-haired idiot."
Before Gojo could voice his objections, Geto placed a hand on his shoulder. "Come on, Satoru," he said, his voice reassuring. "We always follow Yunichi's plans, don't we? Trust him."
Gojo sighed dramatically, but a spark of excitement flickered in his eyes. "Fine," he conceded. "I did want to go to the beach anyway."
Yuno allowed himself a small smile, relieved that things were falling back into a semblance of the original timeline.
Before long, the group found themselves on a plane bound for Okinawa. Yuno sat by the window, his gaze fixed on the clouds drifting by outside. Beside him, Riko fidgeted in her seat, sneaking glances at him when she thought he wasn't looking. Misato occupied the aisle seat, her posture alert despite the relative safety of their current situation. Behind them, Gojo and Geto bickered good-naturedly over a magazine they were sharing.
As the plane leveled off at cruising altitude, Riko turned to Yuno, a slight blush coloring her cheeks. "Um, Rentaro-san," she began, her voice hesitant.
Yuno turned to her, his crimson eyes softening slightly. "Yes, Riko?"
Riko's blush deepened as she gathered her courage. "I was wondering... do you have a girlfriend? Or is there someone you like?"
The question caught Yuno off guard, a rare occurrence for someone usually so prepared for every eventuality. He blinked, considering his response carefully. "I don't have a girlfriend," he said finally, his voice measured. "And as for liking someone... I try not to let personal feelings interfere with my duties as a jujutsu sorcerer."
Riko nodded, a mix of disappointment and hope flickering across her face. As she turned back to look out the window, her mind raced with possibilities. She knew that her time was limited – soon, she would no longer be herself. The thought of confessing her growing feelings for Yuno flitted through her mind. Would it be selfish to burden him with her emotions when she was destined to leave? Or would it be a comfort to both of them, a precious memory to hold onto in the difficult times ahead?
As Riko wrestled with these thoughts, Yuno found his own mind wandering. He couldn't help but reflect on the complexities of human emotions and how they intersected with the weighty responsibilities of being a jujutsu sorcerer. He had always prided himself on his ability to remain detached, to make decisions based on logic and foresight rather than sentiment. But sitting here, feeling the warmth of Riko's presence beside him, he couldn't help but wonder if he was missing out on something essential to the human experience.
The flight continued, the gentle hum of the engines providing a soothing backdrop to the myriad of thoughts and emotions swirling through the cabin. Gojo's occasional outbursts of laughter punctuated the relative quiet, a reminder of the youthful energy that still pulsed through their group despite the gravity of their mission.
As the plane began its descent into Okinawa, Yuno steeled himself for what was to come. He knew that the peaceful moments of this flight were likely to be the calm before the storm. Whatever forces were at work to change the timeline, whatever challenges lay ahead, he was determined to face them head-on.
The wheels of the plane touched down on the runway with a gentle thud, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their journey. As they disembarked and made their way through the airport, Yuno's senses were on high alert, scanning for any sign of danger or deviation from the path he knew they needed to follow.
The warm, humid air of Okinawa enveloped them as they stepped out of the airport, carrying with it the faint scent of the ocean. Palm trees swayed gently in the breeze, and the sound of distant waves provided a soothing counterpoint to the bustle of arriving tourists.
"Wow," Riko breathed, her eyes wide as she took in the tropical scenery. "It's beautiful here."
Gojo stretched dramatically, a wide grin spreading across his face. "Ah, I can practically feel the stress melting away already!"
Geto rolled his eyes at his friend's antics but couldn't suppress a small smile of his own. "Don't forget why we're here, Satoru. We still have a job to do."
Yuno nodded in agreement, his expression serious despite the vacation-like atmosphere. "Geto's right. We need to remain vigilant. But," he added, his voice softening slightly as he glanced at Riko's excited face, "I suppose there's no harm in enjoying ourselves a little while we're here."
As they made their way to the beachfront hotel Yuno had hastily booked, the group's spirits seemed to lift. Even Misato, usually so focused on her duties, allowed herself to admire the beautiful surroundings.
Checking into the hotel and settling into their rooms, Yuno found himself standing on the balcony of the room he shared with Geto, looking out over the sparkling blue ocean. The sun was beginning to set, painting the sky in brilliant shades of orange and pink.
"It's quite a view, isn't it?" Geto's voice came from behind him.
Yuno nodded, not turning around. "It is. But we can't let our guard down."
Geto came to stand beside him, leaning on the railing. "I know. But Yuno... don't you ever wish we could just be normal teenagers? Enjoying a beach vacation without worrying about evil sorcerers or world-ending threats?"
For a moment, Yuno allowed himself to consider the question. What would it be like to live without the weight of foresight, without the constant pressure of trying to shape the future? To simply enjoy the present moment without calculating its impact on events yet to come?
"Sometimes," he admitted quietly, surprising even himself with his honesty. "But we have a responsibility, Suguru. Our powers, our knowledge – they come with a duty to protect others."
Geto sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I know. It's just... sometimes it feels like too much, you know?"
Yuno turned to look at his friend, really look at him. He saw the weariness in Geto's eyes, the slight slump of his shoulders. For a moment, he was struck by how young they all were, how much they had already seen and done.
"I understand," Yuno said, his voice gentle. "But that's why we have each other. We share this burden, Suguru. You're not alone in this."
A small smile tugged at Geto's lips. "Thanks, Yunichi. I needed to hear that."
As they stood there, watching the sun sink below the horizon, Yuno couldn't shake the feeling that this moment of peace was fleeting. Somewhere out there, forces were at work to disrupt the timeline he was trying to protect. But for now, surrounded by his friends and the beauty of Okinawa, he allowed himself to hope that maybe, just maybe, they could change the future for the better.
The sound of laughter drifted up from the beach below, where Gojo was chasing Riko through the shallow waves, Misato watching from the safety of the dry sand. The scene was so normal, so carefree, that for a moment Yuno could almost forget the weight of destiny that hung over them all.
As night fell over Okinawa, the gentle rhythm of waves lapping against the shore provided a soothing backdrop to the quiet hotel room. The group had initially planned to split into two rooms, but a malfunctioning air conditioner had brought them all together in Geto and Yuno's room. The close quarters created an atmosphere of intimacy and camaraderie, despite the underlying tension of their mission.
Yuno lay on the floor, his mind racing with possibilities and potential futures. The soft sounds of breathing filled the room as his companions slept, but sleep eluded him. His crimson eyes stared unseeing at the ceiling, tracing patterns in the shadows cast by moonlight filtering through the curtains.
"Yuno?" Riko's whisper cut through the silence, barely audible over the distant crash of waves. "Are you awake?"
Yuno turned his head slightly, meeting Riko's gaze. She was peering over the edge of the bed, her hair tousled from restless sleep. "Yes," he replied softly, careful not to disturb the others.
Riko bit her lip, hesitating for a moment before speaking again. "I... I need to use the bathroom."
Yuno's brow furrowed slightly. He started to sit up, intending to wake Gojo. "I'll get Satoru to accompany you. He's supposed to be on guard duty with his Limitless technique anyway."
"No!" Riko's response came quickly, her voice still hushed but tinged with urgency. "I don't want to bother him. He deserves to rest too."
Yuno sighed, torn between protocol and the pleading look in Riko's eyes. After a moment's consideration, he nodded. "Alright," he conceded, rising to his feet with fluid grace. "I'll go with you."
They made their way silently out of the room, careful not to wake their sleeping companions. The hotel hallway was dimly lit, casting long shadows as they walked towards the public restrooms. Yuno remained vigilant, his senses attuned to any potential threat.
As Riko emerged from the bathroom, she paused, her gaze drawn to the large windows at the end of the hallway. The full moon hung low over the ocean, its light shimmering on the gentle waves. "Yuno," she said softly, a hint of longing in her voice, "do you think... could we take a walk on the beach?"
Yuno's first instinct was to refuse. It was late, potentially dangerous, and definitely against protocol. He started to reach for his glasses, intending to use his foresight to assess the safety of such an excursion. But before he could, Riko's hand gently caught his wrist.
"Please," she said, her cheeks tinged with a faint blush visible even in the dim light. "Don't look. Just... can we just go? Without knowing what's going to happen?"
Yuno hesitated, studying Riko's face. He saw hope there, and a touch of fear – not of danger, but of disappointment. With another soft sigh, he nodded. "Alright," he agreed, "but we need to be careful."
They made their way down to the beach, the warm sand shifting beneath their feet as they walked along the water's edge. The night air was heavy with the scent of salt and tropical flowers, a gentle breeze providing relief from the lingering heat of the day.
For a while, they walked in comfortable silence, the rhythmic sound of waves filling the space between them. Then, almost hesitantly, Riko began to speak.
"You know," she said, her voice barely audible above the ocean's murmur, "I never really knew my parents. They died when I was very young." She paused, kicking at a small shell half-buried in the sand. "But I always had Misato. She's been more than just a caretaker to me. She's family."
Yuno listened quietly, his gaze fixed on the horizon where the moonlit sky met the dark expanse of the ocean. After a moment, he spoke, his voice soft but clear. "I understand," he said. "My parents are gone too. I was raised by my father's kenpo master, Sawada."
Riko looked up at him, surprise and empathy mingling in her expression. "I'm sorry," she said. "It must have been hard."
Yuno shrugged slightly, his face impassive. "It was what it was. Sawada-sensei is a good man. He taught me more than just martial arts."
They continued walking, the silence between them now filled with a shared understanding. After a while, they came upon a large piece of driftwood, bleached white by sun and salt. Riko sat down, patting the space beside her in invitation.
Yuno hesitated for a moment before joining her, his posture slightly tense as he scanned their surroundings out of habit.
Riko hugged her knees to her chest, her gaze fixed on the moonlit waves. "You know," she said softly, "I envy you and your friends sometimes."
Yuno turned to look at her, one eyebrow raised in silent question.
"The way you all interact, the bonds you share," Riko continued. "It's like you have this whole life outside of being jujutsu sorcerers. Friends, experiences, inside jokes... I've never really had that."
Her words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken longing. Yuno remained silent, unsure how to respond to such raw honesty.
Riko's voice grew quieter, trembling slightly as she continued. "And now... with the fusion coming..." She trailed off, biting her lip as if trying to hold back her words.
Yuno felt a tightening in his chest, an unfamiliar ache that he couldn't quite name. "Riko," he said gently, "what is it?"
She turned to look at him then, her eyes shining with unshed tears. "I'm scared, Yuno," she whispered. "I don't want to die. I want to keep living, to experience all the things I've never had the chance to." The tears spilled over, tracing silvery paths down her cheeks in the moonlight. "Is that selfish of me?"
Without thinking, Yuno reached out, gently wiping away a tear with his thumb. "No," he said softly. "It's not selfish at all. It's human."
Riko leaned into his touch for a moment before pulling away, wiping at her eyes with the back of her hand. When she spoke again, her voice was steadier, tinged with a resignation that seemed at odds with her youth.
"But it's my destiny, isn't it? To sacrifice myself for the greater good. To become part of something bigger than myself." She took a deep breath, squaring her shoulders as if preparing for battle. "If that's the case, then... then I have a selfish request."
Yuno tilted his head slightly, curiosity piqued. "What is it?"
Riko turned to face him fully, her expression a mix of determination and vulnerability. "If I'm going to give up my life, my future... then just for tonight, I want to pretend that I have a choice. That I'm just a normal girl, sitting on a beach with..." She hesitated, a blush creeping across her cheeks. "With a boy she likes."
Before Yuno could process her words, Riko leaned forward, pressing her lips to his in a soft, tentative kiss. The contact lasted only a moment, but it sent a jolt through Yuno's body, awakening feelings he had long suppressed in favor of duty and logic.
As Riko pulled away, she immediately buried her face in Yuno's chest, her words muffled against the fabric of his shirt. "Please," she whispered, "don't say anything. Just... just let me have this moment."
Yuno sat frozen, his mind reeling. Part of him knew he should push her away, maintain the professional distance that had always defined their relationship. But another part, a part he usually kept carefully locked away, wanted to pull her closer, to protect her from the cruel fate that awaited her.
Slowly, hesitantly, Yuno's arms encircled Riko, holding her gently as she cried silently against his chest. He rested his chin on top of her head, his gaze fixed on the endless expanse of the ocean before them.
In that moment, the weight of their responsibilities, the looming threat of the future, seemed to recede. They were just two young people, finding comfort in each other's presence under a star-filled sky.
As the night wore on, neither spoke. The only sounds were the gentle lapping of waves against the shore and the distant cry of a seabird. Yuno's mind raced, trying to reconcile his duty as a jujutsu sorcerer with the unexpected emotions stirring within him.
He thought about the future he had seen, the one he was trying to change. In that future, Riko died, and the course of many lives was altered irrevocably. But now, holding her in his arms, feeling the warmth of her tears soaking through his shirt, that future seemed more unbearable than ever.
Yuno had always prided himself on his ability to remain detached, to make decisions based on logic and the greater good. But in this moment, he found himself questioning everything. Was it truly right to sacrifice one life for the sake of many? And if it was, why did it feel so wrong?
As if sensing his inner turmoil, Riko stirred, lifting her head to look at him. Her eyes were red-rimmed from crying, but there was a calmness in them now, a quiet acceptance that tugged at Yuno's heart.
"Thank you," she whispered, her voice hoarse. "For letting me be selfish, just for a little while."
Yuno wanted to tell her that she wasn't selfish, that her desire to live was the most natural thing in the world. He wanted to promise her that he would find a way to save her, to change the future he had seen. But the words caught in his throat, held back by the weight of responsibility and the uncertainty of what was to come.
Instead, he simply nodded, tightening his arms around her slightly. "We should head back," he said softly, his voice gentler than usual. "The others will worry if they wake up and find us gone."
Riko nodded, reluctantly pulling away from his embrace. As they stood, she stumbled slightly, exhaustion and emotion making her unsteady. Without hesitation, Yuno caught her, supporting her with a strong arm around her waist.
They made their way back to the hotel in silence, the pre-dawn sky beginning to lighten almost imperceptibly. As they reached the door to their room, Riko paused, turning to Yuno one last time.
"Yuno," she said, her voice barely above a whisper, "I know that what happened tonight... it doesn't change anything. I know what I have to do. But..." She trailed off, searching for the right words.
Yuno waited patiently, his crimson eyes fixed on her face, memorizing every detail as if it might be the last time he saw her like this – vulnerable, honest, fully herself.
"But thank you," Riko finally continued, "for giving me a memory I can hold onto, no matter what happens next."
Before Yuno could respond, she reached up on her tiptoes, pressing a soft, chaste kiss to his cheek. Then, with a sad smile, she slipped into the room, leaving Yuno alone in the hallway.
For a long moment, Yuno stood motionless, his hand unconsciously touching the spot where Riko's lips had been. The logical part of his mind was already at work, analyzing the potential consequences of what had transpired, considering how it might affect their mission and the future he was trying to shape.
But beneath that, in a part of himself he rarely acknowledged, a resolve was forming. He would find a way to save Riko, to give her the chance to live the life she deserved. And in doing so, perhaps he would save a part of himself as well – the part that, despite years of training and discipline, still yearned for connection, for the simple joys of being human.
As the first rays of sunlight began to streak across the sky, Yuno took a deep breath, centering himself. Whatever challenges lay ahead, whatever difficult choices he might face, he would face them with renewed purpose. For Riko, for his friends, and for the future he believed in, he would find a way to change destiny itself.
With this new resolve burning in his heart, Yuno quietly entered the room, ready to face whatever the new day might bring.
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