บท 53: The end of the road.
Hiro was seated in a room, elegantly dressed for a significant occasion. The room was tastefully decorated, with soft, ambient lighting casting a warm glow over the polished wooden furniture. A large mirror adorned one wall, reflecting the room's serene atmosphere. Hiro's blonde hair was impeccably styled, swept back in a manner befitting the formality of the day. He wore a sleek, well-tailored suit that spoke of elegance and sophistication, marking the importance of the event.
As he sat, lost in thought, the door suddenly burst open, and Gojo Satoru made a dramatic entrance. "HIRO! YOU'RE STILL IN TIME, ABANDON YOUR WEDDING AND RUN AWAY WITH ME!" he exclaimed, his usual flair for the dramatic on full display.
Hiro, along with Megumi, Itadori, and Yazu, who were sitting nearby, turned to look at Gojo with a mix of surprise and incredulity. They were all dressed in suits, befitting their roles as Hiro's groomsmen and companions of honor for the wedding.
Gojo, seemingly confused, asked, "What are you guys doing here?"
Itadori, with a grin, replied, "We're his groomsmen."
Gojo, feeling a bit left out, questioned, "And why wasn't I chosen?"
Hiro, with a playful smirk, answered, "Because you're a loud, obnoxious idiot."
The atmosphere in the room was one of lighthearted banter and camaraderie as Gojo and Hiro engaged in their playful back-and-forth.
Gojo, with a nostalgic tone, said, "Well, I'm glad to see my two students finally tying the knot. How time flies."
Hiro responded with a knowing smile, "You can say that again."
Gojo, noticing something in Hiro's demeanor, raised an eyebrow and teased, "Are you nervous?"
Hiro, trying to maintain a facade of composure, replied, "I don't know what you're talking about."
Gojo couldn't help but laugh, his voice filling the room. "I can't believe it. The second strongest sorcerer of all time is nervous about his wedding."
Hiro, slightly irked by the comment, shot back, "Second strongest? What are you talking about?"
Gojo, with his usual confidence, retorted, "Know your place, Hiro. I am the strongest."
Hiro, not one to back down, countered, "No way, I defeated Sukuna five years ago."
Gojo playfully responded, "Sure, because I had weakened him first."
Hiro, recalling the events, replied, "But you almost died. If it wasn't for Utahime boosting Shoko's Reverse Cursed Technique..."
Gojo, with a smirk, said, "Oh, really? Well, you ended up blind."
Hiro let out a sigh, a mixture of exasperation and amusement in his reaction. The banter between them was typical of their relationship – a mix of rivalry, respect, and a deep-seated bond formed through years of shared experiences and battles.
The room was filled with laughter and light-hearted jokes, a welcome respite from the seriousness of their usual sorcerer duties. It was clear that, despite the challenges they faced, they valued the moments of joy and the connections they shared. Hiro's wedding day was not just a celebration of love but also a celebration of the life they had built together, as sorcerers and as friends.
The wedding venue was beautifully adorned, creating an ambiance that was both elegant and intimate. Soft, warm lighting illuminated the space, complemented by delicate floral arrangements that lined the aisle and adorned the altar. The guests, a mix of friends, family, and fellow sorcerers, were seated, their murmurs of conversation creating a gentle hum of anticipation.
At the altar, Hiro stood, his posture poised yet relaxed. Dressed in a sharp, tailored suit, he exuded a sense of quiet confidence. His blind eyes, once a source of deep blue brilliance, were now calm and serene, reflecting the peace he had found in his life. Despite his inability to see, his other senses were heightened, allowing him to feel the presence of his loved ones around him. He could sense the excitement in the air, the warmth of the gathered crowd, and the significance of the moment.
As the music began, a soft, melodious tune that filled the room with its gentle cadence, all eyes turned towards the entrance. The doors opened slowly, revealing Maki, the bride, in her stunning wedding dress. She looked radiant, her dress flowing gracefully with each step she took down the aisle. The gown was a work of art, fitted perfectly to her strong yet elegant frame, with delicate lace and subtle embellishments that caught the light beautifully.
Maki walked down the aisle with a serene grace, her eyes locked on Hiro at the altar. The room was captivated by her presence, a testament to her strength, beauty, and the journey she had taken to reach this moment. She carried a bouquet of flowers that complemented the venue's decor, their fragrance subtly perfuming the air.
As she reached the altar, Hiro turned towards her, a smile spreading across his face. Though he couldn't see her with his eyes, he could feel her presence, the aura of the woman he loved standing before him.
The ceremony began, but for Hiro and Maki, it was as if they were the only two people in the room. They stood together at the altar, hand in hand, ready to embark on their new journey as partners in life. The love and bond they shared were palpable, a connection forged through trials and triumphs, now culminating in this moment of union and joy.
As the priest began the ceremony, his voice resonating with the solemnity and joy of the occasion, Hiro leaned slightly towards Maki, a playful curiosity in his tone. "Why are we getting married in a church, anyway? Neither of us are into this kind of stuff," he whispered.
Maki, a soft chuckle escaping her lips, replied discreetly, "Because Gojo wouldn't stop nagging about it. Besides, it's kind of nice, don't you think?" Her eyes sparkled with a mixture of amusement and affection.
Hiro smiled, appreciating the humor and irony of the situation. "I guess it is," he murmured in agreement.
The priest continued, speaking of love, commitment, and the journey they were embarking upon together. His words resonated with the couple and their guests, reminding everyone of the significance of the day.
"Do you, Hiro, take Maki to be your lawfully wedded wife, to live together in matrimony, to love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?" the priest asked, turning towards Hiro.
Hiro, his voice filled with sincerity and depth of feeling, responded confidently, "I do."
The priest then turned to Maki. "And do you, Maki, take Hiro to be your lawfully wedded husband, to live together in matrimony, to love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?"
Without hesitation, Maki replied, her voice strong and clear, "I do."
As the ceremony progressed, Hiro and Maki exchanged rings, symbols of their commitment and the unbreakable bond they shared. Hiro, guided by touch, slipped the ring onto Maki's finger, his actions deliberate and filled with love. Maki, in turn, placed the ring on Hiro's finger, her movements gentle yet assured.
The priest then announced, "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."
Hiro and Maki leaned in for their first kiss as a married couple, a moment met with a chorus of cheers and applause from the guests. It was a kiss that sealed their vows, a promise of a future filled with love, understanding, and shared adventures.
The ceremony concluded, and as the newlyweds turned to face their friends and family, the room erupted in celebration. The joy and happiness were palpable, a fitting start to Hiro and Maki's journey together as partners in life.
As the newlyweds made their way down the aisle, surrounded by the joyous cheers of their friends and loved ones, Panda, standing beside Yuta and Inumaki, couldn't help but get emotional. "Pandas cry too, you know," he said, his voice thick with emotion, a testament to the deep bond he shared with Hiro and Maki.
Curious about the reactions of their friends, Hiro leaned towards Maki and whispered, "What are the others doing?"
Maki glanced around the room, observing the various reactions. "Gojo is having the time of his life throwing rice everywhere. Itadori and Yazu are celebrating like it's the best day ever. Megumi looks calm and composed as always, and... Panda is crying," she reported with a smile.
Hiro chuckled at the description, particularly at the image of Panda shedding tears. "Crying? How ridiculous," he said with amusement.
Maki playfully pinched Hiro and teased him, "And why aren't you crying tears of joy?"
Hiro, trying to maintain his composure, responded with a hint of pride, "I'm the strongest man in the world. I don't cry at events." But as he spoke, a few tears betrayed his tough exterior, rolling down his cheeks.
The scene was a beautiful blend of laughter, tears, and heartfelt emotions. Each member of their close-knit group reacted in their own unique way, reflecting the deep connections and shared experiences they had with Hiro and Maki.
As they reached the end of the aisle, Hiro and Maki turned to face their friends, their hands joined. The room was filled with love, support, and the promise of new beginnings. It was a moment that encapsulated the joy of their journey together, a journey that was just beginning.
_________
In the confines of a classroom, the atmosphere was filled with the typical blend of concentration and occasional restlessness that often accompanies a math lesson. The teacher, a figure of authority and knowledge, was diligently explaining the intricacies of Pythagoras' theorem. Most students were engrossed in the lesson, scribbling notes and solving equations, except for one.
Kento Takashi, a young man with striking blonde hair, seemed to be lost in his own world. He was slumped over his desk, his attention clearly elsewhere. Suddenly, the teacher's voice, sharp and commanding, cut through the classroom. "Hey, Takashi, wake up already!" he exclaimed, clearly exasperated by Kento's lack of focus.
Startled, Kento jolted awake, rubbing his eyes as he sat up. "What's happening?" he mumbled, still groggy from his impromptu nap.
"The topic we're discussing is important. Pay attention," the teacher chided, emphasizing the significance of the lesson.
Beside Kento, his friend, a young man with chestnut-colored hair, leaned over and whispered, "Psst, Kento, you're going to get the teacher mad at us." His tone was a mix of concern and annoyance, aware of the potential repercussions of their teacher's irritation.
Kento, shaking off the last remnants of sleep, replied in a low murmur, "I know, I know. It's just so boring." His voice was tinged with a hint of rebelliousness, typical of a student who found classroom lectures less than thrilling.
As the school bell rang, signaling the end of the day and the start of the much-anticipated holidays, Kento quickly sprang to his feet. With an infectious grin spreading across his face, he exclaimed, "I'm outta here, vacation, baby!" His voice carried the unmistakable tone of freedom and excitement.
Kento's departure from the classroom was marked by a certain charisma that seemed to draw the attention of those around him. As he walked through the halls, there was a noticeable reaction from his fellow students, especially from the girls, who couldn't help but sigh as he passed by. His blonde hair shone brilliantly under the fluorescent lights, reminiscent of the sun's golden rays. His eyes, a deep shade of brown that bordered on gold, added an alluring depth to his appearance.
Exiting the school building, Kento stepped out into the bustling streets of the now-reconstructed city of Tokyo. The city had a vibrant energy that matched his mood perfectly – it was alive, dynamic, and full of possibilities. The streets were busy with people going about their day, and the urban landscape was a blend of traditional architecture and modern skyscrapers, symbolizing the city's resilience and growth.
Kento strolled through the city, his steps light and carefree. The feeling of the warm sun on his face and the gentle breeze through his hair was invigorating. It was the beginning of his vacation, a time for relaxation, adventure, and perhaps a bit of mischief. As he walked, he thought about all the possibilities that lay ahead, the places he could visit, and the fun he could have.
The city of Tokyo, with its endless energy and opportunities, was the perfect backdrop for the start of Kento's holiday adventures. The world was his oyster, and he was more than ready to explore it.
The lively atmosphere of Tokyo's streets was suddenly disrupted by an unsettling noise coming from the other end of the block. A commotion erupted near a convenience store, where a quadrupedal curse was wreaking havoc. The creature, grotesque and menacing, clawed at the storefront, sending shards of glass and debris flying.
A panicked voice pierced through the chaos, "A curse! Someone call the sorcerers!" The crowd began to scatter, fear palpable in the air as people sought safety away from the malevolent being.
Kento, upon hearing the commotion and the call for help, didn't hesitate. His expression hardened with resolve as he darted towards the disturbance. "Come and roar with me, Fire Tiger," he declared with confidence.
In response to Kento's call, a magnificent tiger made of roaring flames materialized beside him. The creature was a stunning spectacle, its body composed entirely of dancing fire, its eyes glowing embers. The tiger's presence exuded both beauty and power, its flames casting a warm, fierce light in the surrounding area.
With a powerful leap, the Fire Tiger pounced towards the curse, its movements graceful yet forceful. It landed on the cursed being, pinning it to the ground with overwhelming strength. The tiger's fiery form enveloped the curse, restraining it with a combination of heat and force, preventing it from causing any further harm.
The bystanders watched in awe and relief as Kento and his summoned creature controlled the situation. Kento's quick thinking and ability to summon such a powerful ally had turned the tide, showcasing his skills as a jujutsu sorcerer.
As Kento approached the subdued curse, he reached out and placed his hand on it. His expression was focused as he began to absorb the curse, his energy visibly flowing into the creature. With a deep concentration, he methodically neutralized the threat, drawing the cursed energy into himself and dissipating it safely. Once the curse was fully exorcised, Kento turned to the Fire Tiger and gave a small nod, signaling its dismissal. The magnificent creature of flames faded away, leaving no trace behind.
The crowd, which had gathered at a safe distance, erupted into cheers and applause, relieved and grateful for Kento's intervention. The owner of the convenience store, a middle-aged man with a look of profound relief, hurried over to Kento. "Thank you so much, young sorcerer! How can I ever repay you?" he asked earnestly.
Kento, with a casual air, replied, "That'll be fifty dollars, please."
The store owner paused, taken aback by the unexpected request. "Excuse me?" he asked, a hint of confusion in his voice.
Kento extended his hand, palm up. "Fifty dollars, old man. Isn't it shameful to see a teenager risking his life for free?" he said, half-joking but firm in his request.
With a slightly awkward nod, the store owner pulled out his wallet and handed Kento the money. Kento took it with a grin and said, "You've been saved by Kento Takashi. Don't hesitate to call me for future dangers."
He then handed the owner a handmade card with his contact number. The card was simple, with Kento's name and number written in bold letters. The store owner took the card, still looking somewhat incredulous at the entire exchange.
The late afternoon sun cast a warm, golden hue over the streets as Kento made his way home. The city of Tokyo, bustling and vibrant, was transitioning into the calm of the evening. The skyline was painted with the soft colors of dusk, creating a picturesque backdrop for Kento's walk. The streets were less crowded now, with people heading home after a long day, adding a sense of tranquility to the urban landscape.
Kento's home was a cozy, inviting place nestled in a quieter part of the city. It was a two-story house with a small garden out front, where a few flowers and plants added a touch of nature to the urban setting. The house, with its warm lights and welcoming aura, stood as a peaceful sanctuary in the midst of the bustling city.
As Kento opened the door and stepped inside, he announced his return. "I'm back," he called out, his voice echoing lightly in the entrance hall.
From the kitchen, Maki emerged, wiping her hands on a kitchen towel. "Welcome home, son. Dinner will be ready in a few minutes," she said with a smile that always made the house feel more like home.
Kento dropped his backpack by the door and asked, "Where's Dad?"
Maki replied, "He went out for a walk."
Kento, with a hint of concern mixed with amusement, said, "Again? Last time he got lost, and we had to search the entire city for him. Thankfully, Uncle Itadori was nearby."
Maki, stirring something on the stove, reassured him, "Your sister Mai is with him, so he should be fine."
Kento chuckled at the thought. "A 39-year-old blind man being led around by his 7-year-old daughter must be quite a sight," he joked.
Maki turned to look at Kento, her expression fond and a little wistful. "I think it's sweet," she said, the love for her family evident in her voice.
The house was filled with the smells of a home-cooked meal, and the familiar, comfortable atmosphere enveloped Kento as he settled in. It was moments like these – the simple, everyday routines – that he cherished the most. The Takashi household, with its mix of laughter, love, and the occasional adventure, was a testament to the strength and warmth of the family bond.
The peaceful evening was suddenly interrupted by a comical mishap at the front door. A thud, followed by a pained "Auch!" broke the quiet. Moments later, a young voice chided, "Dad, I told you not to go ahead!"
Then came a sheepish reply, "Sorry, I thought the door was open."
The door swung open, revealing a little girl with vibrant green hair and bright blue eyes. She was followed by a man, Hiro, her father. Hiro was a figure who bore the marks of his adventurous life; his blonde hair was styled casually, and his once vibrant blue eyes, now dim and lifeless, hinted at the sacrifice he had made years ago. Yet, despite his blindness, there was an air of strength and confidence about him, a testament to his resilience and adaptability.
"Mai, my senses told me the door was open," Hiro said, trying to justify his mistake.
Mai, his daughter, responded with a mix of exasperation and affection, "Dad, the last time your senses said the traffic light was green, you ended up getting run over. Luckily, you're ridiculously strong, but we still had to pay for the car's damages."
Hiro let out a laugh, a bit embarrassed by the story but taking it in stride. His laughter was light and genuine, indicative of a man who had learned to find humor in life's small misadventures.
As Hiro and Mai entered, Maki welcomed them with a warm smile, her eyes reflecting the joy of having her family together. Kento, still chuckling from the earlier incident, teased his father, "Dad, did you not bump into someone else, did you?"
Mai, quick to share the day's adventures, said, "He didn't bump into anyone, but Dad tried to use his 'blind privileges' to cut in line."
Hiro, with a hint of mock indignation, replied, "Hey, I saved Japan, so I think I deserve a little special treatment." His tone was light, but there was a hint of pride in his voice.
Maki, stirring something on the stove, joined the conversation. "You did save it, but you chose to stay anonymous, just like everyone else," she pointed out.
Hiro, leaning against the doorway, shrugged. "I didn't want to be anonymous, but it would have been a bit embarrassing to say I wanted the attention if everyone else didn't."
Maki laughed, her voice filled with affection and a touch of teasing. "You do love the spotlight, don't you?"
The room was filled with laughter and light-hearted banter, a typical evening in the Takashi household. Despite the extraordinary lives they led, they cherished these simple moments of family life. As Maki finished preparing dinner, the family gathered around the table, ready to share a meal and enjoy each other's company. These moments, filled with laughter, stories, and love, were the threads that wove the fabric of their strong family bond.
In the tranquility of the backyard, under the gentle glow of the moon, Hiro stood alone, lost in thought. The night was peaceful, the air fresh and cool, providing a quiet moment away from the lively atmosphere inside the house.
Maki, noticing her husband's absence, stepped out into the garden to join him. "What are you doing out here?" she asked, her voice soft in the quiet of the night.
Hiro, with his typical sense of humor, quipped, "Just looking at the sky."
Maki let out a small laugh, the familiarity of the joke bringing a sense of comfort. "It's been 20 years, and I'm still hearing that joke," she said, a playful tone in her voice.
Hiro smiled, a genuine warmth in his expression. "You just don't appreciate good humor," he teased.
Maki moved closer, wrapping her arms gently around Hiro's neck. She could sense there was something more on his mind. "Tell me what's going on," she urged gently.
Hiro let out a sigh, the smile fading slightly as he shared his thoughts. "It's just... I was thinking about our family. We have a beautiful family, but I don't know what our kids look like. In fact, I don't even know what you look like now."
Maki's embrace tightened slightly, a mixture of empathy and love in her hold. She knew the sacrifices Hiro had made and the struggles he faced due to his blindness. It was a topic they seldom discussed, but it lingered in the background of their life together.
"You may not see us with your eyes, Hiro, but you know us better than anyone else," Maki reassured him. "You see us with your heart, and that's more important."
Hiro nodded, feeling the truth in Maki's words. His connection with his family went beyond the visual; it was rooted in the deep bonds of love, understanding, and shared experiences.
As they stood together under the moonlit sky, the quiet of the night enveloping them, they were reminded of the strength of their love and the unbreakable bond of their family. Hiro's loss of sight had been a significant challenge, but it had also taught them to see the world and each other in a different, more profound way.
Under the serene moonlight, Maki continued to hold Hiro close, a sense of nostalgia washing over her as she remembered their early days. A smile tugged at the corners of her mouth as she reminisced.
"Do you remember when we first met?" Maki began, her voice tinged with amusement. "You were this arrogant boxer, always showing off in the ring. I have to admit, you were pretty insufferable back then."
Hiro chuckled, a hint of embarrassment mixed with fondness in his laughter. "Was I really that bad?" he asked, though he already knew the answer.
Maki nodded, her smile growing wider. "Oh, you were. Always strutting around like you owned the place. I couldn't stand you at first. You had this air about you, like you were better than everyone else."
Hiro's expression turned thoughtful, a faraway look in his unseeing eyes. "I guess I was trying too hard to prove myself. I wanted to be the best, to be unbeatable."
Maki's grip on Hiro softened as she reflected on those days. "But then, I started to see the real you. Behind all that bravado, there was someone kind, determined, and incredibly brave. You were always the first to jump in and help when someone was in trouble."
Hiro's face softened at her words. "You saw past all my nonsense. You challenged me, made me a better person. I don't know if I would've gotten to where I am without you."
Maki leaned her head against Hiro's shoulder. "We've come a long way since then, haven't we? From rivals to partners in life."
Hiro nodded, his arm wrapping around her. "We have. And I wouldn't change a thing."
As the night deepened around them, Maki and Hiro remained in the garden, enveloped in the tranquil ambiance. The moon cast a silvery glow over the garden, bathing everything in a soft, ethereal light. The gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze and the distant sounds of the city created a serene backdrop to their intimate moment.
Hiro turned his face towards Maki, his expression filled with love and gratitude. "You know," he began softly, "even without my sight, every day with you is more beautiful than I could have ever imagined."
Maki looked up at Hiro, her eyes shimmering in the moonlight. "And every day with you is an adventure, a journey of love and strength. You've shown me that true vision comes from the heart, not just the eyes."
They stood there for a moment, basking in the depth of their connection, the years of shared experiences binding them together in an unbreakable bond.
Slowly, Hiro leaned down towards Maki, guided by her presence, her warmth. Maki tilted her head up, closing the distance between them. Their lips met in a tender, loving kiss, a perfect fusion of past memories and present feelings, of challenges overcome and joys shared. It was a kiss that encapsulated their journey, from youthful exuberance to mature love, from trials to triumphs.
As they parted, they held each other's gaze, no words needed to express the depth of their feelings. They stood together, two souls intertwined, under the watchful eye of the moon and the stars.
The night continued to envelop them in its embrace, a witness to their enduring love. And in that moment, under the vast, starry sky, their story – a tale of courage, love, and resilience – reached its beautiful conclusion.
The End.
Thanks for reading!
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