Cursed Love
~ From Me To You, My Beloved ~
October 1st, 2016. / 11:53 / Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu High School, Tokyo, Japan
How long has it been? Satoru ponders. Seven, eight years?
He sits on the leather chair and leans back, craning his neck while his blindfolded eyes face the ceiling. The luxury item he sits on is courtesy of his own wallet. He believed he should give himself that much comfort if he was going to be away from his primary residence. Apart from the Gojo Estate (his birth home which is nearly five thousand acres of land in the Fukuoka Prefecture), Satoru has a flat in Tokyo - a penthouse to be precise - he just doesn't frequent the place as much. After the wedding, that might change. A soft smile sneaks onto his lips as he thinks of his bride-to-be -
"I wonder what she looks like now," he wonders out loud.
Humming, the white-haired sorcerer lifts his head and reaches for his phone. He unlocks the device to check the time and then searches through his messages. There were no new messages, only a bunch of unanswered messages from Mathias, his future brother-in-law. Satoru sighs; the man was a pain in his ass for most of Satoru's life. I hope she won't insist on inviting him over, he wonders briefly. That'd be a huge drag.
"Excuse me, herre."
Satoru shifts his focus from his phone to the masked intruder. Standing at the entrance to his office is a short woman with a slender physique, dressed in a purple and black suit with a unique red spider lily motif embroidered on her shoulder pads. Locks of red hair fall freely down her back while the lower half of her face is covered by a black mask. Satoru smiles as he realizes the intruder is a Shuuin spy.
"You've got an accent," he notes with a smile on his lips. "Not from Japan, I take it?"
The spy bows slightly. "Norway, herre."
"Ah," he says somewhat humorously. "Well, if you're here, your mistress must be close."
The spy shakes her head. "Mistress is still in Nikko but she will be here by the nightfall."
Someone's having cold feet, Satoru notes. "It is no problem. As long as she makes it safe and sound to Tokyo, she should explore Japan to her heart's content."
"Another thing, herre," the spy says as she reaches for the inside of her sleeve, revealing a folded parchment. "Master Mathias sent you this in advance."
"Did he now?" Satoru asks and extends his hand to the spy, inviting her inside his personal space. "If that is all, you're free to go."
Handing over the letter, the spy bows one more time and disappears into the corridor, leaving Satoru alone as he focuses on the letter in his hands. It lacks an envelope and the Shuuin wax seal but it has the Shuuin stamp. Meaning it's off records, Satoru concludes and unfolds the parchment. As he expected, the letter lacks obvious formality and decorum. It is written in seemingly hurried handwriting which Satoru finds unrefined. He doesn't care about formality but he does frown on lack of basic literacy.
"You seriously need to practice your hiragana, Mathias," Satoru grumbles as he struggles to read the letter. "Liv picked up these things much better."
After a painful few minutes of deciphering Mathias's scribbles, Satoru sighs in defeat and then folds the letter again before putting it inside his pocket (translation of the scribbles is something along the lines of 'answer the fucking texts'). It's probably not important anyway. He then stands up and stretches his arms before making his way to the morgue.
October 1st, 2016. / 13:28 / Nikko National Park, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Liv looks at her watch, surprised to see that it is well past noon. Shit, she curses inwardly before searching for her phone and then speed-dials her spymaster. After three rings, she hears a familiar drawl from the other side of the line.
"Took you long enough," the voice says in Norwegian, obviously annoyed. "You're lucky Gojo is as nonchalant as you. Rune was trembling on her way to Jujutsu High."
Liv chuckles, immediately regretting it as Tove almost barks in response, "We're ass-deep in deadlines and responsibilities, and you're spending your time sightseeing."
"Would you rather I rampage across the countryside, Tove?" Liv says, her voice smooth and shrouded with venom. "My car is due for maintenance anyway."
"You know that's not what I meant," Tove says more calmly this time. "Please, tell me you're on your way."
Liv is quiet for a moment. "That's why I called, Tove."
She hears a hum before Tove continues, "Should I let Mathias know?"
"I spoke with Mathias earlier today so he's informed," Liv says quickly.
Tove is silent for a brief while. "Are you alright?"
No, Liv wants to say and shakes her head. "Sure. Why wouldn't I be?"
"You can still call it off," comes the soft reply from her spymaster. "We can go back to Stavanger, open up a bar, live out our lives in peace."
"Be the wife of a wealthy aristocrat," Liv teases, "or swipe vomit and shit off the floor? What to choose, what to choose?"
"Could I tempt you with a mountain house then?" Tove asks teasingly. "It could be arranged. We'll sign a lease with Mathias's name."
Liv chuckles. Oh, Tove.
"That would be nice," Liv says somewhat sad, "but you know I can't."
Tove sighs. "I know. It was worth a shot, though."
Liv smiles but the smile never reaches her hazel eyes.
October 1st, 2016. / 17:31 / Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu High School, Japan
Shoko Ieiri is what one would call the epitome of 'I don't give a fuck'. As the only doctor employed by the Jujutsu High, Shoko is in charge of taking care of the wounded, charting all the active sorcerers, and dissecting the deceased. In short, she's a physician, a pathologist, and a coroner. A prized gem of the institution, Shoko is substantially compensated for her diligent work. So much so, that she's able to afford quite a few conventional luxuries.
The woman prides herself on being impassive and unaffected by things that would easily distraught others. This is partially the reason why she studied medicine in the first place. With that said, Satoru is surprised to see her shocked once he reveals his engagement to her.
He hasn't seen her shocked in years.
The two former classmates are at the campus clinic. The small complex is divided into several units: a morgue, Shoko's office, a storage where all the sterile equipment is stored along with necessary drugs, and Shoko's own room which is at her disposal for when she has long, night shifts at the clinic. They're currently in her office with Shoko sitting flabbergasted behind her desk and Satoru menspreading on the chair opposite her.
"Come again?" she breathes out, her eyes almost bulging out of her sockets.
Satoru cocks his head to the side. "I'm getting married? Didn't you hear me the first time?"
"Yeah, I heard you," Shoko says, her voice even. "I'm just checking if I heard it right."
Satoru hums. "Is it that weird that I'm engaged?"
"Yes," Shoko deadpans.
"Why?" Satoru asks dubiously.
Shoko lifts a brow. "Who'd marry you, idiot?"
Satoru is genuinely offended by her answer. He rolls his eyes under the blindfold before his head lulls backward, his neck craned at an uncomfortable angle. Shoko believes he would've been a contortionist if he wasn't a jujutsu sorcerer. The man's flexibility is at an astonishing level.
"There are plenty of women willing to give me their hand in marriage," he hums, crossing his arms and legs.
Shoko scoffs. "If they're stupid, sure."
"You do realize you just called Liv Drakon stupid, right?" Satoru scoffs back at her.
Silence follows his question. He lifts his head just enough to peek at Shoko whose eyes have grown even larger and her mouth is slightly ajar as she stares at the white-haired man in disbelief. He chuckles.
"You look funny," he jests.
Shoko simply blinks.
"Surprised?" he asks, not lifting his head this time.
She swallows the lump in her throat. "I guess you could say that."
He smirks.
"When? How?" she asks incoherently. "Why?"
Satoru pouts and presses a finger against his chin as he contemplates his answer. "Ten years ago, easy, why not."
"Why not?" Shoko asks in return.
"Yeah, why not?" he chuckles again. "She's a good woman and that's coming from me."
Indeed, Shoko agrees. "Why now?"
Satoru hums. "It seemed like the right time to break the news. You should've seen the geezers' faces - priceless!"
"I'm sure they were," Shoko mutters before asking, "Is she here?"
He is about to answer but then stops, the corner of his mouth curled downward as he remains silent. Shoko is about to ask him what's wrong but he dashes out of her office.
October 1st, 2016. / 17:49 / Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu High School, Tokyo, Japan
Liv pushes on the brake gently and stops her car at the entrance to the campus at the foothills of Mount Mushiro. Turning the key inside the lock, the engine rumbles and then goes quiet. Taking another deep breath, Liv hesitantly reaches for the doorknob and pulls it. Every step she takes seems heavy. Her instincts are screaming at her to run, to get away as far as possible.
Walking up the stairs, she takes a good look around the campus. It is still the same, nestled deep within the forests and high in the mountains on the outskirts of Tokyo. The guise is rather believable as the school has invested in building statues of deities, shrines, and even torii gates. The entire school was built in the traditional Japanese style, which makes the school's appearance serene and inconspicuous. Duplicitous, hypocritical, and inauspicious, she finds herself rambling cynically.
After a not-so-short walk, she finally reaches the main gate of the campus. There's only a single person standing at the front. From the distance, she can't really tell who it is. At first, she thinks it is Satoru as the person is wearing shades and a dark suit but she then notices the figure has a dark hair color too. As she comes closer to the gate, she quickly realizes that the one welcoming her is none other than Masamichi Yaga, the current principal of Tokyo Jujutsu High and her former teacher.
Liv musters a smile for the man, greeting him in fluent Japanese. "Fancy seeing you here, sensei."
The older man smirks. "I thought I'd never see the day when you step foot in this place again."
A chuckle escapes her throat. "So did I."
"Now I can say that I've seen it all in this lifetime," Masamichi shakes his head.
Liv hums. "Give it a few hours. I'm sure I'll surprise you."
"Of that, I have no doubt," he comments. "Congratulations on your wedding, by the way."
Liv is quiet for a moment. "Is that the official statement?"
The man shakes his head. "No, it is an honest wish. The official statement is, and I quote, 'We're watching you'."
Of course they are. "You standing in for the higher-ups, then?"
"No, not this time," Masamichi shook his head. "Satoru persuaded them to postpone the formalities until after you've settled in and relaxed a bit."
"He didn't persuade them, he forced them," Liv corrects him, resisting the urge to roll her eyes. "Speaking of, where is my beloved groom?"
Masamichi crosses his arms. "He's probably in one of the classrooms."
"Or shooting hoops at the sports hall," Liv says, figuring it could be either of those two options. "Anything else I should know?"
"Nothing at the moment," Masamichi says, cocking his head to the side. "You know the rules around here so I guess there's only that."
Liv smirks. "I won't cause too much trouble, promise."
"With you?" he scoffs. "Trouble is guaranteed."
Liv laughs. "Still have no faith in me, sensei? Come on, I'm twenty-seven, I'm a mature woman."
Masamichi gives her a blank look. "Could've fooled me."
She laughs again and Masamichi smiles in return. They stand in silence afterward, the lack of conversation not bothering them in the least. Despite everything that has happened and the years that have passed since Liv is genuinely happy to see Masamichi again. The gruff exterior and seemingly permanent frown on the man's face never made her feel uncomfortable. If anything, she was respectful of the masculine demeanor he carried himself with and the authority he had over his students. Granted, she was rebellious as a teenager (much like her betrothed) and had her fair share of punishment by the current Tokyo Jujutsu High's Principal back in the day.
Nonetheless, she doesn't resent him nor does she blame him, even though she knows he blames himself.
"Well," Liv says after a while, walking toward the gate. "I guess I'll go and look for my husband-to-be."
Masamichi nods and watches her pass him by. He presses his lips, swallowing the words he wants to say. I'm sorry. I wish I'd done more. I won't let you down again. He knows these words mean nothing to her at this point and it is that acknowledgment that makes him hesitant to call out her name. You made a promise, he reminds himself sternly. He then turns around, his dark eyes fixed on the back of her head.
"Drakon."
She stops before her hand can reach the knob and looks over her shoulder. "Yes, sensei?"
He takes a deep breath before saying softly, "It's good to see you again and I'm truly happy for the both of you."
Though she disagrees, Liv commends his attempt at a kind gesture and ignores the latter part of his statement. "It's good to see you too, sensei."
She doesn't wait to see the saddened look on Masamichi's face as she pushes the gate open, revealing the vast courtyard of Jujutsu High. She takes a small step forward, then another. The familiarity of the place is lost on her as she feels disconnected from it. The old wooden buildings, the mown grass, the stone statues, and the pavement beneath her feet - it all rings foreign. It really has been a long time, hasn't it? she muses to herself.
Even then, almost a decade ago, she felt uncomfortable on the school grounds. She was always an outsider - a student but also not a student. It was a complex situation, evidently but she found some solace in the mesmerizing visage of the school and in the people she befriended (and can hopefully still call 'friends').
Liv closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, savoring the moment. She feels the soft breeze of the wind against her cheek and the sunshine that washes her face. A whiff of sweetness passes her by and she picks up notes of sandalwood, cinnamon, and orange. Incense? she wonders briefly. Shaking her head, she focuses on the energy surrounding her, the great barrier hiding this school from the intruding stares of the common folk - the non-sorcerers. The subtle shift between the outer and inner side of the barrier goes unnoticed by most sorcerers but Liv is highly attuned to such things - partially out of general hyperawareness.
That is why she feels Satoru's presence before her eyes spot him.
October 1st, 2016. / 17:57 / Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu High School, Tokyo, Japan
Six Eyes of the Gojo family is a unique ocular ability with different attributes. They simplify and amplify reality at the same time. Paired with Limitless, Satoru has a rich repertoire of abilities and powers that make him a formidable opponent on the battlefield. Another useful curiosity, courtesy of Six Eyes, is their ability to sense cursed energy in a large radius.
Every living being has a different cursed energy, unique only to them. While identification of individuals based on their cursed energy is not exclusive to Satoru, his Six Eyes give him a more precise insight into such things. That said, he can easily discern people solely on their cursed energy even when wearing a blindfold.
That said, Satoru sensed Liv's presence the moment her car reached the foothills of the mountain.
When he arrives in the courtyard, he finds her standing still with her eyes closed and head tilted upward. As if on cue, she lowers her gaze and sees him standing on the other side of the courtyard. It is strange. In the past, their reunions were celebrated with tight hugs and laughter. Now, they're not certain which of them should make the first move. Finally, after what appears to be minutes of silence and awkward stillness, Liv takes a step forward and Satoru follows suit. Each step is labored and heavy, weighed further by the gravity of the situation they find themselves in - they are not greeting each other as childhood playmates or comrades.
They are to be wed soon.
A short while later, they meet halfway, keeping a respectful distance from each other. Their eyes would've met had Satoru taken the liberty of pulling down his blindfold.
"Hey," she says cooly.
"Hey," he replies smoothly. "You're still kicking, I see."
She rolls her eyes. "You haven't changed a bit."
"Should I?" he muses, his arrogant streak shining through.
Her response is swift and precise as she shoves his shoulder. Well, she was aiming to shove him but she doesn't make contact with his flesh. She taps the invisible barrier with her fingertips. The Limitless technique is Satoru's impenetrable barrier, a perfect shield. It lets nothing and no one in, not without his permission. Not even me, she thinks to herself almost bitterly. She doesn't allow the bitterness to show on her face, though.
"Impressive," she compliments him as her hand doesn't budge against the invisible shield over his body. "Shoko told me you can even do it in your sleep."
He is smirking as he says, "So Shoko gets to talk to you but I can't?"
Liv smiles forcibly. "That's 'cause I love Shoko."
Satoru comes dangerously close to her, towering over her frame. Still invading people's personal space, she notes with a sigh. It is one of those things that stand out about Satoru, besides the obvious (white hair, unnaturally blue eyes). His height is another outlandish feature of his. Liv is fairly tall for a woman but next to Satoru, she feels petite. Fucking giraffe. She tries to put some distance between them by placing her hand against his shoulder. She realizes that the Limitless is off for the moment as she can touch him without resistance.
"Better start acting like you love me," he whispers, taking her hand gently into his own. "We're being watched."
As if on cue, Liv glances around. "Yaga already warned me of the Council's gaze. By the way, you need to work on your acting game - this is cheesy, even for you."
His other arm circles her frame and brings her closer in, flushing her against him. "You're making it hard by being stiff. I thought you were comfortable with touching me at least."
"It's been a while since I've seen you, give me a moment," Liv whispers as he cranes his neck, bringing his nose closer to hers. "Don't the Japanese frown on blatant PDA anyway?"
"Yes," he replies, slightly nudging her nose.
"Can you at least take that off?" she asks softly, referring to the covering that pulls back his hair, making him look like a porcupine. "It's rather rude to meet your old friend faux-blind."
Satoru is quiet as she slowly reaches for his blindfold. He stiffens at first but doesn't stop her. Instead, he lets her fingers hook under the material and pull it downward, revealing the cerulean orbs that are the Six Eyes. She almost loses her breath. She had seen his eyes many times, especially in their youth but they never fail to leave an impression.
"They twinkle," she murmurs. "That's good."
Satoru frowns as she pulls the blindfold back over his eyes. "They twinkle?"
She picks up on his teasing tone but doesn't elaborate. "Did Mathias contact you?"
He lets go of her waist as he answers. "Too often."
Liv chuckles. "He's nervous. Do forgive him."
Satoru hums. "Well, since it's your brother, I guess I can let it pass. I want chocolate as payment, though."
Liv smiles and for a second time today, her smile doesn't reach her eyes.
"You tired?" he asks her though he already knows the answer.
She nods. "It's been a long trip. I could use some R&R."
He chuckles and brings his arms around her again, turning her around so her back is against his chest as he envelops her in the warmth of his body. "Luckily for you, I have the dinner ready. It's your favorite."
She traces her fingers over the knuckles of his hand. "Rare?"
"Any rarer and it'd be raw," he whispers in her ear.
She rolls her eyes and groans. "You're even more obnoxious than before."
"For the sake of this marriage," he murmurs into her neck, "I'll be a pain in your ass if I must."
He then reaches for his pocket and presents her with a burgundy-colored velvet box. Curious, she takes the box from his hand and inspects it closely. She finds the side where the box opens and pushes the lid upward, revealing a thick gold band with a large oval-cut sapphire surrounded by smaller diamonds.
"You're really going all-out," she says, honestly impressed with the ring.
"We're getting hitched, Liv," he says, letting her out of his embrace. "We've gotta be convincing."
He circles her and as he stands before her, he takes off his blindfold, his eyes meeting hers again. He gently pulls out the ring from the velvet cushions and takes her right hand into his.
"From me to you, my beloved," he whispers sarcastically, not taking his eyes off of her as he slides the ring onto her ring finger. "May our love never die."
October 1st, 2016. / 18:02 / Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu High School, Tokyo, Japan
Shoko finds the whole engagement thing fishy.
Or rather, she finds it not entirely genuine. Why? Because Satoru has been adamant about not settling down with anyone and Liv most certainly wouldn't settle down with Satoru Gojo of all people. Despite her doubts about their engagement, she is happy to see Liv again. The Shuuin mistress didn't visit (much to Shoko's disappointment) but she did call regularly.
"Shoko!"
Brought out of her thoughts, Shoko notices that Liv has detached from Satoru and has been waving at her cheerfully. Smiling, the doctor waves back, her hand high up in the air. Liv laughs as she runs toward her friend, her hands clasping behind Shoko's back as she lifts her and spins her around.
"I missed you so much," Liv mutters after she puts Shoko back on the ground, nestling her chin on the woman's shoulder.
Shoko brings her hand to Liv's nape, her fingers tangling with the strands of Liv's messy braids. "I missed you too, Drakon."
Liv hums with a pout on her lips. "Sorry that I didn't visit."
"You're not forgiven," Shoko says curtly, pulling away so she can look into the woman's eyes. "I want a dinner, a cast of wine, and a sleepover."
"It seems everyone has demands today," Liv mutters and then notices the dark circles under Shoko's eyes, "but yeah, you need sleep alright."
Shoko's response is a flick on the Shuuin mistress' forehead. "Shut it. Not all of us have the luxury of traveling the world full-time."
Their little banter is interrupted by Satoru, his hands in his pockets and his eyes covered once more. Liv ignores his presence in favor of showering Shoko with questions and compliments. He notices this and deliberately interrupts them again.
"I'll have to break this heart-wrenching reunion," Satoru says smoothly, draping his arm around Liv's shoulders. "My bride and I should pay a visit to the higher-ups and it's getting late."
"They can wait another minute," Liv says with a tight smile. "I'm saying hi to a friend I haven't seen in almost a decade."
"Well, I'm worried it's gonna be past their bedtime, dearest," Satoru says overly sweetly. "Besides, you haven't seen me in almost a decade either."
"Your point?" Liv deadpans, not looking at him.
"You haven't missed me at all?" Satoru pouts and then glares at Shoko. "I'm so jealous."
Liv groans as he continues to pester her and dramatize everything. Meanwhile, Shoko takes a good look at the two, certain that something is not fitting properly.
"Why are you two getting married?" she blurts out.
They look at her, their argument effectively over as they focus their attention on her. Liv remains composed while Satoru cocks his head to the side.
"Don't get me wrong, I'm happy for you," Shoko adds though it sounds insincere. "I'm just curious how did you go from childhood playmates to - whatever this is?"
Liv and Satoru exchange looks before turning back to Shoko.
"Isn't that how it usually goes?" Satoru is the one to speak first. "Boy meets a girl, he pulls her braids, she falls in love and they get married!"
"Except the boy is a dick and the girl knows better," Shoko deadpans, her attention solely on Liv.
Liv, on the other hand, merely shrugs. "Is it so wrong to fall in love?"
"With any other man? No," she says, then points at Satoru. "With him? Undoubtedly."
"Hey," he whines, offended. "I'll have you know, I've been approached by many, many -"
He then feels a pinch on his forearm and glances at Liv who is giving him a very, very stern look. "But not that many women expressing their love for me. There's a valid reason for it."
"You're filthy rich," Shoko says, lifting her index finger, then her middle finger, "and you're the strongest jujutsu sorcerer alive."
"I'm also irresistible," he emphasizes as if that's his greatest asset. "This face, my winning smile - "
"Well, it's not your personality," Shoko drawls and Liv bites back the laugh.
"Point is," he continues, pressing his cheek against Liv's, "it was only a matter of time before she opened her heart to me."
Shoko frowns at him and then at Liv. She's not convinced, not at all - but she decides to play along for the time being.
"If you say so," she mutters, her eyes on Liv the entire time. "See you soon?"
"Beer?" Liv asks and Shoko nods. "We'll figure out the details later."
Shoko offers a tight smile and turns on her heel, walking back to her office and silently hoping that no one gets hurt by whatever those two are planning.
October 1st, 2016. / 18:12 / Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu High School, Tokyo, Japan
"What is your opinion, Principal Yaga?"
As requested by the Council, Masamichi went to the headquarters to report immediately after welcoming Liv on the school grounds. It is no secret that the marriage between Gojo and Shuuin leaders had everyone startled and confused. One is the strongest sorcerer alive with an authority problem. The other is a progeny of a long line of sorcerers who have an exceptionally bad relationship with the higher-ups. Their marriage irks many among the jujutsu society's elders, most of them opposing their request to officially bring together the two clans. Masamichi, however, isn't shocked. He has his concerns, of course, but his concerns are in regard to the overall happiness of his former students and not the political danger of their union.
"I believe it's genuine affection. They've known each other as children and have spent a lot of time together as adolescents," he reasons. "They wouldn't be the first childhood friends that become lovers in adulthood."
"Didn't Liv Drakon almost defect with Suguru Geto nine years ago?" one of the Council members asks. "It was fairly obvious there were romantic feelings involved at the time."
Masamichi resists the urge to wince. "Her feelings for Geto clouded her judgment. She has obviously moved on."
"First, she becomes the head of the Shuuin instead of her brother after the death of their mother," the presiding council member notes. "Then, she appoints that same brother to be the representative in the Council after they have effectively remained outside of jujutsu society for centuries. And now, she reveals a near decade-long engagement to the strongest sorcerer of the modern age. The time frame also suggests she's been involved with both Gojo and Geto at the same time. These cannot be mere coincidences."
Oh for fuck's sake, Masamichi curses inwardly. "With all due respect, I doubt Liv Drakon is marrying Satoru Gojo under pretenses and she volunteered to be sealed away after Geto's betrayal when you questioned her allegiance at the time. She's on our side."
"She refused to fight for our side, though."
Masamichi glances at the specific member of the higher-ups, Yoshinobu Gakuganji. It is no secret that the Kyoto Jujutsu High's Principal is a distrustful individual, traditional to his core, and indiscriminately ruthless at times. The man never held a particular fondness for the Shuuin mistress. He's even more antagonistic toward her than he is with Satoru.
"The Shuuin do not fight," Masamichi says. "As you well know."
"Yes, their Vow of Pacifism," Principal Gakuganji says. "Are we still going to ignore the fact that the Shuuin are hiding their abilities deliberately?"
Masamichi frowns. "The Shuuin are artists, they make cursed weapons and then use them for ritualistic purposes."
"They utilize spies who do kill at times," one of the Council members remarks. "How do you justify that?"
"That, esteemed Council, is your fault," Masamichi says evenly. "You've antagonized Shuuin for centuries and nearly exterminated them not that long ago."
"They have been elusive about their exploits and operations," Principal Gakuganji says cooly. "Eliminating the weed before it spoils the garden is the most effective way of saving the crops."
"They've never participated in any kind of confrontation," Masamichi points out. "They're not the weed, they're the epitome of civility and kindness, much like Liv Drakon."
Principal Gakuganji scoffs. "Please, Liv Drakon is the epitome of arrogance, much like her future husband."
"That is your opinion, Principal Gakuganji," Masamichi notes evenly. "Liv Drakon is not a threat you want her to be."
The Council remains quiet at his last words, visibly caught off guard. Principal Gakuganji doesn't seem a bit shaken, though. They continue to whisper among themselves, exchanging thoughts and opinions on the matter. Meanwhile, Masamichi awaits patiently their decision.
"This Council will take into consideration your input, Principal Yaga," the presiding Council member announces after the short discussion. "Liv Drakon and Satoru Gojo are due to report to the Council at their earliest convenience."
Masamichi nods his head, accepting the order.
"You are dismissed."
October 1st, 2016. / 18:20 / Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu High School, Tokyo, Japan
"I've asked Yaga to have the students sent either to the training grounds or on missions," Satoru says as he and Liv approach the dorms. "You know, for privacy and stuff."
Liv smiles softly. "That's nice of him."
"You're supposed to thank me," he pouts. "I get no love around here."
She chuckles but still doesn't thank him. A short while later, Satoru stops in front of a room numbered F-7. He takes out a key from his pocket and places it inside the lock. Turning it once, then twice, the lock clicks and he pushes the door open, revealing a spacious room. The room accounts for everything a single person might need: a bed, a separate bathroom, a kitchenette with a small table, and a couple of chairs. Liv wasn't allowed to sleep at the dorms like the other students but she crashed dozens of times in Shoko's bedroom. Unlike her last stay at Jujutsu High, she appreciates the fresh coating of paint and the new floors. Also, she can't smell the stale air anymore. Instead, she smells sea salt and -
"Fir," she says while sniffing.
Satoru reaches for a vial containing scented oil on the kitchen counter. "Home sweet Norway."
She silently appreciates the gesture as Satoru settles the glass vial back on the counter.
"This place hardly changed in the last several years," she says as she looks around the dorm room.
"Why would it?" Satoru muses, straddling a nearby chair. "The Council handles all of the administrative work, including the improvements. They're traditional and they lack style."
"Except for you," Liv notes, putting down her backpack on a chair opposite Satoru. "Is that rain jacket a fashion statement or?"
Satoru feigns offense. "I want to look good, unlike someone I know but shall not name."
"I'm Norwegian, we're more about comfort and less about impressing others," Liv teases, leaning over the table. "Unlike someone I know but shall not name."
Unaffected, Satoru rests his chin atop his crossed arms. "You still have your silver tongue."
"It is my best quality," Liv surmises. "Hope you're not disappointed, Satoru."
He sighs, though it sounds more like a moan. "Oh, I love it when you call me by my name."
The blatant flirting has been part of Satoru's personality since he was in high school so she finds it more amusing than flattering.
"Sorry loverboy," she says coyly. "Your charms don't work on me."
Satoru scoffs, leaning backward while holding onto the back of the chair. "You slept with me. How do you explain that?"
"I asked you if you wanted to and your scrawny ass said 'yes'," Liv challenges, her hazel eyes focused on him. "That wasn't charm, it was an arrangement."
"You keep telling yourself that," he teases.
"I worry for those students of yours," Liv says, half-serious. "Such a bad example, tsk."
He gasps, again dramatically. "I believe I've grown on them."
"Like fungus, I'd wager," Liv mutters loud enough for him to hear.
She looks outside the window of her room, noticing an eerie black bird perched on the railings. It eyes her directly from where it's perched.
"We have company," she notes, nodding her head toward the bird.
Staying at the dorm overnight was Satoru's idea. Liv believes it's mostly to annoy the higher-ups but her betrothed argues they should flaunt their engagement to make it more believable. She of course doesn't see the logic of his argument as it's unnecessary peacocking but she obliged his request nonetheless. They both knew the elders would keep a close eye on them yet, she didn't expect the higher-ups to spy on them with Mei Mei's crows of all things. How much did they pay her for this? she wonders briefly. Knowing Mei Mei, Liv is certain the woman has overcharged them.
"Let's give them a show," Satoru teases and extends his hand to her. "Try to be a bit more touchy-feely, make it believable."
Liv frowns but takes his hand nonetheless. With a swift tug, he brings her into his lap and she takes a deep breath, ignoring how foreign it is to be this close to him.
"You don't trust me either," she half-whispers as if she doesn't believe her own words. "At least, not entirely."
Satoru notices her tone. He also sees the way her eyes have become more piercing. The air grows cold all of a sudden, the lightness of their benter turning heavy, reminding them of just how much things have changed between them. The realization hits them harder than they thought it would.
"It's been eight years, Liv, and the most I've heard from you was through postcards," he points out evenly. "At this point, Shoko knows more about you and I've known you since we were five."
She frowns slightly, understanding fully well how much she contributed to their current situation. However, she's not that quick to overlook Satoru's share of blame. You're the one who got caught up in his own grief.
He can see her push her jaw forward, a tick of hers when she gets mad. "You didn't have to accept my proposal, Satoru Gojo."
"We want the same thing, Liv Drakon," he says, tracing her jawline with his index finger. "I know you won't screw me over but since I've agreed to dance with you, I'd like to know the steps before I get to the ball."
"My brother will be my eyes and ears inside the Council as a representative of the Shuuin," Liv says, trying to keep her tone steady and polite. "They won't be able to take a shit without us knowing."
"I don't need to know their bowel movement schedule," Satoru retorts, holding her chin between his index and middle finger. "I need to have them on our side or at least, out of my way."
"And Mathias can ensure us that," Liv argues, tracing his blindfold tentatively, adjusting to the feeling of touching him again.
"Mathias becoming Council member if he even becomes one, is useless at this point," Satoru notes callously.
"The Shuuin never had a Council representative until now," Liv argues. "It is a sign of our goodwill and transparency."
"They won't buy that bullshit," he scoffs. "I don't buy that bullshit."
"We're talking long-term effects, Gojo," Liv retorts, clasping her hands behind his neck. "What's useless now may become instrumental tomorrow."
"And us getting married?" he asks, holding her waist. "I still don't see how beneficial this marriage is long-term."
"You can call it off," she answers evenly. "If you think any other clan will support your ideals, feel free to marry a Zen'in or a Kamo."
"No need for insults," his grin turns menacing as his grip on her waist tightens. "You're testing my patience, Liv."
"And you mine," she says slowly. "The Shuuin preach peace and harmony, and with our support, you won't appear as a power-hungry egomaniac but a man who just wants to do the right thing."
"I am doing the right thing," he whispers, his voice smooth as he puts his hand on the back of her neck and nudges her closer so their noses are touching. "And you are hiding something from me."
Liv smirks, her lips close enough to kiss his. "Maybe I am, maybe I'm not. Wouldn't it be fun to find out?"
That particular question throws him off. It's not often he finds himself at a loss for words but whenever he does, it is mostly because of the fair maiden sitting in his lap now.
"There's another thing," she says, pulling back a bit. "Shoko called our bluff."
He nods. "I expected as much."
"Which means we must do better," Liv says, drawing lazy circles on his nape with her fingers.
He rolls his eyes. "I'm practically embarrassing myself. What else - "
"You're trying too hard," she cuts in, her hand on his cheek. "Relax. I know it's been a while but I'm not a stranger, damn it."
"I still don't see your point," he says, his tone flat.
"You're hopeless," Liv sighs, resting her forehead against his.
Satoru smirks. "Speak for yourself."
She'd have laughed if he wasn't trying to hide his distrust with humor. You're not the smartest guy in the room, Gojo.
"The old farts want to see us together in the headquarters so dress up nicely," he says after a while.
"How much time do I have?" she asks as she gets off his lap.
"As much as you need to get ready," he says while standing up. "I'll change in the room next door. Text me when you're done."
She says nothing as he turns on his heel and heads toward the door. Once he's out of the room, as if she'd been holding her breath the entire time, Liv lets out a deep sigh.
"This will be harder than I thought," she mutters as she rubs her eyes.
October 1st, 2016. / 18:50 / Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu High School, Tokyo, Japan
Sitting on the bed in the room next to Liv's, Satoru throws his head back. He cracks his neck a few times in an attempt to get rid of the built-up tension in his muscles. All things considered, their first meeting after eight years went as well as it could've. At least all those photos of the siblings mellowed her enough, he muses cynically. He knew that getting answers would be difficult. After all, she's a Shuuin - they are known for their sneakiness.
Maybe I do, maybe I don't. Wouldn't it be fun to find out?
The left corner of his mouth shifts ever so slightly upwards. He then fishes out his phone from his pocket and sends a quick message to Ijichi, asking him to find out all that he can about the Shuuin wedding rituals.