A/N: Hi everyone! For a start, thank you so much for reading Cursed Love! I'm really enjoying writing this piece and hopefully, you're enjoying the story too! Anyway, we've reached the wedding day! *dun dun dun* I made the Shuuin clan appear as unconventional and completely different from the traditional jujutsu families as possible because *hint* that will play an instrumental part in the next chapter and the rest of the story *hint*. I've taken inspiration from Asian, Scandinavian, and my own, Slavic culture as reference for Liv and Gojo's wedding. This is the end of the fluffy, lighthearted introduction. The story is slowly branching into what I had in mind when I started writing this. Remember, Jujutsu Kaisen is a dark manga - I envisioned this story to be the same. You can expect from the next chapter the gore, terror, and tragedy that we know as the JJK canon universe. Again, I've taken some liberties when it comes to the manga/anime characters and I've tried my best to keep the original ideas as in line with canon lore as possible.
Follow/review, I always welcome constructive criticism!
Cursed Love
~ Wedding Day ~
May 11th, 2009. / 13:23 / Trondheim, Norway
They say time heals all wounds but as Liv stands at the gravesite of her deceased father, she wonders if time will ever heal the gaping hole in her chest.
She finds it hard to breathe, hard to speak, hard to think. Her arms are heavy, her legs are weak and her eyes are tired. She doesn't want to live like this, a husk of a being. And for what? she thinks to herself bitterly. For a secret?
The shock has worn out and she has accepted what had happened - she just needs to accept what's to come as well. As she glances over her shoulder, she sees her brother Mathias and a two-year-old Nova clutching his pants. Liv never felt jealous of her older sibling. The age gap created a rift in their relationship so she hardly acknowledged his presence as they grew up. Yet, as she looks at him embracing his daughter, his flesh and blood, she envies him and the fact that he can still look forward to the future.
What future do I have?
Despite being enveloped in her thoughts, Liv notices Tove as she approaches her from behind. She doesn't say it outright but she's glad Tove is there with her. So much so that she reaches for her hand and grasps it gently.
"You're not alone," the older woman whispers, her fingers tugging the few loose strands of Liv's hair behind her pierced ears. "We're here for you."
Even as she says it, Liv doesn't believe her. Not because she doesn't want to but because she can't.
"Thanks," Liv mutters anyway. "Appreciate it."
"Do you need anything?" Tove asks hesitantly.
My freedom, she notes cynically. "No, thank you."
Tove nods and remains silent as she hugs Liv around her shoulders, keeping her close. After some time, Liv grows irritated by Tove's touch, desiring distance. She musters all the strength she can to be gentle as she takes the woman's hands into her own before letting them fall.
"I'll go for a walk," Liv makes an excuse with a strained smile on her lips.
Tove understands, as she always does, and nods again before watching the woman leave the burial site. Liv passes by Mathias and while her eyes linger on Nova's innocent face, she doesn't say anything as she continues to walk, lost in her thoughts once more.
October 15th, 2016. / 12:22 / Shuuin Manor, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Taking a deep breath, Liv looks at herself in the mirror as Tove helps her put on her bridal crown. The spymaster catches her mistress looking at her reflection in the mirror and smiles.
"Nervous?" she asks and Liv scoffs. "I'll take that as a 'yes'."
"Wouldn't you be?" Liv asks in return. "I'm marrying 'the strongest sorcerer alive'. That title alone comes with a ton of baggage."
Tove waits for her to continue as she braids her fair locks around the crown.
"I'm getting married, Tove," Liv whispers, almost in awe. "I'm about to marry the man I don't even - "
She doesn't finish the sentence but her spy understands.
"Not like that, that is," Liv points out.
"So you do in some way?" Tove teases.
The Shuuin mistress sighs in defeat as she looks down at her lap. "There are feelings involved, I just don't know what kind."
"Is it so hard for you two to just be honest with each other?" Tove asks, putting jade-tipped pins into the bride's hair. "You chose him, Liv, and while Gojo is - "
Liv quirks a brow. "Strange? Weird?"
"Unique," Tove says, biting down her tongue, "he agreed to this marriage and I think it's because he cares about you in some way."
Liv stares at her reflection but finds the woman in the mirror foreign.
"You have to get along with him, though," Tove says, clicking her tongue. "People will quickly notice the real nature of your relationship if you keep your distance."
"Easier said than done," Liv says, a sad smile plastered on her face.
"There has to be some affection between you still," Tove smiles as well. "I mean, he kept sending you all those postcards and photographs. Mathias said he sent you gifts as well."
Liv scoffs. "Souvenirs."
"Souvenirs?" Tove wonders.
"It was a high school thing," Liv muses. "He and his classmates did it often, and they included me as well at some point."
"Anyway, I may not trust that man much but I do applaud his courage," Tove continues. "It takes a lot of balls to do what he did, strongest or not. You don't do something like that for just about anyone."
Liv hesitates before she nods in agreement. "Yeah, you're probably right."
Tove then sneaks a mischievous grin at her mistress. "At least your babies will be beautiful."
"Tove," Liv gasps, a blush forming on her cheeks.
"What? You might as well reap the benefits," Tove says, knowing she's making Liv flustered.
"You're unbelievable," Liv curses under her breath, trying to hide the raging blush on her face that just keeps getting more red.
Tove just sniggers at her mistress.
October 15th, 2016. / 12:35 / Fushiguro Residence, Saitama, Japan
Megumi struggles with the tie around his neck. He's been trying to make it for too long - long enough for Tsumiki to notice.
"Let me," she chuckles as she steps in. "You'll wrinkle your shirt."
The boy grumbles as his sister makes short work of his tie and then fixes his collar. "There, now you look handsome."
He scoffs but she can see a tinge of blush on his pale cheeks. Megumi is not used to blatant flattery, even when it comes from his sister.
"Whatever," he mumbles as he leaves the house, followed by Tsumiki who has a satisfied grin on her face. "Remember, don't talk to anyone you don't know."
"I know, I know," the girl sighs, holding the hem of her long periwinkle dress in her hand while going down the stairs.
Megumi frowns. "Also, we leave after the ceremony is done. Gojo doesn't want us exposed for too long."
"Yes, sir," Tsumiki salutes him mockingly as they walk to the other side of the house.
They quickly notice that Ijichi is already waiting for them with the car parked in front of the house.
"Ijichi-san," Tsumiki says, offering a curt bow. "Sorry for the wait."
"Don't worry, I just got here," he says, opening the door for them to enter.
Megumi beckons his sister to get inside first and he follows afterward. Ijichi makes sure they're inside before shutting the door. He then walks around the vehicle and opens the driver's side before settling on the seat.
"Gojo-san instructed me to escort you to the ceremony and back home," Ijichi says as he fastens his seatbelt. "Whenever you wish to go, just let me know."
"Thank you so much," Tsumiki says while Megumi merely nods.
Ijichi smiles before starting the engine and they ride off toward the Shuuin Manor.
October 15th, 2016. / 12:47 / Shuuin Manor, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Satoru is no stranger to rigorous traditions and customs (charms of being a member of the Gojo family), but he finds Shuuin to be unusually pragmatic. Their wedding traditions are specific, to say the least. The bride and groom prepare separately, with attendees (Gojo staff in Satoru's case) helping them put on their wedding outfits. Satoru notices that he is correct when he assumes that they will be barefoot for the ceremony as they are meant to wear only socks. I hope there's at least a carpet on the way to the main hall, he briefly wonders. Once he's finally dressed, Satoru dismisses his staff and waits for the cue to leave his room. Not long after, he hears the two rings of the bell and he takes a deep breath.
Now in the hallway, Satoru is guided by the Shuuin spies to where Liv waits for him. Part of the Shuuin tradition is to have the bride and the groom meet in private before exchanging vows.
"It is a last chance for one to bail," Liv explained to him the night before. "With some dignity, at least."
When he wondered out loud if he should do it for the fun of it, he earned an Arctic-cold stare from the Shuuin mistress. She then went on to explain how the whole thing was meant to give future spouses a moment to calm their nerves before the wedding itself.
The room where they are supposed to meet up is another one of the guest rooms in the Manor. It is the closest to the main hall where the ceremony is taking place. As he walks, he realizes there's a narrow purple carpet under his feet and it stretches throughout the Manor and outside. At least I won't spend my honeymoon stuck with a cold, he remarks sarcastically. Satoru halts in front of the room and waits for the spies to open the door.
"Mistress," one of them says, "The groom is here."
"Let him in."
He's calm as the Shuuin spy opens the door and his gaze falls on Liv. She's sitting by the window and though there is a screen on all the windows to hide their privacy, the morning light still peeks through the small gaps, illuminating her entire visage. Liv dismisses Tove who is by her side, along with the other attendees. On her way out, Tove offers a curt bow to the groom which he acknowledges with a nod of his head. She leaves the room wordlessly and closes the door.
The silence is heavy as the two remain alone in the room. They haven't spoken much before today, mostly keeping their chats brief and informational. Longer conversations took place when Satoru asked something related to the ceremony itself. It is clear there is still tension between them but neither wants to feel like that on their wedding day.
She remembers Tove's encouragement to get along with Satoru. Come on, Liv sighs as she stands up. Don't be a wuss.
"So," she begins, turning around to face him. "How do I look?"
He checks her out head to toe and gives her his signature cocky grin.
"It hides too much," he says though he does find her beautiful in her wedding outfit.
"Ass," she scoffs as she approaches him, inspecting his outfit. "It looks good on you."
"Everything looks good on me," he says, his narcissism shining through.
Liv musters a lopsided grin as she says, "You're full of yourself, Gojo."
"Call me Satoru," he makes a sour face. "People will find it weird if you call me by my last name."
"Okay, okay," she says, raising her hands in mocking defeat.
Satoru chuckles and then looks at the floor, his gaze catching glimpses of her every so often.
"I can't promise you much, you know," he says all of a sudden with a hint of remorse. "I'm not a husband material."
Liv quirks her brow. "I don't have any expectations of you, Gojo. As far as I'm concerned, you can continue your bachelor life uninterrupted."
"I know," he says with a chuckle, "and while I appreciate your selflessness, I will respect the integrity of this marriage."
Liv looks down as she says, "Gojo, I - "
"Satoru," he corrects her.
"Satoru," she sighs and continues, "I understand what you're trying to say but there's no need to do that."
He still smiles at her. "I know."
"Besides," she says dismissively, "it's not like this is a real marriage."
"Even if it's not real, let's make it work," he says honestly. "Imagine, a Shuuin and a Gojo, against the world. Our marriage will be insanely better than a myriad of other marriages if you ask me."
She hums, saying, "Us against the world, huh."
"Look at us," Satoru chuckles, his eyes glimmering with mischief as he says, "So vulnerable with each other."
"Yeah," Liv says, her voice slightly higher in tone than usual. "It's disgusting."
They laugh and for a moment, they feel like teenagers all over again, shooting hoops and dancing to ridiculous tracks on the radio.
"Promise me something?" he asks. "Smile when I take off that mask."
She scoffs but nods anyway.
October 15th, 2016. / 13:30 / Shuuin Manor, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
The bell rings three times, signaling the arrival of the bride and groom.
The entire backyard of the Manor is occupied with wedding guests, most of them being Shuuin and Gojo clan members. The initial plan was to invite leaders of all respectable clans, including the Zen'in and Kamo. However, Liv changed her mind after realizing that the Zen'in might make a scene, given their long-standing feud with the Gojo clan. Inviting the Kamo clan was consequently also out of the question. Instead, they stuck to inviting only the Council members as planned. Liv also proposed to have their comrades attend the event but Satoru was adamant about not inviting his colleagues.
"This is a formal event, not a celebration," he reasoned. "Besides, people talk at these sorts of gatherings and I don't want the higher-ups to hear something they shouldn't. We'll make it up to them and throw a separate party if you want."
Liv took a rain check on that idea but complied with his wishes as he barely had any regarding the wedding.
The main hall itself is occupied by only Shuuin and Gojo elders, including Mathias who is the officiant of the wedding, wearing the ornate ceremonial garb for the occasion. He is joined by Rune and Tove who are acting as shrine maidens in the ceremony, handing him the necessary tools for the union ritual.
"Here they come," Tove whispers jitterly to Mathias.
"Our mistress is so pretty," Rune comments in a hushed tone. "Herre Gojo is handsome as well."
Mathias remains silent.
The guests turn their heads toward the back door of the Manor as Liv and Satoru step outside, hand in hand. Their feet touch the path that is covered in white linen. It stretches to the main hall where they will perform the ritual. The guests' attention is now solely on the bride and groom.
"Wow," Tsumiki says softly in awe as she leans toward her brother. "They look really good together."
He merely grumbles in response. Megumi doesn't outright agree with his sister as he thinks Liv is more juxtaposing his mentor.
The rest of the guests take notes as well as the two walk up the aisle. At one point, Satoru glances at his future wife, his gaze lingering on her face. To onlookers, they are a happy couple, excited and ready to embark on a new journey together.
Meanwhile, Liv and Satoru bicker incessantly on their way to the main hall. They keep their voices down and try not to move their lips too obviously as they argue.
"Liv, I don't have Infinity on now. Ease up on that grip."
"Shut up. Oh God, I think I'm going to hurl."
"Please don't puke on me. There's Gakuganji, splash him."
"You idiot."
"As if you don't want to."
"Yes but not now, jackass."
"Come on, it's gonna be funny."
Liv resists the urge to whine.
Their anxiety skyrocketed the moment they came out into the backyard. Liv's palms are sweating and Satoru can feel a lump in his throat forming. Luckily for her, her wire mask is dense enough to cover her expression whereas Satoru has to keep his face relaxed.
Hand in hand, the bride and groom slowly but surely walk past the mass of people waiting for them to exchange vows and unite two clans. Liv grips Satoru's hand even tighter, her knuckles turning white. Satoru tries to not show how much her nails are digging into his skin.
He halts in front of the main hall before helping Liv get over the slight step. With her long dress and coat, as well as the dense mask covering her entire face, movement is a tad difficult for her. She holds a chunk of the dress before pulling it upward, allowing more room for her feet to move without accidentally tripping and falling face-first on the ground (imagine that happening). Once inside the hall, Liv takes Satoru's hand again and they resume their stride until they stand in front of her brother. Mathias begins the ritual shortly thereafter, carefully guiding the newlyweds through the entire thing.
They first bow to the officiant before he instructs them to face each other. Doing as told, they turn on their heels, facing one another, barely an arm's length apart. Mathias then motions for Satoru to take off the fox mask which he promptly does, reaching behind Liv's ears and unhooking it. The mask feels heavier than he expected it to be before handing it to Tove. Liv sees a wolfish grin appear on Satoru's face. Sticking to her promise, she grins as well.
Mathias then offers them a single cup filled with mauled wine to drink, with each taking three sips. He then has Rune reach for the soft rice cake which he then gives to the groom. Satoru finds mirth in this action as the rice cake is supposed to be shared by passing the piece from the groom's mouth to the bride's mouth. He smirks as he bites into the rice cake before passing it to Liv. She takes the cake, ignoring the fact that they might as well kiss at that point before biting into the soft confectionery. She notices Satoru subtly licking his lips once he swallows his bit and winks at her. She tries to ignore that as well but finds herself giggling at how ridiculous he looks.
They wait patiently as Tove reaches for the cushion where the wedding rings have been placed and she passes it to Mathias who holds it in front of the newlyweds. He asks his sister to recite her vows first.
Liv nods and reaches for the larger ring before holding Satoru's right hand in the palm of her own. "I will honor this man, cherish him, protect him, and trust him. I will be truthful, loyal, and unwavering in my support of him. Before the ancestors' gaze and for the time unending, I solemnly swear."
She looks him in the eye as she pushes the ring onto his ring finger. Her anxiety dissipates afterward, as if a burden was taken off her shoulders. She finds herself breathing more easily as she no longer feels the need to pull away from his touch.
Mathias then nods to Satoru, indicating that it's his turn to recite vows. The Gojo clan head nods in return, taking the remaining ring between his fingers.
He smirks as he says, "I will honor this woman, cherish her, protect her, and trust her. I will be truthful, loyal, and unwavering in my support of her. Before the ancestors' gaze and for the time unending, I solemnly swear."
Satoru reaches out, holding Liv's hand gently in his grasp. Her engagement ring glistens at this particular angle and Satoru traces the imaginary line from her ring finger over her shoulder and neck, and finally to her face. He smiles as he places the wedding ring next to the engagement ring.
Mathias then bows to the couple, offering his blessings before having them turn toward their guests. He then instructs them to bow three times in respect and gratitude. Tove and Rune retreat from the main hall as the couple finishes with their bows. Mathias remains as he has the drummers enter the main hall. Satoru offers his hand to Liv, wordlessly inviting her to follow him. She takes his hand and Satoru walks them toward the center of the main hall. They wait for Tove and Rune to approach them with a long red silk fabric. The spouses take the fabric in each hand before touching each other's palms. Mathias signals for the drummers to begin the ritual.
The dance is a steady set of steps, mainly done in a circular motion. The partners dance around each other, slowly creating distance while holding onto the silk at each end. They keep constant eye contact as they get further away from each other.
"The dance used to be called the Twin's Embrace," Satoru recalls Liv saying during their dance practice. "With twins being inauspicious for sorcerers, the Shuuin used the dance as a ritual to transfer cursed energy from one twin to another."
"What happened to the twin left without cursed energy?" Satoru asked, genuinely curious. "Did they die?"
"Not always," Liv replied. "The ritual was a tool to stabilize the transfer and minimize the chance of casualties. We no longer use it as such."
"Why?"
"Don't know," Liv said, her eyes somewhat sad. "Nevertheless, the dance itself is quite the experience."
Satoru didn't understand at the time what she meant by those words but as the rhythm picks up, he feels his heartbeat quicken as well. Being as far apart as the silk between them allows it, they begin to tug on it. Liv's turns are swift and mesmerizing as she rolls the fabric around her forearm. Satoru does the same, his movements precise as he shortens the silk, bringing himself closer to his wife. They can hardly hear anything else around them, except for the poundings of their hearts. Even the drums fade into the background as they dance. Satoru wonders if Liv feels the same excitement and rush that he feels coursing through his veins. What is this? he wonders but even that thought is pushed aside as he's left with only the feeling, the sensation itself. The beatings of the drum go faster the closer the two get, halting abruptly as they finally clasp their hands and touch each other's forearms. They breathe heavily, despite the dance not being physically demanding.
"Wow," Satoru breathes out and Liv laughs softly in return.
As they unravel the fabric, they are approached by Tove and Rune who take the silk before Mathias pronounces them husband and wife officially. The announcement is followed by a round of applause.
"Go and change," Mathias whispers as he walks them out of the main hall while the guests continue to applaud their union. "You're being watched now more than ever."
They nod subtly as they walk back to the Manor, their steps in synch as they hurry inside. They start bickering again once out of earshot.
"Hurry up, this thing on my head is going to break my neck," Liv hisses while tugging on his elbow to quicken his step.
"You hurry up, harpy," Satoru seethes.
Liv stifles her gasp. "Take that back, jerk."
"Talk about a complete one-eighty," he grumbles, "we just had a moment there."
Meanwhile, Mathias breathes out as he takes the ornate mantle off his shoulder, revealing a simple suit underneath. Thank the heavens it's over, he prays silently, now onto the next. He watches as the clan elders, both Shuuin and Gojo, gather like a flock of birds, whispering among themselves. He tries not to roll his eyes at the possible gossip being spread around.
Instead, he decides to approach Principal Gakuganji who seems to be enjoying the view of plum trees in the garden outside the main hall. He halts once near the man, his presence barely affecting the councilman.
"You honor us with your presence, Principal Gakuganji," Mathias says, nodding politely.
The older man hums. "Thank you, Councilman Drakon. Congratulations are in order, I believe."
"You are most kind," Mathias says, a fake smile on his lips.
Principal Gakuganji grumbles in return. "I hope fate will be as kind to all of us. The newlyweds are quite the pair."
Mathias bites back a retort, saying simply, "Indeed."
"Your sister was very compliant with our requests," the older man notes. "I was pleasantly surprised by the change in her behavior."
The older Drakon hums in response. "She is the mistress of the Shuuin. The position requires her to be mature and responsible."
"Perhaps," Principal Gakuganji mutters. "The council expects you both to remain on good behavior in the future."
"Of course," Mathias offers one last bow before excusing himself.
As he distances himself from the man, Mathias swallows the bubbling anger in his belly. The nerve of these people, he fumes inwardly, more than willing to set them all ablaze along with the Manor. He tries to calm himself nevertheless, controlling his raging fury. Suddenly, he feels someone clear their throat and he turns around, noticing a man with glasses standing behind him.
"Excuse me," the man says, "you are Liv-san's older brother?"
Mathias nods, mustering a polite smile.
"Kiyotaka Ijichi, the head assistant at Tokyo Jujutsu High," the man introduces himself and offers a curt bow. "I just wanted to say congratulations, Councilman Drakon."
"Please, just Mathias is enough," the older Drakon sibling says. "Ijichi, you said? You're escorting the Fushiguro siblings."
Ijichi smiled sheepishly, confirming the man's statement.
"You worked hard, Ijichi-san," Mathias says, offering the tired man an apologetic look. "I hope you can enjoy the reception in peace."
The man chuckles nervously. "Oh my, no need to worry about me. It was a lovely ceremony and it's a privilege to be at the Shuuin Manor."
"Thank you but you flatter us, Ijichi-san," Mathias says softly.
The two are interrupted by the aforementioned Fushiguro siblings who call out for Ijichi. Megumi is the one to meet Mathias' eyes before bowing courteously, followed by his sister.
"Apologies for interrupting," it is his sister who speaks up.
Mathias shakes his head. "Don't worry about it. Fushiguro, I presume?"
The girl nods. "Tsumiki, sir. This is my younger brother, Megumi."
Mathias looks at the boy and for a moment, his breath hitches as the visage of a dead man flashes before his eyes. What a likeness, he thinks to himself, finding the boy's eyes a perfect copy of his father's. Wonder if daddy dearest rubbed off on the son?
"Mathias Drakon," he says calmly, his eyes fixated on Megumi. "Pleasure."
"He is Liv-san's older brother," Ijichi adds.
The two stare at the man, taking in his appearance. The similarities are obvious: pale blond hair, hazel green eyes, and fair skin. The difference is Mathias' height, standing at an impressive 180 centimeters with a rather robust physique.
"You look alike," Megumi mutters absentmindedly.
"So we've been told," Mathias says in return. "I hope you're not too bored. I know this isn't a teen-friendly type of thing."
Surprised by the sudden casual tone, the two shake their heads vigorously. The men chuckle at their stiff posture.
"Was there something you needed?" Ijichi asks.
"Yeah," Megumi answers cooly. "We were thinking of heading back."
Mathias quirks a brow. "So soon? The newlyweds will rejoin us shortly."
Ijichi hums before nodding. "It may be better to wait and say goodbye to them before we leave."
Megumi grumbles but Tsumiki nudges him, giving an apologetic look. "Come on, Megumi. It won't be long."
The boy sighs. "Okay. We say our goodbyes and then we leave."
Mathias almost chuckles. You're Toji's spawn alright.
October 15th, 2016. / 14:13 / Shuuin Manor, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Liv flattens her dress before taking a final look in the mirror.
"Thank God, that thing is out of my hair," she says while running her fingers through the gentle waves of her hair.
She also feels grateful for being out of the wedding attire. While impressed with the design, she prefers the simplicity of the fitted long-sleeved white dress she has on now. It also allows her to move around freely and without worrying if her nose will meet the floor any time soon. She checks her heels, making sure they fit well on her feet and are comfortable enough for her to walk around.
"Seems good to me," she smiles before heading outside.
Once inside the hallway, she walks toward the back door of the Manor. As she turns around the corner, she sees Satoru, already dressed in his white suit and donning his dark sunglasses, patiently waiting for her.
Well, 'patiently' may not be the right word.
"I had to change into a three-piece suit while you had to get inside a freaking dress," he whines. "You're too damn slow."
Liv blinks at him in disbelief. "I had an almost half-a-kilo bridal crown on my head, Satoru. I had to untangle it myself."
He sniggers. "You called me Satoru. Aww, are you growing soft on me?"
"You asked me to call you by your name, doofus," she rolls her eyes as they lock arms.
"Still appreciated," he sings as he laces his fingers with hers. "You know, I'm starting to like this marriage thing. We should renew our vows next year."
Liv rolls her eyes before they exit the Manor and rejoin their guests. Once outside, they are immediately met by Mathias, Ijichi, and the Fushiguro siblings. Liv's face lights up at seeing the kids.
"Hey there," she says once they're within earshot.
Tsumiki beams at the Shuuin mistress who stretches out her hands toward the girl and she holds them with her own. "You are so beautiful, Liv-san!"
The older woman chuckles before taking a look at the girl as well. "Right back at you! You look gorgeous in that dress."
A blush adorns Tsumiki's cheeks as she smiles softly at the woman.
"Glad you could make it," Satoru says with a smile.
Tsumiki offers a deep bow in return. "Thank you for inviting us in the first place, Gojo-san."
Meanwhile, Megumi remains silent on the side. Liv notices the quiet boy and approaches him, a gesture that startles him slightly and causes him to take a step back. She doesn't take his actions much to heart, understanding his assertiveness around her. Mathias observes the exchange quietly.
"I'm happy to see you both," she says softly and Megumi blushes, mumbling something under his breath.
Unbeknownst to both, Satoru smiles softly at the scene before him. He rarely encourages either of the siblings to bond with him on a deeper level but he's glad to see them react positively to Liv.
"We should get going," Megumi says all of a sudden. "Right, Tsumiki?"
The girl seems somewhat sad at the prospect but she still smiles as she nods in agreement, "Yeah, right."
"You can stay a while longer if you want," Liv proposes but Satoru puts a hand on her shoulder, shaking his head.
He then looks at Megumi as he says, "Head straight home. Call if anything happens."
The boy nods. "Understood."
"Thank you again," Tsumiki says with a soft smile. "It was a lovely ceremony."
Liv smiles in return. "We'll have to do the sleepover thing soon."
Tsumiki grins while Megumi merely huffs before Ijichi excuses themselves before escorting the kids off the premises.
"That went well," Mathias comments once the siblings are far away from them.
"Yeah," Liv says softly, her eyes lingering on the siblings before she turns to look at Satoru. "Guess we'd better go and fraternize with the higher-ups."
The Gojo clan head smirks. "You read my mind, dear wife."
"Actually - "
The two glance at Mathias as he says, "I was wondering if I could have a moment alone with my sister?"
Liv is visibly confused while Satoru hums in response. "Just don't take too long."
"You won't even notice her absence," Mathias says as he offers his hand to the Shuuin mistress. "Shall we?"
She squints her eyes but doesn't object as she hooks her arm under his, sparing a single glance at Satoru before allowing Mathias to lead her away.
October 15th, 2016. / 14:27 / Shuuin Forge, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
From: Amadi
|14:11| I'm at the forge.
Mathias sighed when he read the message. Anxiety crept in quickly afterward. The forge is not that far from the Manor where the rest of the guests are. They could be easily discovered, especially by his brother-in-law. The older Drakon knows what Liv's reaction will be once she learns the reason for their sudden stroll. Yet, despite knowing all of that, he couldn't bring himself to deny the spy his request. For all his flaws, Miguel was once Liv's closest friend. Friendships like that are rare and Mathias is certain there is some fondness left on her part as well.
Despite her obvious disapproval of this whole arrangement.
Liv sighs. "You have some nerve showing up here."
The African man smirks and keeps a safe distance at first.
"Did you think I'd pass the opportunity to see you?" Miguel jokes, shaking his head.
Liv frowns, her eyes drifting from Miguel to Mathias to Miguel again.
"He asked nicely," Mathias says in the curse user's defense. "Almost begged."
"Satoru is here," Liv seethes, looking around the forge to make sure no one's listening in on the conversation. "What were you thinking?"
"Well, I was thinking how beautiful you'd look in a wedding dress," Miguel says nonchalantly before presenting her with a bouquet of purple flowers. "Turns out, you look divine."
She scoffs. "This is not my wedding dress, dumbass."
Mathias chuckles before saying, "I'll let you two have a moment."
As he leaves, Liv focuses solely on the man in front of her. She can almost laugh at the irony. This man is someone who brought her joy in her darkest days. When no one offered her support, he appeared like a beacon of hope. It was through him that she learned the joy of life and that her past doesn't define her. Look at us now. She approaches him with hesitance as she eyes the flowers in his hands before reaching out for them. Lupines, she notes with a smile that she hides behind the petals.
"You saw me," she says with not as even of a tone as she wanted it to be. "You can go now."
Miguel ditched his usual glasses for the occasion so Liv could see the way his face contorted into sadness. "Do you resent me that much?"
Maybe. "What do you think?"
"I followed my conscience," he reasons. "I didn't betray the Shuuin. I didn't betray you."
Liv's lips stretch into a smirk. "You're a curse user, Miguel. I should kill you where you stand."
The man laughs before offering his hand to her, "I'm allowed a dying wish then?"
She takes his hand without a second thought, "Depends on the wish."
He pulls her in an embrace, his hands on her back and his face nestled in the crook of her neck. "This, if I may, my mistress."
Liv scoffs before circling her arms around his large back. "I ain't your mistress, oaf."
Miguel smiles against her skin. "You will always be my mistress."
They stand like that for a while before Miguel pulls away. He brings her hands into his own as he begins to sway them to a slow rhythm that only he seems to hear. Liv merely follows along, her feet shuffling in synch with his movements. The silence is profound around them, and the tension is heavier still.
"You're lucky we're here and not someplace abroad," Liv murmurs.
Miguel hums. "Yes, I know."
He lifts her and spins her once.
"Is he well?" she asks suddenly.
"Just peachy," he responds. "Want me to say hi?"
Liv merely glares at the man and he chuckles.
"You could've just called," she sighs again.
"I wanted to impress you," the man says softly before spinning her again. "Besides, would you pick up if I called?"
Probably not, she figures. "Would you spout the same bullshit you did three years ago?"
Miguel swallows the lump in his throat. "Liv - "
"What's done is done," she says with a stern tone. "The Shuuin took in worse mess-ups and shits from the street. You're not the first curse user nor the last in our ranks."
"I don't hear forgiveness in your voice, mistress," Miguel points out.
"Cause there ain't any," she confesses. "Just because I understand doesn't mean I approve. I'm not that good of a person."
Miguel closes his eyes. The discussion is turning heated, probing at wounds and scars neither of them is ready to heal just yet. Instead, he detaches from her and takes her ringed hand. He lowers his head and kisses her pale knuckles.
"Then I won't bother you much longer, mistress," he says while grinning.
He then reaches for his pockets before pulling out his phone. Liv watches as the man taps on the device a few times before turning it around toward her. She sees her image on the screen.
"You want a photo?" she asks when she realizes he opened a camera app to take a selfie.
Miguel shrugs. "It's a momentous day, after all."
She sighs before nodding and he hugs her from the side before positioning the phone so they can both fit into the frame. Miguel is freakishly tall, not taller than Satoru but tall enough for Liv to feel like a dwarf even though she's not a short woman.
"Smile," he whispers when he notices her keeping the resting bitch face for a while.
She scoffs and smiles sourly.
"Smile nicely," Miguel presses, somewhat annoyed.
Resisting the urge to roll her eyes, Liv musters the strength to offer a sincere smile, teeth and all. He snaps a photo before marveling at it.
"We look good," he comments before showing it to her. "This will be my new lock screen."
"Careful or your friend might get jealous," she comments dryly.
"Jealous of me or jealous of you?" Miguel teases.
Liv groans. "You know what - "
"I'm joking, I'm joking," the man grumbles before placing a chaste kiss on her cheek. "Thanks for not cursing me."
"Take care of yourself," she says, "Amadi."
Miguel bows in response. Feeling generous, she gives him a light pat on the shoulder before nodding her head in a random direction, silently ordering him to leave. Miguel lingers for a few moments, taking in her appearance, making sure he remembers her features before departing. With a bittersweet smile, he bids his mistress farewell and disappears into the woods.
"You can come out, brother," Liv says, her eyes glued to the back of her spy as he walks away.
Mathias emerges from behind her and joins at her side, watching in the same direction. "Sorry for not telling you. I thought you should say a proper goodbye, that's all."
"Is this goodbye, I wonder?" Liv murmurs. "We have a way of bumping into each other."
"And that's bad?" Mathias teases.
Liv bites her lower lip. "We should head back."
Mathias complies before offering his hand to her. "By your order, mistress."
October 15th, 2016. / 14:48 / Shuuin Manor, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Satoru chuckles. "I'm sorry?"
The Gojo clan head believed that dealing with Mathias would be the worst part of his marriage to Liv. Yet, standing here, talking to her cousins from overseas, he wonders if he's ended up marrying the whole Shuuin clan. The three women - sisters, if the same shade of violet eyes is any indication - are noticeably flirting with him and one in particular seems interested in bedding him. They're pretty to look at, more on the sultry side but nothing impressive in his opinion. They ooze confidence but their overall appearance lacks the grace he's come to associate with the Shuuin. Even Mathias is more graceful than they are, Satoru thinks to himself. And he's a dude.
"Don't tell me you're shy, Mister Gojo," the woman whose name he already forgot says, her red-painted lips stretched into what she thinks is a seductive smile. "The Shuuin often take on partners outside of committed relationships. It is not unheard of for us to have multiple partners."
Satoru quirks a brow, finding the whole conversation beyond ridiculous.
"I believe our mistress won't mind if we take certain liberties," the woman purrs, tracing the lapel of Satoru's blazer.
Satoru glances at her hand, his gaze cool and disinterested behind his glasses. "What makes you say that?"
The other woman, whose name he also forgot, answers with a sigh, "It is no secret our mistress is not one for exploring the pleasures of the flesh. You will be very lonely, Mister Gojo."
"We could help you with that," the third one butts in, her voice unnaturally high and whiny.
"All at the same time, if you want to," the sultry one says with a low chuckle.
Before Satoru could say anything, he heard someone clear their throat behind him. The three women gasp and offer a courteous bow, effectively silenced. Satoru turns around and sees Mathias standing a few steps from him with Liv standing next to him. He looks displeased and she looks livid even though she's smiling.
"My, my," she says, voice dripping with venom. "Our cousins from Florida sure are frisky today, brother."
Mathias sighs. "They clearly couldn't resist, sister."
The sultry one replies evenly, "You left your husband alone and unprotected."
Satoru frowns. Unprotected? he thinks to himself. From what?
"That sounds like a threat," Liv says, coming dangerously close to the sultry woman, "Valerie."
Valerie's frown deepens as she looks down on her mistress. "I wouldn't dare, sweet cousin."
Satoru stares at the exchange, curious about what the hell's going on.
"Party's over," Liv says sweetly, adding, "Thanks for coming."
Valerie cocks her head to the side and glances at oblivious Satoru. "Men like him can't be leashed, cousin. Remember that."
With that, Valerie takes a step back and bows one more time. She pushes out her large breasts as she straightens her back, flashing one final lustful look at Satoru before beckoning her sisters to follow her. The three women leave the backyard of the Manor and Liv groans once they're gone out of her sight.
"Liv," Satoru says, his eyes squinted. "Why are your cousins trying to get me to sleep with them?"
The annoyed look on her face speaks volumes. "Ignore them. Bunch of common whores."
"That's a bit harsh," Satoru says though he doesn't necessarily disagree.
"No, that's putting it mildly," Mathias agrees with his sister before adding, "I'll go and talk to the Shuuin elders. You two coming?"
Liv nods and waves him off. "We'll join you soon. I need to cool off first."
Mathias offers a polite bow before excusing himself. She then feels Satoru sling his arm around her shoulders, leaning on her with nearly his entire weight.
"You're heavy," she comments briskly. "I'm in heels, you know."
"Who are those chicks?" he asks, fixing his shades and ignoring her last sentence entirely.
Liv groans, crossing her arms. "Cormac sisters."
"Not on good terms?" he asks.
"They're insufferable, but we try to get along," she answers. "Personally, I prefer our relatives from Louisiana."
Satoru quirks a brow. "Are they here?"
Liv shakes her head. "They couldn't make it."
"Oh well," he shrugs, "So, what should we do on our wedding night? I was thinking of either a movie marathon or filming ourselves playing dodgeball with stinky cheese."
Liv chuckles. "Actually, I had something different planned for tonight."
"Do tell," he asks playfully.
The amusement that graced her pale features disappears, replaced with a serious expression. "I have a promise to keep, don't I?"
Satoru frowns, his face serious as well. "Everything?"
"Everything," Liv nods, her words soft. "No more secrets."