A/N: Hi everybody! It's been a while.
I've been hitting a bit of a block recently and things have happened in my private life that simply took precedence over this. Anyway, here's the new chapter! Hope you'll like it! To be honest, this piece is helping me work through some of my feelings which (I think most authors can agree with me on this) can be so liberating when you don't have many outlets.
Reviews are always welcome! I could use some feedback and constructive criticism, to be honest.
Sorry (not sorry) for the long chapter! I thought of breaking it into two but then, it just didn't sit well with me so here ya' go - over 9k words.
Enjoy!
Cursed Love
~ Our Mistress ~
November 29th, 2016. / 07:12 / Shuuin Manor, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
"That's everyone, right?"
Mathias nods, leaning against the kitchen counter with his arms and legs crossed. "That's everyone. The elders will come tomorrow, accompanied by several spies."
Tove hums while leaning against the wall opposite Mathias. "What of the other families? Is anyone going to be present tonight?"
"Well, since Liv insisted only on elders' attendance, the others will not come," Mathias responds, running a hand through his blond locks. "They will abide by whatever decision the elders and Liv make."
Rune plays with a pen while sitting on the couch in the living room. Her eyes are carefully observing the two adults in the kitchenette on the opposite side of the room. One looks ready to flip everyone off and drive toward the sunset. The other appears to be growing grey hairs though, against the pale strands of his hair, she figures it wouldn't be too much of an esthetic issue. All things considered, Rune figures it's an appropriate reaction. Still, she wishes they'd relax a bit.
They look exhausted, she thinks to herself, switching the pen between her fingers. "You guys hungry or something? I can make some quick pancakes if you want."
The two are silent for a split second, surprised by the sudden question. The look of surprise on their faces is quickly replaced with genuine smiles.
"That is very thoughtful of you, Rune," Mathias says softly. "I would like some. Tove?"
Rune turns her attention to the spymaster who also nods. "I'd like some, too."
"Alrighty then," the redhead exclaims, throwing away the pen and clapping her thighs before standing up. "One round of Hagen pancakes, coming up!"
She dashes out of the living room, making a straight line toward the kitchen. Tove chuckles as she watches the young woman jump around, trying to get over the backyard and out of the cold quickly. It is yet to snow though Tove figures it's only a matter of time.
"It should be the other way around."
Tove quirks a brow as she looks back at the older Drakon sibling. "What do you mean?"
Mathias's frown deepens. "We should be the ones taking care of her needs."
"Are you referring to her father?" the spymaster asks and Mathias nods curtly. "She wouldn't want us to fuss over it."
"Still, she shouldn't fuss over us either," Mathias counters.
Tove sighs, mimicking his stance. "Herre, your face is all wrinkly. That's your only asset so take care of it."
Mathias tries not to laugh and fails. "You're horrible, Tove."
The spymaster shrugs, her lips stretching into the tiniest of smirks. "I'm just being honest."
The older Drakon scoffs but says nothing else.
"Did you hear anything from the Council?" Tove asks, changing the subject.
"I will see them later today so I'll have a chance to assert the situation," Mathias hums. "Things have been quiet, though. Too quiet, if you ask me."
The spymaster quirks a brow. "Think they're up to something?"
He scratches the back of his head before rolling his neck, twisting it until it cracks. "I'd be surprised if they weren't. Liv's been gone for a while and though they haven't asked about her since Gojo threatened them, I doubt they'll sit and twiddle their thumbs instead."
"Should I fortify our security tonight?" she asks in return.
Mathias is quiet for a moment. He weighs his options carefully, examining their current situation. Six elders, twenty spies including Tove and Rune, Satoru, himself, and Liv - roughly thirty people in total will be present at the Manor tonight. Due to Tengen's barrier, Mathias is certain the higher-ups are already aware of Liv's absence from Japan. He's also certain they will know she's back the moment that plane lands at the airport. Taking into consideration Principal Gakuganji's lure from two days ago, it wouldn't be a far-fetched assumption that he'll try and make good on his intentions. While Satoru's presence is insurance for their safety, it wouldn't hurt to be prepared in case the white-haired sorcerer is held up by 'unforeseen circumstances'.
"It might be a good idea to set up a ward," Mathias concludes. "Spread the talismans far and wide. Include the forge and the street below the hill. Leave a detector charm in the main hall."
"Understood," Tove nods.
November 29th, 2016. / 08:02 / Hagen Residence, Svolvær, Lofoten, Norway
Waves.
The wind carries the smell of the sea. The seagulls are gawking, and the men are shouting from the fisherman ferries docking at the port nearby with fresh catch. So many memories, so much familiarity. Yet -
"This isn't home, Liv," she mumbles, her eyes closed as she inhales the scant trace of jasmine, Rune's favorite scent. "At least, not yours."
Hagen's household is less hospitable than she remembers. Compared to the warmth and inclusion that used to welcome her every day in this apartment, Liv feels like she's being burned to cinders by the piercing gazes Thorald's been throwing her way. This morning is no different.
"Hello to you too," she calls out with a lazy smile, noticing the man's presence just outside the door of her room. "You can come in, I'm decent."
Another moment passes before Thorald grabs the knob and turns it to the left, pushing the door open. He sees Liv sitting on his daughter's bed, comfortable and cozy. The view almost makes him nauseous.
"Are you satisfied?" he spits, not bothering to suppress his fury. "Ya' sleep in m' daughter's bed, use her private room for yer pleasure, and bully others into obedience. I guess I should be grateful to great Ma'am for not makin' a butler out of me!"
Liv sighs before standing up. "I spent my adolescence on the streets. Rule number one: don't choose the acquisition method when there's an opportunity to get food and shelter in front of you. I won't apologize for thinking of myself first."
Thorald scowls in response. "Of course not! Yer sorry ass is all ya' think about. As long as yer ambition is satisfied, ya' don't care what happens to the rest of us."
His words have pierced her heart, almost to the point of physical pain. She reminds herself that this is simply a projection of his fears, meant to provoke a reaction out of her. Still, she cannot shake off the feeling of guilt pooling in her gut.
Also, a certain voice keeps adding insult to injury, whispering into her ear.
You should listen to your elders, pup.
Liv resists the urge to roll her eyes.
"I do care," she says softly, keeping her voice down despite the desire to scream from the top of her lungs. "It's because I care that I'm doing all of this."
"All of what?" Thorald counters. "Skulkin' 'round, collectin' corpses, doin' who knows what else?!"
She looks at Mimir who rests atop the nearby nightstand. The head shows slight discomfort at the mention of corpses, figuring the man is referring to it. She doesn't like the look on the head's face and finds Thorald's words highly offensive.
"I'm leaving this town in less than half an hour," she changes the subject quickly before the matter escalates. "Why don't we try to be civil until then, hm?"
Thorald scoffs and turns on his heel, leaving her alone once more. She sighs once he's out of earshot before scratching the back of her neck. Well, that was uncomfortable.
You think?
She sighs again.
"He's very hostile toward you," Mimir notes sheepishly, breaking the awkward silence. "Any particular reason?"
Liv eyes the head with a deadpan look. "He's hurt. That's his only reason."
"Yet, it's you he blames for his misfortune," Mimir notes once again.
"Yup, he does," Liv comments evenly. "I guess I have 'blame me' written on my forehead or something."
The head hums sympathetically. "Are you alright, Liv?"
She takes a moment to respond. "I will be."
"If you need to talk," the head offers, "I'm here, for what it's worth."
A dry chuckle slips past her lips as she says, "Those runes on your head are meant to make you obedient. No need to pretend as you care - "
Mimir's tone is genuine and kind as it retorts, "I'm not pretending."
A soft smile graces her lips in return. "Oh, Mimir. If I didn't know better, I'd say you have a soft spot for me."
"Your vocabulary is still confusing for me, I admit," the head jokes before adding kindly, "but I'll try my best to understand your woes if you so wish."
Her first instinct is to decline the head's offer, maybe even laugh it off. However, in this instance, she hesitates to reject the head flat-out. It's been a while since she could wholeheartedly and without restraint confide in someone. Even in the moments of respite (she has to admit, there were more than a few), she couldn't let go of the tension and worry. There was always a feeling of being watched by the higher-ups or her comrades. Not even Nanami's presence could make her feel at ease.
Yet, Mimir's presence has been nothing but comforting. It's funny, she thinks to herself. I'm distraught by the living and calmed by the dead.
Doesn't that tell you something?
Liv ignores the velvety voice inside her head.
Instead, she reaches for Mimir, cupping its cheeks as she brings it to her eye level. "Thank you. I'll keep that in mind."
November 29th, 2016. / 08:00 / Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu High School, Tokyo, Japan
There's a certain skip in Satoru's step.
The white-haired sorcerer has a reputation for being a jolly and happy-go-lucky kind of man. A good mood is usually associated with his name but today, he's in particularly high spirits. While walking to his office, he hums a random tune to himself. He sways from side to side while keeping his hands inside his pockets.
"Doo, doo, doo, na, na, na," he sings softly.
Once in front of his office, Satoru pushes the shogi door to the side and enters the room before closing the door again. He struts over to his over-priced leather chair and sits down, making himself comfortable. Taking off the blindfold he's been wearing lately, he notices that it's worn out. It's stretched out and there are patches of thinned-out fabric which is bad. The whole point of the blindfold is to blind him; it shouldn't have holes in it. His eyes have been alright, everything considered, but he'd rather not risk a migraine in the middle of a fight. Or tonight.
Satoru sighs. Time for a new one, he thinks to himself as he looks at the flimsy accessory. Maybe I should try one of those stretchy bandages Shoko has stocked up in her office. He then fishes out his phone for a moment, checking the time. The clock on the display reads 08:12. A lazy smile splits his face in half as he takes a deep breath before lulling his head backward, and stuffing the phone back inside his pocket.
Fifteen hours. In fifteen hours, he'll see her again - his wife. Wife, he tries to voice it, to feel how it rolls off his tongue now. He finds it easier to spell out, opposite to how it felt before the wedding; unimaginable, unnatural. He's grown accustomed, even comfortable to this marriage.
Who would've thought? he muses, chuckling.
"Fifteen hours," he sighs, crossing his legs and arms. "Just fifteen hours left."
Suddenly, the phone in his pocket starts to buzz. He rolls his eyes in response as he takes it out. The caller ID reads Kiyotaka Ijichi and Satoru swipes upward to answer the call.
"Hello?" he sings, as per usual.
"Gojo-san," comes the reply from the other side. "I've picked up Hakari-kun and Hoshi-kun, and we're on our way to the site. We will be there in an hour."
"Good work, Ijichi," Satoru says. "Tell them I'll meet them there."
"Understood," Ijichi responds. "Anything else?"
"That is all," Satoru says before hanging up.
As the phone's display goes dark, Satoru looks at his reflection in it. Undereyes have never been a problem for him. Blessed with good genetics, strain, and exhaustion from overwork rarely manifest on his body. He never loses his weight (or gains it, since we're on the topic of it), nor does his skin become ashy when he misses breakfast, lunch, and dinner two days in a row. Simply put, as someone who's constantly working, he looks surprisingly youthful but his subjective feeling is almost always along the lines of 'crappy'.
Power is amazing, good looks are amazing, and money is not bad. He's aware of all this but sometimes, he wishes that that's all there is to it. That his power is just that - power and not power plus inhumane responsibility. That his name is just a name and not a title associated with his strength. Now that'd be a curious change of pace, Satoru muses.
He takes a deep breath before standing up and warping his way to the infirmary.
November 29th, 2016. / 08:30 / Svolvær Airport, Svolvær, Lofoten, Norway
Si-Woo curses the cold wind as he struggles to light up the cigarette in his mouth.
He shakes the lighter several times before getting some flames out of it. Content, he takes a long drag of his cigarette before shuddering. Stupid cold, he thinks to himself bitterly before checking his watch.
"I'm in the back end of nowhere," he grumbles, stuffing his hands into his pockets while the butt of his cigarette rests firmly between his teeth. "Fuck - "
As he stands at the airport, freezing, Si-Woo wonders whom he's supposed to meet. You'll know when you see them. That's what the spy had told him when he asked about it. Are they standoffish? he wonders, blowing ringlets of smoke. The Shuuin are masters of disguise, though, he reminds himself. Will I know when I see them?
With his cigarette burned out, he throws it into the snow field nearby. He then checks the time again and grumbles as it reads 08:37. He turns around, his gaze on the cockpit where the pilot is waiting patiently for their passenger to arrive. When the man notices Si-Woo's eyes on him, he shows him three fingers. Three more minutes. Si-Woo nods in understanding but seethes on the inside.
We'll be late, damn it.
"Sorry to keep you waiting."
Si-Woo's eyes widen and he cocks his head to the side. I know that voice. Turning back around, he sees a tall young woman with platinum blond hair and hazel eyes. She's dressed in a pair of jeans and a black turtleneck, covered in dark purple kimono. Standing next to her is a frail old man, dressed in black pants, a tan winter jacket, and black boots.
He recognizes the woman although he last saw her as a teenager.
"You," he breathes, though even that seems hard for him to do.
The woman smiles softly but doesn't approach him. Ever cautious, Liv Drakon watches him intently, her gaze unreadable.
"Looking well, Kong."
That's one way to put it, he thinks to himself before remembering that she's telepathic. "You've grown."
Liv chuckles. "Indeed. It's been, what? Ten years?"
"Give or take a few," Si-Woo mutters, sobering up from surprise. "So, you're the one in a pinch."
She cocks her head to the side. "Nothing new there."
Indeed. The Shuuin mistress has a proclivity for getting into sticky situations. Luckily, she also has a proclivity for getting out of sticky situations. However, there is one thing that is bothering the former detective -
"Why me?" he asks, curious. "Why the secrecy?"
She shrugs, her nonchalance apparent. "To be honest, you were the first person I thought of. As for secrecy, well - I am a Shuuin."
He laughs, not because her words are particularly funny but because they are true. "As practical as ever."
"That was the first advice you gave me way back when," she muses, a knowing smile on her lips as she imitates his deep voice, "'Keep your wits to yourself and always look over your shoulder'."
He recalls the moment he had said that same advice to her, albeit, it is not a fond memory. "You've come far, mistress of the Shuuin."
She smirks as she stands proudly, puffing out her chest. "Disappointed?"
He clicks his tongue. "I'm more disappointed in your choice of a spouse, honestly."
Her smile falters as she looks down. "Would you rather I married a certain dark-haired client of yours? By the way, I should say 'thank you' for everything you did for him."
He notices the sarcastic tone in her last sentence. "I did my job and was compensated for my services."
"Wow, I can't tell who's shittier these days," she drawls, "sorcerers or curse users - "
"You chose the lesser of two evils," Si-Woo cuts in curtly. "Knowing you, I guess it's to be expected."
She quirks a brow. "For such an observant man, you didn't expect me behind this assignment."
"Touche," Si-Woo smirks. "Speaking of which - "
He then points to the staircase leading into the craft, the flight attendant already beckoning them to come inside. "We should hurry up."
"I'll be right there with you," she says to which Si-Woo nods hesitantly once he notices the odd tension between her and the old man.
Once he's out of earshot, Liv turns to Thorald, her eyes reflecting the slight sadness she feels at this moment. Once, this man was the closest thing she had to a genuine family relative. Uncle Thorald, she always called him, the title being an utmost expression of her fondness for the fisherman despite them sharing no blood relation.
And then, she met his only daughter, Rune. That's where everything went wrong, she thinks bitterly as she recalls the day Rune begged Liv to tag along to Japan. Liv's initial idea is to teach the girl the basics of jujutsu as she ends up not only being able to see curses but also having a cursed technique. However, that wasn't enough for firebrand Rune.
She wanted more.
Liv couldn't deny her. She saw herself in the eyes of the girl; the desperation, the drive. Part of her wanted to tell Rune to stay home, away from the dangers that are part of Liv's world - the jujutsu world.
In the end, it matters little - Rune has decided to follow her since and Thorald blames Liv for his daughter's choice.
While the old man has been nothing short of rude and passive-aggressive since she arrived on these shores, Liv still remembers the man who was once her father's closest and staunch friend. That kind of thing is not easily forgotten nor should it be.
"Thank you," she says softly and offers a heartfelt bow as well. "For everything."
Thorald spits on the ground. "Leave, heks. Go back to yer kind."
She ignores the hurtful words as she turns on her heel, heading toward the plane. Before she can board, however, a sliver of long-suppressed spite irks her ire and she glances at the man over her shoulder with a condescending look on her face.
"Next time Rune calls you, pick up the phone," she says. "Don't push her away."
She doesn't see the look of shock on his face nor does she hear the sharp intake of breath that follows her callous confession. Instead, she rushes up the staircase, past Si-Woo, and inside the plane.
November 29th, 2016. / 09:13 / Shuuin Manor, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
The sweet smell of vanilla pancakes and freshly cooked barry jam spreads throughout the Manor.
Rune comes back from the kitchen with two trays. One has the fluffy pancakes neatly served on three separate plates, while the other has the jam, syrup, fresh berries, and chocolate mousse. Tove almost moans at the sight, her stomach grumbling while Mathias keeps his composure though he too can feel drool pooling under his tongue.
"Hagen pancakes are ready to be served," Rune announces with a broad smile before setting the pancakes down on the coffee table.
The other two join her shortly, making themselves comfortable on the couch. The pancakes are gone within minutes, deliciously savored along with accompaniments. Mathias sticks to the jam while Tove experiments with the mousse and agave syrup. Rune is the type to keep to the syrup and berries, though she dips some strawberries into the mousse to satisfy her sweet tooth.
"You outdid yourself," Tove compliments the redhead. "You should've been a cook, Rune."
The redhead has this dreamy, almost romantic smile on her face. "Maybe in another life."
Maybe in another life. It is something every Shuuin has said at least once in their lifetime. 'Maybe in another life, I would do this' or 'If things were different, I'd be that'. 'If circumstances were different', 'if people were different', 'if the time was different, then everything would be different'. There is truth in those statements. However, Rune knows that her life is already a dream - in another life, she'd still make the same choice.
Why? Because she has witnessed miracles, unbelievable, and impossible things time and again, all accomplished by the same person - her mistress.
That is why she has no regrets.
"Or maybe not," Rune muses suddenly, a crooked grin on her face as she beams at the other two. "Honestly, this life is too fun to be traded for a normal one."
Tove smiles, silently agreeing with the redhead. Mathias, on the other hand, doesn't share their sentiment. An image of his daughter's face flashes before his eyes. He wishes she was here with him, in his arms. He wishes that he could do more, be more for her. This life is too fun to be traded for a normal one. No, it's not fun. It's incomparable to the normalcy he enjoyed when his wife was alive and his daughter was with him every day. Mathias could never say that to Rune, however. He doesn't want to crush her spirits or make her doubt the choices she has made.
That doesn't mean he condones them.
November 29th, 2016. / 10:25 / Finland
It's been quiet since they took off from the airport.
Si-Woo is not a particularly talkative type, professional to a tee, though he had enjoyed witty banter with Toji from time to time. With Liv, he has always been rather stingy with words, opting to be brief and on point. She doesn't mind it, given their age difference and relationship. However, she admits that she expected more reaction out of the man upon their reunion after such a long time. Then again, she muses, crossing her arms, he's never been the impressionable type.
She notes his gaze has been more fixed on Mimir since Liv pulled it out of her sleeve. A severed head that can talk is an attention-grabbing sight for sure and Si-Woo seems particularly put off.
"I thought that invisibility fan was your best trick," Si-Woo says dryly, eerily observing the severed head resting on the seat next to Liv. "I didn't expect something like this."
Liv scratches the back of her neck. "It's been an interesting few weeks. That's all I can say."
"I bet," the man murmurs before asking, "What were you thinking? Going abroad with no passport or money or at least a phone?"
She shrugs. "Like I said, interesting last few weeks. I got caught up in the moment."
Si-Woo sighs, shaking his head. "I don't understand you sometimes."
"You know me," Liv muses, slumping lower in her seat. "I don't always think things through all the way."
"Obviously," the man scoffs.
He eyes the enchanted head again and feels even worse as Mimir glances back. The clear grey eyes uncomfortably pierce through his soul, as if the head wants Si-Woo to say something other than 'I don't like this'. In truth, Mimir wonders if there's something on its face since the odd man is watching him so intently. Rude.
Liv picks up on the head's thoughts and decides to avert Si-Woo's attention from it. "You look older."
The man quirks a brow as he looks up at her. "Occupational hazard."
"Ah," she hums. "At least you're not dead."
"Likewise," he quips. "To be honest, when I heard the Shuuin have a new mistress, I was shocked to find out it was you."
"I said I'd get my freedom," Liv says as a matter of fact. "It's not quite what I had in mind, I admit but - "
"That's not what I meant," he counters. "After that whole affair, I thought you'd leave Japan for good, play dead for the rest of your life. Yet, here you are."
Oh. "Well, when you put it that way - I guess I changed my mind."
"Or did someone else change your mind?" Si-Woo asks in return. "I remember you saying you'd rather burn alive than take your mother's place."
The air of aloofness dissipates as Liv's face turns stone-like. Her hazel eyes suddenly flicker red, which goes unnoticed by Si-Woo.
Liv sighs, shaking away hurtful thoughts. "Things change, Kong. My circumstances changed - I've changed."
"You don't seem all that different to me - "
"You're wrong," she counters evenly, then adds, "or maybe, you just can't spot the difference."
He cocks his head to the side. "That depends. Are you hiding something from me?"
Liv chuckles. "Are you suggesting I'm a liar?"
Si-Woo scoffs. "For someone who hates lying, you can be a spectacular liar."
His comment draws a sarcastic smile on her face. Indeed, for someone who despises lying and liars in general, Liv can make up lies rather easily. Maybe it's due to her life experiences, having been forced to learn how to outmaneuver her opponents without engaging in combat. Or perhaps, she had to pretend, wear a mask to achieve her selfish desires, to manipulate others into following her directions.
How many have fallen for her desperate attempts at scheming?
"I've come far, though," she reasons, suppressing the burning feeling of shame in her gut. "Got what I wanted and more."
"If you say so," Si-Woo sighs before looking over his shoulder toward the cockpit. "I have to talk to the pilot."
Liv nods and he excuses himself shortly. As he disappears into the pilot's cabin, she relaxes a little.
"You know a lot of people."
She hums. "Do I?"
"This one is at least cordial with you," Mimir notes warily. "Though, he's odd. He keeps staring at me."
Liv presses her lips, stifling her laughter. "I don't think he's ever seen a reanimated corpse like you."
Mimir almost pouts. "You should've kept me inside your sleeve then."
"Where's the fun in that?" Liv counters, taking the head into her lap and turning it toward the circular window. "Come on, look at this."
Mimir squints at first, the sudden light irritating its grey eyes. As it adapts to the brightness, the head slowly opens one eye, then another, taking in the breathtaking sight.
"This is the first time you're flying?" Liv asks softly.
"Aye," the head murmurs, its eyes wide as it tries to swallow the view. "There were shamans who could fly or had spirits that could take flight but I never had the privilege."
"It's more or less a commodity these days," Liv says. "Makes you glad to be alive, huh?"
Mimir is silent for a brief moment. "I suppose, I should be glad. Not everyone who dies gets a second chance at life."
"Exactly," Liv readily agrees. "We should take every opportunity we're given."
The head hums. "Speaking from personal experience?"
Liv rests her head against the window frame. "More like, I'm simply stating the truth. 'Ideal' is not something we should pursue in the first place. It's like trying to catch the moon's reflection in the cup."
"I agree," Mimir says solemnly. "However, is settling for the bare minimum the answer then?"
"If it ensures survival," Liv quirks a brow.
"Huh," the head muses. "Is that what life is about? Surviving?"
Liv frowns. "Mimir - "
"What is the worth of life," the head whispers, "when you can't even be called alive?"
Taken aback, the Shuuin mistress is unable to answer the question. On one hand, she thinks Mimir is one of the lucky ones. More intelligent and wiser than most people she knows, Liv considers Mimir's mere existence a fortunate turn of events. It's not a perfect life, sure but she wouldn't call it the bare minimum. Whose life is perfect these days anyway?
Suddenly, she hears a dreadful sigh that catches her attention. Whipping her head around, she sees Rei sitting on Si-Woo's seat, a bored expression plastered on her face.
"You know, for an intelligent creature such as yourself," Rei comments dryly, not looking at her progeny, "you can be unimaginably stupid sometimes."
Liv quirks a brow, her upper lip curling in irritancy. I beg your pardon.
"You're not going to get it anyway so don't ask for it," the Great Mother drawls before her crimson orbs gaze at the severed head. "Such a shame."
What do you mean? Liv wonders, glancing between Mimir and Rei.
Rei clicks her tongue and then rolls her eyes. "He's an enchanted severed head that has existed for centuries, neither dead nor alive. I sincerely doubt he appreciates the view from a small window of an airplane more than his freedom."
Freedom?
"Yes, pup," the red-eyed beauty mocks. "Freedom. As I recall, you said you know the feeling of chains. What do you call that then?"
The Shuuin mistress opens her mouth, ready to protest but her ghostly stalker disappears from her view. She presses her lips into a thin line before looking at Mimir again. What do you call that then? A profound question, one that crossed Liv's mind but didn't stick long enough for her to ponder on it.
Indeed, what is the worth of life when you can't even be called alive?
November 29th, 2016. / 11:19 / Tokyo Metropolitan Jujutsu High School, Tokyo, Japan
Mathias already feels the impending headache as he enters the dark Council chamber.
Being a Council member has its perks, he has to admit. For example, Mathias is just one of the many higher-ups that comprise the Council. While the ones that often meet in this very room are hidden behind thin screens (for whatever reason, it's not hiding their identity all that much), he's one of those who don't obscure their faces - much like Principal Gakuganji.
Even among the higher-ups, there are factions. Not many but enough to distinguish several sides of this otherwise homogenous group of like-minded thinkers. One faction in particular is prevalent, numbering more than two-thirds of the entire Council, with Gakuganji being one of their key members. The so-called 'Conservatives' stand for age-old practices and preserving the tradition. By some logic, they should be thrilled to have the Shuuin clan join the jujutsu society. Alas, the truth is that the Conservatives seek control over the entire jujutsu society, including the Shuuin.
Luckily some among the Council are not as narrow-minded as the Conservatives. There are voices within the higher-ups, loud enough despite the immense political power of the former. Even among the Great Three who make some of the most important decisions in the jujutsu society (such as choosing the Principals of each branch of Jujutsu High), some are leaning towards harmony and tolerance rather than control over the masses. Jujutsu Commander, the highest position anointed by Japan's Prime Minister only, is expected to be politically neutral and devoted to maintaining safety, and order within the jujutsu society.
Mathias notes that he has yet to meet the Jujutsu Commander as they are noticeably reclusive and hardly ever (if at all) out in public. He figures that they are simply a figurehead with little practical importance, given that the strongest sorcerer alive is a teacher.
Then, there is Lord Tengen.
The older Drakon sibling has never met the legendary sorcerer. He has heard of their powerful cursed technique, the Immortality. He also knows that they are deliberately avoiding mundane, day-to-day operations that occur in the jujutsu society. Instead, their only focus is maintaining barriers that protect Jujutsu High and the whole of Japan.
A noble task, to be sure.
However, Mathias also thinks that the recluse and mystery surrounding Lord Tengen do them no service. Sorcerers die every day, fighting to preserve and protect the world. Their philosophy is (apparently) centered around Lord Tengen's teachings. If so, why are the higher-ups so politically inclined? Why is Satoru Gojo hell-bent on changing the system? Why are the Great Three the ones pulling the strings from behind the scenes? For such a corrupt system, it seems Lord Tengen doesn't much care to intervene.
Knowing that makes Mathias feel even more repulsed by the jujutsu society.
Pushing the shogi door open, Mathias steps inside the short corridor leading to the Council chamber. After announcing himself and offering a respectful bow to the rest of the Council, he takes his place behind the desk.
"Shall we begin?" the presiding Councilman asks to which everyone answers affirmatively. "Very well. We have received word that the incident from a few weeks ago has been repeated. The sorcerer assigned to investigate it has been reported gravely injured but stable."
Mathias listens intently as the Councilman reads the report, all the while focusing on their thoughts. So far, he can't hear any dubious thoughts. Maybe they took Gojo's threat seriously this time, he wonders briefly, shifting his focus from one Council member to another. Or maybe, they're not thinking of it yet.
He decides to place a worm, so to speak, and get them to react. Perhaps, at the mention of his sister, certain thoughts will emerge as a result. He decides to wait until the presiding Councilman finishes with the report.
"Councilman Drakon?"
Brought out of his thoughts, Mathias hums in response.
"Do you agree with the decision to send another sorcerer to investigate?" the presiding Councilman asks, a hint of irritation present in his voice.
Mathias nods flippantly. "Not much of a choice, is there?"
The old man grumbles but doesn't comment. Instead, they continue with the next agenda. The discussion continues for over an hour and Mathias hardly even listens at this point, waiting patiently for his opportunity to appear.
It finally presents itself once the presiding Councilman speaks the next words, "That would be all for today."
'Bout time, Mathias thinks to himself as he clears his throat, gaining their attention. "Before you all leave, I wish to notify the esteemed Council that my sister is returning to Japan today."
The silence is profound, making their thoughts more clear. As expected, the mere mention of Liv causes their mental cogs to turn at absurd speed. However, he has yet to hear anything of importance.
"Thank you for letting us know, Councilman Drakon," the presiding Councilman says solemnly. "When are you expecting her arrival?"
"Tonight around midnight," Mathias answers honestly.
Again, he hears nothing of importance. They're mostly wondering where she has been and what has she been up to but there is no intent on shadowing her.
"We wish her a safe journey back home," the presiding Councilman says and effectively ends the meeting.
Mathias keeps a neutral face as he sees them all off, holding his gaze down. He takes their lackluster reaction to Liv's return as a sign of complacency. Have they given up on trying to make her bend? He frowns. No, that seems unlikely.
Once outside the Council room, Mathias makes one final attempt to find evidence of the Council's further intentions but finds nothing in the end. Sighing, the older Drakon sends a message to Tove, checking in on the progress before turning on his heel and heading home.
Perhaps Gojo holds more sway over them than I give him credit, Mathias muses to himself.
November 29th, 2016. / 13:47 / Shuuin Manor, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
Tove takes a step back as she inspects the placed talismans.
As per Mathias' request, she organized sixteen talismans in precise order, positioning them in two layers: the outer layer which is in the form of a cross with eight talismans acting as the edges of the symbol, encompassing the forge, the foot of the hill and two distant locations in the surrounding woods; and the inner layer, encompassing the main hall itself, with another eight talismans organized into a rectangle.
"That should be enough," she mutters to herself.
She quickly dials Rune's number and waits for three rings until the redhead picks up.
"Talismans are in place," Tove says. "Activate the detector charms."
"Roger," Rune responds before hanging up.
The spymaster sighs, pinching the bridge of her nose. The last few weeks have been taxing and the last two days have been more arduous than the rest. Tove was hopeful that with the wedding over, the Shuuin would have some semblance of peace. Instead, they're even more confused and in the dark than before. Liv's behavior is also troublesome, despite that same behavior being very typical of her.
"You couldn't resist your instincts for a couple of hours?" Tove wonders out loud, her tone laced with slight bitterness. "Pulled us into needless trouble again."
Alas, what's done is done. Going back in time is impossible at this point and frankly, Tove wouldn't bother changing the past even if she could. Their mission has been a success, the Shuuin are free and their mistress is on her way back to solve this crisis. That's all that matters.
That's all that matters, she reaffirms inwardly though she doesn't feel as self-assured as she wants to be.
November 29th, 2016. / 16:59 / Ikebukuro, Tokyo, Japan
Satoru sucks on the lollipop while leaning against the wall, his gaze fixed on the building in front.
He has to admit, the building has turned out to be more useful than he thought. Brimming with low-lever curses, it's not too dangerous for the kids but offers enough of a challenge for them to sharpen their skills.
Kinji has the opportunity to practice his cursed energy control. Given that his technique opens up as a domain by default, control is key in utilizing the technique's benefits before suffering from cursed energy depletion due to mismanagement.
Kirara, on the other hand, has a perfect playground for training proprioception and spatial orientation. As his technique follows a particular pattern and abides by very specific rules, it has happened on several occasions that he loses track of his technique's peculiarities. Satoru figures this avenue could help the boy get a better grasp of his technique.
Satoru intended to have Megumi attend this training session as well but the boy has ended up in detention (again). For a while now, the white-haired sorcerer has noticed that the boy's losing focus, his instincts are dull for some reason and he has a great tendency to just run away. Megumi is not a coward, Satoru knows that. He received at least three calls from school just this week, most of them on the count of Megumi picking up fights. On the other hand, his actual battle tactic seems to involve a lot of flight from conflict rather than fighting. For a while, Satoru thought that Megumi simply preferred subterfuge over confrontation but lately, it seems the boy is not even trying.
This troubles Satoru, mostly because the boy will start Jujutsu High in just a few years and this kind of mindset will kill him.
Sighing, the white-haired sorcerer pinches the bridge of his nose. He sometimes finds it difficult to deal with Megumi. Satoru blames puberty for the most part and he can't help but feel frustrated with the boy's lack of progress.
"Patience," he reminds himself, taking a deep breath. "He'll get there, he just needs the right motivation."
A few minutes later, the noise from inside the building subsides, lulling into silence. With his Six Eyes, he confirms that his students have indeed exorcised every curse inside the building. Good, he praises them inwardly. Shortly afterward, both Kinji and Kirara emerge from the building, bruised and dirty but overall alright.
"Did you guys have fun?" Satoru asked gleefully.
Kinji grins triumphantly while Kirara beams, clasping his hands behind his back.
"How about early dinner?" the white-haired sorcerer asks. "My treat."
"Alright," Kinji laughs and high-fives Kirara who is just as excited. "What are we getting?"
"Whatever you want," the white-haired sorcerer answers.
Kinji then hums as he thinks of possible options. Kirara does the same, trying to choose between a full-course dinner at a high-end restaurant or something more mundane like a ramen shop.
In the end, the two young sorcerers decide on a ramen shop to which Satoru obliges wholeheartedly.
November 29th, 2016. / 22:21 / Haneda Airport, Tokyo, Japan
Liv whistles as they land on the runway. "That was quick."
"It's a private jet, kid," Si-Woo drawls. "It flies faster than commercial planes."
Liv shrugs as she gets off her seat. "Still getting used to the whole luxury experience."
Si-Woo smirks. "You never were one for luxury anyway."
She lets the comment slide as they get greeted by the stewardess who escorts them outside the plane. Liv notices the lack of appalment on the woman's face as the Shuuin mistress cradles the severed head in her right arm before hiding it inside her kimono sleeve. She figures most of the personnel are experienced with supernatural. Normal folk, even those who can see curses, would be terrified of a talking head. Liv thinks the stewardess is a Window, judging from her low-level cursed energy reserves. The pilot's cabin is more saturated in the cursed energy but not a lot.
"Regarding the payment," Si-Woo says as they descend the portable staircase.
Liv smirks. "Don't worry, I won't swindle ya'."
"It wasn't easy getting you overseas," Si-Woo comments, Mimir's head going through his mind. "Both of you."
"I understand," Liv says softly. "How does two million sound? Plus one favor whenever you need it."
"Generous," Si-Woo laughs as they reach the bottom of the staircase. "That's how many favors you owe me so far?"
"Seven overall," Liv rolls her eyes in jest. "Not that I'm counting."
The man scoffs before he reaches for the crown of her head as if giving her a gentle ruffle. He stops midway when he realizes what he's doing. The act is a force of habit, a remnant of a time when she was barely up to his waist and he could still deal with children (which is to say, he can't anymore). He half-expected her to reprimand him - after all, she is a mistress, an important figure both inside the jujutsu society and in the underground. Instead, she closes her eyes and smiles.
"I knew you still had a soft spot for me," she teases him briefly before turning around. "Expect payment in a few days. One of my spies will handle the delivery."
He watches her walk toward an oldtimer, a Mercedes, in the color red. A familiar brunette is waiting next to it, standing straight with her hands folded behind her back. The woman glances at the former detective ever so briefly before greeting her mistress with a large grin. She tells her something and Liv scratches the back of her neck in response. The spy frowns and leans, whispering something in Liv's ear before giving her an embrace shortly after which the Shuuin mistress reciprocates.
Lamenting for things lost brings no benefit whatsoever but as Si-Woo observes the loving gaze in the spy's eyes, he feels a bit better about the whole 'Liv staying in Japan despite it all' business.
Maybe, he thinks to himself, a sliver of a smile resting on his lips, you've finally found your home.
Suddenly, Liv looks over her shoulder before getting into the driver's seat. She stares intently at the former detective, the man who looked out for her (oftentimes begrudgingly but we can pretend not to know that piece of information). Once again, he gets her out of a deep hole full of shit and she feels grateful for it.
With a sincere bow, she bids the man farewell.
For now, at least.
November 30th, 2016. / 00:13 / Shuuin Manor, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
It takes Liv and Tove two hours to reach the foothill of the Manor.
The ride home has been quiet for the most part, with Tove asking the expected kind of questions. Liv answered them to the best of her ability, leaving out no details. She told her about the Great Mother and her hallucinations of the said woman. She also spoke of Toji and seeing the Fushiguro siblings, and her subsequent visit to Sumiye's grave. The Dreki's Hall was fascinating to Tove as she had believed it to be a fairy tale, much like the rest of the Norse mythology.
However, that which came next proved to be more shocking than Dreki's Hall. The reveal of Mimir's head caused the greatest look of bewilderment Liv has ever seen on Tove's face. Liv can still hear the numerous questions ringing inside the spymaster's head which she expects the brunette to ask soon.
And then, Tove asks her something Liv doesn't expect.
"What now?"
Liv takes a deep breath and answers honestly, "I'm still figuring that out."
She continues by saying that she hopes Mimir's experience and wisdom will bring some clarity on that matter. When Tove raises a brow to that statement, Liv clarifies that Mimir is bound to the Dreki bloodline to answer any question truthfully.
"You do realize how this looks," Tove notes slowly as if trying to prove her point. "At best, you'll be painting yourself as incompetent. At worst - "
Liv frowns, sighing. "Tove, at this point, I don't care what I come across as. I'm hallucinating the woman I fucking cannibalized."
"So you bring a cursed corpse to compensate?" the spymaster almost cries out. "This makes no sense, Liv. It's like you're going through this blindly."
"I am going through this blindly," Liv counters. "Things are not going according to plan so I'm improvising. Sorry that it's not up to your tastes."
"You think this is about our preferences?" Tove retorts. "You're our mistress. We follow your every word - I follow your every word, whether I like it."
"Then follow me this time as well," Liv says evenly. "Question my judgment and motives if you have to, but follow me until the end, whatever that end may be."
"Even if we invoke the wrath of our clan?" Tove asks.
Liv scoffs. "With the Vow is gone, I don't fear anyone's wrath."
Tove's eyes widen. She's not surprised by Liv's words suggesting that she's stronger than anyone. She's surprised that Liv is admitting it openly. Boasting is not something the spymaster has ever associated with her mistress. It has always been the actions that spoke louder than words when it comes to Liv Drakon.
This is a new side of her mistress that she's witnessing.
Soon, the Manor comes into view. As they approach the bottom of the ancient stone staircase, Liv parks the car next to the pavement. She and Tove exit the oldtimer with Liv opening the backseat door to take Mimir.
"This is it, Mimir," she says as she cups the head's cheeks.
"To be honest, my lady, I'm rather glad we're done with the travel," the head replies sheepishly, a small smile on its lips.
Liv chuckles. "Motion sickness? You look a bit paler."
"Aye, and I'm not sure if I can throw up to alleviate the nausea," the head murmurs. "Just to be safe, turn my face away."
Heeding the warning, she cradles Mimir with its face facing forward as she closes the car's door. Locking the door, she pulls on the doorknob to check if it's indeed locked before she joins Tove up the stairs.
"Mathias mentioned that Satoru's been making excuses to the Council on my behalf," Liv notes in a hushed tone. "Is that true?"
Tove hums affirmatively. "If it weren't for Gojo, the Council would've probably been at our necks right now."
"And where is he now?" Liv asks.
"He let us know he was having a training session with his students," Tove answers. "There's a chance he might be late."
Liv nods. "Alright."
They continue their ascent, steadily and without rush until they finally reach the main gate of the Manor. Liv looks at her spymaster briefly, as if asking for reassurance before looking away. Taking a deep breath, the Shuuin mistress reaches for the knob and pushes the door open.
Her chest feels stuffy as she takes the first step inside the Manor. While it's been merely a few days since she last stood within this very corridor, it feels as if it's been at least months. The low ceiling, the discolored wall paint, the stale air - it is all familiar yet oh so foreign. She walked down this corridor when she was young, trailing after her mother's robe. She walked again when she became the Shuuin mistress seven years ago, claiming her place as the head of the clan.
She walked once more when she bound herself in marriage to the man who pretty much set her and all of the Shuuin free.
A soft sigh escapes her lips as she takes one step, then two, then three. Within fifteen steps, they reach the living room. Liv's eyes shift towards the leftward wall and a smile graces her lips as she sees the gift from the Fushiguro's still hanging as a centerpiece. We should do that sleepover soon, she makes a mental note as she steps onto the porch. Another fifteen steps and they are in front of the main hall where Rune stands guard while Mathias waits inside.
"Mistress," Rune greets with a low bow. "Welcome back."
Liv's answer is a tight embrace. Startled, Rune blinks a few times before her hands hook under Liv's arms, bringing them closer. She feels soft pats on her left shoulder blade, followed by a gentle stroke up and down her back.
"It's good to see you again," Liv murmurs, her voice further muffled by Rune's red locks.
The young spy giggles before pulling away. She then beckons the Shuuin mistress inside the main hall which Liv acquiesces without a word, stepping over the doorframe on her way inside.
Mathias sits comfortably on the cushion, his back turned to the makeshift shrine dedicated to their ancestors. There a dark circles under his eyes and though he's not old (barely halfway through his thirties), his wrinkles are deeper, more pronounced, as if he'd aged for a decade over the last few weeks.
"Brother," Liv says simply.
He replies in kind, "Sister."
His gaze travels downward towards the severed head in her arms. Unlike Liv who has been privy to their father's teachings, Mathias only ever studied the Shuuin abilities and legends. However, he is still a Norwegian and aware of his heritage - his father made sure of at least that much. There are not many enchanted severed heads in Norse mythology so he quickly deduces the identity of the cursed corpse in his sister's possession.
"You must be Mimir," Mathias says calmly. "Welcome to the Shuuin Manor. I am Mathias Drakon, Liv's older brother."
Mimir responds kindly, "Thank you for the kind words, Mathias Drakon."
The older Drakon sibling hums as he looks back at his sister. "I hope all of this effort won't go to waste."
"I hope so too," Liv says solemnly.
Mathias prompts onto his knees before standing. He moves to the side, silently acknowledging that he's been sitting in her seat.
"You know I don't care about these things," she comments as she makes herself comfortable, letting Mimir rest in her lap. "It's just a cushion."
"That cushion is a symbol of your position," Mathias lectures her. "It has been for seven years and it will continue to be for as long as you are our mistress."
Liv clicks her tongue. "Power is power. It shouldn't have symbols."
Well said, Rei comments from beyond.
I know, right? Liv retorts inwardly.
"Are you ready?" Mathias asks, changing the subject suddenly. "Can you do it now?"
No, she's not ready. However -
"I got what I wanted," she says calmly. "Now, I need to repay those who've helped me, regardless of my feelings and emotions at the moment."
Mathias is silent though his thoughts are loud. Nova's name rings inside his mind over and again, and for the briefest moment, he fears Liv won't make good on her promise. It is a moment, a second of doubt but she hears it.
It is not her fondest memory and she's certain Mathias feels the same. They were desperate then: she wanted her freedom and he wanted his daughter safe. Neither could achieve those aspirations alone. Despite their mutual begrudge, a deal has been made.
A deal she has promised to honor once the silence is broken.
"Do not fear, brother," she consoles him, her tone gentle and soothing. "I haven't forgotten."
He looks at her, eyes wide as he realizes she has heard him. "Then - "
"Tomorrow," she nods, giving him a soft smile. "Advise me one last time. Once I'm done with the elders, you're free to go."
Swallowing the lump in his throat, he kneels before his mistress, humble and true, offering her a deep bow. "Thank you, sister."
She doesn't answer, merely accepting his gesture as a sign of good faith. Perhaps, there's hope for us yet. She then looks at Mimir, patting the top of its head gently.
"You already heard my conversation with Tove so you know I'll need your advice, too," she says.
Mimir hums. "I will try my best, though I'm not entirely aware of your clan's circumstances. I do not wish to speak of the clan's future with so little knowledge of it."
"Mathias and the elders will help me decide on the clan's future," Liv retorts. "I need your advice for a more - personal matter."
"I see," Mimir responds humbly. "I am at your disposal, my lady."
"I don't like repeating myself, Mimir," Liv says sternly, though the grin on her face suggests playfulness rather than dominance. "You are not a thrall, but an adviser."
The head blinks a few times as if entranced. "I - see. Then, I'll be happy to advise you?"
Liv smirks. "Lose the question mark and it'll be much better."
Mimir responds with a small smile.
"Speaking of which," Liv exclaims, clapping her unoccupied knee. "For tomorrow's meeting, I'll need some help with - "
Her question remains unsaid as she notices someone standing in front of her.
Well, it's more like standing over her.
Lifting her gaze, Liv first sees strands of white hair, pulled upward by bandages. She then sees the familiar sight of a lopsided grin with a dimple formed at the corner of the glossy lips.
"Satoru," she whispers.
"Hello, wifey," comes a cheerful greeting from those glossy lips. "It's been a while, huh?"