Chapter 22: Chapter 22
The morning sun rose gracefully over the ancient city of Kyoto, draping the landscape in a warm, golden glow that spilled across the weathered rooftops and intricate wooden temples. The light danced through the vibrant cherry blossom trees, their delicate petals fluttering like pink snowflakes, bringing life to the atmosphere filled with both excitement and an unshakeable tension. This was a moment far greater than a mere competition—it was the Kyoto Goodwill Event, a grand affair steeped in rich traditions and fierce rivalries, steeped deeply in the lore of sorcery.
Rows of enthusiastic spectators filled the observation stands that encircled the expansive, well-manicured training field, their energy palpable. Students, seasoned sorcerers with a wealth of experience, and venerable elders with their wisdom etched in furrowed brows all shared this space, eyes gleaming with anticipation. The scent of fresh grass mingled with the crispness of the morning air, filling their lungs as they prepared themselves for what lay ahead.
Standing confidently on one side of the open field, the students of Tokyo Jujutsu High formed a united front, their expressions fierce and resolute. Opposing them were their rivals from Kyoto Jujutsu High, equally prepared and exuding an air of self-assuredness. It was as though two mighty armies stood poised for battle, with every pair of eyes locked on each other in silent challenge. The grass beneath their feet remained eerily still, as if nature held its breath, holding off the unfolding drama that shimmered in the air.
At the back of Tokyo's contingent stood Alex, a figure of calm amid the storm of anticipation. He tucked his hands into his pockets, his posture deceptively relaxed, while beneath the surface, a current of barely contained tension simmered. He cast a keen gaze across the members of the Kyoto team, assessing their strengths, noting each subtle shift in their postures and the flickers of cursed energy that coursed through the gaps in their defenses like electric currents.
Suddenly, a powerful presence broke through the din of tension, pulling his attention with agonizing clarity.
Stepping into the open space with an aura of commanding confidence was Maki Zenin, her polearm secured across her back, glinting in the sunlight. A determined glint shone in her eyes as she narrowed them on Alex, exuding a fierce aura that was hard to ignore. When they locked eyes, recognition sparked within Alex—this was the fierce girl everyone spoke of, the one who had made a name for herself.
"You're the one who broke Naoya's leg," Maki stated bluntly, her voice steady yet laced with an edge of challenge that hung in the air.
Alex tilted his head slightly, a flicker of amusement crossing his features as he gauged her intensity. "Didn't think you'd mind," he replied, his tone teasing, yet respectful.
A chuckle escaped Maki's lips, lightening the moment briefly as she crossed her arms defiantly. "I don't. That pompous idiot had it coming." Her eyes shined with unspoken pride, a hint of camaraderie in their shared disdain for Naoya.
A sly smile danced across the corners of Alex's lips as he raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A Zenin with a spine. That's certainly new."
The air between them crackled with a tension that bordered on electric, an unspoken bond formed in mutual defiance and rising respect. Nobara, standing nearby, inched closer to Alex, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper rife with mischief. "She might kill you. Or kiss you. Can't tell which."
"Maybe both," Alex murmured back nonchalantly, an eyebrow raised, amusement glinting in his eyes as he regarded Maki.
Just as the atmosphere thickened with simmering tension, a thunderous voice erupted from across the field, startling everyone into a moment of confusion.
"WAIT!"
Aoi Todo barreled forward from the Kyoto side, his muscular frame straining against the confines of his school uniform that seemed almost too small for him. His eyes locked onto Alex with a manic intensity that was both alarming and oddly entertaining.
"Before we begin, I have a single question!" he shouted, his voice booming and fervent as he thrust a finger toward Alex. "What kind of woman is your type?!"
Shock rippled through the assembled crowd, silence falling heavily as every eye turned expectantly toward Alex.
Alex blinked, caught off guard momentarily. "Excuse me?" he replied, his brow furrowing in disbelief.
Todo stomped closer, his enthusiasm palpable, arms trembling with excitement like a child on the brink of revelation. "Answer wisely, Alex! Your response will decide whether we are enemies... or brothers!"
Unfazed, Alex shrugged casually, his expression remaining cool. "Big tits. Long legs. Fat ass. Thick thighs. Maybe someone like Ester Expósito."
A look of disbelief overwhelmed Todo's features, tears threatening to spill from his eyes in a rush of emotion. "My soulmate!" he cried out melodramatically.
In an instant, Todo closed the distance, enveloping Alex in a bear hug that was both surprising and a little crushing. Alex barely managed to suppress a wince, the bear hug threatening to shatter his ribs under the sheer enthusiasm behind it.
In the background, a groan escaped Yuji, his tone laced with exasperation as he rubbed the back of his head. "Here we go again..."
Gojo chuckled, a twinkle of amusement lighting up his eyes as he surveyed the comedic scene. "Alright! Enough with the bromance. First event: capture the cursed spirits in the forest. Try not to destroy everything."
With a sharp whistle slicing through the thick tension in the air, the signal was given, launching the event into motion.
The forest erupted into frenetic activity as students darted between towering trees, their energies flaring like a swarm of fireflies set against the dense greenery. The battlefield evolved into a wild realm devoid of lines or boundaries—only instinct and raw talent took precedence.
With a powerful leap, Yuji propelled himself into the fray, engaging Todo in a thunderous exchange of blows, each fist crashing together like cannon fire, the sheer force of their impact sending vibrations through the earth beneath them. Todo's laughter echoed, jubilant and exhilarating, as he reveled in the thrill of combat with Yuji.
"You're strong, Itadori! Good! More!" Todo bellowed, his enthusiasm contagious.
From a nearby rise, Alex observed the chaos unfold, arms crossed tightly across his chest, his sharp focus keen and analytical—like a tactician commanding from the sidelines.
"Drop your left. Counterspin. Low kick, then pivot," he instructed, his voice precise and calm, orchestrating Yuji's movements like a general on a battlefield.
Gritting his teeth, Yuji followed Alex's commands diligently, executing a strike that connected solidly with Todo's side. Yet, the larger fighter barely flinched, his grin only widening in delight.
"You're getting better, brother!" Todo shouted, his enthusiasm unfazed.
Before Alex could join the fray, an overwhelming spike of cursed energy surged through the air, sending a chilling shiver down the spine of every sorcerer present, freezing them in shock and uncertainty.
The presence was suffocating, ancient, and bone-chilling—a dread that seeped into their very bones, wrapping around their hearts with icy fingers. The forest, once alive with vibrant energy and youthful fervor, fell eerily silent, as if it too recognized the impending threat lurking just beyond their sight.
From the depths of the shifting shadows...