Chapter-131
And so, under the watchful gaze of Gojō Satoru's deep blue eyes, Iori Utahime slowly revealed her conjecture.
"If you ask me, it's very likely that Gojō Satoru is interested in that girl in your year!"
Upon hearing this, Getō Suguru subconsciously glanced at Zen'in Kiyoshi. Compared to the geisha's wild guesses, he couldn't help but recall the rare friendly look that Gojō Satoru had given Zen'in Kiyoshi when they were having dinner at Zen'in Kiyoshi's house that day.
You should know that Gojō Satoru, that extremely arrogant jerk, almost never shows that kind of goodwill to others, and once he does, it basically means that the two sides can become friends.
If Gojō Satoru is willing to be friends, then given Zen'in Kiyoshi's personality, he would absolutely not refuse.
After all, being able to be friends with a genius is always a happy thing.
Of course, Getō Suguru is not saying that Zen'in Kiyoshi is a snobbish person who values background and future prospects when making friends.
Rather, it was his inner inferiority complex that was at play.
Although both were called geniuses by Master Yaga Masamichi, Getō Suguru could feel just how vast the gap was between himself and that Six Eyes boy.
Barring any unforeseen circumstances, it's unlikely he'll ever surpass Gojō Satoru in his lifetime.
But what if someone like that tries to take over Kiyoshi from me?
Children of Getō Suguru's age don't really understand the concept of friends very well. Children often have a strong sense of possessiveness, and even as adults, some women still develop a sense of possessiveness towards their best friends.
This is also the origin of the great dilemma in later generations: "How should best friends and boyfriends allocate their time?"
However, this feeling is not based on "love," but on pure "friendship."
This is even more pronounced for a child like Getō Suguru who is somewhat insecure.
If Zen'in Kiyoshi stops playing with me and instead spends all his time with Gojō Satoru.
So, should I continue to stay by Kiyoshi's side, or should I be alone?
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Getō Suguru was in a state of utter confusion.
Among the crowd, no one noticed Getō Suguru's change in expression except for Kiyoshi. He knew that Gojō Satoru had come to the Jujutsu High because of his family's problems, not because he was interested in someone in this year's class, as Iori Utahime had claimed.
Therefore, he didn't pay much attention to Iori Utahime's subsequent fabrications. Instead, when he noticed Getō Suguru's obviously odd expression, Zen'in Kiyoshi immediately whispered a concerned question:
"Getō, are you alright? You don't look too good. Should I take you to the infirmary?"
Getō Suguru, who was still lost in thought, calmed down instantly after hearing Zen'in Kiyoshi's voice. Along with this came a sense of relief and immense guilt.
How could he possibly understand things with such a mindset?!
Getō Suguru, you bastard, just how awful do you think people are?!
The more Zen'in-in-ori's concern pierced his ears, the stronger the guilt in his heart became.
But in order not to worry Zen'in Monk Kiyoshi, Getō Suguru forced a faint smile and said softly:
"It's okay. I drank a bottle of iced cola before I came. I was in a bit of a rush when I arrived, so I drank it all in one go. Plus, I ran all the way here, so I'm a little bloated now."
Hearing this, Zen'in Monastery Kiyoshi nodded in relief, then instructed Getō Suguru:
"Be careful, Getō. Drinking too much iced cola can easily cause hiccups and stomach upset."
Zen'in Monk's instructions made Getō Suguru feel even more ashamed. He nodded hurriedly, afraid that Zen'in Monk would discover his inner turmoil.
Meanwhile, amidst the slightly astonished expressions of the crowd, Iori Utahime had already begun crafting a million-word outline for a heart-wrenching romance novel featuring a strong female protagonist for Gojō Satoru.
The geisha portrays Ieiri Shōko, whom the girl has never met, as a resilient figure who harbors both hatred and love for Gojō Satoru, and even different feelings for Zen'in Kiyoshi and Yaga Masamichi...
Hearing this, even though she knew that Iori Utahime had done this for her sake, she couldn't help but want to give Iori Utahime a whack on the head.
Why is this witch's head filled with all this filthy, obscene nonsense? And doesn't she have any shame? She almost blurted some things out! No, no, I must strictly discipline Iori Utahime's mouth from now on!
If the geisha were to reveal her relationship with Zen'in Kiyoshi, who knows what kind of image she would be projected onto!
Thinking of this, Mei Mei felt a chill run down her spine.
Her gaze toward Iori Utahime began to grow increasingly hostile.
Just as Iori Utahime's ramblings became increasingly outrageous, even mentioning that Gojō Satoru was prepared to sacrifice himself to the King of Curses Ryōmen Sukuna for the sake of Shōko, Gojō Satoru, who had been standing silently behind Iori Utahime listening all along, finally couldn't hold back any longer. His voice was eerie, as if it were surging up from the depths of hell:
"Well, Utahime, if things were to unfold according to the plot you described, I would only choose to find a way to kill the King of Curses, rather than offering myself to him. Besides, don't you know that the King of Curses is a burly man with two faces and four hands? Why is he a refined scholar in your eyes?"
Hearing the sudden sound behind her, Iori Utahime's brow twitched involuntarily, and she immediately retorted:
"What do you know? Of course I know that Sukuna is the kind of person who is two-faced and cunning, but there is indeed evidence in history that Sukuna was a great writer. According to the books in my own home, Sukuna actually had a deep understanding of the formats and rhythms of various literatures, and it is even said that he wrote a poem for a certain woman!"
Furthermore, what makes you think Gojō Satoru will choose the way you say he will? You should know that my story is very logical and..."
However, just as she finished speaking, Iori Utahime turned around and saw the other person's signature sunglasses and silver-white hair. The next moment, Iori Utahime's face turned pale and then quickly turned red.
Nothing is more embarrassing than being caught red-handed by your classmate for writing a pornographic article using their name.
"Gojō Satoru...Gojō Satoru?!" Iori Utahime's face flushed red and then paled, her finger pointing at Gojō Satoru trembling. "You...when did you...?!"
Seeing Iori Utahime's state, Gojō Satoru wasn't angry, but rather said with a hint of helplessness:
"I've been here since you started telling your story."
"You...you've heard it all?!"
"I guess so..."
"ah!!!"
Chapter-132
The sudden appearance of Gojō Satoru put Iori Utahime on high alert. She looked at Gojō Satoru, who was half a head shorter than her, and put on a deliberately fierce expression:
"You, you brat, you don't even use honorifics when you see a senior. You really are just like the rumors say, an arrogant fellow."
Because Iori Utahime had been making up stories for Gojō Satoru, and because of the various rumors about Gojō Satoru in the Jujutsu world, she was actually a little flustered by Gojō Satoru's appearance.
But she didn't know how to quickly get over the matter, so she just said some random things to calm herself down.
Meanwhile, Gojō Satoru was looking at Iori Utahime, but he wasn't angry with her.
Or rather, at this point, Gojō Satoru himself did not regard the others as human beings.
An elephant won't get angry because of an ant's provocation; that's how Gojō Satoru is right now.
From birth until now, due to the absence of his parents and the educational issues within the Gojō family, young Gojō Satoru was actually a somewhat cold and arrogant individual at heart.
Subsequent improvements only occurred after he left his family and joined a Jujutsu High.
He looked at Iori Utahime, his voice devoid of any discernible emotion:
"Did you come up with all those things yourself?"
Gojō Satoru asked very directly, without giving Iori Utahime any face at all.
However, what Iori Utahime said was indeed a bit too outrageous. Just as she was blushing with embarrassment, Zen'in Kiyoshi's voice came over:
"Long time no see, Gojō. You look like you've gained some weight lately. Have you been eating too many sweets?"
For Gojō Satoru at this time, the opinions of most people were meaningless unless they were people he cared about.
But Zen'in Kiyoshi was different; he was the first person to say thank you to himself.
Gojō Satoru was able to take some of his assessment to heart.
He subconsciously touched his cheek, frowned, and then said:
"Yes, a little. How did you know I like sweets?"
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"Last time you came to my house for dinner, you ate a lot of that tomato and egg stir-fry. I put a lot of sugar in that dish."
"Listen carefully, and if there's another chance, I'll..."
Before Gojō Satoru could finish speaking, a powerful roar came from not far away:
"Hey! Gojō! You brat! Didn't I tell you to stick with me? Why are you going off on your own again?! What did you promise me when you left the clan?!"
The moment that voice came, it completely overturned the previous fabrication by Iori Utahime. Although Gojō Satoru didn't care about those things, Zen'in Kiyoshi still saw out of the corner of his eye that Iori Utahime's expression had become much more natural.
The voice in my mind said "+2" indicating Iori Utahime's favorability.
Zen'in Kiyoshi was naturally happy to accept this, since Iori Utahime's abilities were more of a support function.
But as anyone who has played games knows, the carry role changes, but the support role remains constant.
Especially for support characters like Iori Utahime who can provide percentage-based buffs, they can be the deciding factor in the outcome of battles against top-tier opponents in the late game.
If we can raise Iori Utahime's favorability level as soon as possible, it would be great to obtain her complete life-giving technique.
While Zen'in Monk was pondering, Yaga Masamichi arrived before them with a little girl who looked to be about ten years old.
Upon arriving at the location, Yaga Masamichi did not hesitate at all and immediately smacked Gojō Satoru on the head.
At this point, Gojō Satoru couldn't keep his back to the limit 24/7, and he hadn't expected Yaga Masamichi to be so ruthless, so he didn't have time to react and took a solid hit.
However, Gojō Satoru didn't have many complaints about the beating he received from Yaga Masamichi, since it was Yaga Masamichi who had broken his promise first.
Moreover, he could sense that Yaga Masamichi was actually similar to Zen'in Kiyoshi, one of the few who did not treat him like a monster.
This is why he hates orthodoxy so much, yet he's willing to obediently let Yaga Masamichi teach him a lesson.
However, Gojō Satoru was still somewhat displeased after being beaten up. He looked at Yaga Masamichi and said with dissatisfaction:
"Hey! Isn't it because you, Ms. Yaga, are walking too slowly and haven't kept up with me...?"
Before he could finish speaking, he was hit again.
"You brat, don't talk back!"
Having said that, Yaga ignored Gojō Satoru, composed herself, and gently pushed Ieiri Shōko in front of everyone, then smiled and said:
"Her name is Ieiri Shōko, and she is eleven years old this year. Originally, we planned to have her come over in five years, but because the college is preparing to reform the training of sorcerers, we will bring some talented students over when they are around ten years old."
Of course, although we are called a Jujutsu High, the content of primary and secondary school will still be taught and guided by teachers, so you don't need to worry about that.
The reason I've gathered you all here today is because I need to implement a tiered management system for you. After all, Iori Utahime and Mei Mei have already received some basic training, while you guys are basically all newcomers.
I know what you're trying to say, but I saw your family test results, and it's basically the same as if you didn't study at all.
Therefore, based on the discussion among our college teachers, Mei Mei and Iori Utahime will be admitted as students of the class of 2004 for the time being. Ieiri Shōko, Zen'in Kiyoshi, Gojō Satoru, and Getō Suguru will be admitted as students of the class of 2005. As for Nanami Kento, you are too young, so after comprehensive consideration, you will be assigned to the class of 2006.
Listening to the words of Yaga Masamichi, Zen'in Temple Kiyoshi pondered the impact and changes brought about by these words.
The original trio has now been expanded to include myself, and the time when they met has been moved from April 2005 to August 2000, resulting in significant changes to the plot.
As a result, the Canon may undergo many changes in the future, but there is nothing that can be done. If Zen'in Kiyoshi wants to gain favor with these people, he will inevitably have to deal with their fates.
Just take things as they come, there's nothing to worry about.
As for Yaga Masamichi's grading system, no one had any complaints.
Although the students' wishes were not taken into account, the division was still reasonable.
Meanwhile, the two girls, Iori Utahime and the ghost, had already begun trying to communicate with Ieiri Shōko. After all, apart from the two of them, everyone else was male, which might make Shōko a little nervous.
Just as Kiyoshi was about to approach Shōko, Yaga Masamichi walked up to Kiyoshi and Fushiguro Tōji and whispered to them:
"Tōji, Kiyoshi, there are some things I need to talk to you about privately. It's about your work, Tōji, and about Kiyoshi's current case as a suspect."
Chapter-133
Yaga Masamichi, pulling Zen'in Temple Kiyoshi and Fushiguro Tōji along, arrived at a small pavilion about two hundred meters away from the group of new students.
It was the height of summer, and even inside the pavilion, it felt rather hot and stuffy.
Zen'in Kiyoshi sat on the slightly hot stone bench, looking at Yaga Masamichi before him, and said with a hint of helplessness:
"Ms. Yaga, do we not even have a basic office to talk business in?"
Upon hearing this, Yaga blushed, his already dark face turning even redder, like burning charcoal, making him look quite comical.
"Ahem, in principle, we should have one, but in reality, since we won't be talking for very long, it would be a waste to just borrow an office. So I'll just briefly tell you here."
He would never tell the two people in front of him that he didn't have his own office because he wasn't high enough in rank.
Before long, he will be promoted, and then he can choose any private office on the second floor.
We can't really take these two people to the common office to discuss things, can we?
That would make me look incredibly humiliated.
After coughing twice to avert his embarrassment, Yaga Masamichi first looked at Fushiguro Tōji, then slowly said:
"First, regarding your situation, given your age and abilities, it's clearly not suitable for you to continue as a student at the Jujutsu High. So, after discussing it with the head of Zen'in Naobito, we decided to specially recruit a close-combat instructor within the Jujutsu High, and you are the best candidate for this position. What do you think?"
Hearing Yaga's words, Tōji frowned slightly, straightened up a little, and then said:
"It's possible, but I haven't taught ordinary sorcerers much. What if something goes wrong during teaching? Besides, I don't have any Cursed Energy. Do you think the other guys at the college would really agree to this?"
To this question, Zen'in Naobito answered as follows:
"Don't worry, your position is basically a job tailor-made for you by the old man Naobito of the Zen'in Temple. Your salary will be directly transferred from his account. Moreover, in order to make this possible, he specially renovated a teaching building and provided teaching equipment for the college."
If even this level of financial resources can't satisfy those guys, the higher-ups will probably be the first to object. After all, to them, your job is just a sinecure for the school, and it also allows you to curry favor with the head of the Zen'in family. No one will think that's not good enough.
Upon hearing this, Tōji's face showed a look of surprise. He looked at Yaga Masamichi before him, his voice rising slightly:
"That old man donated so much stuff? Why did he do that?!"
Hearing this, Yaga Masamichi shook his head slightly, then turned his gaze to Zen'in Kiyoshi and slowly said:
"Grandpa Zen'in Naobito said that in addition to making up for the grievances you have suffered in the Zen'in family over the years, he also wants you to take good care of Kiyoshi in the Jujutsu High. Grandpa said that the future of the Zen'in family will depend entirely on Kiyoshi in the future."
He considered that money an investment in the future head of the family, and felt it was nothing at all.
Upon hearing this, Tōji simply smiled and slowly said:
"That old geezer really knows how to make excuses and how to curry favor. The Zen'in family... well, tell me about their salary, rest days, and benefits."
Yaga Masamichi took a stack of papers from his briefcase and handed them to Tōji, smiling as he said:
"It costs 600,000 yen per month. The school day is from 9 am to 5 pm with a two-hour lunch break in between. Normal rest is allowed during holidays. Students can eat and live on campus. If you want to live off campus, the school will provide an additional 50,000 yen per month."
If the task involves eliminating Cursed Spirits, in addition to the mission reward, you'll also receive a school scholarship. In this day and age, a job with this kind of schedule and high salary is extremely rare.
Hearing this, Tōji smiled with satisfaction. If he were still a lone wolf, he wouldn't have cared much about this kind of work. It's just money; he could just take on a few assassination or exorcism missions.
But now, thinking about Miss Eri, he felt that he still needed to have a job that was at least presentable.
The term "college teacher" is quite good. At least in this society, no matter how much or how little a teacher earns, it's never shameful to talk about it.
Seeing that Tōji agreed, Yaga Masamichi nodded, took out an inkpad and a water-based pen from his pocket, pointed to the signature area on the contract, and said to Tōji:
"If you have no objections, just sign here."
With Tōji signing his name, he became a full-time employee of the college from that day forward.
After doing this, Yaga Masamichi slightly turned his body to face Zen'in Kiyoshi, and then said:
"As for Kiyoshi's identity as a suspect, last night Tsukumo Yuki met with the higher-ups and told them his guesses."
Even with a Grandmaster Sorcerer vouching for you, you're still on the suspect list. However, they're willing to give you a chance to clear your name.
Zen'in Kiyoshi frowned upon hearing this. Although those guys in the world of Jujutsu were all scum, it wouldn't be accurate to say that their decisions were stupid.
After all, if Gojō Satoru had followed the orders of the higher-ups at the Jujutsu High and killed Itadori Yūji directly from the beginning, none of the subsequent events would have occurred.
Therefore, Kiyoshi actually harbored some apprehension towards those high-ranking individuals.
"What kind of opportunity is it? What do I need to do?"
Yaga Masamichi sighed, then stood up and said to Zen'in Kiyoshi:
"Come with me. I don't know the specifics, but they just want you to meet them in person after you get to the college before they'll temporarily clear your name as a suspect."
But you don't need to worry too much. Tsukumo Yuki didn't leave here all night yesterday, and she went to talk to the higher-ups early this morning. With her there, there probably won't be any problems.
Hearing this, Zen'in Kiyoshi felt a surge of warmth in his heart. He would definitely repay Tsukumo Yuki's concern and help in an even more generous way in the future.
Chapter-134
Seeing Zen'in Kiyoshi rise with Yaga Masamichi, Fushiguro Tōji also stood up, as if to follow.
But Yaga Masamichi turned his head and said to Tōji, who was already halfway up:
"Teacher Tōji, now that you're a full-time employee, could you help me gather those kids together and give them a little training? As for Kiyoshi's situation, Tsukumo Yuki and I have guaranteed it. If you go with her, you'll only get yourself into a lot of trouble..."
Upon hearing this, Tōji frowned, and sat back down after standing up. He looked at Zen'in Kiyoshi, seemingly seeking Zen'in Kiyoshi's opinion.
In response, Zen'in Temple Kiyoshi smiled and said:
"It's alright. With both Ms. Yaga and Ms. Yuki here, I won't have any problems. Just take good care of the students yourself. But should I start calling you Ms. Tōji from now on?"
Upon hearing this, a hint of embarrassment appeared on Zen'in Monk Tōji's usually calm face. He tapped Zen'in Monk Kiyoshi on the head and then said:
"You little brat, don't die in there later."
"Don't worry, I'll still send things to your grave after you die."
Before Tōji's second punch arrived, Zen'in Kiyoshi followed Yaga Masamichi away from the pavilion.
Tōji sat in the pavilion, watching the two figures gradually disappear into the shade of the trees. Although his face showed no expression, he felt a little heavy-hearted.
Although he hadn't had much contact with the higher-ups at the Jujutsu High, he had heard the old man complain about them before, and they weren't exactly good people.
Now that Zen'in Kiyoshi has already received Tsukumo Yuki as guarantors, it's already quite strange that he still can't clear his name.
It's important to understand that there's only one "Special Grade" in all of Japan right now, and such a person is undoubtedly someone that every high-ranking official is trying their best to win over. Most high-ranking officials would give her face if she said anything.
But given the current situation, the fact that Zen'in Kiyoshi himself has to go there suggests something fishy going on.
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If the Zen'in temple is visited once, there is a chance that the suspect can be cleared of suspicion.
This sentence, upon closer examination, actually has two meanings.
First, the senior management of the college is not actually of one mind; they are likely divided into two or more factions. Only in this way can the outcome be unstable.
Secondly, the identity of the suspect, Kiyoshi, should have been cleared, otherwise these people would not have bothered to look for him, and Tsukumo Yuki would not have disappeared until now.
But given that both of these points exist, what kind of problem could it be that made Kiyoshi insist on going to the higher-ups?
He couldn't quite figure out the connection, so he simply stopped thinking about it and stood up, looking at the group of little devils who were subconsciously focusing their gaze on Kiyoshi.
The next moment, a cold smile appeared on Tōji's lips. To be honest, ever since he was a student, he had been fantasizing about how he would teach students if he became a teacher one day.
Leaving aside Zen'in Kiyoshi, that kid himself was quite talented, and ordinary methods were completely ineffective against him.
But these little devils in front of them were different. Looking at their vibrant skin and the joyful smiles on their faces, Tōji stood up and appeared in front of them in the blink of an eye before anyone could react.
She even moved her neck, her joints making a slight "click" sound, and the cold smile on her face widened.
"Hey, you brats!"
Tōji's voice wasn't loud, but at that moment it felt like a heavy hammer hitting everyone's heart, instantly pulling everyone's attention back.
"There's nothing to see here. Those two have already gone far away. You'll have plenty of time to see what happens next."
Tōji strolled lazily to the center of the training field, narrowed his eyes, and swept his gaze across everyone like swords, making their skin sting.
"From now on, I will be your physical education teacher, and the first class of the semester, as Teacher Yaga just told me, will be physical education class."
In other words, you are all now under my control.
Without giving anyone a chance to react, he grabbed Gojō Satoru by the scruff of his neck, lifting him high as if he were a kitten, and said to the students in front of him:
"Assemble in five rows! Girls in the back, boys in the front, line up from tallest to shortest! You have ten seconds. Anyone who isn't in line by then will have to run ten laps around the track!"
The moment Tōji finished speaking, everyone, including Gojō Satoru, was stunned for a moment.
But as Nanami Kento quickly took his place, everyone else also started looking for their own spots.
Unfortunately, because Gojō Satoru and Getō were about the same height, and neither of them was willing to admit defeat, the girls in the back row were not aligned properly.
Ten seconds passed in the blink of an eye. Tōji looked at the crowd still standing swaying precariously before him, a cruel smile spreading across his face.
"Except for that brat Nanami Kento, all of you will run ten laps around the track! The girls are standing alright, just upside down, so five laps is fine for you. Getō Suguru and Gojō Satoru are troublemakers, you two idiots will run twenty laps!"
As Gojō Satoru and Getō Suguru exchanged trash talk on the playground, the boys and girls began to sweat on the sweltering track.
Tōji sat on a rock under the shade of a tree, watching Gojō Satoru and Getō Suguru, who were still exchanging greetings about each other's health. He frowned slightly. These two brats really didn't get along.
Meanwhile, on the other side, Zen'in Kiyoshi and Yaga Masamichi walked through a long, somewhat gloomy passage.
There was no air conditioning in the passageway, but the temperature was much lower than outside. Although it was noon, not a single ray of sunlight could penetrate the passageway.
Kiyoshi's eyes gleamed with a faint, pale blue light in the dimly lit passageway.
With the help of his incomplete Six Eyes, he could actually see that there were many Cursed Tools and objects emitting strange fluctuations around him, and even some powerful Cursed Spirits at the back of some rooms.
The reason this passage is so eerie and strange is because of the Cursed Energy leaking out from those things.
Seeing that Zen'in Kiyoshi hadn't spoken since stepping down the path, Yaga Masamichi assumed he was somewhat frightened, so he smiled and comforted him:
"With a teacher by your side, there won't be any problems."
Chapter-135
Yaga Masamichi, who looks like a yakuza uncle but is exceptionally gentle at heart, is one of the characters that Zen'in Kiyoshi really likes in the Canon.
It could be said that without the existence of Yaga Masamichi, Gojō Satoru and Getō Suguru would most likely have ended up looking the same.
As the father of Panda, the teacher of Gojō Getō and other subsequent cubs, and the principal of a Jujutsu High, he serves as a role model in shaping people's values.
Without him, the number of students who turned to the dark side in the Jujutsu High would be more than double.
Zen'in Temple Kiyoshi is really strange. How can a profession like sorcerer, who is not very old but has to face the danger of death and malicious curses at all times, not match each of them with three to five psychotherapists?
Even if it's just one person, they could still bring these already twisted individuals back to their senses in time.
While his mind was preoccupied with those random, early morning thoughts, his mouth responded fluently.
"Thank you, Yaga-sensei. I'm not afraid. I'm just worried that I might make things difficult for you and Ms. Tsukumo Yuki."
Zen'in Kiyoshi's words struck him like a thunderbolt into the heart of Yaga Masamichi.
Could such normal, rational, heartwarming, and exceptionally sensible words really come from the mouth of his student?
In his years of teaching, he had never heard such words of gratitude from his students, words that a normal teacher would hear.
But he didn't actually blame the students, after all, everyone knows how stressful the profession of sorcerer is.
The companion who was chatting and laughing with you one day may have turned into a pile of rotten flesh the next.
Therefore, in previous years, the general curriculum for higher vocational education even included a provision that "students and teachers should not develop too much emotional connection."
The purpose of this regulation is to prevent teachers from being overly saddened by the death of a student.
This is the world of sorcerers, so cruel that the bloodshed is only visible on the surface of the words.
Even Yaga Masamichi himself didn't know why he would tell these things to Zen'in Kiyoshi, a student who had just enrolled.
Perhaps it was the profound insight Zen'in Kiyoshi had previously delivered on the topic of "sorcerers and death" that had left such a stunning impression on him...
Perhaps subconsciously, he hoped that Zen'in Kiyoshi could give him an answer to this question that was as amazing as the last one.
Thinking of this, Yaga Masamichi couldn't help but feel a sense of self-mockery. He had lived for so many years, and in the end, he was asking a child who was only ten years old such a question about life. It was truly ironic.
However, since he had already asked the question, Yaga Masamichi was actually quite hopeful. He hoped that Zen'in Kiyoshi would give him an equally amazing answer this time.
But Zen'in Kiyoshi remained silent this time. Seeing this, Yaga Masamichi was slightly disappointed, but still smiled and said:
"Don't take this too seriously; it's just the teacher's own grumbling."
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Upon hearing this, Zen'in Kiyoshi suddenly raised his head, his eyes appearing almost dazzling under the corridor lights.
"Teacher Yaga, if you choose to miss out because you're worried about parting ways, that's the most cowardly thing a person can do."
The death of a sorcerer is uncontrollable, and if, in this short life, one makes life dull and tedious due to the fear of parting, then such a person is no different from being alive or dead.
Just like raising cats and dogs, we know that the lives of those animals are so short, and we know that from the day we come into contact with them, they will definitely leave at some point in the future, but I still will not choose to give up raising those animals.
Even if it takes a long time or a lifetime to miss or cherish those memories, would you regret raising them?
Many people like to say, "Don't try to form a bond, it will only increase loneliness," but I actually think that every fleeting encounter and parting, I want to cherish every moment.
After saying that, Zen'in Kiyoshi gazed calmly at the Yaga Masamichi, saying nothing, yet it seemed as if he had said everything.
Yaga gripped Zen'in Kiyoshi's hand unconsciously, took a deep breath, and then said in a slightly trembling voice:
"The answer was good, but it didn't quite impress the teacher. It was just some nice words. Alright, let's stop talking about that and hurry up so as not to keep those important people waiting."
Towards the end, a faint tremor even appeared in Yaga Masamichi's voice.
These words were actually spoken by Zen'in Kiyoshi on purpose for Yaga Masamichi to hear, because in the entire world of Jujutsu, perhaps no one was more sensitive to those things than him.
Whether it was the death of his sister's child or the gradual separation after he created the puppets, what Yaga Masamichi actually concealed beneath the appearance of a powerful figure was a gentle heart covered in scars.
After obtaining his [Cursed Corpse Creation] technique, Zen'in Kiyoshi knew that no matter how carefully one nurtures a Cursed Corpse, it will eventually die one day due to the gradual aging of the materials that make up the Cursed Corpse.
Just like human cells gradually die, this process is irreversible.
Even if the Yaga Masamichi is the creator of those Cursed Corpses.
He could only watch as his "children" disappeared one by one from his hands.
For Yaga Masamichi, the meaning of the word "farewell" is perhaps a heavier memory than for most people here.
Sometimes, when he was making Cursed Corpses, he would unconsciously feel an indescribable fear, as if he were making a torture device that would cause him immense pain years later.
His hands would tremble, and he would involuntarily want to give up; he couldn't accept the day they would part ways.
But he would still do it, for reasons he himself didn't know.
He would pour all his love into each puppet, and would give his soul to that strange body.
The puppets lost their arms, so he went to learn needlework. In a class full of girls, he felt particularly awkward.
The puppets liked watching boring children's television programs, so he specially bought a large-screen color TV and let the puppets watch it 24 hours a day.
He is the father of those puppets.
He is also a father who is destined to keep sending his "children" away.
Zen'in-in-no-Ki felt the trembling in the palm of the Yaga Monk, and the system's notification sound appeared in his mind once again.
"Yaga's favorability +12!"
Chapter-136
The crisp sound echoed in his mind, and Kiyoshi's lips curled up, but this was not the time to care about such things.
After passing through a dark corridor in the distance, Zen'in Kiyoshi and Yaga Masamichi officially arrived at the highest council chamber where the senior members of the Jujutsu High were located.
The layout here is strange, with exquisitely designed Japanese wooden doors everywhere. Behind those doors, Zen'in Kiyoshi can sense pairs of cold, scrutinizing eyes.
The room was spacious, but there were no modern lights, only a few old wooden candlesticks flickering with dim yellow flames.
The flickering flames illuminated the walls covered in faded runes, making them appear and disappear. The incantations, illuminated by the candlelight, seemed like countless lurking ghosts, creating an unsettling atmosphere.
Zen'in Kiyoshi and Yaga Masamichi stood in the center of the main hall, their feet resting on cold, smooth, bluish-black stone bricks. The bricks reflected their figures, but the reflections appeared somewhat distorted under the candlelight.
Directly in front of the two people were several thick screens with ferocious and strange beasts painted on their surfaces.
The screens were arranged in a staggered pattern, and behind them were several blurry and bulky figures.
The high-ranking officials of the Jujutsu Department, the people who hold the highest power in this world, are currently no more than ten meters away from Zen'in Temple.
However, Zen'in Kiyoshi felt little fear of the guys in front of him. He knew that if it weren't for some special reason, killing them wouldn't be difficult at all.
The reason why Gojō Satoru hasn't killed these guys is actually because he's worried that their sudden deaths would disrupt the fragile balance between the magic world and the ordinary world.
After all, these people not only control a vast amount of resources in the world of Jujutsu, but also hold a large amount of capital in the ordinary world. If it weren't for their power, the existence of the Cursed Spirits would probably have been exposed long ago.
The existence of Cursed Spirits must never be known to humans.
Otherwise, people will develop more negative emotions out of fear of the Cursed Spirits, and these negative emotions will in turn create even more powerful Cursed Spirits...
This creates a vicious cycle, making it impossible for Gojō Satoru, no matter how powerful, to handle every Cursed Spirit attack case in the world.
However, after the Shibuya incident, humanity became fully aware of the existence of Cursed Spirits, and at that moment, the higher-ups naturally lost their value.
Perhaps to prevent the world of Jujutsu from being influenced by the higher-ups in the future, Gojō Satoru killed all the higher-ups before his final battle with Sukuna.
Kiyoshi was pondering these things while looking around.
At this moment, Yaga Masamichi stood like a silent shield, half a step diagonally in front of Zen'in Academy Kiyoshi. His tall figure, like that of a powerful figure from the underworld, gave Zen'in Academy Kiyoshi a sense of protection.
Meanwhile, Tsukumo Yuki casually leaned against a stone pillar with strange incantations carved on its surface, her long, golden curly hair still striking in the dim environment.
She squinted slightly, her eyes gleaming in the candlelight.
She looked at Kiyoshi, her posture slightly languid, but her amber eyes were full of encouragement for him.
Behind the screen, an old and cold voice broke the deathly silence. The voice was extremely unpleasant, like the hoarse, broken sound of a broken bellows stuffed in the throat:
"Zen'in Kiyoshi, regarding the two cases that occurred in Beika Town last month, all the evidence and clues at the scene now point to you. Although you have a solid alibi for the latter incident, it does not mean that you did not commit the previous case."
In the world of ordinary people, it is common for imitators to appear because serial killers are so notorious. As for the last crime, we can define it as a case committed by the real killer, or we can define it as someone imitating you!
If you cannot provide us with a reasonable explanation, then your status as a suspect cannot be cleared, and you must remain within the high-security area at all times and face our questioning at all times.
Hearing this, before Zen'in Kiyoshi could speak, Tsukumo Yuki, whose face was already starting to flare with anger, immediately began to curse:
"What are you talking about, you old bastard?! Didn't I already write a report last night and show it to everyone about whether it was a copycat crime or the real crime?"
Are you now doubting Zen'in Kiyoshi, or me? Or do you think that I, a Special Grade sorcerer, am incapable of even discerning the impurity of Cursed Energy?
At this moment, Tsukumo Yuki did not forget the most basic logic and reason in her excessive protection of Zen'in Kiyoshi. Her questions were all very sharp. Each question was both defending Zen'in Kiyoshi and labeling that high-ranking person.
Solving a problem is never as easy as directly addressing the person who raised it.
When the people who ask this question become untrustworthy, then naturally there is no need to answer it.
However, it is obvious that an old man who has reached that position would not be intimidated by simple platitudes like those of Tsukumo Yuki.
His aged and cold voice rang out again, tinged with a faint hint of mockery and amusement:
"Tsukumo Yuki, your report yesterday is actually not of any reference value to most people here."
First, according to our intelligence, you and Zen'in Kiyoshi had a very close relationship on Okinawa Island. The two even lived in the same villa for almost two whole months, and had meals, barbecues, and even fought together...
"So what do these things prove?"
Yuki looked at the old man behind the screen, her amber eyes filled with an almost frozen killing intent.
"It's very simple. Any evidence you can provide about your close personal relationship with Zen'in Kiyoshi is likely fabricated by yourself, especially the judgment regarding the defilement of the Cursed Energy."
Because the Cursed Energy at the scene was too chaotic, only you, a sorcerer with top-level skills, could sense whose Cursed Energy it was. In other words, this crucial piece of evidence has become entirely your opinion; whoever you think has impure Cursed Energy is impure.
So, do you think this kind of evidence will be effective?
"Hmm? A Special Grade sorcerer who abuses his power?"
Chapter-137
Although the old voice sounded somewhat hoarse and murky, its clear logic and sharp words rendered Tsukumo Yuki's previous accusations as ineffective, like hitting cotton.
Furthermore, after the investigation revealed that he had a close personal relationship with Zen'in Kiyoshi, most of Tsukumo Yuki's statements lost much of their credibility.
However, while credibility is important for the truth, it is the least important factor in this high-level negotiation.
Because nobody here wants to find the truth. The reason everyone called Zen'in Master Kiyoshi here this time is just to take sides, share the benefits, and shift the blame and find someone to take the fall.
As for whether the words of the Tsukumo Yuki are feasible or credible?
It's okay, don't worry about those things.
All people care about is whether they can take this opportunity to maximize their own interests.
Some people wanted to win over Tsukumo Yuki, the only Special Grade sorcerer at the moment; some wanted to continue to establish connections with the Big Three Families through Zen'in Kiyoshi; some were preoccupied with how to expand their own power; and some were even more interested in the relationship between Tengen and Zen'in Kiyoshi.
In short, among the people who came to the meeting today, there were all sorts of people who came for various reasons, but none of them were there for the truth about the deceased.
Tsukumo Yuki's expression darkened slightly at what the man had said, but she didn't lose her temper. Although she was only 16 years old at the time, she was actually quite calm and composed due to her own experiences.
Although she was somewhat displeased with the old man's words, she merely retorted with a cold laugh:
"If you think that the words of a Special Grade sorcerer are untrustworthy and that you might be biased due to your own emotions, then you can naturally find someone else to help you identify the impurity of the Cursed Energy."
But if you can't find anyone else and you're going to invalidate the most crucial element of the entire case, then I think you probably shouldn't be in your current position.
Furthermore, this is not the world of ordinary people. Don't use the methods ordinary people use to solve cases to constrain sorcerers. The ones who killed those people were not ordinary people themselves.
Tsukumo Yuki didn't make any definitive statements. She knew that the old man had only spoken on behalf of one of the factions, and that there was much more to come.
Sure enough, before the old voice could speak again, a slightly harsh old woman's voice rang out:
"What Tsukumo Yuki said is correct. If, as the head of the Jujutsu Department, you can't even do the most basic thing that the human world and the Jujutsu world need to be treated differently, then I do have to question your level of understanding."
Given the tension among the sorcerers, what we should do now is give them our utmost trust, instead of doubting this and that. Besides, before Tsukumo Yuki went to Okinawa to meet with Zen'in Kiyoshi, she had already submitted a draft which was stored in the General Manager's archives.
The message regarding the stored data is exactly the same as the final draft submitted by Tsukumo Yuki two days ago. Didn't you even check the two documents?
Having said that, a hint of anger flickered in his previously aged voice. He looked in the direction of the mean-spirited old woman and said in a hoarse voice:
"Since you've read the materials in the first draft, you should know what needs to be done at this point! Do you want to further strain the relationship between the college and the Big Three Families?!"
Don't forget, what exactly is the fundamental reason for the stability in recent years!
Listening to the conversation between the two, Yaga Masamichi sighed softly. He gently nudged Zen'in Kiyoshi's shoulder, took two steps forward with him, then removed his sunglasses, took a deep breath, and said:
"Everyone, we've discussed this issue many times in our discussion yesterday. Now that we've brought Zen'in Kiyoshi here, let's not waste any more time on him. Although he's only ten years old, he's very mature and can understand our various expressions."
Based on the information provided by Ms. Tsukumo Yuki regarding the residual Cursed Energy, the culprit behind the Beika Town murder case should be Zen'in Ogi, the current captain of the Zen'in family's combat unit.
Although he consciously cleaned up the scene after killing the person, he still left some traces. But you all know Zen'in Ogi's strength. Although he did not participate in the sorcerer assessment test, he is likely at the Grade 2 or even Grade 1.
"Given that he couldn't even completely eliminate the remnants of Cursed Energy, there are only a handful of people in the entire world of Jujutsu who could discover them. Therefore, I find Ms. Tsukumo Yuki's testimony extremely credible. The reason is simple: she has no reason to frame Zen'in Ogi."
The aged voice came again, as oppressive as if it were coming from behind a coffin lid:
"Tsukumo Yuki indeed had no reason to frame Zen'in Ogi, but what about Zen'in Ogi? Why would Zen'in Ogi frame Zen'in Kiyoshi? This simply doesn't make sense logically."
As far as I know, Zen'in Ogi and Zen'in Kiyoshi have no enmity with each other. In fact, Zen'in Kiyoshi even saved two of Zen'in Ogi's daughters. Based on this alone, Zen'in Ogi has no reason to frame Zen'in Kiyoshi.
Furthermore, the lingering effects of the Cursed Energy have now dissipated. If we were to turn our attention to the Zen'in Temple fan at this point, do you know what that would mean?!
Following the old man's voice, another, more refined male voice came from behind the screen, tinged with a faint smile:
"Everyone, please don't be anxious. Since Yaga Masamichi has spoken, and Zen'in Kiyoshi understands our meaning, there's no need to hide anything here. Just focus your attention on Zen'in Kiyoshi. Zen'in Kiyoshi, can you tell us, assuming that this matter was indeed done by Zen'in Ogi, are you willing to take the blame, or would you rather testify against him?"
The refined man's question was extremely sharp, instantly piercing through the slightly embellished words of the crowd, revealing the unbearable and ugly truth before Zen'in Kiyoshi.
As for what the man had smelled, Zen'in Kiyoshi simply smiled. The people in the Director of the Jujutsu Department were indeed much as he had imagined.
They didn't care about those things, nor did they care whether the world of Jujutsu was chaotic or not. They only cared about one thing: whether this matter could bring them enough huge benefits.
Coincidentally, Zen'in Kiyoshi also wanted to use these guys to carry out some internal purges within the Zen'in family.
Although Zen'in temples aren't exactly ideal places, cleaning up the rat nests is always a good idea if you want to make things easier in the future.
Chapter-138
The Zen'in family, the Kamo family, and the Gojō family are known as the Big Three Families of the Jujutsu world, and they are the top families who, together with the director of the Jujutsu department, govern the entire Jujutsu world.
Among these three families, apart from the special case of Gojō Satoru, the most powerful family is the Zen'in family.
The head of the family, Zen'in Naobito, is a Special Grade 1 sorcerer. Within the family are powerful sorcerers such as Zen'in Ogi, Zen'in Jinichi, and Zen'in Naoya, as well as the Zen'in family's exclusive sorcery unit and Cursed Tool control unit.
The family's foundation is so deep that it is almost unimaginable. In the early years, when the director of the Jujutsu department was not so powerful, the Zen'in family basically had the final say in the entire Jujutsu world.
Although the Kamo family possesses excellent techniques and lineage, they lack top-tier experts and are unable to compete with the Zen'in family.
Before Gojō Satoru came into being, the Gojō family even showed signs of being eliminated from the Big Three Families.
However, after Gojō Satoru was born, no one spoke of this anymore.
However, the Gojō family had been in decline for a long time, and even with a genius like Gojō Satoru born, they were no match for the Zen'in family.
The previous head of the Zen'in family, Zen'in Ritsu, was eccentric and often clashed with the director of the Jujutsu department, causing serious internal strife within the Jujutsu world. If Zen'in Ritsu had not passed on the position of head of the family to Zen'in Naobito before his death, the Jujutsu world would probably not be as peaceful as it is now.
Thanks to the proactive efforts of Zen'in Naobito, the world of Jujutsu has finally taken shape with the Director of the Jujutsu Department as the main body and various families assisting in its governance.
Therefore, under such circumstances, the experts in Jujutsu generally do not want to get involved in anything concerning the Zen'in family.
This matter involves too many complex issues and the interests of too many people, which is why it is so difficult to reach a decision.
The question raised by that refined man was actually quite simple to summarize.
The question is which side Zen'in Kiyoshi should stand on.
Should we choose to side with the Zen'in Temple fan expert or support the Zen'in family?
No, or rather, both of those answers are dead.
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The Jujutsu High is not united. Even if Zen'in Kiyoshi tries to curry favor with the Jujutsu High, he will not receive its full protection. The Zen'in family may very well use some means to secretly kill him. After all, in the eyes of these higher-ups, Zen'in Kiyoshi is nothing more than a weak sorcerer from a branch of the Zen'in family.
Its importance and status certainly cannot be compared with that of the Zen'in Temple fan.
Therefore, in their logic, as long as Zen'in Kiyoshi chooses to testify against the Zen'in family, he is essentially sentenced to death.
If Zen'in Kiyoshi chose to protect the Zen'in family, then there is only one possibility.
That means he should immediately admit that he committed those crimes and then be sentenced to death by the higher authorities.
Or perhaps it's that Kiyoshi doesn't admit to committing the crime and is unwilling to identify Zen'in Ogi.
So it's quite simple. Since Zen'in Kiyoshi is already a prospective member of the Jujutsu High, all we need to do is create some "teaching accidents" during his subsequent teaching process, and then fabricate a will, and the case will be closed.
Jujutsu Highs do not need such disloyal "dogs" from aristocratic families.
Even a genius like Gojō Satoru, who was exceptionally gifted, had to undergo an early coming-of-age ceremony before they were allowed to enroll in the Jujutsu High.
In short, the seemingly gentle words of this refined man actually left no way out for the Zen'in temple.
However, all of this is based on one foundation.
In other words: "Zen'in Kiyoshi is an insignificant and weak piece of trash in the Zen'in family."
However, this situation was deliberately intercepted by Tsukumo Yuki and Yaga Masamichi.
The higher-ups were unaware of how highly Zen'in Kiyoshi was regarded by Zen'in Naobito, underestimated Zen'in Kiyoshi's current strength, and even more so, underestimated the importance of Zen'in Kiyoshi in their eyes.
And this is the key to enabling Zen'in Monastery Kiyoshi to break the deadlock in a moment!
However, when Yaga Masamichi listened to the refined man's question, his expression was still somewhat worried. He didn't know whether Kiyoshi, a child of about ten years old, could understand the other party's meaning. This was a question he could not answer!
If Kiyoshi answers, then no matter what he says afterward, it will cause either the college or Kiyoshi's family to harbor resentment towards him.
Tsukumo Yuki clearly noticed this as well. Her slender body, which was casually leaning against the stone pillar, tensed slightly, and her lips unconsciously parted, as if she wanted to answer the question for Zen'in Kiyoshi.
However, just as Tsukumo Yuki was about to speak, Zen'in Kiyoshi's voice came over, carrying a calmness and composure that did not belong to someone his age.
Zen'in Kiyoshi's smile was devoid of warmth. His clear eyes swept over the direction of the refined voice behind the screen, then slowly passed over the direction of the old, mean-spirited woman's voice.
He didn't immediately answer the blunt question of whether to "take the blame" or "prove wrongdoing," but instead spoke slowly in an extremely calm voice:
"This question from you is indeed quite difficult to answer."
Zen'in Monk Kiyoshi sighed softly, seemingly making a truly difficult choice:
"Should I take the blame for something that isn't mine? Or should I testify against that guy Zen'in Ogi? Neither of these seems like a good option for me."
At this point, Zen'in Kiyoshi paused slightly, then turned his gaze to Yaga Masamichi with a hint of questioning, as if confirming something.
Yaga felt the gaze and his heart tightened. He nodded at him, thinking that Kiyoshi was seeking his affirmation and help. But what Kiyoshi said next made him feel that Kiyoshi's ideas were absolutely terrifying!
After receiving a firm look from Yaga Masamichi, Zen'in Kiyoshi's smile became more lively. He looked back at the screen, his tone becoming clear and resolute:
"Bearing this guilt that is not mine means that I will become a disgrace to the Zen'in family, a 'Curse User' who killed innocent ordinary people, and from then on I can only live like a rat in the gutter, or… be 'cleaned out' by the family and executed by the Jujutsu High."
But what good will this do for you gentlemen?
The answer is that, apart from temporarily calming public opinion and getting a scapegoat, there is absolutely no benefit whatsoever!
This choice doesn't seem to bring us any greater benefit.
Will the Zen'in family be grateful to you all for losing a 'useless branch'? Probably not. They will only feel that the General Manager's Office is taking the opportunity to suppress and warn the Zen'in family. Please don't doubt me on this point. The reason is very simple. As a member of the Zen'in family, I know better than you that the Zen'in family is not actually united.
Especially after the patriarch of the Zen'in lineage, Naobito, took over the family business, internal conflicts within the family never ceased.
Chapter-139
Upon hearing this, everyone was somewhat taken aback and surprised.
Is this boy really that bold?!
To reveal such secrets in a place like this?
Does he not even have the slightest bit of family honor?
Doesn't he know that some of these people were actually supported by the Zen'in family?
Doesn't he know that, besides the Zen'in family, even the Jujutsu High is in the same state of division?
After saying such things, no matter what choices Zen'in Kiyoshi makes afterward, he will only face death!
But listening to the boy's words, everyone had an inexplicable strange feeling, as if he really didn't care about those things.
Kiyoshi spoke without pausing, his gaze sweeping across the screen, giving the person behind it the illusion that they were being seen through.
Under the boy's gaze, these high-ranking officials suddenly felt a sense of unease, unable to meet his eyes.
"Accusing the Zen'in Temple Fan? Just like that sir questioned earlier, what's the motive? What's the evidence? Even within the Jujutsu High, there's not enough evidence to convict someone of my lowly status?"
Based solely on Sister Yuki's testimony, in a place like the Zen'in Temple, let alone convincing the crowd, it would probably cause those people to rush directly to the college and cause a conflict!
Forced accusations will only deepen the rift between the Zen'in family and the supervisory department, causing the Jujutsu world, which has finally stabilized, to regress once again to the state it was in the early 1990s.
Do you all really want to see 'Curse Users' reappear on a large scale in the world of Jujutsu again?!
Kiyoshi's words precisely hit the nail on the head regarding the individual calculations of the higher-ups.
They wanted to make Zen'in Kiyoshi take the blame, but this "useless member of the branch family" was of little value and utterly useless. He might even cause trouble for their side, given the behavior of Tsukumo Yuki and Yaga Masamichi; they were clearly determined to protect Zen'in Kiyoshi to the death.
Forcibly going against the wishes of these two individuals would only further fracture the already somewhat divided internal structure of the High School.
But to have Kiyoshi testify against Zen'in Ogi? Such an action is too risky. Not to mention whether the evidence is sufficient, it is not acceptable to rely on a reason that could ignite a conflict between the Big Three Families and the General Manager's Office.
Hearing Zen'in Monk's voice, the refined man remained silent for a moment. When his voice came again, it had become somewhat cold:
"Your viewpoint is very clear, which is truly remarkable for a teenager."
But according to you, you're not choosing or accepting either option. What should we do then?
Several ordinary civilians have already died; this matter can't just be left unresolved, can it?
Someone has to be held responsible for the deaths, whether it's you, Zen'in Ogi, or someone else, don't you agree?
This refined man appeared to be questioning Zen'in Master Kiyoshi, but in reality, he was pressuring Zen'in Master Kiyoshi to provide a "solution," a "stepping stone" that could be accepted by all parties.
Upon hearing the man's words, a glint of light flashed in Zen'in Kiyoshi's eyes; these were exactly the words he had been waiting for.
This is a political statement used in a political comedy called "Yes, Minister" that Zen'in Kiyoshi had seen before.
When a reporter asks a question you don't want to answer, you reply:
"That's a good question, but the key point is..."
The content indicated by the ellipsis is what you truly want to express and say.
What he asks is not important; what you want to say is what matters.
The same applies here. If Kiyoshi follows the options given by that guy, he will always keep the rhythm in the opponent's hands. The opponent is the one who makes the move, and he is the one who receives the move. No matter how well he defends, there will be a day when he makes a mistake.
Therefore, Zen'in Kiyoshi must regain control of the situation, and the man has clearly fallen into Zen'in Kiyoshi's trap!
Zen'in Kiyoshi took a deep breath, then a faint but intensely determined expression appeared on his face:
"Be held accountable for those who died? That's a matter of course! And not only should they be held accountable, but the person who is held accountable must be the real murderer, or… someone who condoned the murderer or even used the crime to achieve ulterior motives!"
At this point, Kiyoshi's gaze suddenly sharpened, its intensity so penetrating even in the dim light that it could make one's skin crawl.
"Since you gentlemen wish to bring me here for questioning, you must all be aware of my situation."
I, Zen'in Kiyoshi, am a member of a distant branch family who is considered a 'weak and useless' member of the Zen'in clan. I was fortunate enough to awaken a very rare amount of Cursed Energy, and I 'happened' to have some connection with Lord Tengen in Okinawa. This seems to be all that is known about me.
But... it seems you all don't know much about me!
At this point, Kiyoshi took a step forward, and a surge of powerful Cursed Energy erupted from his body. The Cursed Energy, which far exceeded that of a Grade 1 sorcerer, plunged everyone present into a deathly silence!
The next moment, the harsh old woman's voice rang out, carrying a sharp, incredulous tone:
"No, impossible?! How could you possibly be this powerful?! How could the Zen'in family allow such a genius to wander outside?!"
The aged voice trembled slightly at this moment:
"It seems the Zen'in family has misjudged the situation this time as well. What do you intend to do?"
The refined man's voice remained calm, but his tone had become much more polite:
"If he were an ordinary person, he would indeed not have a third option, but for you, I think having three or four options is probably normal."
Kiyoshi wasn't too surprised by the crowd's reaction. In this era where top-tier sorcerers were extremely rare, a powerful sorcerer with no background who had the potential to reach the top tier was far too tempting for them to consolidate their power.
Kiyoshi didn't say anything; he simply continued to maintain the flow of Cursed Energy within his body, his voice calm:
"No amount of words can compare to the facts you see before your eyes. Now that you have cleared up any misunderstandings you may have had about me, let me share my true thoughts on this incident."
"The case in Beika Town was crudely executed, and the signs of framing were too obvious. The people the murderer killed were all people who had a grudge against me. The suspicious points here are too far-fetched, so we can lock our suspicions. This guy must have a grudge against me."
In Senior Tsukumo Yuki's detection, that Cursed Energy belonged to Zen'in Ogi... It seems our relationship has come to this point?
I'm sorry, this involves internal family matters, and I cannot disclose them to you. But since things have come to this point, I feel it's time for me to conduct a purge of the Zen'in family!
Chapter-140
Zen'in Kiyoshi's voice was not loud, but every word was like a knife, piercing the hearts of everyone present.
The old man coughed, his voice laced with an indescribable anger:
"Do you know what you're saying? You're going to purge your own family?! After saying these things, what price do you think you'll pay?!"
As the old man finished speaking, some of the councilors who had been silent before began to speak up:
"Disrespectful and heartless wretch! To cover up his sins, he actually dares to attack the Zen'in family who helped him in his time of need?!"
"Zen'in Monk Kiyoshi! Whether you are the murderer who killed those ordinary people or not, based on what you said, you have already been expelled from the Jujutsu High! We don't need a cold-hearted student like you!"
"It seems you know you're in a desperate situation and are trying to make a last-ditch effort this way? How ridiculous! Do you think we're all idiots?"
Criticism of Zen'in Kiyoshi was incessant, with some more extreme high-ranking officials even making statements about killing him there.
But Kiyoshi was not in a hurry, because he could sense that the high-ranking officials who opposed him and spoke out at the moment only accounted for less than a third of the total number of people.
Some high-ranking officials remained silent, and among those who criticized them, there were even some voices supporting them.
Seeing this scene before him, Zen'in Kiyoshi's face revealed a mocking expression.
The head of the Jujutsu department really does have many different factions.
How can the entire world of Jujutsu be governed by working alongside these insects?!
Zen'in Kiyoshi was always clear about his goals. Since he had decided to get involved in the fates of these people, he was prepared to do his best.
Gojō Satoru did not change the world of Jujutsu, but he came to change it; he harmed the high-ranking members of the ordinary sorcerer class, and he came to unify and eliminate them!
Aizen could wipe out the entire Central 46; Zen'in Kiyoshi could certainly replicate that.
Tsukumo Yuki and Yaga Masamichi were initially worried that Zen'in Kiyoshi would panic amidst the barrage of criticism and that he wouldn't be able to withstand such attacks. However, after seeing Zen'in Kiyoshi's unwavering gaze, they realized that this guy was even more terrifying than they had imagined!
After the high-ranking officials of the Zen'in Temple made their remarks, Zen'in Temple Kiyoshi began to continuously increase the output of his own Cursed Energy.
After Zen'in Master Kiyoshi had released about 80% of his Cursed Energy, the entire conference room once again fell into the same deathly silence as before.
"Special Grade! Special Grade! Undisputed Special Grade! The second Special Grade after Tsukumo Yuki has been born!"
In the midst of a deathly silence, a high-ranking official who had never spoken before, in a trembling voice, reaffirmed Zen'in Kiyoshi's power.
If the extraordinary Cursed Energy that Zen'in Kiyoshi had previously displayed made everyone present feel somewhat doubtful and unreal, then when nearly 1.6 times the extraordinary Cursed Energy erupted, they finally gained a relative understanding of Zen'in Kiyoshi before them.
As their understanding of Zen'in temples deepened, these people realized a harsh reality.
Given the personal relationship between Zen'in Kiyoshi and Tsukumo Yuki, even if Zen'in Kiyoshi really did this, they have no ability or qualification to convict him!
Some of the more astute higher-ups were now looking at Kiyoshi with eyes that were practically piercing through the screen.
The Zen'in Kiyoshi before him was clearly different from Tsukumo Yuki. He was not like Yuki, a carefree hermit who had no desire to participate in the power struggle, but a wolf who was extremely eager for power!
If someone could make contact with such a top-tier expert, the entire world of Jujutsu would be thrown into turmoil!
Now is the best time, and it will be the decisive moment when the pie is distributed!
Sensing the oppressive yet frenzied atmosphere around him, Zen'in Kiyoshi smiled slightly. He looked at the crowd and slowly said:
"Who is the real murderer? Who framed me? Who is behind this, stirring up trouble and trying to use this bloodshed to create chaos? These are not the key points. The crucial point now is whether the Department of Jujutsu and the major sorcerer families have the courage to thoroughly investigate the case!"
Some people are eager to deny Sister Yuki's testimony and defend the 'innocence' of the Zen'in Temple Fan, even going so far as to question the judgment of the top-level sorcerer. Is this 'defense' out of a persistence in the truth, or out of a tacit pursuit of some kind of benefit?
What has driven us to this point in our debate: justice and truth, or collusion for personal gain?
Since you gentlemen demand an explanation for the public, and someone to take responsibility for the dead, then I, Zen'in Kiyoshi, am willing to be the starting point for changing all of this!
The refined man's voice came again, this time carrying a hint of anticipation and excitement:
"starting point?"
"That's right, the starting point!"
Zen'in Monastery's voice held a hint of chilling menace.
"I request the Directorate General to formally open an investigation into the Beika Town murder case! To thoroughly investigate all the inside stories involved! To thoroughly investigate the specific process of the incident! To thoroughly investigate the specific circumstances of this matter!"
I am willing to cooperate fully with the investigation, even with my life, including a complete purge of the Zen'in family! The darkness and sins hidden beneath the family's glory should have long been exposed to the light of day!
Zen'in Kiyoshi exhaled, his Cursed Energy reaching its peak at that moment. Under the terrifying pressure of that Cursed Energy, everyone could barely breathe. They looked at Zen'in Kiyoshi, who was now standing in the center of the conference room, and under that oppressive aura, they could hardly lift their heads.
"The Zen'in family has no need for traitors! The world of Jujutsu has no need for 'Curse Users' who indiscriminately kill innocent people! And this world has even less need for scum who harm their own kind for personal gain, frame the innocent, and disrupt the stability of the Jujutsu world!"
Since someone is trying to frame me and use the supervisory department to get rid of me, then let's take this opportunity to thoroughly clean up the Zen'in family... and also the 'stability' that you gentlemen truly care about!
"What I need to investigate is not just the murderer in Beika Town. What I need to investigate is the rot and darkness within the Zen'in family. The Zen'in family, which has done me a great favor, now has scum who betray the family's interests! Only by killing those parasites that are harming the growth of the Zen'in family can I be at ease about the future of the Zen'in family!"
"And in exchange for revealing these plans..."
Kiyoshi's gaze swept over Tsukumo Yuki and Yaga Masamichi, finally settling on the faces of the higher-ups, his voice leaving no room for argument:
"I need full authorization and official documents from the Directorate General, and... after the truth comes out, I need absolute authority to dispose of the Zen'in family trash that has been cleared out."