Chapter-231
Zenin Kiyoshi did not kill the two directly. To Orimoto Rika, no matter who they were born into, they were still her grandmother and father, and Zenin Kiyoshi felt that he had no right to kill them directly.
I'll imprison these two in the Jujutsu High's jail and wait for Rika to make her own decision. Killing them here would not only be troublesome, but it might also make Rika have a bad impression of me.
However... looking at the old woman in front of him who was still desperately trying to stuff the Cursed Object into Rika's mouth, Zenin Kiyoshi's face still showed a hint of disgust.
It is because of the existence of such beings that the world of Jujutsu is in such a chaotic state.
Possessing power far exceeding that of ordinary people, yet wanting to use that power to commit evil deeds, the best choice for Curse Users is indeed to kill them on sight.
While pondering these questions, Zenin Kiyoshi picked up Rika, who was still crying. Rika's sobs gradually subsided under Zenin Kiyoshi's comforting words, but her body continued to tremble.
Looking at the eggplants still steaming hot beside him, Zenin Kiyoshi comforted Rika while walking up to the old woman who was now somewhat timid.
"Where did you obtain these Cursed Objects?"
Hearing Zenin Monastery's question, the old woman lowered her head and remained silent.
Zenin Kiyoshi didn't say anything to this, but simply raised his hand slightly. As several wooden splinters appeared around him, accompanied by a "splatter, splatter" sound, the old woman let out an extremely miserable wail.
But the moment the wailing sound rang out, it was immediately silenced by countless tree branches.
Her fingers were pierced by splinters, and the excruciating pain caused her to convulse and tremble on the ground. Tears and snot were almost completely mixed together at that moment, and even with her mouth sealed, she could still let out a low moan.
After the old woman's trembling body gradually calmed down, Zenin Kiyoshi dispersed the branches. He looked at the old woman before him and repeated his previous question:
"It's still the same question, answer me."
"Yes, I obtained it from the cursed mage's organization by exchanging money and various other things..."
Hearing the old woman's words, Zenin Kiyoshi's brows furrowed slightly. He looked at the old woman before him, frowned, and said in a low voice:
"An organization of Curse Users? What is its size? Where do they generally gather? Besides you, whose identities are confirmed?"
The old woman trembled slightly upon hearing this, then, suppressing her fear and the faint pain in her fingers, she spoke to the Zenin monk before her:
"These things, I... I can't say. If I do, even in the prison of the Jujutsu High, I might be killed. Those Curse Users are very powerful..."
Zenin Kiyoshi frowned, and the wooden splinter beside him reappeared. He stared at the old woman before him, his voice devoid of any pity:
"You can only survive if you tell me, otherwise I will kill you right now."
As the old woman listened to Zenin Kiyoshi's words, the look of fear on her face became even more pronounced. She stared at Zenin Kiyoshi, her teeth chattering.
"Please, I really can't tell you these things. The condition for joining that cursed mage organization is to implant a spell into one's body before joining. If I reveal any information about that organization, I will be killed by the spell immediately!"
Hearing these words, Zenin Monk Kiyoshi let out a soft sigh of relief, and then said:
"After this incident, I will be in charge of the college. I can still guarantee your safety in prison. If you still refuse to talk after that, then it would be better for you to die here."
Looking into Zenin's somewhat cold gaze, the old woman knew that this was the last chance he was giving her. If she refused again, the man in front of her would really kill her!
A slight chill ran through her, but without hesitation, she addressed the Zenin master before her:
"It's those people from New Shadow Style! On the surface, they are a group of ordinary sorcerers, but in reality, they have many shady dealings. The largest organization among sorcerers is New Shadow Style and its people."
Although I don't know how the New Shadow Style gathered so many sorcerers, I know their fundamental purpose!
Zenin Monk Kiyoshi smiled slightly upon hearing this, then said with satisfaction:
"Go on, and if the answer is right, I might make your time in the Jujutsu High prison a little more comfortable."
Seeing a slight smile appear on Zenin-in-Chief's face, the old woman breathed a sigh of relief. She looked at Zenin-in-Chief and slowly said:
"Their ultimate goal is actually to overthrow the current control of the Jujutsu High and the Director of the Jujutsu Headquarters, and to reverse control of Lord Tengen through barrier magic, so as to directly control the whole country and create a world where only spellcasters are respected."
Before I joined, those people told me that sorcerers were the most outstanding beings in the world, and ordinary humans were just pigs and dogs that we kept. They could kill us at will, if needed, or even just because we were unhappy.
However, it is absolutely unforgivable for the Director of the Jujutsu Headquarters and the sorcerers of the Jujutsu High to restrict talented sorcerers with the morals and requirements of ordinary people.
The leader of the New Shadow Style sect was an old man. I don't know his exact name, but judging from his appearance, he must be very old. Moreover, it's said that he gained a lot of lifespan through some kind of technique and incantation, to the point that…"
At this point, the old woman paused suddenly. She raised her head, looked at Zenin Kiyoshi, swallowed, and slowly said:
"So much so that the guy has even achieved immortality."
Zenin Kiyoshi wasn't particularly surprised by this. In the end of the Canon, Miss Mei Mei also found the New Shadow Style guys, and the situation among these people was indeed similar to what the old woman in front of her had said.
Zenin Temple Kiyoshi sighed slightly, feeling somewhat weary.
Those two are really a handful.
Just as they had managed to suppress the trouble caused by the Cursed Spirits and the Kenjaku, the Curse User reappeared.
However... the opportunity is just right. Let's wipe out all these scoundrels, including those moles that Kenjaku previously planted in the upper echelons.
There are still many things to come, and Zenin Kiyoshi doesn't want these guys to bother him with what's to come.
Then, amidst the old woman's utter astonishment, Zenin Sei swallowed the three top-grade fingers.
Chapter-232
"Hey, hey! What are you doing?! That's for Rika, it's something she's going to eat..."
After seeing Zenin Kiyoshi swallow his finger, the old woman froze on the spot, looking at him with extreme astonishment. It seems that she was so excited that she even briefly suppressed her fear of Zenin Kiyoshi.
However, in an instant, the old woman seemed to realize something, and she immediately fell silent. She looked at Zenin Kiyoshi, her eyes filled with indescribable fear.
But Zenin Kiyoshi also saw clearly the resentment and pain hidden deep in the old woman's eyes.
Zenin Kiyoshi simply smiled slightly at this, and then said:
"Whether I eat these three fingers or Rika eat them, the result is the same. I have used a spell to absorb all the cursed substances in Rika's body, including all the cursed substances you have been feeding Rika over the years."
Even if you feed Rika your finger now, it's just another absorption process for me; the final result won't change anything.
Zenin Kiyoshi's answer made the old woman open her mouth. She seemed to have all her strength drained away in an instant, and she lay on the ground, looking at Zenin Kiyoshi in front of her with a bitter expression on her face.
"Why, why did you do this? We have no grudge against each other, do we? Why did you have to ruin me like this! Ruined my plans of the past ten years! Ruined my bright future!"
The more the old woman spoke, the uglier her face became. She looked at Zenin Kiyoshi, her eyes almost overflowing with hatred.
To this, Zenin Sei simply replied with a calm expression:
"I have no reason to talk to scum like you. You will spend the rest of your life in a Jujutsu High prison. If Rika wants, I can kill you all at any time. As for what I have done, you have no right to understand it."
After saying that, Zenin Kiyoshi cut off the legs of the two people in front of him with a single stroke, and then controlled the Cursed Spirit to send the two people to the prison inside the college.
Zenin Kiyoshi glanced at the Cursed Objects and, without even blinking, sealed them all away, later sending them to Tengen for safekeeping.
Those Cursed Objectsweren't very powerful. The reason they chose to swallow those three fingers was essentially Sukuna's request. Moreover, Zenin Kiyoshi himself wanted to test whether he could suppress Sukuna, who had four fingers, so easily.
As it turns out, the four-finger Sukuna was no different from the one-finger Sukuna before; both were powers that he had arbitrarily suppressed.
Looking at the unconscious Rika in his arms, Zenin Kiyoshi closed his eyes slightly, his consciousness sinking into his Innate Domain. Before he could open his eyes, Sukuna's slightly dissatisfied voice rang in Zenin Kiyoshi's ears.
"Hey? Kid, where is this place? Your Innate Domain?"
That voice was somewhat different from the Sukuna voice that Zenin Temple usually heard; it sounded more... unfamiliar and savage at this moment.
Just like when I first met Sukuna, I had a terrible feeling about him.
However, this scene did not surprise Zenin Kiyoshi. The [Ryomen Sukuna] within his body had already told him that when he swallowed the three fingers, he would not merge with the consciousness of those three fingers. At that time, Zenin Kiyoshi would need to come and help him absorb the will.
Otherwise, if the consciousness of the other three fingers becomes stronger than that of Sukuna, then [Ryomen Sukuna] might be devoured by the original Sukuna soul on the other three fingers.
After all, having spent so long in his own Innate Domain, completely isolated from the outside world, [Ryomen Sukuna] is likely to be quite different in terms of both strength and temperament, not to mention his abilities.
From Zenin Kiyoshi's perspective, it's somewhat similar to the difference between a domesticated cat and a stray cat.
However, Zenin Kiyoshi wasn't entirely without suspicion towards [Ryomen Sukuna]. After all, no matter what, the other person could be considered Sukuna himself, and the thoughts of the guy inside him could change.
However, it seems that the situation has not deteriorated to that extent, and the Sukuna within my body is still relatively stable.
"Unpleasant, kid. Didn't you hear what I just asked you?"
Just as Sukuna finished speaking, an invisible slash flew from the bridge of Zenin Kiyoshi's nose. Just as it was about to cleave Zenin Kiyoshi in two, Zenin Kiyoshi regained his senses. As the same slash appeared, the two slashes overlapped without causing the slightest ripple.
"The same slash as mine? Is that so...? Then that finger that's been missing lately, it must have been swallowed by you, you brat, right?"
Upon seeing Zenin Kiyoshi perform the same technique as himself, Sukuna guessed the location of his finger almost without hesitation.
Zenin Kiyoshi replied with a smile to Sukuna's question:
"It seems the consciousness within that finger hadn't had a chance to share its information with you before I swallowed it?"
"That kind of thing doesn't matter. What's important now is... where is the consciousness inside that finger?"
Sukuna wasn't surprised that Zenin Kiyoshi was able to use his techniques. After all, since the other party had swallowed one of his fingers, it was normal for him to be able to use these things.
But the only thing that puzzles Sukuna now is why he hasn't sensed the presence of that finger yet.
As for the question raised by Sukuna, Zenin Kiyoshi answered with a smile:
"Don't rush to find that guy. He's probably busy right now. After all, I just bought him some new games not long ago, and he's probably playing them right now."
"Playing games?"
Listening to Zenin Temple Kiyoshi's words, Sukuna was momentarily unable to understand, his voice filled with confusion.
"Are you confused? That's normal, but I don't have much time to explain these things to you right now. If you could, could you answer a few questions for me?"
Sukuna narrowed his eyes, and invisible slashes reappeared around him. His voice gradually became more agitated:
"Kid, I'm really annoyed by the current situation. I don't have much time to chat with you here, so just die here!"
"So, the more fingers you have, the harder it is for you to control your emotions. Is it because of the Cursed Object? Or is this just your personality?"
While smiling, Zenin Kiyoshi cut Sukuna's entire consciousness into countless pieces.
Chapter-233
"How is this possible?!"
After Sukuna's hands and feet were severed, he lay on the slightly cozy floor, his expression full of astonishment.
Meanwhile, Zenin Kiyoshi, who was squatting in front of him, said to Sukuna with a smile:
"Don't worry about these things, you'll have your answers soon. But what's your opinion of Kenjaku now?"
Upon hearing the name Kenjaku, Sukuna, who was being pinned to the ground by Zenin Kiyoshi, paused for a moment. Then, he looked at Zenin Kiyoshi before him, his voice turning cold:
"You're the thing that bastard Kenjaku has been researching for the past thousand years? Hmph, it really is a pretty good container and cage. No wonder the consciousness inside that finger has never been transmitted out. It was indeed controlled here by you."
Zenin Seiseki nodded at Sukuna's answer, then said with a hint of satisfaction:
"As I expected, something strange must have happened between you and Kenjaku, but it doesn't matter, it's just what I planned."
Throughout Zenin Kiyoshi's speech, he never once looked directly at Sukuna in front of him. After all, to Zenin Kiyoshi in his current state, Sukuna, who was only three fingers long, was nothing more than a wooden stake with no ability to resist.
Sukuna did not rush to retaliate against Zenin Sei's disregard. Although he was the strongest person a thousand years ago, he was definitely not the kind of reckless person who couldn't stand being taken advantage of. On the contrary, Sukuna would often appear to lack the demeanor of a strong person.
However, this is consistent with Sukuna's personality. For Sukuna, there is no such thing as the demeanor of a strong person in this world. What he pursues is nothing more than doing whatever he wants.
As long as you are happy and can maximize your own satisfaction, then whatever you do is right.
Looking at the silent Sukuna before him, Zenin Kiyoshi was the first to smile and say:
"You seem more mature than I expected, which is consistent with your personality. This is our first meeting for you, but for me, we've known each other for over five years."
Sukuna looked at Zenin Sei, a look on his face as if he were looking at an idiot:
"What nonsense have you been spouting since the beginning?"
Before Zenin Kiyoshi could speak, a voice that surprised and yet seemed familiar to Sukuna came over:
"Sukuna! You bastard, I've finally seen you again! I still remember the pain of having my head severed back then..."
Yamata no Orochi's voice came through, carrying an extremely suppressed anger and gloom. However, even so, Yamata no Orochi did not take any action. In Yamata no Orochi's current view, the grievances he suffered many years ago were not important. What he was serious about was not interrupting Zenin Kiyoshi's actions.
In response, Zenin Kiyotsu looked at Yamata no Orochi before him and said with a soft laugh:
"Yamata no Orochi, if you want to cut off his head, that's fine too. This is the spiritual world, he won't die. And let me tell you a secret, if you behead this guy now, maybe when you absorb it later, that jerk playing games over there will also be affected."
Hearing this, Yamata no Orochi's expression brightened, but as she walked to Zenin Kiyo's side, she stopped gathering her incantation. The next moment, she sighed softly and said slowly:
"Let's forget about it. If we really do that, that jerk who plays games will definitely fight me. In that case, the only one who will have to deal with the trouble is you, Zenin Kiyoshi. I don't want to do that."
However, before Zenin Kiyoshi could answer, [Ryomen Sukuna]'s slightly tired voice came through:
"What are you two bastards whispering about here? Hurry up and send that guy over so I can devour him. After that, I want to finish this game."
Hearing that voice, both familiar and utterly alien, and seeing that image—completely different from the "self" he remembered, a figure bordering on "degradation"—Sukuna's pupils contracted violently! A sense of absurdity and... a furious rage, even stronger than when he had been defeated by Zenin Sei, surged within him:
"You...?!" Sukuna's voice became dry and hoarse with extreme shock and an indescribable disgust:
"How did you become such a grotesque figure?! Why are you with this brat..." He struggled to move his eyes, staring intently at the dwelling spirit:
"What exactly happened in these past five years?! Have you forgotten who you are?!"
"How did you become like this? And why are you so close to this kid? What happened during the five years we lost contact?"
Listening to his other self's words, Ryomen Sukuna picked at his ear and said somewhat impatiently:
"You're such a pain. If I have to tell you everything, I'll have to talk for another five years. You only need to know one thing: I am now the true Ryomen Sukuna. As for the remaining consciousness in the other fingers, they will eventually be used by me to absorb and restore my power."
"You are still me. No one in this world knows you better than me. You must have some thoughts of your own, right?"
Sukuna looked at his other self, his voice sounding somewhat indifferent at this moment.
[Ryomen Sukuna], however, made no movement or expression, and simply said:
"Stop spouting useless nonsense and listen to me clearly. The current me is the true 'Ryomen Sukuna,' as for you fragmented pieces of consciousness scattered in the other fingers."
As he said this, a cold and greedy smile, filled with a predatory desire, spread across Ryomen Sukuna's lips:
"It's nothing more than 'nourishment' that I'll eventually digest and absorb on my path to regaining my strength!"
Upon hearing the other's words, Sukuna's mutilated body stiffened abruptly. In those eyes that had remained unchanged for a thousand years, Sukuna's depraved, greedy, yet strangely eerie appearance was now clearly reflected.
An unprecedented sense of absurdity, mixed with absurdity, contempt, anger, and... a trace of absurdity that even he himself was unwilling to admit, came over him. The feeling was like a sticky toad, instantly sticking to his soul!
This is... "the real me"?
Devouring its own kind, indulging in mundane entertainment... bowing down to a little brat?!
No! This is absolutely impossible! This is the most complete desecration of his name, "Ryomen Sukuna"!
"Hey kid, keep that guy under control. It's time to absorb him. That guy's got the strength of three fingers, after all. I don't want my consciousness to be assimilated here. Watch me!"
Chapter-234
"Damn it! Damn it! You piece of trash, you're even one of me?"
Sukuna looked at Ryomen Sukuna, who was constantly absorbing his body, and his expression was almost ferocious.
"Am I such trash? Your words are truly disgusting. If I remember correctly, it seems that I have placed my own will to live as the top priority for a long time, right?"
Whether it's noble or base, as long as I can live according to my own will, then it doesn't matter, does it?
Have you forgotten this? For thousands of years, you've been imprisoned in all sorts of mundane seals and confinements by that bastard Kenjaku. After all these years, haven't you guys gotten tired of it yet?
I'm getting a bit tired of it. The world a thousand years ago was alright, but the world a thousand years later has so many things more interesting than killing. I'm now very interested in the new things that humanity can create in the future, so I don't currently have any thoughts about wiping out humanity.
As for cannibalism? What's so delicious about that sour and smelly meat? People ate it a thousand years ago because of a lack of food, or rather, because there wasn't a good cuisine. Haven't you tried all the different kinds of food we have now?
Popcorn? Cola? Hamburgers? All sorts of things, it's so much more abundant than it was a thousand years ago. Compared to being bound by Cursed Objects, the things you can feel in this little devil's Innate Domain are much more interesting.
So rather than letting you absorb me and then be suppressed by this brat, it's better for me to absorb you directly. Based on my understanding of this brat, I'll naturally find a way to take over his body later.
When Sukuna said these words, he made no attempt to avoid Zenin Sei's notice. He spoke them openly and honestly, and Zenin Sei didn't react in any way. He just smiled at Sukuna without saying a word.
"Is that so? Rather than devouring, it's more like absorbing. You were originally me, just a change over the past five years. Counting the three here, you now have four fingers."
It's really something to look forward to! What will happen when you touch the other fingers next?
Whatever the outcome, don't disappoint me! This brat's body, Yamata no Orochi's last head, and that annoying woman, Kenjaku—you must cut off every single one of their heads!
Looking at his own body, half of which had disappeared, Ryomen Sukuna picked at his ear and then said:
"You're so long-winded. If you're going to die anyway, then shut up and just die quietly."
As the outsider's body completely dissipated, Zenin Kiyoshi released his suppression of Sukuna.
The next moment, Sukuna, who had absorbed three fingers, rushed to Zenin Kiyoshi's side. He pressed himself tightly against Zenin Kiyoshi's body, stretched out his arm, and, with Zenin Kiyoshi having no chance to defend himself, delivered a close-range "Cleave" to his neck!
This time, Sukuna held nothing back, pouring in the total amount of Cursed Energy that could be poured into four fingers. In Sukuna's own opinion, the power of this strike was more than enough to cut through several buildings.
Yamata no Orochi stared at Sukuna, who had suddenly launched an attack, with a look of astonishment on his face. The next moment, several flames blazed out from behind him, and a longsword wrapped in pale purple flames appeared in his hand.
Without the slightest hesitation, she swung the sword at Sukuna's head.
"The Sword of Extermination!"
The sharp longsword suddenly extended, and in an instant it touched Sukuna's neck. Flames burned the longsword, seemingly about to burn Sukuna to ashes as well.
The scene became extremely intense almost instantly, but the next moment, when Zenin Qing gently blocked Sukuna's attack, everything returned to calm once again.
"How disheartening. I just helped you devour that guy, and now you turn around and attack me. Don't you think you're going a bit too far, Sukuna?"
Zenin-in-Kiyoshi watched Sukuna, who was rapidly moving away from him, and the smile on his face did not fade in the slightest. He still spoke in the same tone and manner, as if all of this was within his expectations.
Sukuna glanced at Zenin Kiyoshi, who was still standing in the same spot, and clicked his tongue slightly, his voice tinged with impatience:
"You little brat, your growth rate is really beyond my expectations. In just five years, you have already trained your body to this level?"
But if that's all, four fingers might not be able to kill you or control your body for a while, but what about ten? What about fifteen?
"Little brat, your growth has its limits. Haven't you noticed? Your growth rate has been slowing down recently, and one day you will be completely devoured and replaced by me."
Zenin Sei looked at Sukuna with a smile still on his face. Even though Sukuna had said those words, he just smiled lightly, as if he didn't think the other party would really do that.
"Thank you for reminding me. I will pay attention when collecting your tenth and fifteenth fingers, and try my best to take control of your body before that."
So, if you want to devour me, you still have a long way to go. But before that, Sukuna, I have something I want to ask you.
Sukuna originally wanted to refuse Zenin Sei's answer, but now, remembering the contract they had made long ago, he said somewhat impatiently:
"Ask quickly!"
"How much do you know about the New Shadow Style?"
Hearing Zenin-in-Kiyoshi's question, Sukuna frowned slightly, his eyes rolling upwards as if he were recalling something:
"New Shadow Style? I've heard of this, but it's only for weak people who don't know any Domains. It's not very useful. They can survive for a while in the Domain Expansion of the strong, and then die from exhaustion of their Cursed Energy."
This kind of death is worse than being instantly killed by the Domain Expansion of a strong person, dying in agony and despair. Even the way the weak die is so repulsive.
Zenin Seiji listened to Sukuna's usual answer, shook his head helplessly, and then said:
"I'm not asking you to talk about these things. What I mean is, do you know anything about the origins of New Shadow Style and its people? Like their organizational members, their backers, and so on?"
Sukuna remained silent for a moment, seemingly deep in thought. Then, looking into Zenin Sei's eyes, he grinned as if he had just thought of something amusing and said:
"The New Shadow Style seems to have some connection with Tengen. After all, the first leader of the New Shadow Style had some exchanges with Tengen. Perhaps Kenjaku also has some knowledge of this matter..."
Chapter-235
Zenin Kiyoshi gazed at Rika, who was currently in the hospital room, crying and talking to her mother, a hint of solemnity in his expression.
The world of Jujutsu is far more complex than I had previously understood.
During the final battle in Shinjuku, apart from the Zenin Clan, which was almost wiped out and did not send anyone, the remaining Gojo Clan and Kamo Clan also made no move whatsoever.
What's even more shameful is that the Kamo Clan, one of the Big Three Families, even allowed the then-head of the family, Kamo Noritoshi, to flee with them, escaping when the Jujutsu High was most short-handed.
Even though the students at the college were divided into many factions, this situation seemed rather strange.
Those who support Gojo Satoru... a faction led by Okkotsu Yuta advocated killing both Sukuna and Kenjaku together, and were even willing to pay any price for it, even... using Gojo Satoru's corpse as a follow-up weapon.
The faction led by Kusakabe Atsuya views the Kenjaku solely as an enemy, and their main viewpoint is:
"Sukuna has no enmity with us, and has never said anything about wanting to exterminate humanity. As long as we keep him in a good place, although we may live a precarious life, at least we won't have to go and die willingly."
Kenjaku is different. She is a genuine madwoman who wants to kill all humans and turn them into a giant Cursed Spirit of hundreds of millions of people. As a result, as long as there are humans alive, they will inevitably clash with Kenjaku. Therefore, in the eyes of Kusakabe and the others, only Kenjaku is someone they need to fight to the death with.
Someone like Sukuna, who has no personal goals and only needs to be worshipped, has absolutely no need to fight to the death.
The remaining factions were either too conflicted or simply going with the flow because they had only recently entered the world of Jujutsu and had no real understanding of anything.
The main representatives of this part are Kashimo Hajime, who is "fighting like crazy", Rika, who is "conquered by the charisma of Itadori", and Mei Mei and Ui Ui, who are "chaotic and don't know what they are doing".
In the final battle, they still couldn't unite everyone's hearts. These guys are truly despicable.
But all of that aside, what truly terrified Zenin Kiyoshi was the new Yin-Yang Sect leader who appeared after everything had settled down.
These guys seemed to have anticipated the Shinjuku showdown, and during this time they significantly reduced their power, preparing to reshape the rules and order of the entire jujutsu world when the Jujutsu High was empty.
However, they were relatively restrained. Before Gojo Satoru died, these guys didn't cause any trouble. After all, they knew that as long as Gojo Satoru was still alive, creating such a mess in his presence would be no different from suicide.
But Gojo Satoru died...
This is what everyone has been looking forward to. With Gojo Satoru dead, the world of jujutsu can be reshaped and redefined.
As for whether they could win the final battle, these guys didn't care at all. To them, Sukuna was a great Buddha who only needed to be worshipped, and as for Kenjaku, most of them had only heard of Kenjaku and didn't even know about Kenjaku's plans.
It was under these circumstances of information inequality that the series of "final battles" that seemed somewhat ridiculous to outsiders were created.
And who is the only loser in the final battle?
Kashimo Hajime had a great time, Okkotsu Yuta eventually became the head of the Gojo Clan, and Kusakabe survived to the end, his wealth mysteriously increasing...
It seems that most people have a good ending, so who is the only pitiful one?
Gojo Satoru, cut in half; Tsukumo Yuki, whose remains were never found; Itadori, who once again lost her only remaining family member...
Those who disregard combat capabilities and specifications are too naive and foolish; these are the ultimate losers.
Thinking of this, Zenin Kiyoshi felt a sense of oppression in his heart.
It was a truly laughable battle.
Gojo Satoru exhausted all his efforts, only to end up with his own death.
He wanted to inherit Geto Suguru's will, to change this disgusting world of Jujutsu, and to strive to cultivate the next generation of new sorcerers.
But what about the disciples?
Apart from Itadori, there are practically no others who can be considered to have truly understood Gojo Satoru.
Even at the moment of her death, she was still being talked about by her adopted son, Fushiguro Megumi, and complained about by Kugisaki Nobara.
Perhaps those people had inherent personality problems, but in any case, Gojo Satoru should not have been treated that way.
Taking a deep breath, Zenin Kiyoshi pressed his head, which was throbbing with veins, to calm himself down.
The following are the things I need to do now:
First, while Kenjaku is almost seriously injured by me, I should kill the high-level corrupt officials she left inside the college as soon as possible, and then use various means to completely turn the college into an impregnable fortress.
In any case, as long as there are no problems with the Jujutsu High, I will still have some room to maneuver.
Secondly, before the main storyline unfolds, various organizations such as the "New Shadow Style" and the "Big Three Families" should be eliminated, at least to prevent them from hindering the battle between humans and the Cursed Spirits.
Third, conduct further investigation into Tengen and Kenjaku's plans, and then find out the patterns of the Star Plasma Vessel and the Six Eyes as soon as possible, so as to make Okinawa their second important intelligence hub.
After organizing her thoughts on what she needed to do next, Rika and her mother in the hospital room ended their conversation. Rika ran out of the room, tugged at Zenin Kiyoshi's hand, and said:
"Big brother, my mom wants you to come in for a bit. She has something she wants to talk to you about."
Upon hearing this, Zenin Kiyoshi patted Rika's head and then nodded, saying:
"Okay, Rika, come with me too, don't wander off."
Rika nodded, then pulled Zenin Kiyoshi into the ward.
Zenin Kiyoshi looked at the somewhat haggard woman before him, whose body still bore traces of residual Cursed Energy, and nodded with a hint of relief. Before she could speak, Zenin Kiyoshi smiled and said:
"No matter what, at least you're still by Rika's side, and things aren't beyond repair. I'm already very satisfied that you've managed to do all this."
Zenin Kiyoshi's words instantly brought tears to Rika's mother's eyes. She looked at Zenin Kiyoshi and whispered:
"Thank you so much...
By the end, she was sobbing uncontrollably.
Seeing this, Zenin Kiyoshi's heart softened a little. She must have had a very hard time in that kind of family.
Chapter-236
Zenin's words seemed to instantly shatter the woman's carefully constructed defenses, and scalding tears silently streamed down her face.
She gazed at the Zenin temple, her lips trembling slightly, repeating words of gratitude over and over. She looked up, her bloodshot eyes brimming with tears, her pale, weak face bearing an overwhelming mix of gratitude and the vulnerability of someone who had survived a catastrophe.
"Mr. Zenin, thank you so much... thank you for saving Rika, and thank you for saving me too. Rika already told me that you came before I woke up and performed an exorcism on me. If not..."
At this point, her voice choked with emotion, and she could barely speak. Her gaze passed over Zenin-in Sei and landed on Rika, who was standing right next to him. The tenderness she felt for her lost love was almost overflowing.
"If it weren't for you, Rika and I probably would never have had the chance to meet again in this lifetime..."
At this point in her story, she broke down again, unable to speak. She simply clutched the corner of the blanket tightly, as if trying to hold onto this hard-won warmth.
Zenin Qing did not urge anything; he simply watched all of this gently without disturbing anyone.
Kind people who strive to live well deserve a gentle and beautiful happiness; this is a belief that Zenin Sei has always firmly held.
Gojo Satoru, Itadori Yuji, Principal Yaga... If even they can't have a good life, then the meaning of my transmigration would be lost.
Zenin Kiyoshi's wish is to prevent beautiful people from disappearing from this world like bubbles.
After a moment, Rika's mother raised her head. In her tear-streaked eyes, besides gratitude, there was also a hint of unspoken worry and a resolute determination:
"Um… Zenin Master, I have something I would like to ask you."
Seeing Rika's mother's suddenly serious expression, Zenin Kiyoshi subconsciously sat up straight and said to the woman in front of him:
"Please tell me, if it's something I can do, I certainly won't refuse."
Seeing that Zenin Kiyoshi didn't immediately reject her, Rika's mother breathed a slight sigh of relief, but then said anxiously:
"I know... you, Kenji Orimoto, and her mother are not ordinary people, and even Rika is the same, because the scent on you is almost exactly the same as theirs."
At this point, Rika's mother took another deep breath. She seemed to be struggling to organize her thoughts, and her voice lowered even further, as if she were nervously sharing a secret:
"I know this might sound crazy, but I think there must be some special creatures in this world. Just like what Rika just told me, you performed an exorcism on me, which is an important reason why I was able to wake up from my coma."
Rika's mother's body trembled slightly, her hands unconsciously gripping the blanket, as if she was still tormented by the previous nightmare.
"In my dream, it was a world without any light, a boundless, cold darkness where nothing could be seen or shaped."
I don't know how to describe that feeling. It was like sinking into the depths of an inky sea during a torrential downpour. That feeling of utter loneliness—having absolutely no one to rely on and no life at all—almost overwhelmed me…
Her voice was filled with nightmarish fear, and her fingernails were digging deep into the blanket, the tips even turning white from the force.
"After I was swallowed by that darkness, I heard many, many sounds, but they were definitely not human voices!"
It was a rustling sound, like insects crawling and gnawing, much like the sound of a centipede crawling on a dead leaf magnified countless times!
I also heard the cracking sound of bones breaking... and... and the sound of thick, sticky liquid dripping like blood..."
Zenin Kiyoshi's brows furrowed deeply. This description was no ordinary nightmare; it was most likely related to the Cursed Spirit perched on her head.
However, that Cursed Spirit was only a Grade 3 Cursed Spirit, and she killed it with a single slap. She's probably just saying these things now because she wants to confide in someone.
Just as Zenin Kiyoshi was about to offer some words of comfort, Rika's mother suddenly raised her head, her eyes filled with an indescribable anger and hatred:
"Whenever I think about this kind of dream, which is something that Rika has been experiencing every day for the past few years, I hate myself terribly!"
Rika clearly told me long ago that she would have nightmares every time her father lulled her to sleep, and she clearly told me that she would have all sorts of nightmares every time she went to her grandmother's house for dinner, but I never paid any attention to it.
I was deceived by Kenji Orimoto and his mother into being in a cage, which led me to cause Rika so much pain!
"If it weren't for me, Rika wouldn't be like this now!"
Seeing the woman's sudden outburst of emotion, Zenin Seiwei was slightly taken aback. He gently shook his head and then said to the woman:
"No, that's not the case. It's not your problem. It's normal that you don't believe in these things before you come into contact with them. It's because of Kenji Orimoto and his mother that you've become unhappy. Sometimes it's best not to take unnecessary blame on ourselves."
"I know you're trying to comfort me, thank you, Mr. Zenin, but in this matter, as a mother, I failed to protect my daughter, and that must be my fault. I heard from Rika that you seem to be a teacher at some school, right?"
Listening to Rika's mother's words, Zenin Kiyoshi recalled what he had said to Rika along the way and nodded slightly.
Seeing Zenin nod, Rika's mother pleaded even more directly:
"If that's the case, I know that there must be many people in your school who have special abilities like you. Rika has entered a world that I can't even understand. I know I can't protect her, so I want to ask you to take Rika there!"
"Take him there? Take him to the Jujutsu High?"
"High, a Jujutsu High?!"
Rika's mother was stunned. She looked at Zenin Kiyoshi with a conflicted expression on her face.
But the next moment, she looked at Rika, as if she had made up her mind:
"It's okay. Even if you only have a vocational college diploma, you can find a good job after graduation as long as you're willing to work hard. But if possible, I still want you to continue your studies at a good university, Rika..."
Upon hearing this, Zenin-in-Chief's lips twitched, as if he had returned to the world before he transmigrated...
Chapter-237
In the end, both Rika and her mother, persuaded by Zenin Sei, entered a Jujutsu High to live or work.
As night fell, Mei Mei waited in the hospital parking lot in her car. Seeing the exhausted Zenin Kiyoshi, she handed him a piece of chewing gum, her lips slightly parted, releasing a faint minty flavor.
"How do we convince them to live at the Jujutsu High? They don't seem like the type of people who would be willing to accept the name of a vocational college."
Hearing Mei Mei's words, Zenin Kiyoshi took the chewing gum, fastened his seatbelt, and then explained with a smile:
"While education is important, whether you can get a good job and have a good life ultimately depends on the support of your family. I told Rika's mother that when Rika comes of age and looks for a job, I will arrange a good one for her."
Upon hearing this, a familiar smile appeared on Mei Mei's face, and then she said:
"If that's the case, then it seems that our values and ways of doing things are quite similar. I've actually thought so for a long time. While things like education are important, sometimes education is just a stepping stone."
More than a door knocker, I want the gold brick behind that door. How about this car? I borrowed it from the Iori Utahime; my own car is broken.
Listening to Mei Mei's words, Zenin Qing naturally knew what she was emphasizing. He smiled gently and then said:
"I understand. I'll pay half of the cost of your new car."
Mei Mei nodded, put the chewing gum back, then started the car and said softly:
"That chewing gum you just ate costs 200,000 yen a piece."
"Hey! Then I won't pay for the car!"
"Just kidding~ 200 yen..."
The two talked as they drove toward the college dormitory.
Meanwhile, Hanami was already sitting in the back of Fushiguro Toji's car. She and Eri sandwiched Megumi in the back child seat, while Fushiguro Toji drove in front.
Over the years, Eri has learned about the world of Jujutsu, including Hanami's true identity and the predicament of Zenin Seisaku.
Therefore, upon learning that Hanami would also be attending the banquet, Eri was actually more nervous than Hanami herself.
After all, thanks to that guy Fushiguro Toji's influence, sorcerers' attitude towards Cursed Spirits is basically that they would never allow a special being like Hanami to live.
However, in response, Fushiguro Toji also "thoughtfully" offered Eri some comfort.
"Don't worry, if anyone disagrees with Hanami's existence, that brat Zenin Sei will definitely make sure to make that blind bastard disappear."
When Hanami first heard this, she wondered if it would frighten Eri, but to her surprise, Eri was actually relieved after hearing that Fushiguro Toji was safe.
As expected... Kiyoshi is right, people who can become husband and wife are people with the same interests and hobbies.
Megumi, sitting in his high chair, glared at Fushiguro Toji with a somewhat unfriendly expression; he was still holding a grudge...
In the dormitory of the college on the other side, Geto Suguru's head was covered in flour, and the veins on his face were bulging. He looked extremely irritable.
In front of him was Gojo Satoru, whose face also had a smear of sticky sauce on it.
"Satoru...you bastard, could you please stop sneezing on purpose and getting flour all over my face while I'm kneading dough?!"
Hearing Geto Suguru's words, Gojo Satoru couldn't hold back any longer and retorted to Geto Suguru:
"Huh? Are you an idiot? Why did you open this spicy sauce in front of me, and place it so close to me? After all, I sneezed because of you!"
Geto Suguru's face flushed slightly from Gojo Satoru's anger, then his strange bangs beside his forehead swayed slightly, and a gentle smile appeared on his face:
"Kiyoshi, you arrived so quickly?"
Hearing Geto Suguru's words, Gojo Satoru subconsciously turned his head and looked towards the doorway, but there was nothing there.
The next moment, a floury sensation touched his cheek, accompanied by Gojo Satoru turning his head...
"puff--!"
With a muffled thud, flour splattered everywhere! Half of Gojo Satoru's face and hair were instantly stained white, and even his expensive sunglasses were not spared.
Geto Suguru's slapping was so forceful that the flour it kicked up spread like a small smoke bomb throughout the food preparation area.
In the next instant, with Gojo Satoru's counterattack, the entire food preparation area outside the kitchen was completely invaded by flour.
Meanwhile, Geto Suguru's parents, who were preparing food in the kitchen, watched this scene with faint smiles on their faces. They then turned to Principal Yaga, whose face had darkened, and said:
"Thank you, Teacher Yaga, for managing to turn Geto into this state..."
Listening to what Geto Suguru's parents were saying, Principal Yaga wished he could bury his face in the floor tiles. He knew that these two parents must think that he had not taught his student well, so they were deliberately saying the opposite of what they meant to make him look bad.
Yaga's already dark face, now flushed with shame and anger, resembled a burning red charcoal, looking rather comical.
Geto Suguru's father clearly noticed this, so he quickly explained to Principal Yaga:
"No, it's not what you think, Yaga Teacher. We are truly grateful for your guidance of Jena."
You don't know, but Geto, when he was at home, almost never laughed so freely with anyone. He is the eldest son, and also the most sensible and gentle child in our family.
Because my wife and I often had to work away from home, I had to almost recklessly entrust all the household chores to Geto. Perhaps it was because of this that Geto became somewhat taciturn from a young age...
At this point, Geto Suguru's father's eyes were slightly red. He looked at Principal Yaga in front of him, then bowed deeply at a ninety-degree angle, expressing his gratitude once again.
Meanwhile, the Iori Utahime, who was chopping vegetables on the other side of the kitchen, was watching this scene with great interest. Although this was a boys' dormitory, it was still better than going back to the shrine to practice those messy dances...
Shoko was hiding in the corridor smoking, with a bottle of mouthwash in her hand. Although no one would look at her strangely for smoking, Shoko knew that smoking was not a good thing and she didn't want Geto's parents to have any concerns about it.
After all, secondhand smoke is a very irresponsible thing to do.
Chapter-238
Shoko exhaled a puff of smoke, a wisp of white mist rising as she looked at the noisy room behind her, her smile almost overflowing.
This place is perhaps a little gentler than my real home.
However, after glancing at her phone and guessing that Zenin Kiyoshi and Mei Mei were about to arrive, Shoko stubbed out the cigarette she hadn't finished smoking. Although most people in the entire college wouldn't say much about her smoking, Zenin Kiyoshi was the only exception.
He's in the same year as me, but he acts like an adult in everything he does, restricting my smoking and staying up late. What a long-armed jerk.
"Smoking is bad for your health, and the main reason you're not growing tall is because of the harmful effects of nicotine."
"Staying up all night again? Your dark circles are almost more exaggerated than Gojo's sunglasses."
"Shoko, your lab needs ventilation. It smells like Satoru and Geto smell after a day of training."
Almost every sentence he said would involve the other three students in the same year, but what's ridiculous is that none of the three of them could get angry at Zenin-in-kiyo.
That's really strange...
What's even more problematic is her lazy nature. Often, even if Zenin Kiyoshi is capable of completing a task, she doesn't want to do it. So most of the time, Zenin Kiyoshi would use various benefits to entice Shoko to quit smoking.
What Shoko couldn't understand was that Zenin Kiyoshi's various "enticements" always hit her weak spots so precisely.
Or perhaps it's something she happens to want, or something he judges she "should" need.
After this happened more often, Shoko would sometimes suspect Zenin Kiyoshi, wondering if he had installed a surveillance device in her mind.
What a... long-armed, scheming bastard who knows her exceptionally well.
The faint sound of a car engine smoothly shutting off could be heard from downstairs, followed by the soft click of a car door opening and closing.
They've arrived.
Shoko quickly cleaned up the extinguished cigarette butt remnants on the windowsill, then took out mouthwash from her pocket, quickly took a big gulp, and the cool taste of sweet peach instantly swept through her mouth, overpowering the lingering tobacco smell.
Looking at her reflection in the corridor, Shoko tidied her slightly messy hair in the blurry reflection of the window glass, making sure she looked at least "mentally okay" rather than a decadent look marred by nicotine.
However, after rinsing her mouth with the mouthwash, a slightly pungent taste exploded in her mouth, causing her to frown, a hint of helplessness in her brown pupils:
"Actually, she quite likes peaches, so why is peach-flavored mouthwash so hated?"
Just as Shoko was feeling confused, an extremely strong smell of alcohol came from downstairs, accompanied by the voice of a grumpy little girl.
"Hahahaha, that bastard Fushiguro Toji actually said he'd prepare some wine for me at the Jujutsu High. I knew I hadn't wasted my time helping him find a place, and I certainly hadn't helped that brat move for nothing..."
Shoko recognized the voice of the person speaking.
He is the current head of the Zenin Clan, Zenin Naobito.
But in the next moment, before Zenin Nagi had even finished speaking, a little girl's stern voice rang out:
"Hey! You old bastard! Didn't you come here to see Lord Kiyoshi? If you tricked me into coming here just so you could get more free drinks, I won't let you get away with it!"
Shoko recognized the voice immediately; it belonged to Maki and Mai, who had been frequenting the area for the past few years.
The guy who reprimanded Naobito of the Zenin Institute is most likely Maki, barring any unforeseen circumstances.
After all, everyone knew about that child's bad temper since childhood.
The noise downstairs escalated instantly. Naobito seemed to sober up a bit from the shouting, muttering "disrespectful," "I'm here to take care of important business... and incidentally..." while Maki continued her relentless "condemnation."
Mai has a much gentler personality and kept trying to persuade me from the side.
Shoko watched all of this from above, and her smile softened even more as she looked at Mai.
She could tell that Mai was actually one of the few people in the world who relied most on Zenin Sei.
Zenin Kiyoshi seems to have the ability to predict the future; he can always accurately predict everyone's personality.
Shouldn't this be called being meticulous?
Shoko smiled, then called downstairs:
"Maki, Mai~ It's been so long~"
Hearing what Shoko said upstairs, Maki and Mai smiled and looked up to greet Shoko separately.
Meanwhile, Zenin Naobito looked at Shoko with a displeased expression and said:
"Hey! Nicotine girl! Why didn't you greet this old man?!"
"Who's Nicotine Girl?! You damned alcoholic old man!"
"Pfft, such a strong mouthwash smell. You're really young, trying to cover up smoking just now. You idiot nicotine girl, let me tell you, you should be drinking right now!"
The smell of alcohol is what masks the odor of nicotine!
Listening to the twisted logic of Zenin Naobito, Shoko found it somewhat amusing. Just as she was about to retort, she suddenly saw a familiar figure.
A calm, gentle voice, tinged with a hint of helplessness, came from the figure, like a clear spring rising not far behind Shoko, instantly extinguishing the flames of war that were about to ignite:
"Old man from Naobito, you're making a scene downstairs at the dormitory and even trying to persuade minors to drink alcohol. If you continue like this, I'm going to empty your wine cellar again."
"And Shoko..."
The clear voice from the Zenin temple turned to the window, a hint of helpless smile on its face:
"Arguing with your elders through the window, you should sometimes be mindful of respecting seniority. If you upset the old man, it could cause trouble."
Upon hearing this, Zenin Nakabi-jin roared from behind:
"Hey! You bastard, who are you cursing?!"
Seeing Zenin Kiyoshi's sudden appearance, Shoko's expression carried a heavy sense of scrutiny, like someone who had just committed a petty theft. She silently slipped the mouthwash she was holding into her pocket.
Mei Mei gently nudged Zenin Kiyoshi and whispered, urging him on:
"You're standing here now, and I need to put both feet on the step, which is very uncomfortable. Can you move forward one step?"
Zenin Kiyoshi smiled apologetically upon seeing this, then took two steps forward.
Just then, the Fushiguro Toji family's car drove in, accompanied by Nanami, Haibara Yu, and others who were buying drinks and desserts.
Chapter-239
Normally, Hanami cannot be seen by ordinary people, but through the research of Zenin Sei and Tengen over the years, the two have successfully developed a cursed body that allows Hanami to temporarily possess it.
The concept was proposed by Tengen, and the specific implementation process was carried out by Zenin Kiyoshi using the method of "Cursed Corpse Creation".
After many revisions, it was finally successfully made, but it still has some problems such as lack of coordination. However, it is much better than before.
Before attending the banquet, Zenin Kiyoshi had already told everyone present that Hanami was coming. Apart from Mei Mei and the Iori Utahime who already knew about Hanami's existence, the others were surprised but did not say much.
After all, whatever Zenin Kiyoshi's choice is, everyone will support him unconditionally.
Over the years, Zenin-in-Chih has established himself in their hearts as a true and reliable leader.
"We bought a lot of Coke and some orange juice. Since the weather is still quite hot, some of it is ice-cold. Please be careful when you drink it so you don't get an upset stomach."
Nanami Kento pushed up his glasses and looked at the crowd in front of him. Although his expression didn't change much, the relaxed and carefree tone in his voice was still noticeable.
Haibara Yu, smiling, rolled up his sleeves and headed towards the kitchen, saying:
"When I was at home, I often helped my parents cook. Actually, I even considered becoming a chef and helping out!"
At this moment, Ijichi seemed a little reserved. He was the weakest and least noticeable person among all the people attending the banquet today. Although he knew that no one meant him any harm, he still seemed somewhat timid and hesitant.
Zenin Sei walked over, gently patted his shoulder, and then said with a smile:
"Ijichi, I brought some of your favorite cakes. Would you like to come and try them? Also, could you help me fix this TV later? The signal seems to be having some problems here."
Hearing Zenin Kiyoshi's words, Ijichi felt as if he had instantly found a lifeline. He immediately turned around, nodded to Zenin Kiyoshi, and said:
"Yes! I'll go take a look right away."
As Zenin Kiyoshi watched Ijichi walk away with the cake to fix the TV, a helpless expression appeared on his face.
For someone like Ijichi, the more you try to say something to him in this kind of environment, the more it becomes a burden and pressure for him.
Simply put, Ijichi is the kind of awkward, quirky person who gets pressured by friends to go singing, but then doesn't dare to sing because of her introverted nature, resulting in her feeling out of place and unable to fully engage.
Moreover, you can't simply say you won't invite such people, because due to their own inferiority complex, they can't refuse with a clear conscience, let alone reconcile with themselves when they're not invited.
They will only think it's their own problem, that they are being ostracized because of their lack of ability.
But once there, they may lack confidence and be unable to integrate into the environment...
This is a situation where both ends are blocked.
The best way to alleviate this situation is to show as much friendliness and warmth as possible, and then give the other person something to do, whatever it may be, as long as it creates a sense of "interaction".
In a group setting, as long as they interact with one person, they will feel needed, accepted, and recognized. Although this may seem strange and abnormal, this is how these people feel.
That was all Zenin Kiyoshi could do for Ijichi.
The Iori Utahime walked over at that moment. She was still wearing the shrine maiden's robes, with a little dirt stuck to the hem of her skirt, making her look somewhat disheveled.
"You really are a thoughtful person. But how come Ijichi's personality is still the same? He hasn't changed at all after all these years! What an idiot."
Listening to the Iori Utahime's words, Zenin Kiyoshi took out a baseball game ticket from his pocket—a ticket the Iori Utahime had wanted to see for a long time—and then said with a smile:
"Don't say that about Ijichi. He's just a little gentle. He's actually a very thoughtful person, but such people are often also prone to internal conflict. Be more patient with him."
Oh, by the way, these are the tickets for that baseball game you mentioned wanting to go to last time. I got them for you through someone, and they're prime seats! The total was 200,000 yen. Shall we settle the payment now?
The geisha stared wide-eyed at the ticket Zenin-in-Sei handed her, her voice trembling slightly:
"You, you're really willing to sell it to me for two hundred thousand?!"
"Just kidding."
Hearing this, the Iori Utahime's bright eyes dimmed slightly. She puffed out her cheeks, sighed helplessly, and then said:
"I knew it would be like this. After all, how could the prime spots in these two matches only cost 200,000 yen? How about 300,000 yen?! Any more and I really won't have any left!"
Seeing the Iori Utahime's expression, Zenin Qing smiled, then handed the ticket directly to her and said:
"200 yen will do. I couldn't come back for your birthday last time because I was on a mission outside, so I owe you a gift."
Hearing Zenin Sei's words, the Iori Utahime's eyes quickly welled up with tears. She looked at Zenin Sei, her body almost contorted in a grimace, and said to him:
"Waaah! Arigato! XiaoKiyoshi, you're truly the only human in this college! No, are you Buddha?!"
Seeing the Iori Utahime's tearful gratitude, Zenin Sei walked to the side with some disdain, and said to the Iori Utahime:
"Don't oversleep, the match is in the morning."
"Don't worry, even if I miss my own wedding, I will never miss this competition!"
Looking at the Iori Utahime who was shining brightly in place, Zenin Kiyoshi felt that this guy was a bit too out of touch.
Meanwhile, Geto Suguru and Gojo Satoru also came out of the bathroom. Their faces were covered with water droplets and their hair was wet, clearly indicating that they had just washed their faces.
Sensing the strange atmosphere between the two, Zenin Kiyoshi smiled and walked up to them. He then handed Gojo Satoru a box of limited edition Matcha Cherry Blossom Cake and Geto Suguru a book called "Complete Guide to the Habits of Cursed Spirits" that Zenin Kiyoshi had compiled from Tengen.
Before the two could react, Zenin Kiyoshi had already put his arm around their shoulders and pulled them close together.
Feeling each other's body temperature, Geto Suguru and Gojo Satoru couldn't help but groan.
Chapter-240
It wasn't that the two were expressing any dissatisfaction with each other; rather, Zenin Kiyoshi simply went too far.
The two almost bumped into each other, but looking at the gifts in their hands, neither of them could bring themselves to be angry with Zenin Kiyoshi.
And with their somewhat strange expressions on each other's faces, the two couldn't help but laugh.
Mei Mei watched this scene unfold, and then she heard Shoko's voice beside her:
"This guy really does become the center of attention wherever he goes, almost like Earth and Jupiter revolving around the sun."
Hearing Shoko's words, Mei Mei smiled and nodded. Looking at the jade bracelet on her wrist, a gift from Zenin-in-Sei, she said softly:
"Actually, I've often wondered what would have happened if Kiyoshi had never been here. Do you think our relationship would still be this good without him?"
Shoko turned her head, smiled at Mei Mei, and then said:
"As for me and Miss Mei Mei, we should be about the same, since our personalities are quite similar~ But as for Geto and those two idiots Gojo, they probably won't be as friendly as they are now, since they are always arguing and it's usually XiaoKiyoshi who mediates."
As for Ijichi, she'd probably be even more introverted and wouldn't participate in activities much. Nanami and Haibara would probably be alright, since Haibara's personality is such that hardly anyone dislikes her. But Nanami's relationship with us would probably just be so-so.
After all, they weren't in the same year, and he's not the type to actively seek out people to chat with..."
Shoko gave a long analysis, and after listening, Mei Mei remained silent for a moment. Then, she gently shook her head and said to Shoko:
"Eighty points, Shoko, your analysis should be around eighty points."
Shoko paused for a moment upon hearing this, then asked curiously:
"Only 80 points? Where did the remaining 20 points go?"
Mei Mei smiled and slid her fingers across the table twice, then said:
"First, if Kiyoshi hadn't corrected my personality, I'd probably be a very strange person now, and you probably wouldn't like me that much. So our relationship might not be as good as it is now."
Secondly, even if XiaoKiyoshi isn't around, the relationship between Geto and Gojo won't deteriorate much. The reason they argue so easily and without any concern for each other's feelings is because they know XiaoKiyoshi will always mediate.
But if XiaoKiyoshi isn't around, they won't argue as much. Knowing that no one will mediate, both Geto and Gojo will be a bit more restrained. And I suspect that Geto will be more mature by then.
Upon hearing this, Shoko's face showed a look of understanding, and then she praised Mei Mei:
"Sister Mei Mei, your observation skills are really amazing. You can analyze things so clearly. But from what you're saying, it seems that Gojo and Geto don't really argue that often when XiaoKiyoshi is on a mission."
Mei Mei nodded and continued to smile:
"Don't let their constant bickering fool you; they're actually very sensitive people, very good at understanding other people's emotions..."
"Huh?! The two of them? Geto might be a possibility, but how could that idiot Gojo possibly be?"
Hearing Shoko's question, Mei Mei simply focused her gaze on Zenin Kiyoshi, then softly replied:
"XiaoKiyoshi told me about this. As for the specific reason, I actually found it a bit unbelievable when I first heard the news, but what he said was generally very credible. Perhaps there really is some kind of tacit understanding between boys that we don't know about?"
Shoko scratched her head and said with a smile:
"Is that what XiaoKiyoshi said? That's certainly very possible. Ah, Sister Hanami, you've arrived!"
As Shoko's voice rang out, everyone's eyes immediately turned to the family of three and Hanami who were entering the room.
Before Hanami could say anything, Fushiguro Toji's slightly annoyed voice came over:
"Hey! You idiot Shoko, even though the hallway is a bit dark, shouldn't you at least greet the teacher first?"
Hearing Fushiguro Toji's words, Shoko naturally knew that he was joking, so she smiled and stuck out her tongue, saying:
"You're as strict as ever, Mr. Toji. But... Eri-neechan, Megumi, welcome!"
Seeing Shoko's clearly distinct attitude, Fushiguro Toji shook his head helplessly. At this moment, Zenin Kiyoshi also walked over, greeted the group, and gently took Hanami's hand.
At that very moment, the expressions on the faces of the people present changed slightly, as if they were somewhat jealous.
Zenin Kiyoshi looked at Hanami's slightly shy, bowed head beside him and simply smiled as he addressed the crowd:
"This is my important family member, Hanami. From today onwards, I will be relying on everyone to take care of me."
After saying this, Zenin Qing, accompanied by Hanami, bowed slightly to everyone.
Geto Suguru was the first to respond:
"Hanami-chan, is there any snack you'd like to eat? Satoru and I bought a lot today, but we don't know exactly what you like to eat."
Before Hanami could speak, Gojo Satoru pushed Geto aside, pulled out two large bags of snacks from under the table, unwrapped them, and said with a big smile:
"Ignore that idiot Geto, just try them all, and you'll know what you like to eat!"
However, because Gojo Satoru was walking in a hurry, he almost knocked the Iori Utahime to the ground. Before Gojo Satoru could finish speaking, the Iori Utahime grabbed his hair and pulled him sharply.
"You idiot, Gojo! You should apologize to your senior if you bump into them! Also, you took the wrong snacks! That bag is full of vegetables! What are you thinking, you moron?!"
Nanami Kento nodded slightly and smiled in greeting to Hanami's arrival; that was just his personality. However, he also had absolute trust in the people brought by Zenin Sei.
Haibara Yu smiled and waved to Hanami from afar. Because he was still holding a fish, he sprinkled the fishy smell from the fish onto Nanami, who was standing nearby.
Ijichi was busy repairing the television at the moment, and upon seeing Hanami, he quickly bowed and said:
"Um, please take care of me in the future. My name is Ijichi. I have received a lot of guidance from senior monks at the Zenin temple, so if you have any questions, I am the one who can help. Please don't hesitate to ask."
Mei Mei didn't say anything, but simply walked over, took Hanami's hand, and whispered:
"Let's go shopping in a bit, I want to buy you some nice clothes."