Gabimaru and Satoru Gojo walked through the corridors of the Tokyo Magic College. The atmosphere was so casual that Gabimaru decided to ask, "Tell me, Gojo, what is Tokyo?"
Gojo smiled, looking around. "It's a huge number of buildings, streets, people. More precisely, it's a vast territory, made up of fifty cities."
Gabimaru frowned. "A huge city?"
"In a sense, yes," Gojo nodded. "But it would be more correct to say that it's a general term. We are currently in the suburbs of Tokyo. This is where you will study."
"What?"
"Oh. We have a varied list here, but I believe there will be a separate program for you. Your training consists of training, theory, and missions."
"Wait, that's not the most important thing yet," Gojo replied to Gabimaru's frown. "You may know this city by its old name—Edo."
Gabimaru sighed. "That sounds complicated."
You mean to say that this city is Edo? But how is that possible? I'm absolutely certain that I died in the clearing.
"I'm not sure," Satoru shrugged. "What year was it when you died?"
"I don't remember, but I think the Tokugawa dynasty came into power then."
"Hm? You're not mistaken? As far as I remember, it was a long time ago, about three hundred years ago. Yes, most likely, the Meiji Restoration was from 1868 to 1889, which means you lived much earlier."
"Are you suggesting that I've traveled through time?"
"I don't deny it, but it's also difficult to accept."
"I agree, it's difficult to accept. Sigh. I'll have to endure it; the most important thing now is to regain my memory. Without it, something is wrong with me."
"Don't worry! Everything will be fine. Just agree to study, it will be easier to get used to this era."
"I'm willing to try. I have no other choice anyway. How is training organized here?"
"We have several courses and training programs," Gojo continued.
— You will study with other students. By the way, how old are you?
— About sixteen. But I'm not sure anymore.
— And you can't tell by your body!
— Well, yes. In my village, everyone starts training at the age of four, and the training there is the most terrible. Anyone who goes through this hell becomes a strong person.
— I see. And what was the name of your village?
— The Village Hidden in Stone.
— At this answer, Gojo stopped abruptly and threw his head up to the ceiling.
— Interesting.
— Answer one more question: what curse did you mention?
Gojo thought for a moment.
— Our world is full of cursed energy. In huge cities like Tokyo or New York, people emit this energy out of anger, rage, and fear. And it is transformed into curses—some kind of clots of energy, similar to demons or ghosts. And places like our college train shamans. There are many such people here, each with their own unique techniques. But not everyone uses their abilities for good. Some seek power and destruction. Our task is to protect the world from such threats.
- Understood. And why are there so few students here?
- Unfortunately, those who possess the necessary amount of energy are many, too many. True, they cannot think like us; they consider themselves ordinary people,Although they see curses. That's why there aren't many people here. Everyone who wants to study is here. Now that winter is over, it's peak curse season. So we even have more than enough people.
- I see. I'll sort this out in time. And what about training space?
- We have a library and training grounds, - Gojo explained. - You can study the theory and practice. And, of course, you can always turn to the teachers and other students for help.
Gabimaru smiled - for the first time in his entire conversation with Satoru. At that moment, they approached the door of the headmaster's office.
- I take it you're ready to answer my question?
Gabimaru thought for a moment, then began to explain:
- Dao is a fundamental concept related to the flow of life energy in the universe. In my understanding, it means harmony between body and spirit. In combat, Dao is used to understand and control energy, enhancing attacks and defense. Which allows me to sense the enemy's energy and direct my power most effectively.
Gojo listened intently. "Interesting. Something similar—cursed energy. It arises from negative emotions like fear, anger, and hatred. And as I said, all people, consciously or not, produce cursed energy, but not everyone knows how to control it. Shamans like us are trained to use this energy to create cursed techniques and combat curses. Incidentally, as an expert in this field, I can say with certainty that you have used cursed energy. Therefore, your question requires some thought."
Gabimaru nodded, considering what he had heard. "Yes," Gabimaru closed his eyes. "During the battle, I remembered how I used the Dao, and because of that, I was able to utilize this energy."
"Okay, we'll figure it out," he nodded toward the door. "Well, here we are. It's time to meet Director Yaga Masamichi."
Gabimaru took a deep breath and nodded. Gojo opened the door, and they entered the office, where Director Yaga Masamichi was already waiting. The office was spacious and bright, the walls decorated with various sewn toys. In the corner far from the door was a large bookcase filled with folders. Nearby, by the window, stood a carved table. In front of the table were two chairs, where Satoru and Gabimaru sat.
Yaga looked up from his papers and looked at the guests.
"Gojo, I'm glad to see you. This is the first time I can remember you've come to me yourself. And with—"
"This is Gabimaru," Gojo began. "He's a shinobi who possesses a cursed technique."
"What did you just say?"
"You heard me correctly, Yaga. He has an innate cursed technique."
"What clan is he from?"
"That's where the fun begins. I found him in the forest near where Megumi was training. He appeared right under the barrier, so tell me, Yaga, why didn't the security system activate?"
Yaga examined Gabimaru carefully, his gaze cold and intent, but a hint of surprise flashed in his eyes. "You said he was trapped under the barrier?" Yaga looked meaningfully at Satoru. "That's impossible."After recent events, our barriers were improved by Master Tengen.
"It turns out they're not so good. Well, actually, I'm here on other business," Satoru focused for the first time in the conversation. "I want you to accept him into college as a freshman."
"Hm," Yaga looked from Satoru to Gabimaru and asked the latter, "Why did you decide to become a shaman? What are your intentions? What are you planning to do here?" Yaga asked, his voice stern, but his interest growing.
"I want to regain my memories," Gabimaru replied, his voice cold and firm.
"You understand that this is not an easy path? You will have a lot of study and training ahead of you," Yaga continued, carefully watching Gabimaru's reaction.
"I am a shinobi. The fact that I was lucky enough to live to sixteen after the training I received in the village shows that I am not afraid of difficulties along the way. I've already learned to ignore them or shift them to someone who will train with me.
Gojo chuckled and interjected, "I'm afraid he won't need that much training. We already fought, and he not only wounded me, but also forced me to use a reverse cursed technique."
Yaga's interest grew even greater, his gaze becoming intense and attentive. "Interesting. Tell me more about who you are, Gabimaru?"
Gabimaru sighed and began his story, "I grew up in the Hidden Stone Village, where I learned the shinobi craft. From childhood, we learned to be ruthless killers. And so it was, I received both a title and a name. I became someone who was practically a god to the entire village. But when I met my wife, I realized I wanted a different life. I grew disgusted with the shinobi life, and I tried to escape. But I completely forgot that talking to traitors is death. But apparently life loved me, because I got a chance to atone for my sin; I was sent on a dangerous mission. During the mission, I, how can I say, died...
Yaga raised his eyebrows in surprise, his voice softening slightly. "Died on a mission? You don't look dead, you're practically glowing with cursed energy. Look how my toys are going crazy," Yaga pointed to the far shelf.
"How can I explain it to you," Gojo smiled stupidly, "Sensei's technique is based on controlling the toys they bind. Honestly, Yaga must be of a special level," Gabimaru raised an eyebrow at the last phrase.
"Ah! Let's leave that aside for now. I'll tell you about it when we have theory class."
"Ahem! Gojo Satoru, you don't have to talk to Gabimaru about me as if I'm NOT here!!!"
Yaga shouted, slamming a boxing toy that had appeared out of nowhere onto the table.
"There! See, I told you he controls toys," but not noticing Gabimaru's interest, he fell silent.
"Great, now that Gojo has finally finished speaking, I want to say something," Yaga cooled down a bit, removing the assassin's smile directed at Gojo. "There never were any Hidden Stone villages, not even in Shogunate Japan."
Gabimaru grew angry, his eyes flashing with anger."That simply can't be true! I know it's true. I lived there! Besides, how could my brain have so much information about that time? Why do I remember all my training there?"
Gojo tried to calm him down: "Gabimaru, calm down. We'll figure everything out. I'll help you recover your memories and understand what happened."
Gabimaru took a deep breath, trying to pull himself together. "Okay. I trust you, Gojo."
Yaga nodded, acknowledging his words: "I'm not going to confirm anything. But… No, I agree with you, Gojo. Go give him a tour. Let him study in his first year, since he's sixteen. I'll try to get his documents."
Yaga took a piece of paper and asked: "Well, Gabimaru, tell me, what first and last name do you want for yourself? Birthday?"
"Let the first name stay the same, the last name is Garan. But as for the birthday…" Gabimaru thought.
— January 8th?
— Excellent. Gojo, show him the dorms and training grounds. And start his training as quickly as possible, so the higher-ups have less opportunity to influence the boy.
Gojo nodded and turned to Gabimaru:
— Come on, we have a lot to do. I'll show you everything you need to know.
***
They left the office and headed for the college building. A sweaty, black-haired guy stood at the entrance. He was a head taller than Gabimaru.
— Hello, I'm Megumi Fushiguro, — he said, extending his hand.
Gabimaru shook Megumi's hand, his gaze cold and focused.
— I'm Gabimaru, — he replied.
— Well, for Megumi, this place has already become home; by the way, he's also a first-year, so there won't be a tour for him. But for you, Gabi," Gojo paused to gauge her reaction to the shortening of her name, but, not noticing anything, he smiled, "I'll give one for you."
— Gabi?
— After a while, Gabimaru stopped.
— It feels like I've been called that before. I wish I could remember who?
— Interesting? So you remembered it after I said it?
— Hey? Gojo, why didn't you tell me my classmate lost his memory?
— Ah. Sorry, Megumi, it somehow slipped my mind.
— Tch.
— No.
— Huh? — came from both of them.
— I can't remember anything. It just seemed that way.
— Strange, — whispered Satoru, and in his mind he began to think: — Something is clearly wrong! Why did the cursed energy start raging after he said that phrase. Look how bad Megumi looked, is something blocking his memory?
— Well, guys, excuse me, but I need to talk to Principal Yaga, — Gojo stopped near the entrance to the room, where he read the message he had received, — Megumi, I'm leaving Gabimaru in your hands. As soon as you're done showing him around the college and the dorms, go and have a sparring session. And watch me! Don't shirk, especially since I can see everything.
"Is he always like this?" Gabimaru asked, unexpectedly even for himself.
"Y-e-e-e-e," Megumi replied listlessly and walked towards the rooms. "Don't pay any attention to him."
"Hm. And what was that glowing stone he just had?"
"What are you even talking about? About the phone or something?" Fushiguro asked, surprised.— So this is a phone? What is it for?
— Let me explain later, right now we're on a tour.
— Good.
Megumi nodded and began showing off the various departments of the college, the labs, and the training grounds.
***
— This is our dorm, — Megumi said briefly, pointing to the building. — All the students live here. The training grounds are behind it.
The rooms in the dorm were spacious and cozy. There were shelves on the walls, and books on them. In the corner of the room stood a small table with a lamp and a chair for studying. A huge window let in light.
— It's somehow quiet here for a place where shamans are trained, — Gabimaru noted, looking around.
— There are no teachers, everyone is on missions.
And this is the library, — Megumi continued, pointing to a large building with columns. — You can find information about all the techniques and curses here.
The library was impressive in size, with high ceilings and shelves filled with books. In the center of the room were tables and chairs for reading. Ancient scrolls and artifacts adorned the walls.
"I hope there's something interesting here, and not just a lot of dust," Gabimaru looked around.
They passed several classrooms and training halls. Megumi spoke briefly, only the facts, without going into unnecessary details. The classrooms were equipped in a standard way. There was a green board, windows lit the room. There was a small balcony, but the space was rather limited. Only five workstations.
"The classes here are interesting. They teach more than just fistfights. Perhaps that's what I was missing before," Gabimaru remarked, but Megumi ignored him and continued.
"Let's go to the field, we need to spar," Megumi said and left through the main entrance.
***
"Yaga, why did you drag me out? I was just starting to show Gabimaru a new place," Gojo began, sitting down opposite the director. "Such talent, and because of you, he's now walking around uselessly."
"So you wanted to disobey my order, and instead of showing the man a new place, you would start training him?"
"I've already fought him, and his level of power is impressive. I think it's definitely level one."
Yaga was clearly impressed by what he heard. "Oh. Well, you can trust your judgment of people. Yuta is a case in point; in theory, he should have destroyed all of Japan by now, as the elders thought, but he saved him," Yaga closed his eyes and sat silently for a minute.
"By the way! How's the search for the cursed special-level weapon going?"
"After the parade where it was stolen, there was no information about its whereabouts. But it recently surfaced, and I think I'll get it back within the next six months. Then we can think about destroying it. But I don't think you want to discuss that now; we'll talk when I get it back."
"Okay," Yaga stood up from the table, "then tell me about Gabimaru's power."
Gojo nodded. "Gabimaru possesses a cursed flame technique."
"Flame, exactly?" Yaga turned his head toward the window. "Why not fire?"
"I don't know," Gojo shrugged. "That's just what he called it, and what it really is isn't known yet."But his greatest achievement is his physique. It's perfect, making him incredibly fast and agile. Even with my six eyes, I lost track of him. I think he should be given a rank commensurate with his skill level.
Yaga paused, his gaze focused. "Do you truly believe he's worthy of that rank?" he asked, his voice stern and meticulous.
"Yes," Gojo answered confidently. "I've seen him in combat. His skills and potential deserve recognition. Moreover, his history confirms that he can withstand any training, if necessary."
"But he's still a newcomer to our world," Yaga countered. "We need to make sure he can truly handle our challenges and threats. I'm not sure we should just give him a high rank right away."
"Don't doubt him, Yaga," Gojo quipped.
Yaga considered for a moment and then said, "Very well, Gojo. I trust your judgment." But we'll keep an eye on his progress. If he really shows his best on his first mission, then we can think about it. I think we should give you a month of training? What do you think of that?
"I agree to three months," Gojo nodded, and seeing no resistance from Yaga, he continued. "I'm sure Gabimaru will prove his worth. Thank you, Yaga. Now I'll go watch the sparring; it's just starting."
"Here, Gojo, why are you always late for important events when you possess the technique of instantaneous movement?" He turned to the sofa where Satoru was sitting, but seeing no one there, he shouted, "Satoru Gojo!!!"
***
Gabimaru and Megumi stood opposite each other on the training ground. Their gazes locked, and the tension in the air became palpable. Megumi assumed a fighting stance, preparing for battle, and Gabimaru did the same, his gaze becoming cold and focused.
They began with hand-to-hand combat. Megumi attacked first, his strikes fast and precise. Gabimaru dodged and blocked the attacks. Just now, he jumped up to avoid a trip from Megumi, and instead of waiting for her to land, Gabimaru jumped on Fushiguro's leg, then jumped up and struck with his heel like an axe chopping wood.
"Damn! Too strong physically! Even stronger than Maki-senpai," Fushiguro exclaimed in his mind.
Blocking a blow to the face, Megumi opened his body, and paid for it with a direct blow from an open hand.
"Cough!!!"
"You're quite good. Tell me, have you fought anywhere before?" He paused to wait for Megumi to catch her breath.
"No," Fushiguro rose to his full height. "Somehow, I've never done this before."
"Well, you still have a long way to go," Gabimaru said, accelerating. "Now you better defend yourself."
He ran up to Megumi and raised his foot to strike her exposed leg, but when he noticed Fushiguro had retreated, he grabbed the arm he'd extended to counterattack. Megumi tried to break free, but Gabimaru was too fast. He'd already used his arm as leverage to throw him to the ground. Megumi rolled and jumped to his feet, ready to continue the fight. They exchanged blows.Gabimaru demonstrated skill and agility. The sparring gradually reached a new level. Gabimaru used his cursed flame technique, creating fireballs that flew towards Megumi. Fushiguro summoned two dogs, who prompted and pushed the techniques out of the way. The fight became even more intense. Gabimaru and Megumi used their techniques at full capacity, causing Megumi to begin to run out of breath. Finally, Gabimaru unleashed a powerful combination of strikes and techniques that knocked Megumi out.
Megumi fell to the ground, breathing heavily, but with a smile on her face. At that moment, they heard popping sounds. Gojo stood to the side, watching the fight with satisfaction on his face.
"Excellent work, boys," he said. "You both showed your best sides. Now we have three months to train and prepare for the upcoming trials. Gabimaru, this concerns you first and foremost."
Gabimaru nodded in agreement. "I'm ready."
Gojo smiled. "Excellent. Let's start tomorrow. You both have a lot of work to do."
Gabimaru and Megumi exchanged glances, realizing that new challenges and opportunities for growth lay ahead.
***
Gabimaru's first introductory week had been difficult. The difference in eras had taken its toll on him, so the new shaman had to learn to live from scratch. At the same time, he trained with Fushiguro, who had previously taught Gabimaru how to use this or that device. Speaking of Fushiguro, the relationship between these two quickly evolved from strangers to good friends. Apparently, their personalities had an effect. They were as alike as two peas in a pod.
On Tuesday, Satoru returned and immediately led the boys. Gojo, Gabimaru, and Megumi stood on the training ground.
"So, kids. Perhaps we'll start with your teamwork. Attack me together and use any technique you have."
Gabimaru nodded, preparing for battle. Megumi's summoned shikigami leaped at him, and Gabimaru used his flame technique to support the attack.
"Ascetic Flame: Fireball."
"Good strike," Megumi said. "Try to hide us with fiery ash. We'll attack from different sides, I'll summon Nue."
"Okay," Gabimaru pulled his mask over his face. "Ascetic Flame: Volcanic Ash."
"Nue: Electric Discharge," the owl flew past, striking sparks of purple lightning that quickly began to spread through the air, transferring to the ash. Fortunately, neither Gabimaru nor Megumi were hit by their own technique.
"Oh," Gojo emerged from the ashes unharmed, "that wasn't bad. Before, such an attack was a first-level curse, I don't think they would have survived it."
"Yes, but you did it," Fushiguro said uncertainly.
"Don't compare me to them, I'm the strongest," Satoru said casually, "besides, you'll soon be no worse than me. Your innate cursed technique is on my level, so just keep training under my guidance."
"Should we continue?"
"Of course, Gabimaru! Attack, I'm ready."
***
Gojo and Gabimaru were in the training room.The walls were covered with scrolls and diagrams. Books and artifacts lay on the table in front of them.
"Now I'll tell you in more detail about those we're fighting. I'm sorry I didn't have time to give you all the information last time. Curses are creatures created from negative energy," Gojo began to explain. "They can take different forms and manifest in different situations. Curses are divided into classes depending on their level of strength: from weak and easily removed to especially powerful, capable of causing enormous harm."
"You said something similar last time. Will you tell me about each level?" Gabimaru asked, listening intently.
"Of course," Gojo replied. "First of all, there are as many levels of curses as there are of us. Secondly, because shamans are intelligent, even the first level can banish a special level."
"Wait. So that's why there are so few special levels?"
"You're right. So you understand, you don't have to be like me to defeat a special level."
As I said, not all curses are intelligent; most follow a pattern. In my life, I've rarely encountered curses that could string a few words together, and even fewer that could even speak.
"So, shamans win the war against curses precisely because they have no leader to guide them?"
"Yes. So, to kill fourth-level curses, we direct our eyes at them. Usually, that's enough to defeat them. For third- and second-level curses, we use apprentices, but there are rare cases when they might stumble upon a special level. For such cases, there's always an escort consisting of their teachers. The first and special classes, however, are reserved for those who have been awarded the appropriate rank. However, we rarely live by such rules. Especially during the summer, when all shamans are at their peak."
"Understood."
"Well, that makes me happy."
***
Gojo and Gabimaru sat on rocks by the river. Gojo was explaining the importance of inner balance.
"It's important not only to master cursed energy, but also to strengthen your body with it," Gojo said. "Your energy will be sufficient for more than just that. Therefore, I will attack you, and you will cover your body with layers of energy to reduce the force of my blow. I believe your reaction will be sufficient for that."
Gabimaru nodded and closed his eyes. This training continued all week, by the end of which only Satoru Gojo or someone with incredible physical strength could penetrate Gabimaru.
***
Gojo and Gabimaru trained in an open area. Gojo was showing Gabimaru how to improve his fire technique.
"Your fire technique is already powerful, but I noticed that when you strike, you release control of it, which is why you lose half your strength," Gojo said. "Try to constantly direct the energy when you strike. And try not to lose control of the cursed energy." This way you lose your defensive advantage because all the energy flows to one side, which weakens another part of the body.
Gabimaru concentrated and completed the exercise, the flames growing brighter and stronger.
"Well done, I thought you'd need more time for this. But it looks like your control over your energy has improved."
***
There were three people in the clearing. Three more stood in the distance, simply watching Gabimaru and Megumi train.
"Okay, that's enough, let's take a break, I'll give you one more lecture in the meantime," Gojo raised his hands, then clapped them and walked towards the trees, where he sat down in the shade.
"Oh, so it turns out your senpais are back."
"Gojo-san!" a panda somersaulted next to Gojo.
"Panda!!!" Satoru shouted and hugged him.
"Again?" a green-haired girl with glasses approached, frowning. "That white-haired weirdo just won't grow up."
"Salmon."
"Maki, Toge, I actually heard everything."
"Yes, yes," Maki turned away from him, "Megumi, who's that next to you?"
"Huh?" Fushiguro opened his eyes.
"Aghhhh. Don't irritate me, Fushiguro!!!"
"My name is Gabimaru, I'm a new student."
"That's understandable," Maki nodded, "why are you radiating so much damned energy? You're burning with it."
"Don't pay attention to it, Maki, he simply has the most energy. Besides, Maki, weren't you the one who asked me to train you after you got back?"
"I thought you'd forgotten Satoru-sensei," Maki pulled out a nagitana from behind her back and said sarcastically. "Should I attack you, Gojo-san? Or have you already lost your nerve after training with the first years?"
"Ahahaha. Of course, attack," Gojo smiled nastily and didn't even deign to take his hands out of his pockets.
"Megumi, who is this?" — Gabimaru approached the prone guy.
— Huh? Exactly. I didn't tell you about the second years. The panda one is a cursed corpse. By the way, his name is Panda. That silent guy is Toge Inumaki, the owner of cursed speech. And that hot-tempered person is Maki Zenin, the master of cursed weapons.
— I see… — he looked at the fight between Satoru and Zenin.
— Then do we have any third or fourth years?
— Yes. True, they are on a mission right now, as is the last second year, Okkotsu Yuta. He is also a special level and the only normal student in the college, except for you and me.
— Got it.
— Gabimaru, shall we go eat? — Megumi asked, getting up from the ground.
— Yes. Just buy me some juice from the vending machine.
— And you?
— Gojo, he still hasn't given me my stipend for the second month.
— What an idiot! Okay, let's go.
***
Gojo and Gabimaru were in the armory, where various cursed weapons were on display. Gojo picked up one and showed it to Gabimaru.
"Cursed weapons are weapons imbued with cursed energy," Gojo explained. "They can greatly enhance the wielder's combat abilities. The weapons can range from swords and daggers to spears and bows."
"How do you use them?" Gabimaru asked. "Like a normal weapon? If so, then you don't have to teach me. I'm an expert with bladed weapons."
"You're right, teaching you bladed weapons is the last thing I want to do.""But cursed weapons don't necessarily have to be bladed. There are also sniper rifles, pistols, and other weapons," Gojo replied. "But for you, it's all simple. You still haven't decided to use them, have you?"
Gabimaru nodded. "Then this information is purely for informational purposes."
"By the way, how are you mastering new technologies? Have you learned how to use a phone?" he threw the katana back down and asked Gojo.
"Well, yes, thanks to Megumi. By the way, thanks to this internet of yours, mastering new technologies has become much easier. So it wasn't for nothing that you made Fushiguro come to me for a whole week."
"Hahaha. I'm very glad," Satoru scratched the back of his head.
***
"Now listen carefully, I'll tell you about the fundamental thing in our world—pacts. For all shamans, this is additional power in exchange for their destiny. I, for example, have never used a pact yet; for me, it simply doesn't make sense. With my powers, it's not necessary, but for you." I think this will give you additional strength, so I propose we make a pact with you. In exchange for, say, a quarter of your cursed energy, you could become stronger? Do you think it's worth it?
"If it will help me in battle, then I need to sacrifice my energy. Especially since my flames aren't very useful. What should we do?"
"First, let's think about what the pact would mean when it came into effect?"
"Good."
***
Gojo stood in the center of the training room, his gaze focused on Gabimaru and Megumi, sitting in front of him.
"We have a new task," Gojo began, his voice serious. "There's an old temple on the outskirts of town where strange events have been occurring lately. According to the eyes, they've detected two spirits there."
Gabimaru frowned, listening intently. He sensed something odd in Gojo's words.
"What exactly needs to be done? And why have curses started appearing in the temple?" he asked, his voice even and confident.
"Your task is to enter the temple, find the source of the curses, and neutralize it," Gojo explained. "Be careful. This place can be dangerous."
The answer to the second question is simple. Near the temple is a forest where, according to legend, a ghost of fear resides. Unfortunately, I exorcised it earlier this year. It's possible someone was buried there. But when did they manage to do so? The bottom line is that a vengeful spirit is currently there. But the good news is, the spirit's maximum level is no higher than sub-first. That's why you've been assigned this mission."
Megumi was silent, but his gaze spoke of his complete readiness for the task.
"Will we work together?" Gabimaru asked, turning to Megumi.
"Yes," Megumi answered curtly. "Was it for nothing that we trained together?"
Gojo nodded, approving of their determination. "If anything happens, I'll be by your side, so you can have a great time."
Gabimaru and Megumi stood up, preparing to leave. Gojo placed a hand on each of their shoulders.
"Good luck to you. And yes, Gabimaru has a special mission for you; the city government has also been asked to burn down this temple."And to prevent the appearance of new curses, it is worth burning it with your flame.
They nodded and left the training room, heading for the car, which Gojo entered and drove them to the temple.
Four hours later, Gabimaru and Megumi arrived at an old temple on the outskirts of town. The building was abandoned and slanted, and a gloomy atmosphere permeated it. They could sense the cursed energy emanating from the temple. The temple was surrounded by thickets of bamboo, through which only the dim light of the moon filtered. At the entrance hung heavy wooden gates with exquisite carvings depicting scenes from ancient myths and legends. The gates were half-open, as if inviting entry but also warning of hidden danger.
As Gabimaru and Megumi entered the temple grounds, a courtyard overgrown with moss and weeds opened before them. Old stone lanterns (toro) lined the courtyard's perimeter, many of them broken or covered in a thick layer of dirt and dust. In the center of the courtyard stood a large well, surrounded by a wooden railing with rusty chains hanging from it. The temple building itself was constructed of old, darkened wood. A figurine of a mythical creature—a dragon—adorned the roof, seemingly guarding the temple from intruders. The entrance to the temple was adorned with massive doors with rusty iron plates.
"That which is feared more than darkness, that which is darker than darkness... cleanse this filth," came Gojo's voice, followed by a curtain appearing like liquid.
As they entered, they were greeted by darkness and the smell of dampness. Rays of light filtered through cracks in the walls and roof, illuminating the dust that slowly settled to the floor. Old statues of Buddha and other deities lined the walls, many of them damaged by time. The floor was cracked and sank in places, revealing ancient stones. Ancient books, stacked in piles, could be seen in the corners of the hall, many of them eaten away by mold and insects.
They passed through several rooms, each unique in its own way. One contained old altar tables adorned with tarnished gold and silver objects. In another, they discovered old wooden chests, locked with locks that had long since rusted and cracked.
Gabimaru and Megumi moved forward cautiously. Megumi's summoned shikigami walked beside them, having changed after two months of training. He had grown larger; as Fushiguro himself explained, the white wolf Gabimaru had burned had transferred all its powers to the black wolf and had become much stronger.
"Kon says the entire room is in the grip of someone; he doesn't understand where the curse is…"
"Megumi, be careful!"
"Gabimaru shouted and tried to grab Fushiguro, who was pushed in the opposite direction. A wall erupted from the ground, and the destroyed floor crumbled completely. A giant wall split the team in two. Gabimaru found himself on one side, and Megumi on the other. Megumi glanced back immediately, but before he could see anything, the cursed spirit attacked him.It was a gigantic, mangled creature with claws and a vicious grin. It had six arms that wrapped around its body protectively. Its eyes glowed red, and then, without stopping, it charged at Megumi in a frontal attack.
"You don't have to worry about him, with how strong he's become..."
A curse appeared right in front of Gabimaru's face. It was a huge shadow with ominous red eyes, moving with unnatural speed. It was invisible until it attacked. Gabimaru barely managed to dodge the first blow as the shadow flashed past him.
"What did I understood about that first attack?" Gabimaru asked into the air. "You are a curse born from people's fear of shadows. And from this I conclude that you are afraid of the light. Well, let's play, shall we? Megumi won't be here for a while anyway."
***
Megumi quickly collected his thoughts and resummoned his shikigami dog. He also summoned a toad. The shikigami lined up before Megumi, ready for battle. The cursed spirit rushed forward, but the dog and toad blocked its path. The dog leaped up and attacked with its claws, trying to distract the enemy, while the toad used its tongue to thwart the curse's escape route. Megumi stood behind his shikigami, assessing the situation and preparing for his next move. The cursed spirit was strong and ferocious. It delivered several powerful blows, forcing the wolf to retreat. However, the toad couldn't continue for long, and was wounded by the next blow. Megumi decided to recall it to the shadow realm.
"Nue, carry me higher," Fushiguro summoned an eagle. The bird grabbed Megumi with its talons and lifted him to the ceiling. The wolf gathered its strength and attacked the cursed spirit with renewed determination. His claws sank into his opponent's flesh, forcing him to retreat. Megumi used this moment to summon a new shikigami.
"Absorb it, Orochi," Megumi said with the snake sign, and a large white snake erupted from the ground and devoured the curse. The cursed spirit roared in pain and rage, its attacks on the snake's stomach becoming chaotic and clumsy. Finally, after a long and brutal struggle within the stomach, the snake's acid began to corrode it. Three minutes later, Orochi vomited out the remnants of the curse and disintegrated. Megumi was breathing heavily, having only recently learned to use the snake's venom and gastric juices for attacks.
***
"So you've had enough of me. Megumi's already finished there, and I'm already finished with you."
The curse lunged at Gabimaru, its claws slashing through the air with a whistle. Gabimaru dodged, rolling to the side. He rose to his feet and concentrated, his eyes tracking the shadow's movements.
"You are fast, but I am not slow either," Gabimaru said, creating a flaming sword in his hand. "I present to you a new technique. Ascetic Flame: Sword of Fire."
The curse attacked again, and Gabimaru parried the blow with his flaming sword. Flashes scattered, illuminating the dark room. The shadow moved erratically, screamed when it saw the light, and began to attack faster. Gabimaru dodged and counterattacked,Trying to find a place to strike. The fight became increasingly straightforward. The curse disappeared and reappeared in different places, attacking from different angles. Gabimaru used his speed and agility to dodge attacks and strike. He released fireballs to prevent the shadow from appearing in front of him. The curse disappeared, and Gabimaru felt the temperature behind him drop. The shadow appeared behind him and tried to attack. Gabimaru had been creating this situation, so he wasn't surprised by the curse and rolled forward, avoiding the blow. Then he instantly turned and struck with his fire sword, cutting off the curse.
"You're not that strong. And you're no different from a shinobi, just trying to merge with the darkness to use it."
"It's a shame for you. I wasn't the strongest in my village for my pretty eyes, but because I killed more than anyone," Gabimaru said in a devastated voice, watching the shadow begin to lose its form. "Farewell," the curse roared in pain and rage. Gabimaru raised his hand and sent a wave of flame at the spirit, after which it disappeared in a fiery whirlwind, leaving only ash and soot behind.
Now he needed to reunite with Megumi and burn the temple. Reaching the stone wall, Gabimaru delivered a hook to it. The wall crumbled, revealing a recovered Megumi. They exchanged glances and smiled faintly at each other.
At that moment, Gojo emerged from the darkness, his face lit up with a soft smile. He began to applaud, expressing his pride in his students.
"Excellent work, boys," he said, approaching. "You both showed incredible resilience and skill." But don't get too excited, you still have a lot to learn. That's exactly it. We'll train even harder next month.
"Isn't this the peak of curses? We need to focus on exorcising them," Megumi said, surprised.
"No, that won't be necessary. The number of curses has decreased in the last week. So, not the students, but the shamans who work for the colleges will be handling them. And you and I will be training."
"Okay, but if you don't mind, I'd like to go on a couple more missions."
"Okay, Gabimaru, we'll do missions to take a break from training, but sometimes," Satoru said, waiting for consent.
"Then let's burn this temple and go to the college."
Gabimaru and Megumi nodded. They left the ruined temple, after which Gabimaru activated his flame: "Ascetic Flame: Hellfire Wave." This technique set the temple ablaze, and within ten minutes, it was completely consumed. The shamans lifted the curtain and headed back to the college. Along the way, Gojo continued to share his observations and give them advice on how to proceed next time.
***
Gabimaru stood in a stance known to shamans as the Simple Territory stance. Megumi, Panda, Maki, and Inumaki attacked him.
"Gabimaru, I'm glad to see you've mastered the Simple Territory. You only have a little bit left to unlock the territory," Gojo said.
Gabimaru raised his hands, and the territory was broken.
"Thank you, guys," Gabimaru bowed.
"You're welcome."
"Don't forget, next time I'll beat you and your territory," Maki turned and left.
"Gabi-kun, ignoring her, was just upset that someone was physically stronger than her," Panda hopped on one leg, "and you're welcome, I was happy to help you. If anything, ask."
"Salted pollock roe, salmon, rice dumplings, raw vegetables," Inumaki bowed, smiled, and went to do push-ups.
Megumi simply lay down in the same place where he had just been standing.
Gojo only patted Gabimaru.
"Did something happen?" he asked.
"No, I'm just glad you made friends with everyone. At first, I thought it would be difficult for you to do this because of your emotions, but it turned out the opposite."
"Yes, I'm surprised myself," Gabimaru tilted his head, "but for some reason I think this is right. As if someone taught me this."
"Yes?" Has your memory started to return?
- No progress at all. I don't know if it's even worth trying to get it back?
- Huh?
- Well, you know, I think that if you've already started living a new life, then there's no need to bring back the past?
- I don't think so, Gabi, I'll definitely help you get it back. In the meantime, - Gojo took a pass from his pocket and handed it to Gabimaru.
- I want to congratulate you on being awarded the first level. You have proven your strength and skill on past missions. Therefore, we, at the college shaman meeting, decided to award it to you.
Gabimaru took the pass and examined it carefully.
- Thank you. It is a great honor for me.
Gojo nodded.
- But that is not the main thing. I would like to entrust you with a mission.
Gabimaru said nothing, but his gaze became focused.
- What mission?
- Megumi will receive the mission this month to reseal Sukuna's cursed finger items. This requires his full attention and time. Therefore, there is a separate task for you.
"Then why don't we do it together?"
"There's no need, it's not that difficult. More like tedious. You go from place to place, collect the fingers, and bring them to the college. Then you bring them back again. That's why I decided that you will go in search of the Inverted Spear of Heaven. This artifact was stolen on the night of the Thousand Demon Parade. We need to get it back at any cost."
Gabimaru frowned. "Why me? Why don't you do it yourself? After all, I thought you got it."
Gojo sighed and removed his blindfold, revealing his blue eyes, which glowed with a soft light. "You're right, Gabimaru. I got this spear and would have taken it myself, but I need to fly to Africa to see Yuta, because he found Miguel's location, I need to meet him, he knows about the rope. That's why I want to shift the mission to you. Do you understand? Here's the thing, someone deliberately stole this blade that day." There's a chance that whoever stole it had access to our keys at the Tengen vault. Or maybe... He's even in cahoots with someone from the college staff.
Gabimaru leaned forward slightly. "I understand. So, a lot depends on me."
"Exactly. This mission won't be easy. You'll be facing serious opponents. Well, I don't believe it,So that someone weak could bypass the barriers undetected. Only masters of barrier techniques, or someone cursed by the heavens themselves, could do that.
Gabimaru nodded, his gaze determined. "Good. I won't let you down."
"Excellent. Prepare for the mission and be ready for anything. You leave tomorrow morning, I'll go with you; I have a flight to the Congo tomorrow. I'll be back in about a week, so keep me updated on the mission's progress."
Gabimaru stood up, taking his pass with him. "Thank you for your trust, Gojo, but it's not your place to tell you how to properly carry out missions like this. Have you forgotten who I am in the first place?"
"You're a shaman?"
"You're right! But partly, because I'm a shinobi shaman now."
Gabimaru left Gojo and headed toward the dorm. He was ready for the new mission and the trials that lay ahead.