The Binding Vow of Lazarus

Chapter 2

"If you go, you will be on your own," his grandfather said, each word deliberate, "We will not shield you from the dangers or consequences of your actions. You will have to prove yourself, not just to us, but to the world. And if you fail, there will be no coming back."

Satoru met his grandfather's gaze, unflinching. He sat up straighter and answered, "I'm prepared for that."

His grandfather's lips thinned into a hard line, but he didn't respond. Instead, he gave a slight nod, acknowledging Satoru's resolve.

His mother spoke up, her voice soft but edged with concern. "Satoru, we only want what's best for you," she said softly, almost pleading, "You have to understand that."

"I know," he replied, his tone gentler now, "But I need to do this, for myself and for the clan. I won't forget who I am or what I represent, but I also won't let that dictate my entire life."

Another silence fell over the room, but this time, it was less tense, more resigned. His parents exchanged a glance, and his father finally nodded though his expression remained stern.

"Very well," his father said, his tone clipped, "If you are determined to go, then go. But remember this, Satoru: everything you do from this point on reflects on us, on the Gojo name. Don't forget that."

"I won't," Satoru promised, though inwardly he felt a mix of relief and frustration. He had won, but the victory felt hollow, tainted by the knowledge that he still had to play their game, at least for now.

As he rose from the table, preparing to leave the room, his grandfather spoke one last time, his voice carrying a warning.

"You may go, Satoru, but remember: you cannot afford to let your emotions cloud your judgment. The world will test you, and you must be ready."

Satoru nodded, his expression serious. "I'll be ready."

With that, he turned and left the room, his mind already racing with plans for his departure. He knew this was only the beginning-there would be challenges ahead, dangers he couldn't predict. But he was determined to see this through, to carve out his own path, even if it meant defying the expectations of the clan that had raised him.

He was going to Jujutsu Tech, and this time, he was going to do it on his own terms.

Days later Satoru stood in his room, watching the attendants move efficiently around him, packing his things into sleek black suitcases. They were meticulous, as always, their movements precise and practiced. He had grown up with them, these silent figures who had always been there, tending to his needs, ensuring his life ran smoothly. Yet today, something was different.

He felt the weight of their gazes as he moved to help them, lifting a stack of neatly folded clothes and placing them in a suitcase. The attendants exchanged glances but said nothing, their surprise palpable in the way they hesitated, however briefly, before continuing their work.

Satoru could feel guilt of his past gnawing at him, a small uncomfortable knot in his chest. He was their master and yet, here he was, helping them with a task they were meant to do alone. It wasn't that he pitied them-he knew they were well cared for-but seeing their surprise at such a simple act made him realize just how distant he had always been, how untouchable.

As they finished packing, Satoru offered a nod of thanks, which only deepened their quiet astonishment. He turned away quickly, not wanting to dwell on the emotions churning inside him. He had a mission now, a purpose. And that was all that mattered.

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The day he arrived at Jujutsu Tech Satoru felt a rush of excitement that he hadn't experienced in what felt like lifetimes. He had spent the entire journey trying to contain his eagerness, his foot tapping against the floor of the car as it wound through the streets of Kyoto and on the highway to Tokyo. But then, parking at the foot of the long staircase leading up to the school, he felt like he could burst.