Three days flew by in a flash. The tense days of preparation passed in a blur, and soon the day of the Goodwill Event between Tokyo and Kyoto Jujutsu High arrived.
Daylight shone bright, and clear morning light blanketed Jujutsu High's flagstone paths, dispelling the fatigue of days of special training while lending even greater solemnity to the impending clashes.
Their designated shuttle bus was already parked outside the school gates. Qingxiao, Shoko, Satoru Gojo, and Suguru Geto gathered on time, boarding and taking their seats one after another.
Shoko sat beside Qingxiao. Glancing at his relaxed expression, she asked casually, "Feeling good?"
"Not bad." Qingxiao turned his head and smiled. "Can't exactly drop the ball out there."
The bus rode smoothly and soon came to a steady stop outside the Goodwill Event venue.
They got off one after another. They had barely found their footing when they spotted a familiar figure pacing back and forth at the entrance, looking around repeatedly.
The moment Utahime Iori saw Shoko, she practically rushed over, opening her arms and wrapping her in a firm hug. Her voice brimmed with the delight of a long-awaited reunion:
"Shoko! It's been ages! I finally get to see you!"
The long-awaited embrace was gentle and soothing. Shoko raised her arms to return it lightly, a faint smile resting on her lips.
At the sight, Satoru Gojo immediately sidled up, looking thoroughly indignant:
"Hey, hey, hey! You're playing favorites, Utahime! We haven't seen each other in ages, and you only have eyes for Shoko? How come you're not even saying hi to me?"
Utahime Iori released Shoko, turned, and shot him a fierce glare, retorting without mercy:
"Who wants to say hi to a bastard like you? Always slacking off and grinning like an idiot. Just looking at