HRU: Chapter 411: Starting From the Carousel

In another room, Satoru lay on the bed, staring at the ceiling in a daze.

Amusement park?... What a hassle. However, it would be nice to see her happy.

Maybe something interesting would happen this weekend.

The spring night breeze drifted through the Gojo residence, carrying the scent of cherry blossoms, as if looking forward to the coming weekend.

In the forge, Satoshi sat cross-legged at the center, focused on forging the Tenshintai.

Dazzling golden light circled around him, dancing like something alive, and the whole room was wrapped in a mysterious solemnity.

Ancient runes rose into the air, their power fluctuating in time with Satoshi’s breathing.

Just then, brisk footsteps sounded outside. Shoko stood at the door and knocked softly. She had deliberately dressed in a light blue kimono today, and the joy on her face was hard to hide.

“Satoshi, can I bother you for a moment? Is the forging of the Tenshintai going smoothly?”

There was a hint of excitement in her voice.

“Come in, Shoko.”

Satoshi opened his eyes with a gentle smile. Light from the humanoid Tenshintai flowed around him, reflecting his calm features.

He could sense Shoko’s special mood today. She was clearly excited about the outing.

Finally, the day has come. I hope my troublesome brother, Satoru, seizes this chance.

Shoko stepped carefully into the forge and marveled at the golden light suspended at the room’s center.

The brilliant glow signaled that the forging of the Tenshintai had reached a critical stage. The space itself trembled subtly under its force, and the air was thick with spiritual energy.

“We’re about to head out. Are you really not coming with us? It’s a rare chance to relax.”

Shoko asked softly, expectation in her eyes.

“Riko said she’s never been to an amusement park.”

Satoshi shook his head slightly, a meaningful smile on his lips.

“I heard from you about Satoru and Riko. It’s better without extra people on an occasion like this. Let them enjoy themselves. Besides,” he gestured to the surrounding gold light, “the Tenshintai is at its most critical moment. I can’t interrupt it.”

That weirdo Satoru finally started to care about someone. I hope he opens his heart this time and stops shutting himself off.

A powerful surge of Cursed Energy approached just then, and Satoru strolled toward the forge.

He wasn’t in his usual black today, but a dark blue casual outfit. His silver hair gleamed softly in the morning light. The brothers exchanged a glance, a smile flickering in their eyes.

“Satoshi, are you sure you don’t want to come?” Satoru, unusually hesitant, said, “Things feel off lately. One more person means more security. Besides... there’s no rush on the Tenshintai, right?”

“Don’t worry.”

Satoshi cut in gently but firmly. “The forging is in its final stage. It can be completed today.

And...”

He gave his brother a meaningful look. “Sometimes, too many people is not good.

You know what I mean.

Enjoy your date with Riko.”

At the word “date,” Satoru froze for a second, then snorted and turned away.

His back stiffened a little, and the tips of his ears went slightly red. Shoko smiled at the sight and nodded goodbye to Satoshi.

“Take care of them for me.”

Satoshi’s voice drifted after them, a hint of admonition in it. “Especially the one who doesn’t know how to express himself, Satoru. And...” he paused, “if there’s danger, inform me immediately.”

“Of course.”

Shoko smiled. “We’ll protect Riko. Honestly, I think today will be very interesting.”

As they left, the Tenshintai’s golden light enveloped Satoshi once more. He closed his eyes and focused on the final forging. Energy hummed through the air, and the ancient runes grew brighter.

It is finally complete, a Tenshintai that can change the sorcery world’s course. But for now, let Satoru enjoy his date. Even if he doesn’t realize it’s a date.

...

At the amusement park entrance, the sun shone bright and laughter rose in waves. Satoru, Shoko, and Suguru accompanied Riko at the gate, taking in the bustling crowd.

Riko wore a light blue dress, her hair tied into twin ponytails, looking bright and lively. Her eyes sparkled like a child’s first time in a candy store.

“Wow! There are so many people!” Riko said excitedly, looking around. “That roller coaster looks amazing! And the carousel is beautiful!”

I wonder which rides Satoru-sensei would be willing to go on with me?

Satoru frowned slightly at the noisy scene. “Too many people. Be careful. Suguru, take the rear. Shoko, left side. I’ll—”

“Don’t be so tense,” Shoko cut in with a smile. “Today’s for relaxing. Try to enjoy yourself. Look how happy Riko is.”

Suguru pushed up his glasses and smiled meaningfully. “Yeah, it’s good to unwind. Besides,” he lowered his voice, “this is a rare opportunity.”

Satoru shot him a glare, but still followed them into the park. The air inside was full of laughter and energy.

Like a curious little bird, Riko was captivated by every ride. Her eyes shone as she pointed and asked questions.

“Satoru-sensei, can we go on the carousel first?” Riko looked up at him expectantly, a hint of pleading in her eyes.

I hope he doesn’t think it’s too childish. But I really want to ride it with him...

Satoru was about to refuse, but when he saw her expectant gaze, the words faded. He sighed. “...Fine.”

Riko bounced with joy, grabbed his sleeve, and tugged him toward the carousel. Shoko and Suguru shared a smile and followed quietly.

(To be continued.)