The Vessel Second Chance

Author's Notes:

Yoo-hoo, everyone! The update is here! First off, I just want to thank all of you for sticking with this story! Since this is my very first time writing, I might slip up with some things, and I probably won't realize it unless someone points it out, so please feel free to share your thoughts, whether they're positive or constructive! I really want to learn and improve as I go, and your feedback means a lot to me!

Also, if it's not too much trouble, could you do me a small favor? If you've been enjoying the story so far, please consider adding it to your library and pressing that heart icon at the top or bottom of the chapter to "favorite" it. Why? Well, honestly, I just love seeing those numbers go up! It gives me a boost of motivation and helps me keep going! Thank you all in advance!

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The soft light of the morning sun filtered through the hospital window, casting a warm glow across the room. Megumi lay in bed for a moment, just staring at the sunlight streaming through the curtains, feeling the weight of a new day settling in. Despite the unease that still lingered from the night before, the quiet of the morning provided a stark contrast. It was as though the world outside had moved on, leaving the strange, unnerving encounters of the night behind.

He sat up slowly, stretching his arms above his head, his body still a little sore from the constant tension. The room was peaceful, the usual sounds of the hospital—distant beeping machines and soft footsteps in the hallways—creating a calm rhythm.

As he glanced over to Hana, he saw that she was still asleep. Her breathing was slow and steady, and her face was partially covered by the blanket. But as the sunlight crept further into the room, it slowly bathed her face in a warm, golden light. The shift in temperature seemed to stir something inside her, as she shifted in bed, her brow furrowing slightly.

Hana let out a soft yawn, her eyes fluttering open for a brief moment before closing again in a futile attempt to avoid the sunlight. She buried her face deeper into the pillow, trying to block out the light and return to the comfort of sleep.

But the sun was relentless, and it wasn't long before she groggily sat up, rubbing her eyes with one hand, the other still clutching the blanket to her chest. "Ugh, the sun is way too bright today..." she mumbled, clearly not ready to face the world just yet. She pulled the blanket up over her head, trying to shield herself from the sunlight, but it was no use. The bright rays spilled in too easily, leaving her no choice but to admit defeat.

Megumi chuckled softly, his voice still thick with sleep. "You're up now, I guess."

Hana groaned, her pillow now tucked beneath her arms as she sat up fully, blinking against the sunlight that now filled the room. "I was trying to get a few more minutes of sleep..." she muttered, still clearly not thrilled to be awake. "But this sun... it's like it's trying to torture me."

Megumi smiled faintly at her frustration. "Maybe it's a sign to get up."

Hana shot him a half-hearted glare, but the corner of her mouth quirked upward in a small smile. "Yeah, yeah. Fine. I guess I'll get up," she said, reluctantly swinging her legs over the side of the bed. She paused for a moment, stretching her arms above her head with another yawn, as if trying to make the most of what little energy she had left.

As the room slowly brightened more with each passing moment, Megumi watched as Hana finally resigned herself to the new day, the grogginess fading from her face. She looked over at him, and for a brief second, their eyes met.

"Hey, did you sleep okay?" she asked, her voice quieter now, the morning fog lifting from her thoughts.

Megumi hesitated for a moment, thinking back to the strange events of the previous night—the encounter with the cursed spirit, the eerie girl, and the general sense of unease that still clung to the room like a shadow. But he didn't want to burden her with that right now. He gave her a small, reassuring smile, though it didn't reach his eyes completely.

"Yeah, I slept alright," he replied, not wanting to go into detail. "How about you?"

Hana shrugged, stretching her legs out in front of her. "Same. I'm definitely not a morning person, though," she said, her voice a little groggy still. "The sun's always way too bright for my taste."

Megumi chuckled softly, the sound quiet in the stillness of the morning. "I think everyone feels like that when they're forced to get up early."

Hana made a noise of agreement as she finally started to shuffle toward the bathroom, her bare feet slapping gently against the hospital floor. "I don't know how you're so awake already, though," she said, her voice muffled from the other room. "You've been up for a while, huh?"

Megumi didn't answer immediately, still thinking about the strange occurrences from the night before. His mind was still trying to make sense of it all, but for now, he let the peaceful quiet of the morning wash over him, hoping it would clear his thoughts. He knew the day was just beginning, and whatever came next, he had to be prepared for it.

"Yeah, I guess so," he finally said, a faint smile returning to his face as he stretched again, letting the sunlight warm him. "But I think we both need a good breakfast first."

As Megumi sat on the edge of his bed, watching the morning light grow brighter, a small sense of normalcy seemed to settle over him. He was still a little tense, the events of the previous night lingering at the edges of his thoughts, but the warmth of the sun in the room, combined with Hana's groggy, yet familiar presence, offered a brief reprieve.

A soft knock on the door interrupted their quiet moment. Both Megumi and Hana turned toward the sound, and the door creaked open. A nurse stepped in, a warm smile on her face. It was one of the nurses who had been attending to them for the past few days.

"Good morning, you two," she said cheerfully, her voice light, almost like a soft breeze in the room. "How are we feeling today?"

Megumi gave her a polite nod, still a little groggy but managing a smile. "Better, thanks," he replied. Hana, who had just finished brushing her hair, also offered a tired but friendly smile.

"We were just getting up," Hana added, stretching a little as she yawned. "Feels like I can barely keep my eyes open, though."

The nurse chuckled lightly, her eyes twinkling. "That's perfectly normal. You've both been through a lot. But I've got some good news for you today!"

At the mention of good news, both Megumi and Hana sat up a little straighter. Megumi's curiosity piqued immediately, and he couldn't help but wonder what was happening.

"Good news?" Megumi asked, his voice sounding a little more awake now.

The nurse nodded enthusiastically. "Yep, today's the day we'll be removing your IVs." She glanced at both of them, her smile widening. "Since you've both been recovering well and have been eating without any problems, it's time to move forward. You're doing great, and we'll be taking out your IVs shortly."

Megumi's eyes widened slightly at the news. It was such a small thing, yet it felt like a big milestone. The constant IV drips had been a reminder of the hospital's sterile environment, of his weakened state, and of the struggle to regain his strength. The thought of no longer having the tubes in his arm felt liberating in a way.

Hana, too, seemed pleased by the announcement. "Really? That's awesome!" She grinned, clearly excited at the prospect of having her IV removed. "I've been tired of these things poking me."

The nurse smiled warmly at her reaction. "I know it's been a bit uncomfortable, but you've both handled it very well. We'll get everything sorted out in just a little bit. It won't take long, and after that, you'll be a lot more comfortable."

As the nurse prepared to leave, she turned to Megumi and Hana once more. "I'll be back shortly to take care of everything, but in the meantime, feel free to relax. It won't be long before you're free of those lines."

With that, she exited the room, leaving Megumi and Hana alone once again. Megumi glanced at Hana, who was now practically bouncing with excitement.

"You're seriously looking forward to getting rid of that thing?" Megumi asked with a small chuckle, glancing at the IV line still attached to her arm.

"Of course!" Hana laughed, shaking her head as she sat back on her bed. "It's been such a hassle. I'm just ready to be done with it. Honestly, I think we're both ready to get back to normal."

Megumi nodded, a slight smile on his face. "Yeah, it'll be nice to finally be free of all these wires and tubes."

For a moment, there was an unexpected calmness between them. The promise of moving forward, of returning to something resembling their previous lives, gave them both a sense of relief. 

Megumi sat back against the pillows, taking in the quiet of the room as he thought about the days to come. He still had a lot to work through, still had to face whatever the future held, but at least for today, things felt a little more hopeful. A little more normal.

He glanced at Hana, who was now fiddling with the blankets, an expression of quiet anticipation on her face.

The door creaked open again. The nurse returned, carrying a tray of supplies with her. She smiled at both of them, the same gentle warmth in her eyes. "Alright, it's time to remove those IVs," she said, her voice calm and reassuring.

Megumi and Hana exchanged a quick glance, their earlier excitement now tempered with a mix of curiosity and mild anxiety. They had grown accustomed to the IVs being a part of their everyday lives in the hospital, and now the thought of having them removed seemed like a strange milestone. But both of them were ready for it.

The nurse pulled over a small rolling cart, which contained the necessary supplies: a set of sterile gauze pads, alcohol swabs, tape, and bandages, all laid out neatly. She turned to Hana first, noting, "We'll start with you. Just relax, and if you feel any discomfort, let me know, okay?"

Hana gave her a small nod, her expression nervous but excited. "Got it."

The nurse approached Hana's bed, gently reaching for the IV line that ran into her arm. "I'm going to remove the tape first," she explained as she carefully peeled back the adhesive that held the IV in place. The tape came off with a soft rustling sound, and Hana winced slightly, but it wasn't painful—just the mild discomfort of having the tape pulled off from her sensitive skin.

"Now, I'm going to take out the catheter," the nurse continued, her tone soothing. She grasped the small plastic catheter that had been inserted into Hana's arm for the duration of her stay. The IV line itself was attached to this catheter. Hana took a deep breath as the nurse slowly pulled it out, the thin, clear tube sliding free from her vein. It wasn't painful, just an odd sensation as the nurse gently removed the line.

Hana's eyes widened slightly as the nurse finished pulling out the catheter and held it in her hand. "All done with this part!" the nurse said cheerfully, setting the catheter on the tray.

Hana looked at her arm, where the small puncture wound from the catheter now remained. "That's it?" she asked, clearly relieved. "That didn't hurt at all!"

The nurse smiled. "Nope, it's usually pretty simple. Now I'm going to clean the area with an alcohol swab, just to make sure it's sterile before I bandage it up."

The nurse took an alcohol swab from the tray and gently dabbed it over the small puncture site on Hana's arm. The alcohol made her skin feel cool for a moment, but it wasn't painful. The nurse worked carefully, making sure to disinfect the area to prevent any infection.

After cleaning it, the nurse reached for a sterile gauze pad and placed it gently over the puncture. She applied light pressure to stop any minor bleeding that might still be happening. "I'll hold this here for a moment," she said, before wrapping a small bandage around Hana's arm to keep the gauze in place.

Hana watched in quiet awe as the nurse finished, her arm now free of the IV line. "That was easier than I thought," she said, clearly relieved.

The nurse gave her a reassuring smile. "It's always a bit of a relief when it's over. But don't worry—if you need anything, just let us know. We'll keep an eye on you today."

With that, she turned to Megumi, who had been quietly watching the procedure. "Your turn now," she said gently, approaching his bed.

Megumi, who had been bracing himself for the same process, nodded. "Alright," he said, trying to remain calm. There was no reason to be nervous, he told himself. This was just another step toward feeling better.

The nurse reached for his IV line and began the process. "Same thing as with Hana," she said, as she started by carefully peeling off the tape that held the IV catheter in place. The adhesive came off easily, though Megumi flinched slightly at the sensation against his skin.

He felt the nurse's hands move with practiced precision as she took hold of the catheter. "Ready?" she asked, her tone calm and steady.

"Yeah," Megumi replied, his voice steady, though he felt a strange tension in his arm as she gently pulled the catheter out. It was a weird feeling—a kind of soft tugging—and before he knew it, the thin tube was free from his skin. The area felt momentarily exposed, but it didn't hurt.

The nurse smiled again, pleased with how smoothly the process was going. "You're doing great," she said, as she cleaned the small puncture site with an alcohol swab. The cool sensation of the alcohol against his skin made Megumi flinch for a second, but it wasn't unpleasant.

After disinfecting the site, she placed a gauze pad over the puncture wound, applying slight pressure. She finished by wrapping a bandage around his arm to hold everything in place. "There we go. All done," she said, giving him an encouraging nod. "You two are looking much better already."

Megumi glanced down at his arm, feeling the light pressure of the bandage. It felt oddly freeing to not have the IV line in place anymore. He could move his arm without the weight of the tube, and it felt almost like a return to normal.

"That wasn't so bad," Megumi said, his voice lighter now. "Thanks."

The nurse nodded. "Of course! You both did very well. Just keep an eye on the site today and let us know if you feel anything unusual. Otherwise, you're free to enjoy your breakfast."

As the nurse finished gathering up her supplies and prepared to leave, she turned to the two of them. "I'll check in on you later, but you're both in great shape. Keep up the good work."

With a final smile, she left the room, leaving Megumi and Hana with their now-IV-free arms, each of them looking a little more comfortable and free.

Hana looked over at Megumi, a playful grin on her face. "Well, that's it! No more tubes. Taking a shower will be much more easier now."

Megumi nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. "Yeah, it's a good feeling."

Hana chuckled at Megumi's response, clearly amused by his lighthearted reaction. "I'm serious! With how good I feel today, I could probably eat anything and still think it's amazing," she said, taking a dramatic sniff of the breakfast tray, as if savoring an invisible aroma.

Megumi shook his head with a smile, but couldn't help the small chuckle that escaped him. "You're something else, you know that?"

Hana grinned, clearly enjoying herself. "I'm just saying, it's all about perspective. When everything feels good, even bad food can taste better." She grabbed her spoon and dug into her bowl of warm soup with more enthusiasm than the food warranted.

Megumi couldn't help but smile as he watched her. He picked up his own spoon and tasted the porridge in front of him. It wasn't gourmet by any stretch of the imagination—he had already been mentally bracing himself for the usual blandness—but surprisingly, it didn't taste as terrible as it usually did. It was still far from delicious, but there was a comforting warmth to it, and that, combined with the light, cheery atmosphere of the morning, made it easier to eat.

"Okay, fine," Megumi said, pretending to begrudge Hana's optimism. "Maybe you're onto something. It's not as bad today."

"See? Told you!" Hana said with a satisfied grin. "I could eat this every day if it meant I felt like this."

Megumi laughed, though his tone was warm. "I don't know about every day. But I get what you mean. Maybe it's the relief of having those IVs out that makes everything seem a little better."

Hana nodded, her mood still buoyant. "Exactly! It's like I can finally start to feel like myself again. I'm almost ready to get out of here."

As they continued eating, the conversation shifted naturally to plans for after their discharge. The nurses had told them that it wouldn't be much longer before they were both well enough to leave. It seemed like a distant thought, but it was a hopeful one. Both Megumi and Hana were beginning to imagine what life outside of the sterile hospital walls would be like.

"Do you think we'll be back to normal soon?" Hana asked, looking up from her meal. "Like, not just with the food, but everything?"

Megumi paused, thinking for a moment. 

"It's going to be a little tough with you moving and all that. But yeah, we'll get there eventually."

Hana's smile wavered slightly at Megumi's words, but she quickly recovered, nodding. "Yeah, you're right. With the move and everything, it'll definitely take some time to adjust." She looked down at her bowl for a moment, swirling the spoon absentmindedly. "I guess I've gotten so used to everything here that the idea of leaving is kind of... weird, you know?"

Megumi nodded, understanding the feeling. "I get that. It's like everything has been so chaotic lately that it's hard to imagine what things will look like when it calms down. But you'll find your rhythm again. You'll settle in, get used to the new place, and we'll keep in touch, right?"

Hana's eyes brightened a little at that, and she gave a small laugh. "Of course we will! You're stuck with me, even if I'm in a new city."

Megumi chuckled softly, a genuine smile tugging at his lips. "I don't mind that. I don't think I'd ever be able to get rid of you even if I tried."

"Good," Hana replied, her grin widening. "Because I'm not going anywhere. We've been through a lot together already. This move... it's just another challenge."

"Yeah, just another challenge," Megumi agreed, his voice a little more thoughtful now. "But we'll handle it. We always do."

They both sat there for a moment, letting the conversation settle. Despite the changes looming in the near future, there was a sense of calm between them—something that hadn't been there for a while. Megumi could sense that Hana was more at ease now, the weight of uncertainty lightened by their conversation.

The idea of things going back to normal might still seem distant, but they both had time. And, more importantly, they had each other. That was enough for now.

.

.

With the IVs gone, a noticeable change came over both Megumi and Hana. The sense of restriction that had clung to them for days, if not weeks, was finally lifted. The weight of the tubes no longer tethered them to the sterile hospital bed, and with that newfound freedom came an eagerness to get moving.

The first sign of this change came when they both eagerly agreed to take a shower. Before, the process had always felt like a chore—slow, cautious, and always with the constant awareness of the IVs in their arms. But now, with the freedom to move more easily, they both practically rushed to the shower with a new sense of energy.

As Megumi stepped into the bathroom, the warmth of the water cascading over him felt different, more comforting than it had in the past. It was as though the hot water was washing away the weight of his worries, as well as the discomfort of the days spent attached to the IV. He scrubbed his skin with a bit more enthusiasm, smiling as he realized just how much he had missed feeling like himself.

Hana, on the other hand, was humming contentedly as she emerged from her own shower. There was something brighter in her demeanor now. Her movements were quicker, her face more relaxed. "I didn't realize how much I missed this," she said, wringing out her towel with a grin. "Being able to just... move. No IV, no restrictions. It feels like a fresh start."

Megumi nodded, feeling the same sense of relief. "Yeah, it's like everything feels more... normal now."

Once they were both done, they rejoined each other in the room, the lightness in the air palpable. They had spent so many days cooped up in the hospital, bound to their beds and equipment, that even the smallest freedoms felt like victories.

The nurses had been kind enough to grant them permission to leave the room and roam outside the hospital, as long as they didn't overexert themselves. It was a big deal. Megumi wasn't sure if he had ever felt so excited about something so simple. The idea of stepping outside, breathing fresh air, and getting a change of scenery—it was all so appealing.

After getting dressed, Megumi and Hana met in the hallway, each of them looking a little more vibrant than they had the day before. The nurse on duty gave them a quick rundown of the rules: they were allowed to walk outside for short periods, but they needed to be careful and take it easy.

"Are you ready for this?" Megumi asked, a hint of excitement in his voice. His earlier hesitation about going outside was replaced with anticipation now that the moment had arrived.

Hana, who had been pacing back and forth in the hallway, practically bouncing on her feet, gave a quick nod. "I've been dreaming of this moment! Let's go. I'm not wasting any time."

They left the room together, walking through the quiet hallways of the hospital before reaching the main exit. The cool air hit them both as soon as they stepped outside, the sound of birds chirping and leaves rustling in the distance adding to the sense of freedom they hadn't felt in a long time.

Hana immediately took a deep breath, inhaling the fresh air as if she had just discovered a new world. "It's so different out here," she said, her voice filled with awe. "I can't believe we've been stuck inside for so long."

Megumi smiled, feeling the same sense of wonder. "Yeah, it's like the world kept going while we were in there. It feels good to be out again."

They walked side by side, taking in the surroundings. The hospital's courtyard had small, manicured gardens, benches, and walking paths that they hadn't noticed much during their previous stays. The sun was shining, and although it wasn't yet warm enough for summer, the crisp air felt refreshing against their skin.

"This place isn't so bad, huh?" Hana remarked, as she looked around at the green patches of grass and blooming flowers.

Megumi nodded. "It's not home, but it's better than being stuck in a room all day." He glanced at her, noticing how much more relaxed she seemed now that she was outside. "Maybe once you get settled into your new house, you could come to this town again sometime. Just... for a day out."

Hana's eyes lit up at the suggestion, and she grinned widely. "I'd love that. It could be our little tradition. A day to escape, no matter how far we go."

Megumi chuckled at the thought, feeling more hopeful than he had in a while. "Yeah, sounds good to me."

As Megumi and Hana were laughing and enjoying themselves, their carefree moment was interrupted when Megumi noticed a couple of people sitting on a nearby bench. His sharp eyes lingered on them, immediately sensing something off. He felt a flicker of unease, a familiar wariness creeping up his spine. If this situation was anything like last night, it was entirely possible that those individuals weren't human. His mind instinctively went into alert mode, scanning the surroundings for any signs of cursed energy or unnatural behavior.

Hana, noticing his sudden shift in focus, turned her gaze toward the bench as well. "Who are those people? Are they staring at us?" she asked, her voice a mixture of curiosity and concern.

For a brief moment, Megumi felt the tension in his shoulders ease as he studied them more closely. His initial suspicion faded when he realized that they were, in fact, human. They weren't cursed spirits or anything out of the ordinary. A wave of relief washed over him, but it was quickly followed by a sense of confusion. Why were these adults, dressed in what seemed like an odd combination of masks and sunglasses, staring so intently at a group of children? It didn't sit well with him.

He ran his hand through his hair, frustrated with his own jump to conclusions. Just as he was about to voice his concerns to Hana, a sudden realization struck him like a bolt of lightning. Of course—this was a hospital. People in hospitals often wore masks, especially those recovering from illnesses or undergoing treatment. It was also common for patients to protect their eyes with sunglasses if they were dealing with eye conditions or sensitivity to light. The strangers weren't trying to intimidate or harm them. They were simply part of the environment—perhaps just visitors or fellow patients.

Feeling a little embarrassed for his overreaction, Megumi glanced at Hana, who was still looking at the people with a mix of curiosity and caution. "It's okay," he said, the tension in his body easing as he relaxed. "They're just regular people. Maybe they just want to talk."

Yet, even as the relief settled, Megumi couldn't entirely shake the sense of unease. There was still something about their behavior that seemed... off. He made a mental note to stay vigilant, just in case.

And as Megumi and Hana were absorbing the atmosphere, the group of people suddenly began moving toward them. The leader of the group, a woman with long black hair, made her way toward the children with a sense of purpose. She was dressed in an odd combination of a mask and large sunglasses, which concealed her facial features entirely. There was something unsettling about her appearance, though her movements were graceful and deliberate, as if she was trying to appear non-threatening.

When she reached them, the woman lowered herself gracefully to her knees, getting down to their level to speak directly to them. Her posture was careful, measured—clearly an attempt to avoid intimidating the children. In a voice that was surprisingly soft and gentle, she asked, "Are you Kurosawa-kun and Yurikawa-chan?"

Megumi could feel his senses sharpening once more as her voice reached his ears. There was something oddly familiar about the way she spoke, almost as though she were trying to calm them, to put them at ease. But despite her seemingly kind tone, Megumi didn't let his guard down completely. His instincts were still on high alert.

"Yes, we are," Megumi replied, his voice steady but laced with caution. He couldn't shake the unease that clung to him, the small, nagging feeling that something was off. He glanced briefly at Hana, who seemed just as puzzled by the woman's sudden appearance as he was. They both exchanged a look, silently weighing their options.

The woman, noticing their guarded response, didn't push them further. Instead, she tilted her head slightly, as if considering how to continue the conversation. Her eyes, hidden behind the dark lenses of her sunglasses, gave nothing away. Megumi's wariness remained, though part of him couldn't help but wonder why someone would approach them in this manner—especially here, in a hospital.

"Good," the woman continued, her voice maintaining its calming tone. "We've been looking for you both. There's something important we need to discuss."

Megumi tensed, the hairs on the back of his neck standing up. His suspicion deepened, but he remained silent, waiting for her to reveal more. The woman's group hovered behind her, their presence felt but not immediately threatening. They were all dressed similarly, hiding behind their strange masks and sunglasses, making it difficult to gauge their intentions.

"What is this about?" Megumi asked, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly. He wasn't one to blindly trust strangers, especially not in such an unusual situation.

The woman paused for a moment, then finally removed one of her hands from her knee, as if to signal that the conversation was about to get serious. "It's about the incident that has happened to you both. We're journalists and we wanted to know a little more about the incident."

Megumi hadn't expected this at all. The situation was growing stranger by the second. He had assumed that any adults involved in the recent incident would have already given their reports, provided their perspectives, and left it at that. After all, there were other grown-ups involved, ones far more experienced and trustworthy in matters like this. Why, then, would a group of adults be interested in hearing the opinion of children—especially when it came to something as serious as the recent incident?

Sure, Megumi and Hana had been there, had witnessed everything firsthand. He, especially, had played a significant role, but that didn't make them reliable sources of information in the eyes of most adults. Children were often seen as naïve, their memories jumbled, and their interpretations unclear. Even the most articulate kids were rarely considered credible when it came to recounting events with the depth and understanding expected in situations like these. Most children weren't even coherent enough to accurately retell what had happened until they reached their teens, if not later.

So why were these adults so keen on speaking to them? Why would they seek their input when the incident involved so many others who could offer a clearer picture? It didn't sit right with him. Megumi's mind raced, considering the possibilities. The woman before him, with her masked face and cryptic words, had already made him uneasy. Now, her insistence on wanting to hear their story made him even more suspicious.

His thoughts were interrupted when the woman's soft voice cut through the silence.

"We know that this is strange, but your experiences are crucial to understanding the full scope of what happened," she said, her tone calm yet insistent. "You saw things that others didn't. And sometimes, the perspective of someone who was there—someone who hasn't yet been shaped by the world in the same way as adults—can be more valuable than you realize."

Megumi wasn't entirely sure if he believed her. Her words felt rehearsed, like she had said them many times before. And still, the odd mixture of kindness and authority in her voice made it hard to fully dismiss her.

"That's all well and good," Megumi replied, trying to keep his voice steady, "but it still doesn't explain why we have to be the ones to tell you anything. There were plenty of adults involved. Why not ask them?"

The woman's gaze seemed to soften ever so slightly, though the sunglasses still hid her eyes. "You're right," she acknowledged, nodding slowly. "But it's not just about the facts. It's about understanding what you felt, what you experienced in the moment. Sometimes, the truth isn't just in the events themselves, but in how they're seen through a different lens."

Megumi glanced over at Hana, who looked just as confused as he felt. She seemed to be contemplating the woman's words, but Megumi couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to this conversation than met the eye. Something about the way the woman spoke, the way her group stood so silently behind her, made him feel like they were playing a deeper game.

"I'm still not convinced," Megumi said, his voice a little sharper now. "You're not giving us any real answers."

Hana let out a soft sigh beside Megumi, breaking the tense silence between them. Her voice was calm, but there was an undeniable sense of resolution in her tone. "Megumi," she said gently, "It's okay. I've been visited by the police before, asked questions and all that. I can answer theirs if need be. You don't have to if you don't want to."

Megumi hesitated for a moment, the unease still weighing heavily on him. But he knew Hana was right. She had been through situations like this before. She was more accustomed to dealing with authorities, even strange ones, than he was. Still, the situation felt different, and he wasn't sure how to proceed. Before he could respond, Hana turned toward the woman, her expression sharp with quiet suspicion.

"But still," Hana continued, her voice steady, "this is the first time I've ever seen people like you around here. Who are you?"

The woman scoffed lightly, the sound almost dismissive as she adjusted her sunglasses. "You guys seem to have underestimated just how big of a wave that incident made on this country," she said, her voice laced with a hint of amusement, but also something colder underneath. "People were really wary of going out at night for quite some time after that. Things got... tense."

Megumi's brow furrowed slightly. He had heard from his parents about the tension in the city after the incident, the way people avoided certain areas or glanced nervously over their shoulders, but hearing it confirmed in such a direct way made it feel even more real.

The woman's tone hardened as she continued, her eyes still hidden behind the dark glasses. "Of course, the hospital barred any visitors aside from your family members or the police, since you're children. It's not every day that an incident like that shakes up so many lives." Her words felt calculated, as if she were explaining the rules of a game that Megumi and Hana hadn't fully grasped yet.

Megumi's suspicion deepened. "So, you're saying you're... who? Some kind of official group? You're not with the police, though," he said, his eyes narrowing. The woman's ambiguous answers and cryptic demeanor only made him more wary.

The woman didn't immediately answer, instead glancing back at the others in her group, who stood silently, seemingly waiting for her lead. She tilted her head slightly, as if measuring Megumi's words, before speaking again, this time with a more guarded tone.

"We're not with the police, no. But we are... involved," she said cryptically, her voice dropping as if she didn't want to say too much in front of them. "We're the ones who deal with the aftermath. The things that the public doesn't know, or doesn't need to know. People like us handle the information that slips through the cracks—things that are better kept from causing panic."

Hana looked at the woman, processing her words with a thoughtful expression. "You're involved with... what exactly?" she asked, the curiosity in her voice mixed with a quiet wariness. "You're not just some random people asking questions, right?"

The woman paused for a moment, considering Hana's question carefully. Then, she lowered her voice, just enough so only the two children could hear her clearly. "We deal with what the authorities can't handle," she said, her tone serious now. "We keep things under control, ensure that whatever dangerous knowledge or power surfaces doesn't fall into the wrong hands. That's why we're here."

Megumi felt his stomach twist with unease, the weight of her words sinking in. Dangerous knowledge? Dangerous power? 

"Do you understand now?" the woman asked, her voice softer, but still carrying an undercurrent of urgency. "This is important. What you saw, what you felt, it all ties into something much larger."

The alarm bells in his mind rang with an intensity he couldn't ignore. He could feel the weight of his suspicions grow heavier with each passing moment. The woman—along with likely everyone in her group—was no ordinary person. They were probably sorcerers, and that realization sent a chill down his spine. His pulse quickened, and his instincts screamed at him to be cautious.

He had already made a choice, a decision to live a quiet, peaceful life far removed from the dangers and complexities of the jujutsu world. He had no desire to get entangled in the constant power struggles, the battles, or the relentless conflicts that seemed to define the lives of those with such cursed abilities. If they discovered that he was at the center of the kidnapping incident, that fragile dream of normalcy he had built for himself would be shattered in an instant. His chances of ever living a peaceful, untouched life would be gone forever.

He shuddered at the thought of what typical sorcerers might do to someone like him. If they suspected him to be anything more than an ordinary person, they wouldn't hesitate to eliminate him as a potential threat. It was likely they would kidnap him, drag him into their world of manipulation, and brainwash him into becoming a weapon for their cause. Or worse, if they saw him as too much of a danger, they wouldn't hesitate to kill him outright, removing him before he could ever pose a challenge to their plans.

Thankfully, it seemed that the woman and her group weren't entirely certain whether they were truly connected to the kidnapping incident—or if they were merely victims caught in the crossfire. 

He could tell from the way she had been carefully prodding them, testing their reactions with subtle hints and offhand remarks. If they had given away even the slightest hint of recognition, if they had flinched or hesitated in response to her words, she would have immediately concluded that they knew more than they were letting on.

The woman had been skilled in her approach, trying to gauge their knowledge without revealing too much of her own hand. It was clear she wasn't sure, and that uncertainty was the only thing keeping him from panic.

But there was something else that made him feel wary. Hana's mysterious aura, constantly emanating from her, would undoubtedly draw attention if they looked closely. That strange energy wouldn't be easy to ignore, and it wasn't a stretch to assume that the woman and her group might connect it to the kidnapping incident. 

After all, the circumstances surrounding the event were shrouded in mystery, and anyone who could sense Hana's aura might quickly draw the conclusion that she had some kind of role to play in it, even if they didn't fully understand the nature of her powers.

But here's the thing—they didn't know that he had once had cursed energy. Thanks to the binding vow he had made, his cursed energy was now completely sealed. No longer did he feel the usual, unpredictable surges of power coursing through him. For now, he was nothing more than an ordinary person, completely free of any connection to the world of sorcery. With that advantage, he could tell a small lie, spin a half-truth, and keep his cover intact.

The real problem, however, was Hana. There was no question that the woman and her group could sense the aura emanating from her. Her energy was too unique to be overlooked. If they saw her and knew anything about cursed energy, they would likely recognize that she was more than just a mere victim. 

How could he possibly deceive them into believing that both he and Hana were simply bystanders in all of this? How could he convince them that they had no knowledge of the incident—no involvement in the chaos—without drawing unwanted attention to Hana's dangerous aura?

Megumi could already feel the weight of the challenge bearing down on him. He needed to stay calm, keep his wits about him, and come up with a plan to keep them safe. But that was easier said than done, especially when every instinct he had told him that they were walking a razor-thin line between survival and exposure.

Hana took a deep breath before stepping forward and speaking with a quiet but steady voice. "I'm not sure what you're looking for, but I don't mind sharing my story," she said. 

Her words hung in the air, and Megumi, who had been tense, could feel a subtle shift in his body as she began to speak. He had already heard the story of Hana's account about the kidnapping, and from what she had told him before, there seemed to be no connection to the jujutsu world. That thought helped him relax a little, though he remained on edge, still uncertain about what she might reveal.

"It happened early in the morning," Hana continued, her gaze distant as if replaying the memory in her mind. "My family was preparing to move, so I stayed home from school to help. It was a busy time, lots of packing, and I didn't want to miss the chance to lend a hand. My mom asked me to run an errand—something simple, just to pick up a few things from the store. So, of course, I did what she asked." She paused, her brow furrowing slightly, as though trying to piece together the fragmented memories. "That's where things get blurry."

Megumi's expression softened, waiting for her to go on, but his mind was already working. The lack of any obvious connection to jujutsu left him feeling relieved, but he kept his focus on Hana's words.

Hana inhaled sharply before continuing. "I remember walking to the store, but after that, it's like everything faded away. It's almost like I was somewhere else entirely. I'm not sure, but I think I was drugged. Something happened, and everything went dark. When I woke up, I was in a hospital room, disoriented. I had these strange, painful wounds all over my body, and I didn't even know how I got there." She exhaled, the weight of the recollection settling in her chest, her voice growing quieter. "I never got the chance to understand who did this to me or why, but I knew something wasn't right."

Megumi's eyes narrowed slightly, the weight of her words hitting him with a deeper sense of urgency. Her story was unsettling, but there was still that absence of any trace leading back to the cursed world. So on that part, he could rule that she was safe. Now it was his turn.

"Alright," Megumi began, his tone even, almost detached, "since Hana's already shared hers, I guess I can tell you mine." He shifted slightly, leaning back a little as if to show that he was unaffected. "It's pretty much the same story, though," he continued, his voice remaining flat. "The only real difference is that I was on my way home from school when it happened. That's it." He finished the sentence with a slight shrug, trying to convey an air of nonchalance, though there was a faint tension in his posture.

His eyes locked briefly on the woman in front of him, a subtle wariness lurking beneath his mask of indifference. He made sure to offer her as little information as possible—just the bare minimum. He knew better than to reveal too much. 

Every word he said was deliberate, every detail pared down to avoid giving away anything that might make her suspicious. Megumi didn't trust easily, especially not when he had no idea who this woman really was or what her intentions might be.

After they finished sharing their stories, Megumi glanced at the woman and her group, but their reactions remained hidden. The masks and sunglasses they wore obscured any hint of emotion, leaving him with nothing to read. However, he couldn't shake the sense that they weren't particularly shocked by what they had just heard. Their body language remained neutral, almost too controlled—like they had heard similar tales countless times before.

But what truly caught Megumi's attention was the subtle, almost imperceptible way they concealed their cursed energy. It was impressive, even unnerving. He had trained in the ways of the jujutsu sorcerers for years, and even during his peak as an active sorcerer in his previous life, he had never been able to hide his cursed energy to such a degree. The group's ability to mask it so thoroughly only added another layer of mystery to them.

The more he observed, the more wary he became. If they could suppress their cursed energy to this extent, it meant they were far more dangerous than they appeared. Megumi knew that kind of skill wasn't something most people could achieve—especially not without significant experience and control. Every instinct in him screamed to be cautious, to trust no one, and to never underestimate the potential threat they posed. There was something about these people that didn't sit right, and that uncertainty made his guard rise even higher.

"I see. Thank you for telling us your story," the woman suddenly said after a pause.

Hana responded saying, "No problem. I hope we can help you with this."

Megumi, his suspicions growing, narrowed his eyes and leaned slightly forward. "What do you gain from this?" he asked, his voice edged with caution. "We didn't think we had anything of value to offer you people."

The woman smiled cryptically, a small chuckle escaping her lips as she replied, "Well, that's not entirely true." She paused for a moment, watching him closely. "You see, the officials only told the public the bare minimum. They gave a basic, watered-down version of events—just a simple chronological story, no more, no less."

Megumi furrowed his brow in confusion, trying to piece together her words. "So, you're saying you and your people went digging for more details?" he asked, his tone skeptical. "You asked every victim, then?"

The woman nodded, her expression remaining calm and composed. "Not just the victims," she corrected, her voice soft but purposeful. "We also spoke to people closely connected to them—friends, family, anyone who might have had relevant information. And thanks to the answers provided by Fushiguro-kun and Yurikawa-chan, we've been able to confirm something."

Megumi's heart skipped a beat at the mention of their names. "Confirm something?" he echoed, a knot tightening in his stomach. "What exactly did you confirm?"

The woman's gaze didn't waver as she met his eyes. There was a certain weight in her words, but she said nothing further. Megumi felt a shift in the air, a growing tension he couldn't quite place. He could sense that whatever this was, it wasn't something that could easily be dismissed. He hesitated for a moment, before deciding not to press her further, though his mind raced with questions. Something was off, and whatever it was, he wasn't sure if he was ready to uncover it just yet.

"Well, we've finished our business here. Thank you for your cooperation," the woman said, her tone polite but final.

Megumi, not bothering to mask his irritation, snappily replied, "Don't mention it."

The woman's gaze shifted, landing on Hana, her expression thoughtful. "You seem to be both lucky and unlucky," she remarked, her voice carrying an odd mixture of intrigue and sympathy. As she spoke, she reached into her pocket and began rummaging around, her fingers quickly finding something. "Here," she said, pulling out a small, intricately designed safety charm. "A charm for both of you."

She extended the charm toward them, her fingers gently offering both a necklace and a bracelet. "You don't have to keep it," she added, a slight smile touching her lips, "but it would definitely be better if you do. This thing can protect your life, you know?"

Hana hesitated for a moment, her fingers brushing lightly against the woman's palm as she took both the necklace and the bracelet. She turned them over in her hands, inspecting the delicate craftsmanship, but her doubt was clear in her eyes. Was this just some sort of token, or was there more to it? Still uncertain, she glanced at Megumi, then slowly handed the necklace to him.

"Here," she said quietly, her voice almost a whisper. "You should take this one. It feels... important."

Megumi looked at the necklace, then at Hana, before reluctantly taking it from her hand. He examined the charm closely, his fingers brushing over its surface. A strange sensation washed over him—he could feel cursed energy circulating through the necklace, faint but unmistakable. His instincts screamed at him to get rid of it, to throw it as far away as possible. But rationality quickly overruled his gut feeling. He knew that discarding the charm would alert the woman and her group, revealing that he was tied to the jujutsu world, something he couldn't afford at this moment.

With a sigh, Megumi pocketed the charm, his mind racing. It was safer to keep it hidden, at least for now.

The woman, sensing the end of their interaction, straightened up and offered a polite smile. "We finished our business, so we will go now. Have a great day," she said, her voice almost too pleasant.

Megumi didn't respond. He simply turned, signaling to Hana, who followed him in silence as the woman and her group began to leave. They walked away without another word, their footsteps receding into the distance.

As the group disappeared from view, a heavy silence settled around Megumi and Hana. Megumi's mind churned with questions, unease creeping up his spine. The woman and her group were far from ordinary, and whatever had just transpired, he was certain they weren't the type to simply forget about their encounter. 

As they walked away, the weight of the encounter hung heavily between them. Megumi could feel Hana's eyes on him, but he didn't say anything at first. The tension from the woman and her group still lingered in the air, and the charm in his pocket felt like a constant reminder of how wrong everything had been.

Hana finally broke the silence. "That woman... and her group, they were strange, weren't they?" she asked, her voice laced with confusion.

Megumi glanced over at her, his expression serious. "Yeah, they were definitely off. Something about them doesn't sit right with me. They knew way more than they should've, and the way they handled everything—it wasn't normal." He paused for a moment, his mind still racing with thoughts. "Those charms... I don't like the feeling I got from them. It wasn't just a token of good luck."

Hana looked down at the charm in her hand, now safely tucked away in Megumi's pocket. "So... what do you think they want? What's their game?"

Megumi shook his head, still uneasy. "I don't know, but it feels like they're playing a bigger game. Whatever it is, it's not something I want to be part of. And you shouldn't either." His gaze shifted to her with a sense of urgency. "If they ever approach you again—run."

Hana frowned, taken aback by the bluntness in his tone. "Run? But... why? I don't think they meant us any harm."

"They might not now," Megumi said, his voice low and steady, "but they know things they shouldn't. And when people like that get involved, it never ends well. If they reach out again, it won't be for something good. You're better off getting as far away from them as possible."

Hana's brow furrowed as she processed his words. "But... don't you think we should try to figure out what they want? I mean, we're in the middle of something big, right? What if they have answers?"

Megumi's expression darkened, and he took a slow breath before responding. "There's a difference between figuring things out and digging too deep. The more you learn about people like them, the more you expose yourself to danger. Trust me on this—there's no good that can come from getting tangled up with them."

Hana hesitated, clearly conflicted. "But... what if it's the only way to understand what's really going on? If we ignore them, we could be missing something important."

Megumi looked at her, his gaze firm but not unkind. "I get where you're coming from, but there are lines you shouldn't cross. You can't always chase after answers when they come with a price that's too high. So, if you see them again—just walk away. Don't even engage. Leave it to people who know how to handle that kind of situation."

There was a long pause, the air between them thick with unspoken thoughts. Hana looked down, contemplating his words. "Alright, I'll listen to you," she said quietly, her tone reluctant but sincere. "I trust you, Megumi."

Megumi nodded, though his mind wasn't entirely at ease. He knew it was the right call to keep her away from the woman and her group, but he couldn't shake the feeling that this encounter was only the start of something. 

Megumi could feel the stress weighing down on his body, each step feeling heavier than the last. The encounter with the girl cursed spirit with the twin tails still lingered in his mind, a reminder of how unpredictable and dangerous the world of curses could be. And now, there was this mysterious group of people—more unsettling by the minute. The woman, her strange charm, the eerie way they seemed to know too much about him and Hana—it all added to the mounting pressure he couldn't seem to escape.

But what really gnawed at him, what made everything feel so much worse, was the fact that he couldn't even defend himself properly if things turned south. His cursed energy was gone. Just gone. The weight of that loss was suffocating. He could barely call on it in moments of crisis, and the helplessness that came with it was unbearable. Every muscle in his body seemed to ache under the weight of that reality. He'd never felt so vulnerable in this new life.

He let out a frustrated breath, his shoulders sagging under the unspoken pressure. It was as if he'd aged ten years in one day. The fear, the uncertainty, the constant awareness that anything could go wrong at any moment—it all piled on top of him, leaving him feeling exhausted, far beyond his years.

Hana, walking beside him, seemed to sense the shift in his mood. "You okay?" she asked, her voice soft but laced with concern.

Megumi's gaze was fixed ahead, his jaw tight as he tried to push back the overwhelming sense of fatigue. "Yeah... I'm fine," he muttered, though the words felt hollow, even to him. "Just... a lot on my mind."

Hana didn't push, but she didn't let the matter drop entirely. She walked in silence beside him, perhaps understanding that pushing him to talk wouldn't help. The air was thick with unspoken tension as they continued their way through the park. 

If only I could fight... The thought kept circling in his head, over and over, like a constant reminder of his current helplessness. 

Even though Megumi did his best to hide it, Hana could tell something was off. The tension in his posture, the way his steps seemed heavier, the distant look in his eyes—it was hard to miss. She wasn't sure what had been bothering him so much, but it was clear that whatever it was, it was weighing him down. She knew better than to push him, but she also knew that if she didn't try, he'd only sink further into his own thoughts.

After a brief silence, Hana decided to change the subject, steering their conversation away from anything serious. "So," she began, her voice light and casual, "have you ever tried those melon pan pastries from that bakery near the station? I swear, they're the best thing I've ever eaten."

Megumi glanced at her, a flicker of surprise in his eyes at the sudden shift in the conversation. He hesitated for a moment, then shrugged. "I've had them before. They're okay."

Hana grinned. "Okay?!" she exclaimed, as if scandalized. "You're telling me you've tried melon pan and thought it was just okay? You've been missing out, Megumi. You gotta try the ones from that bakery I'm talking about. They're warm, fresh out of the oven. The sugar on top's all crispy and perfect. You won't regret it."

Megumi let out a small sigh, but it was the few times that he had relaxed, even just a little. "I don't know, Hana. I don't think pastries are really my thing."

Hana gave him a playful side-eye. "You say that now, but once you try them, I bet you'll change your mind. You can't say no to a good melon pan. It's practically a rule."

"Is that so?" Megumi asked, his tone dry but with the faintest hint of amusement.

"Yep. That's why we'll go after this is all over," Hana said confidently. "I'll even treat you, since I'm feeling generous."

Megumi raised an eyebrow. "Generous, huh? Well, if you're offering..." he trailed off, allowing his voice to drop into a rare, sarcastic tone. "Maybe I'll consider it."

Hana laughed, the sound light and infectious. "Oh, come on! It'll be fun. I'm sure you could use a little distraction after all... this," she gestured vaguely at the world around them, as if to encompass the strange events they'd been dealing with. 

Megumi's lips twitched upward at the corners. It wasn't much, but it was a smile. He couldn't remember the last time he'd smiled so easily.

"Fine, fine," he muttered. "I'll give it a try."

"Deal!" Hana said triumphantly, practically bouncing with excitement. 

As the conversation shifted, Megumi felt the weight on his shoulders ease, if only a little. Hana's simple attempt at lightening the mood had worked. The stress didn't disappear, not entirely, but the tension in his body had loosened. For a brief moment, the pressure of the cursed energy, the mysterious woman, and the feeling of helplessness seemed distant, like something he could think about later.

"Thanks," he said quietly, almost to himself.

Hana looked up at him, her eyes bright with optimism. "What for?"

"For... not letting me just stew in my own head," Megumi said, his voice still a little rough, but with a hint of gratitude beneath the layers of exhaustion.

Hana smiled. "Anytime, Megumi. Anytime."

They continued walking around the park for a little while longer, the calm atmosphere of the surroundings offering a much-needed break from the whirlwind of strange encounters. The air felt fresh, and the distant chatter of other people enjoying their day seemed almost soothing. Megumi found himself walking with a little less tension in his shoulders, the weight of everything pressing down on him, if only for a moment, starting to lift. Hana's light-hearted chatter and the thought of melon pan were enough to push aside some of the dark thoughts clouding his mind.

As they passed by a small grove of trees, a nurse approached them, her uniform crisp and her expression professional. She stopped in front of them, offering a polite but firm smile. "Excuse me, but it's time for you both to return to your rooms. The doctor requested that you rest."

Megumi didn't argue. He was still exhausted from everything that had happened, and the weight of the past few days had caught up with him. He glanced at Hana, who nodded in agreement, a look of quiet understanding passing between them.

"Alright," Megumi said, his voice a little calmer than it had been earlier. "Let's go."

The nurse gave a small nod before turning and leading the way. They followed her back toward the building, Megumi's pace slower than usual, though not because of the nurse's presence. He was simply grateful for the respite, for the chance to unwind, even if just for a while. The oddities of the cursed world, the strange people, and the weight of his own powerlessness were still on his mind, but for now, they felt a little less overwhelming.

When they reached their rooms, the nurse gave them a final nod and left them to themselves. Megumi slid the door open, stepping inside with a small sigh. The soft hum of the room's quiet atmosphere greeted him, and for a moment, he simply stood there, taking it all in.

"Guess we can rest now," he said, his voice sounding a little more relaxed than before.

Hana nodded, walking in after him. She took a deep breath, as if finally letting go of the tension that had built up over the course of the day. "Yeah," she agreed softly. "I think we both need it."

Megumi nodded, sitting down, finally feeling like he could take a breath. The day had been long, and while it wasn't over yet, he felt a little better—physically, at least. His mind, however, was still racing with unanswered questions, with the nagging feeling that the quiet moments were only temporary. But for now, he allowed himself to relax, just for a little while.

Hana, too, seemed content to finally let go of the tension. She settled down on the other bed, her eyes closing for a moment as she exhaled slowly.

"Maybe... tomorrow will be better," Megumi muttered to himself, though he knew better than to get his hopes up too high. For now, it was enough to rest and let the weight of the day fall away, even just for a short time.