Chapter Text
"Congratulations, you have been promoted to Grade 2."
Huh?
"You don't look pleased." Principal Yaga paused his tinkering, one of his dolls had ripped their arm.
"Oh no, I am very grateful for the promotion."
With her being called to his office so casually in the corridor, she didn't think it would be regarding her promotion. Technically speaking, she should have expected the outcome with the amount of missions she attended with Kento, Ino-kun and sometimes even the first years- who will soon become second years. Oh my, just how much time had passed by...
"You are now allowed to take on solo assignments. And accompany sorcerers of lower ranking than yours." Yaga explained as neutrally as he can, but he can't seem to hide the slight pity he has for her. "I'm sorry (L/n), but with how understaffed we are, you might be pushed to take on more missions than before. I understand how this might affect your primary job."
"I see." It was not like she did not see this coming before she made that decision. But reality still slapped harder than a thought. And it'll be more painful when she experiences the changes herself. "At least it can't be as bad as the Grade 1 sorcerers, right?"
"That you are right." Yaga chuckled. "Changing your mind already?"
"Just a little." she bantered. "But we'll see how this goes."
She bowed lightly before leaving the room. Walking slower than her usual pace. Taking the time to just look at her surroundings. The view from this level has always been nice, it was the same one from when she was still a teen. Yet slightly different from how she remembered it. Some trees grew taller. Some had been bent by the years. And some weren't there anymore.
"And if after a year we truly see that there is no improvement or benefit, I'll see myself out."
(Y/n) has started to regret saying those words out loud. She was so confident. So sure that she'll make a difference. Looking at where she stood now, she can't see the difference at all. If anything, it seems she was the one who was going to change. She'll be sucked back into the system she's trying to change. Just another soldier. Another dispensable Sorcerer.
She thought about the kids, each of the young individuals are bright in their own right. Over the few months of knowing them, she felt like they had gotten closer. She has seen them grown. Would she really have to leave after a year? If anything they're all improving without needing her intervention. Perhaps she really wasn't needed here in the first place. Never was at all.
Now (Y/n) isn't about to play dumb or act coy. She knows exactly what's up tomorrow. And as much as she tries not to admit, honestly she is very much looking forward to turning a year older this year. She couldn't remember the last time she felt this excited about her birthday. Probably when she was in elementary school. She remembered the glow of the candles. The birthday chorus. The sweetness of the cake. The warmth of her family.
Over the years, it had became just another day in the year. The people who knew the occasion, gave her their wishes. Those who don't... Well that's it. Sometimes she'll be given a slice of cake. Or a sweet drink. Being treated to a meal. But consistently every year, she will get herself a cake, a nice takeout for dinner, and put on her favourite show. Lighting up that nice scented candle got she from one of her friends. Making herself cozy at home.
Back when she worked at St Maria's, nobody aside from Yamato-senpai the PE teacher/volleyball club supervisor and Sister Josephine knew when her birthday was. The celebration consisted of a little tea party in the chapel, with Sister Josephine's specialty bread pudding- the best she has ever had. It was simple, intimate and she actually enjoyed it.
And back when she was a student here...
Scratch that, she did actually had an exciting birthday apart from her elementary school days- when she was still a first year. Back when Yu-kun and Geto-senpai were still here...
Satoru and the rest of the seniors threw a celebration in the classroom, albeit it being a 3in1 celebration plus a welcome party. Decorating with colourful streamers and balloons. The board doodled with 'Happy Birthday', a bunch of funny messages and caricatures. A lot of vending machine snacks and beverages. Yaga-sensei bought the cake. They all had to wear the ridiculous party hat and a sash. Satoru was the undesignated emcee naturally with how boisterous he was (and still is). The birthday song was sang off keyed. Playing a few rounds of Shiritori and the King game. Their joyous laughter filled the air.
No wonder she forgot about it. It still hurts.
But that is all in the past now. It shall remain a bittersweet nostalgia. Perhaps she still kept the photos somewhere and if not, she can always ask Satoru. She feels bad for abandoning such memory, but she'll be sure to cherish it more. And she is looking forward to building new ones now that she is here.
"(Y/n)."
Immediately her face broke into a grin. "Kento!"
The very person she wanted to see at the moment. Her shoulders felt lighter and there was a pep in her step as she walked towards him. She can't wait to celebrate with him. Did he planned something for her? But knowing Kento, he likely will ask her what she wanted to do instead. Now that isn't fair, because she could name a 100 things she wanted to do with him and one day would never be enough. And will he cook for her or will they eat out? Both sounded nice, she trusted Kento's choices when it comes to food. Either way (and more importantly), will they both end the night with some... Intimacy?
"You looked troubled. " Kento asked. Concern written all over his face. "Are you alright?"
"Oh, it's nothing. I'm alright." she assured him.
"Yeah, going on your first solo mission after a decade can be nerve-wracking. But I suppose you got this." he smiled with relief.
"What?"
"What?"
She ran rushed to find Principal Yaga in his office. A solo mission? This soon? She thought they agreed for a grace period until next week? She's not mentally prepared for this. She knew it was going to be sooner or later. Even as a student, they left the nest as soon as they were able to flap their wings. Plus one could argue she was close to being a veteran at her age. But tomorrow? And on her birthday too?!
"I was just about to have Ijichi-San deliver you the details." Yaga explained. "It's nothing too difficult. Just some paranormal sightings at an abandoned bungalow. A real estate agency reached out to us, wanting to clear it out before putting it on sale. We believe it's a Grade 2."
(Y/n) wonders if it'll be unprofessional of her to ask for a replacement on that day for personal reasons. However, Principal Yaga gave her that mission in the first place because everyone else was occupied.
"Don't worry about it, (Y/n)." Kento walked her back to her dorm. "It's a very straightforward mission. You've dealt with far more difficult ones before."
"But those missions were always with you, Mr. Nanami-reliable-Grade 1- Sorcerer-Kento-san."
"And I'm telling you as someone who supervised your missions, that you'll do fine." he stops walking, blocking her way. Giving her the look he always gave to the students and Ino. "Trust yourself more."
Trust herself? It was easier said than done. She couldn't even trust herself to complete the task she had set up for herself. The more she tried to reach for her goals, the more exasperated she becomes with the outcome. Everything felt like it was falling out of place. Nothing is going the way she wanted them to be. But if Kento said she'll do fine... then who was she to say otherwise? He may have been her significant other, but he was her supervisor too. Questionable, but anyone who knew him would know how much he took his job seriously.
"Alright. I can do this." she sighed.
Kento took a quick glance at their surroundings- clear. He gave her a quick peck on the forehead. "Yes, you can."
And just like that (Y/n) is back to being giddy again. She really is a fool in love. God forbid Satoru gets wind of this, he'll never let her hear the end of it. "I'll see you tomorrow after my mission?"
"Ah... I have a mission tomorrow as well."
Somewhere, between Tokyo and Chiba, lies a quiet neighbourhood. The morning drive there was as serene as a still pond during clear midsummer days. Houses spaced out like one would see in the countryside of those old time British movies. Who would have thought a place like this was so near to the major cities. Surely the prices of these bungalows are affordable for only those from the upper classes. And thanks to (Y/n), it will remain that way.
The cursed spirit slithered between the dark vents, leaving trails of haemolymph behind. It's chilopodic legs scuttled quickly. Seeing the light at the end of the tunnel, the beacon of hope is near.
Bang!
Not even a minute after exiting the vent, the cursed spirit screeches. Writhing in pain. Spotting its perpetrator, it reaches to bite her. Receiving another shot to its body in return.
This has got to be the worst birthday (Y/n) has ever had.
"Look, this is on you for making things difficult." she rests her hands on her hips. Hair strands sticking out of place. Giving the cursed spirit a good look down.
(Y/n) thought Principal Yaga and Ijichi were kidding when they told her the cursed spirit was a Grade 2. The thing barely had enough strength to overpower her, it might as well be a Grade 3. But damn did its intelligence made up for it. Cunning little rat made her run up and down the 3-storey bungalow for the past two hours. Camoflaging as every single appliance in the abandoned house. Hiding it's presence well. Never had she ever had to strain so hard to see cursed energies before. Practically had to close her eyes to lock in on the energy flow. On the bright side, she is enhancing her skillset. On the down side, she is getting a headache.
It didn't help that she was already in a bad mood first thing in the morning.
First of all, it's not like Kento to accept missions so easily, especially during the weekends. Although, there were rare occasions where the situation calls for it so she can't exactly declare the probability to be nil. Second of all, how could he have accepted the mission for today of all days! And even if he did, how could he indirectly refuse to see her?!
"... I have a mission tomorrow as well."
"Oh, after your mission then?"
"It's estimated to be done late into the night, so it's best if you don't wait up for me."
"Oh, Okay..."
So you don't even want to see me for a second?!
(Y/n) knows she's being childish.
And clingy.
But she had been looking forward to this day.
"Is it possible that he forgot?" she crouches in front of the writhing cursed spirit. "But he knows my favourite bread. My favourite colour. My favourite mascot. How could he not know it's my birthday today? Heck I even I remembered his, July 3rd!"
The cursed spirit hissed and gnarled at her.
"I know right!" she waved the gun in her hand. "Hello? I'm your girlfriend."
But technically speaking, they've only started dating last December. Compared that to the years prior when they were apart, could she really blame him for not knowing? And it's not like they ever just sat down and go through a whole introduction. Both of them are busy working adults. There are far more important things to remember and worry about than the date of your partner's birth. And why bother remembering someone's birthday in this field one would might die the next day.
Speaking of, she might die if she doesn't focus on her job right now.
Bang! Bang!
(Y/n) exited the house feeling exhausted. The dark skies turned back to their sunny afternoon as the barrier unveils. Ijichi waiting by the gates with the car.
"Well done on your first solo mission, (L/n)-san." he opened the door.
"Thank you Ijichi. Although to be honest, it's not exactly that hard. And I don't think there's any urgency to settle this quickly. I think the students could have handled it on a different day." she entered the back seat.
Ijichi swiftly went behind the steering wheel. "The students were already assigned to different missions this week and I personally think Principal Yaga didn't want to shock you too much."
"Hm... I suppose you're right." she leaned against the leather after taking some painkillers, making herself comfortable as they drove off into the city.
She had completed the mission. Now what? Working half day on a weekend feels a little off, she hasn't had that in a while. And it's not like she had any plans for today.
They stopped by the traffic light.
"Hey Ijichi, do you have anything for today?"
"Nothing much for now. I do have something to attend to in an hour." he glances at the rear view mirror. "Anything (L/n)-san?"
(Y/n) asked to be taken to a bakery she used to frequent as a university student. Guess it's back to her yearly solo party. And since she completed her first solo mission today, she ought to treat herself to something nice. She got a slice of cake, some assorted buns, and bread for the week. She was still not sure what she wanted to eat for her main meal. Food delivery seems a little difficult considering the remote location of their school, and the delivery fee might be a tad more expensive. So she'll definitely need to get something while outside.
She exited the bakery, feeling satisfied with the haul as she examined the contents of her plastic bag. She looked up to see Ijichi had just gotten off the phone, looking a little panicky.
"Everything alright Ijichi?" she called out to him.
"Ah!" poor man almost jumped out of his skin. "(L/n)-san, you're done?"
"Yes, I didn't want to keep you waiting for too long." she peered at her watch and rush into the car. "Oh, but perhaps I had taken a bit of time in there."
"Have you had lunch?" she asked as soon as they were on the road again.
"I'll have some later."
(Y/n) felt bad. Poor man was already busy enough without having to entertain her request. She fished out two savory buns from her haul. "Here, make sure you eat them."
"Oh I couldn't-"
"No, take it. I insist. Don't argue with me on this one Ijichi."
After a little bit of back and forth, Ijichi finally relented. One has never rejected (L/n) (Y/n)'s offer of food apparently. By the time they settled, they had arrived at the school grounds. That was fast, his next appointment must be really important, she thought as she exited the car. Now, for her special meal of the day. Perhaps she'll settle for the Korean spicy instant noodles she bought last week. As for drinks-
"(L/n)-san!" Ijichi called. "Principal Yaga had asked for you to go to meeting room No.8 of the west wing."
(Y/n) thought it was unusual. That place was usual reserved for Kyoto personnels during the Exchange Event. "Sure, I'll just put my stuff and go there."
"I'll put those away for you." he rushed to her side. Grabbing the items from her hands. "He wants to see you as soon as possible."
"I- surely it can't be that urgent. A-and you're in a rush yourself!" not letting go her pastry haul.
"Don't worry about me. Yours is more urgent." He pried the plastic bag out of her firm hands. Before (Y/n) could even snatch it back, he made a run for it. "I'll put it in the dormitory dining area!"
"What has gotten into him?" (Y/n) could only stare in disbelief as Ijichi's figure grew smaller with the distance. Guess she should really go since he was being so adamant about it.
(Y/n) trudged towards the meeting room. What could Principal Yaga possibly want. It's the weekend, surely any report regarding today's mission can wait until tomorrow. She didn't even have time to write one considering she just finished the mission about an hour ago. She didn't accidentally messed up anything, did she? (Y/n) racked her brain for what it could possibly be.
Pop!
(Y/n) shrieked. She was so absorbed in her thoughts that she was unaware of her surroundings, trusting only muscle memory to carry her here and even opening the door without a knock. Her eyes widened in surprised momentarily before softening in realisation.
"Happy birthday (Y/n)-sensei!" the students yelled at the top of their lungs before starting the song.
Kento should've known that things would end up this way.
"Nanami-san, is (Y/n)-sensei more of ian ndoor or outdoor kind of person?" Nobara asked one day.
"... I'd say indoors, but-" before he could gauge her intentions, she skipped away.
"Nanami-san, what does (Y/n)-sensei like? " Panda suddenly popped out of nowhere the next day.
"Well it's..." Kento answered directly. He had some suspicion of what was going on.
Regardless, he was starting to have a bad feeling about this.
"Nanaminnn, we heard from Gojo-sensei that (Y/n)-sensei's birthday is next week."
Suddenly he was added into a group chat, dragged (or rather kidnapped) into a classroom where everyone is now having a heated discussion on how to celebrate the school counsellor's upcoming birthday this weekend. He was sat in the middle of it all against his own will. Their voices booming left and right like the cannons in Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture.
"A barbecue is a classic way to celebrate birthdays, and we could do it either during the day or night." Panda presented his case.
"Salmon." Inumaki gave a thumbs up.
"A birthday hotpot is simple and heartwarming and can be done indoors, where we can decorate the place nicely." Itadori countered. "Plus the clean up won't be so messy."
"Why are we bothering with the food ourselves. Gojo-sensei is sponsoring this. We can get good catering or even book out a nice place!" Nobara argued. "And get better desserts. (Y/n)-sensei is a sucker for desserts. "
"It's less of a hassle and we can do it at a place with (Y/n)-sensei's favourite food. Plus, we can hide the surprise better this way." Maki added to the conversation.
Gojo standing in background. Nodding, clapping his hands and finger gunning to every suggestion.
"But it just feels more sincere if we do the preparation ourselves." Okkotsu differed. "Though both barbecue and hotpot sounds nice."
"What do you think, Nanami-san?" Fushiguro looks at the quiet blond.
Honestly, he had no intention of doing a rowdy celebration.
He had an idea of how he wanted the celebration to be. An intimate candle light dinner at his apartment. He'll cook them pasta, a nice roast beef. Order the cake she liked from the cafe they went on their first date. Some wine, Sauvignon Blanc perhaps, or some variety of sparkling wine- she's a lightweight after all. He'll put on some light music in the background, one they could slow dance together if she so pleases before finally ending the night by presenting her gift.
"Barbecue!"
"Hotpot!"
"Eat out! Eat out!"
"Guys, we can sorta do both..."
Never had it ever crossed his mind to include other people aside the two of them. They're both pretty private people as far as he knows.
"No, no, we should really ask what Nanami-san thinks." Fushiguro interjects.
All eyes are on him now. Does he really have to do this? Last time he tried to surprise her, he had gotten the shock of his life instead.
*"... I really do want to spend Christmas with them."*
He heaved a heavy sigh.
How could he say no?
And so a they continued this debate for another hour before a plan was finalised. Did Kento agreed to all of it? No, but this a democratic country after all.
The party would be held in one of the meeting rooms that opens out to a zen garden- hotpot indoors and barbecue outdoors. There was a close call of votes to do at his place, thank the heavens it missed by one vote. Also they will have fried chicken. Because as Panda puts it, what is a birthday party without fried chicken! Kento doesn't know why, but the fact that a panda felt strongly about eating meat feels oddly disturbing.
Anyhow, Kento, Panda and Inumaki would be in charge of the barbecue and fried food. Itadori, Fushiguro and Maki would handle the hotpot. Inumaki and Nobara would do the decorations. Gojo will get the drinks. He'll also collect the cake and pastries on the day of celebration. They had chosen a bakery that was recently frequented by the couple.
Gojo had made a request of Principal Yaga to give (Y/n) a simple mission that day. As much as Kento wanted to disagree, that was the only way to keep her out of the school grounds. He would have done it himself, but he got his hands full with the cooking- as were everyone else. Gojo was actually juggling his time for this with clan duties. At least Ijichi will be with her. He hated the fact he made her sad yesterday, albeit it was for a surprise. He could tell how much she wanted to him to ne present for her. And frankly speaking, the thought of her going on this solo mission frightened him. He was having palpitations and cold sweats just thinking about it. But intervening would be unprofessional of him, it would be hypocritical to cross the boundaries advocated for.
In the end, all's well that ends well.
(Y/n) was guided to the table, where they put the cake with lit candles. When the song was over, she made a wish in her heart and blew the candles. She looked like she was about to cry.
They cut the cake and began the feast. Principal Yaga, Ieiri and Ijichi joined in later, bringing a bottle of liquor. Kento being ever so responsible (and a party pooper as accused by Gojo), made sure she didn't drink much. Especially when they rounds of party game. Good old Shiritori and King Game with Ieiri trying to bring alcohol into the twist for the adults. Itadori proudly showing off his special meatball recipe, also boasting how Fushiguro is his apprentice in making. The barbecue team would take turns manning the grill and joining the party.
Conversation and laughter became the background of the event as they continued into dusk. In the minutes where (Y/n) was not talking to anyone. Where she sat quietly eating. Sipping drinks from the plastic cups. Where she listened instead. Watching everyone in the room- their expressions, actions and liveliness. She can't help but be grateful. Even if she were not needed, at the very least she knew she was welcomed at this place. By the people who mattered. It will only be an uphill battle from here onwards. She will have to pull herself together for the sake of the people in this room.
"Do we have anymore tissues?" Maki asked out loud.
Inumaki scans the room, "Bonito flakes!"
"I'll go get it." Kento had just changed places with Panda at the grill.
"I'll join you." (Y/n) volunteered.
"Eh, it's okay (Y/n)-sensei." Itadori put down his chopsticks. "I'm free right now. I can go with- Mmph!"
"You really didn't have to, but thank you so much (Y/n)-sensei!" Nobara had her whole arm over Itadori's face. "No rush though."
"Alright!" (Y/n) slid the door open and left the room with Kento following suit.
"You all really got me this time." (Y/n) started as they turned at the corridor. "When did you all planned this?"
"About a week ago." Kento replied. "It was all last minute really."
(Y/n) laughed. "I bet they gave you headache. I know the mission this morning did gave me one. But I'll let off Satoru nicely just this. Who would have thought that the cursed spirit-"
Kento wrapped his arms around her shoulders, engulfing her in a tight hug from behind. His head resting in the crook of her neck. (Y/n) could feel the steady rhythm of his breathing. The quick tempo of his pulse. Everything went still in the twilight.
"Were you hurt?" he muttered.
"...I'm telling you as someone who supervised your missions, that you'll do fine."
If Kento were to be honest, those words were more for him than they were for her. A spoken truth that was threatened with disingenuity. He knew it in his head, but he can't seem to convince his heart. He didn't like the person he was turning into. Irrational. Impractical. Illogical. He couldn't help it despite how much he didn't want to. But for today, he'll settle for this hug. It was enough to calm him in this moment.
"I'm fine, Kento." she turned her head to the side where she could see his face. Their nose touching. "Are you okay?"
"I just missed you."
"I missed you too." she craned her neck, hands clinging to his forearms. She suspected there was something more, but for now she'll settle for this answer.
"Happy birthday, (Y/n)." he adjusted his head, meeting her with a slow longing kiss.