The Buddha Temple (Part One)

Atop a mountain, the scene was awe-inspiring. The rugged landscape stretched out as far as the eye could see, with steep cliffs and lush forests. The air was crisp and fresh, filled with the scent of pine and earth. Small streams trickled down the slopes, adding to the tranquil atmosphere.

In this serene and powerful setting, Hiro was focused intently on his training. He had created an enormous barrier of cursed energy, encircling the training area in a shimmering dome. Gojo stood a short distance away, observing Hiro's technique with a critical eye. Meanwhile, Fushiguro, taking a break from his training, was sitting on a nearby rock, eating a sandwich and watching Hiro's progress.

After maintaining the barrier for an extended period, Hiro finally released it, letting out a deep breath as the energy dissipated. He grabbed a bottle of water, taking a long drink to quench his thirst.

Gojo approached him with a nod of approval. "Good work, Hiro. You've mastered the basics and now understand the principles of a domain expansion."

Catching his breath, Hiro asked eagerly, "Does that mean I'm ready to perform my own domain expansion?"

Gojo shook his head. "Not yet. Performing a full domain expansion consumes a tremendous amount of cursed energy. It would take days for you to recover, and we can't afford that right now, especially with your upcoming training in the Temple of Buddha."

Hiro, clearly frustrated, questioned the purpose of their training. "Then what have we been doing these past two weeks?"

Gojo placed a hand on Hiro's shoulder, his gaze serious. "What you've learned here is foundational. Understanding the principles of domain expansion is crucial, even if you're not performing one right now. This knowledge will be vital for your time in the Temple and beyond. Trust the process, Hiro. Every step of this journey is preparing you for the challenges you'll face."

Hiro, with a purposeful stride, picked up a weighted vest from his belongings and tossed it near Fushiguro. The vest landed with a thud, drawing a questioning look from Fushiguro.

"What's this?" Fushiguro asked, eyeing the vest warily.

"It's a weighted vest, weighs about 30 kilos," Hiro replied. "Put it on, go down the mountain, then come back up. Simple."

Fushiguro protested, "What? Why do I have to do that?"

Hiro shot back, "I'm training you, remember? And don't complain – I did it with a 100-kilo vest when I was training here."

Reluctantly, Fushiguro donned the heavy vest and began his descent down the mountain, his movements slightly hindered by the added weight.

Gojo watched the exchange with amusement, then turned to Hiro with a smile. "You know, you make a pretty good teacher. You're exactly what Megumi needed. Ever since he believed Itadori died, he's been driven to become stronger. You're the perfect mentor for him."

Hiro wiped the sweat from his brow and asked, "So, about Itadori. Is he going to make his reappearance at the Exchange Event?"

Gojo nodded affirmatively. "Yes, he will. It's going to be quite the surprise for everyone, especially Megumi."

Gojo's usual playful demeanor shifted to a more serious one as he addressed Hiro directly, his words carrying the weight of his experience and wisdom.

"Hiro, the Temple of Buddha is no trivial matter. I thought it was a good idea for you to go there, not just because you're strong. I've seen how you hit rock bottom after your fight with Yamada, and yet, you managed to pick yourself up and even forgave him, despite his later betrayal. You don't harbor any resentment towards Maki, even though your relationship ended at a critical time. You've shown that you have a good heart and unbreakable values. That's why I believe you'll come out alright from the temple. That place can corrupt you, both physically and mentally. But I trust you."

Hiro listened intently, absorbing the gravity of Gojo's words. The acknowledgment of his resilience and moral strength filled him with a sense of responsibility and determination. He understood that the training in the Temple of Buddha would test him in ways he had never been tested before. It was not just a challenge of physical and mental endurance but also a trial of his character and spirit.

Hiro nodded solemnly, accepting the trust Gojo had placed in him. "Thank you, Gojo. I won't let you down. I understand the risks, and I'm ready to face them. This training... it's not just for me. It's for everyone who depends on us sorcerers to protect them."

Gojo's expression softened slightly, a look of pride evident in his eyes. He had seen Hiro grow and evolve, not just as a jujutsu sorcerer but as a person. He knew that Hiro's journey to the Temple of Buddha was a necessary step in his development, a crucible that would either break him or forge him into an even stronger protector of the balance.

With a final nod of encouragement, Gojo left Hiro to his thoughts, confident in his decision and the path that lay ahead for his student. The journey to the Temple of Buddha would indeed be a defining moment in Hiro's life, one that would shape his destiny and the future of the jujutsu world.

____________

Behind the Shaolin Temple, an immense cave loomed, its entrance like a gaping maw leading into the heart of the mountain. The darkness within seemed almost palpable, hinting at the profound challenges that awaited inside. Gathered at the cave's entrance were Gojo, Master Jiànzhēng, Fushiguro, and Master Chen, all there to see Hiro off on this critical part of his journey.

Hiro stood among them, clad in the traditional garb of the Shaolin monks. The outfit, while symbolic and steeped in tradition, seemed somewhat uncomfortable to him. He made a light-hearted comment to ease the solemn atmosphere, "I never did like wearing this outfit."

Master Chen chuckled softly, understanding Hiro's discomfort but also recognizing the importance of the tradition. "It's more than just clothing, Hiro. It's a symbol of your connection to the temple and the disciplines you've learned here," he explained gently.

Gojo, with his usual relaxed demeanor, added, "It suits you, though. Gives you that wise monk look."

Fushiguro, standing quietly by, observed Hiro with a mix of admiration and concern. He knew the risks involved but also understood the necessity of the training Hiro was about to undertake.

Master Jiànzhēng, wise and serene, stepped forward. "Hiro, remember that the journey you are about to embark on is as much about discovering your inner strength as it is about harnessing your physical and spiritual power. Trust in yourself and the teachings you have received."

Hiro nodded, taking a deep breath as he prepared to enter the cave. Despite his casual remark about the outfit, he felt a deep connection to the temple and its teachings. He turned to his mentors and friends, gratitude and determination in his eyes. "Thank you, everyone. I'll return stronger."

With those final words, Hiro stepped into the cave, the darkness enveloping him as he began one of the most significant challenges of his life. The group watched him disappear into the shadows, each silently wishing him strength and success on the arduous journey ahead.

As Hiro ventured deeper into the cave, the only light came from the flickering flames that danced in his hand. The fire cast eerie shadows on the walls, enhancing the sense of isolation and mystery that surrounded him. The path wound its way deeper into the heart of the mountain, leading him to a set of ancient, weathered stairs that descended further into the depths.

He followed the staircase down, each step echoing in the vast emptiness of the cave. Finally, he reached what appeared to be the lowest part of the mountain's interior. The darkness was absolute, a void that seemed to swallow all light and sound.

Then, suddenly and without any apparent trigger, torches along the walls began to ignite spontaneously. One by one, they flared to life, revealing a vast open space. The cave's interior was stark, with only the rough walls of the mountain, the newly lit torches, and a single, imposing feature dominating the space.

In the center of the cavern stood a colossal statue, towering and formidable. Carved from the mountain itself, the statue depicted a figure of immense power and authority. It was a representation of Buddha, but unlike any traditional depiction. This Buddha had an almost warrior-like demeanor, with broad, muscular shoulders and a face that bore an expression of serene, yet unmistakable strength. The eyes of the statue, though made of stone, seemed to hold a depth of wisdom and a hint of challenge.

The sheer size of the statue was awe-inspiring and somewhat intimidating. It loomed over Hiro, making him feel small in comparison. Yet, there was also a sense of tranquility emanating from it, a reminder of the inner peace and strength that the Buddha symbolized.

The sudden animation of the statue startled Hiro. Its eyes snapped open, fixing an intense gaze upon him. The Buddha's smile, revealing pristine white teeth, was unsettling, almost sinister. Hiro's heart raced as he confronted this unexpected development.

"Welcome, Hiro Takashi," the statue spoke in a deep, resonant voice that seemed to fill the entire cavern.

Hiro, taken aback, managed to ask, "Who are you?"

The statue's smile widened slightly. "Isn't it obvious? I am Buddha," it replied.

Hiro, still grappling with the surreal nature of the encounter, questioned further, "How do you know my name?"

The Buddha responded, "I know everything, Hiro. All that is connected through cursed energy is within my perception—thoughts, emotions, intentions."

Puzzled, Hiro asked, "So, are you some kind of god?"

The Buddha chuckled softly. "Not exactly. I am a sorcerer who transcended. You know of Tengen? I am like him. I reached a point where I nearly became a deity."

Hiro's confusion deepened. "How do you know about Master Tengen?"

"I've already told you, Hiro. I know everything. Yamada, Sukuna... It's all connected through cursed energy. I can perceive it all," the Buddha elaborated.

"Hiro Takashi, you came here seeking greater strength," the Buddha observed. Hiro nodded, his resolve evident despite the growing unease within him.

The Buddha's smile broadened, but it held a tinge of regret. "Unfortunately, that's impossible, Hiro Takashi."

Confused and disheartened, Hiro asked, "Why is that?"

"You've already reached your maximum potential," the Buddha explained. "You feel it, don't you? Despite your relentless training since the Shaolin Temple, you haven't become any stronger. That's because you've hit your limit."

These words crushed Hiro. He had always believed that with enough hard work and dedication, he could push past any barrier. The idea that he might have reached his peak was unthinkable. Overwhelmed by frustration and disbelief, Hiro fell to his knees. "That can't be true..." he murmured.

The Buddha's laughter echoed around the cavern, mocking Hiro's despair. "It's the truth, Hiro Takashi. You've reached the end of your journey in terms of gaining strength."

The Buddha's words offered a glimmer of hope amidst Hiro's despair. "However, you can still learn new techniques. Your body is still growing, so physically, you can become stronger. Your strategy can improve as well," the Buddha continued, his voice echoing in the cavernous space.

"I have watched you, Hiro. You've managed to take your cursed technique to levels few sorcerers could have achieved. Others might have been content with just producing fire in their hands, but not you. You've materialized dragons, enhanced your body, and even transformed your energy."

Hiro looked up, his spirits lifted slightly by these words. It was true that he had always sought to push the boundaries of what was possible with his cursed energy and techniques.

The Buddha added, "You still have the potential to defeat those who disturb the balance. Your journey is not just about raw power. It's about how you use the power you have, how you adapt and grow in other ways."

These words resonated with Hiro. He realized that his path as a jujutsu sorcerer was not limited to increasing his strength. There were other dimensions to his growth – strategy, technique, adaptability. He could still become a more effective sorcerer, not by increasing his power but by refining and expanding his skills and understanding.

Feeling renewed determination, Hiro stood up. "Thank you for your guidance. I understand now that there's more to being a sorcerer than just raw strength. I'm ready to learn and grow in whatever ways I can."

The Buddha's laughter took on a chilling, macabre tone as he revealed the daunting truth about the training. "Hiro Takashi, everyone who enters here completes the training. However, the success rate comes with a dark caveat. Those who leave often find life outside unbearable. What they experience here... it's too much for them. In this place, death is not an escape; you cannot die here. Should you perish, you'll immediately be brought back to life — you are, after all, within the realm of my domain expansion."

Hiro listened, his resolve unshaken despite the ominous warning. "I'm ready," he stated firmly, understanding the gravity of what lay ahead.

The Buddha smiled, his expression a mix of anticipation and intrigue. "Don't disappoint me, Hiro Takashi. The first phase of training lasts an entire month. You will train for twenty hours a day. The remaining four hours are for eating, sleeping, and any other necessities. Once the training begins, there's no turning back."

Hiro nodded, mentally preparing himself for the grueling schedule and the psychological toll it might take. He knew this training would push him beyond his limits, challenging him in ways he had never experienced before.

The cavern around Hiro suddenly came alive with a swirling mass of cursed spirits, manifesting in various terrifying forms. They encircled him, their malevolent intentions palpable in the air. The Buddha's voice echoed through the chamber, "For this month, you will battle an endless onslaught of curses for twenty hours each day. I will push your body to its absolute limits."

Hiro stood firm, a look of steely determination in his eyes. He focused his cursed energy and, with a fluid motion, materialized a katana in his hand. The blade shimmered with a menacing energy, a testament to his skill and the recent training with Mai.

"Thank you for teaching me this technique, Mai," Hiro whispered, acknowledging the new skill that had just become his weapon.

The Buddha watched with a grin, amused and intrigued by Hiro's readiness. "Begin!" he commanded.

The curses lunged at Hiro, but he was ready. With swift and precise movements, he engaged the onslaught. Each strike of his katana was calculated and deadly, cutting through the cursed spirits with efficiency. The training with Mai had clearly paid off, giving Hiro a new edge in combat.

As hours passed, the intensity of the battle did not wane. Hiro's physical endurance, mental resilience, and strategic thinking were tested to their limits. The relentless nature of the training was unlike anything he had ever experienced. His body ached, his energy waned, but his spirit remained unbroken.

Hiro understood that this was more than just physical combat. It was a battle of wills, a test of how far he could push himself. The Buddha's words echoed in his mind, reminding him that this was his path, his challenge to overcome.

_________

Maki and Kugisaki sat in a quaint café, the aroma of coffee and pastries filling the air. The ambiance was cozy, a contrast to the intensity of their conversation. Maki sipped her coffee, a contemplative look on her face as she decided to confide in Kugisaki about her recent encounter with Hiro.

"You know, something happened with Hiro a few days ago," Maki began, her voice a mix of hesitation and the need to share.

Kugisaki leaned in, her interest piqued. "Oh? What happened?"

Maki took a deep breath, her cheeks flushing slightly at the memory. "Well, we... we almost did it. We kissed, and things escalated quickly. It was intense, passionate, and it almost led to... you know."

Kugisaki's eyes widened in surprise. "Seriously? You and Hiro? But I thought you guys were over?"

Maki nodded, a conflicted expression on her face. "Yeah, I thought so too. But when we were there, in that moment, it felt like... like old times. There's still something there, I guess. I'm not sure what to make of it."

Kugisaki, always the more outspoken of the two, offered her perspective. "Maybe you still have feelings for him? It's not like those things just disappear overnight, especially with someone like Hiro."

Maki looked down at her cup, her fingers tracing the rim. "Maybe. But it's complicated. With everything that's happening, with Hiro going off to that intense training and all... I don't know where we stand."

Kugisaki reached across the table, offering a supportive hand. "It's okay to be unsure, Maki. Just give it some time. Things will become clearer eventually. And who knows? Maybe Hiro's training will give both of you some perspective."

Maki smiled weakly, grateful for her friend's support. "Thanks, Kugisaki. I hope you're right."

Kugisaki listened intently, her expression thoughtful as Maki poured out her feelings. She took a moment before responding, her words careful and considerate.

"Maybe you two should think about getting back together," Kugisaki suggested gently. "It seems like that's what both of you want, deep down."

Maki shook her head, her eyes reflecting a mix of regret and sadness. "I made him suffer. I was wrong to leave him, especially at his worst moment. I don't deserve him after what I did."

Kugisaki reached across the table, offering a comforting hand. "Maki, everyone makes mistakes. It's part of being human. But you're also allowed to forgive yourself and move on. It's clear you both still have strong feelings for each other. Maybe this is a chance to start anew, to learn from the past and build something even stronger."

Maki considered Kugisaki's words, the idea of reconciliation both daunting and appealing. "But how can I be sure he'd even want to try again, after everything?"

Kugisaki smiled, her confidence reassuring. "You won't know until you talk to him. Honest communication is key. Tell him how you feel, and listen to what he has to say. It's the only way you'll both find closure, whether that means getting back together or moving on."

Maki nodded, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders as she spoke with Kugisaki. The conversation had given her a new perspective and the courage to face her feelings head-on. She realized that, regardless of the outcome, she needed to have that conversation with Hiro, for both their sakes. The path ahead might be uncertain, but Maki felt ready to take the first step towards resolving her feelings and finding her way forward.

________

Exhausted and battered, Hiro leaned heavily on his katana, his breathing labored. Dark circles under his eyes and scars across his body bore witness to the relentless onslaught he had endured. Blood, both his own and that of the countless curses he had vanquished, stained his clothing.

His two ethereal guardians, the dragon of fire and the dragon of lightning, continued to battle fiercely around him, protecting him from the never-ending wave of cursed spirits. Despite their formidable presence, Hiro's physical and mental fatigue was reaching its limit.

"It's only been two weeks, and I've died three times already," Hiro thought wearily. His body was on the verge of collapse, moving on instinct and sheer willpower. The hunger gnawing at him was a constant reminder of his human limitations, no matter how much he pushed himself.

"If it weren't for my dragons, I'd have died many more times," he realized. The dragons, manifestations of his own cursed energy, were the only things keeping him from being overwhelmed completely. They fought tirelessly, a testament to Hiro's strength and determination, but even they had their limits.

Hiro's mind drifted to thoughts of the outside world, of his friends and the life he had temporarily left behind. He wondered about Maki and the others, hoping they were safe and well. The loneliness of the training, coupled with the physical toll, was more challenging than he had ever anticipated.

Gathering the last vestiges of his strength, Hiro straightened up, refusing to succumb to the exhaustion. He knew he couldn't stop; the training was crucial, not just for his growth as a jujutsu sorcerer but for the battles that lay ahead. He had to endure, to survive, to become stronger.

With a deep, steadying breath, Hiro prepared to continue the fight, his dragons roaring beside him. He was determined to see this through, to emerge from the Temple of Buddha not just alive, but transformed, ready to face whatever challenges awaited him in the world outside.

__________

Yamada, Choso, Kenjaku, Jogo, and Mahito were gathered around a dimly lit table in a dark, secluded room, the only illumination coming from a few flickering candles casting eerie shadows on the walls. The air was thick with tension, not just from the high stakes of the poker game, but also from the complex dynamics among the players.

The room was sparse, with bare stone walls and a heavy, oppressive atmosphere. A sense of foreboding lingered in the air, befitting the gathering of such formidable and dangerous individuals.

Yamada casually flipped a card onto the table, his expression unreadable. "You know, I never took you for a poker player, Kenjaku," he said with a hint of sarcasm.

Kenjaku, calm and composed, replied without looking up from his hand, "There are many things you don't know about me, Yamada. Poker is the least of them."

Choso, concentrating on his cards, added, "This game is a good distraction. But let's not forget why we're really here." His tone was serious, underlining the gravity of their alliance.

Jogo, his fiery temperament barely contained, snorted. "I don't care about this game. I'm here for the destruction we're going to cause. When do we start?"

Mahito, with his typical unsettling grin, chimed in, "Patience, Jogo. The best chaos is well planned. Besides, I'm enjoying this little game. It's not often we get to sit down like this."

Mahito, with a triumphant flourish, laid down his winning hand, a broad grin spreading across his face. The others around the table eyed him with a mix of annoyance and begrudging respect.

Yamada, however, was visibly irritated. Slamming his cards down, he glared at Mahito. "You're cheating, aren't you? I've never seen such luck!"

Mahito's grin widened, and he leaned back in his chair, feigning innocence. "Me? Cheat? I'm just good at reading people, Yamada. It's all in the expressions," he said, his tone dripping with mock sincerity.

Kenjaku chuckled, clearly amused by the exchange. "Yamada, perhaps you're just not as good at poker as you thought."

Choso tried to hide a smile behind his hand, while Jogo, uninterested in the banter, simply grumbled about the delay in their plans.

Yamada, however, was not in the mood for jokes. He pointed an accusing finger at Mahito. "I'm telling you, he's up to something! No one wins that many rounds in a row by sheer skill."

Mahito leaned forward, his grin never fading. "Are you suggesting we're playing with cursed energy, Yamada? How scandalous!"

Yamada, still fuming from his loss, grumbled, "This is unfair. You're all ganging up on me."

Mahito, still reveling in his victory, teased, "Oh, should I call your mom to complain? Oh wait, that's right, Geto is your mom!"

Kenjaku, with a smirk, played along, "Are they bullying you, my dear son?"

The room filled with laughter. Choso tried to maintain a serious demeanor but couldn't help chuckling under his breath at the absurdity of the situation.

Yamada's frustration only grew. "Stop it with that joke, Kenjaku. It's getting old."

Kenjaku, still smiling, leaned back in his chair. "But legally, I am your mother, Yamada. You should show some respect."

___________

Hiro lay on the cold, hard ground, his breathing ragged and shallow. Every muscle in his body ached with exhaustion, and his mind was clouded with fatigue. His gaze was unfocused, staring into the void as he tried to comprehend the enormity of what he had just endured and what was yet to come.

The Buddha's laughter echoed through the cavern, both mocking and triumphant. "You only died eight times, Hiro Takashi. That's a new record," the statue proclaimed. "Now, you will move on to phase two – the mental training. This will be divided into two parts."

Hiro barely managed to whisper, his voice strained, "Please, I need to rest."

But the Buddha was relentless. "There are no rests here, Hiro. I will push you beyond your limits. But don't worry, you won't have to do anything for this next training. Your task is to stay awake for an entire month."

Hiro's eyes widened in disbelief and horror. "You must be joking. That's impossible."

The Buddha's laughter grew louder. "Every time your body falls asleep, it will receive an electric shock to wake it up. Don't worry, if you die from a heart attack, you'll just come back to life."

As the Buddha laughed heartily, Hiro felt the edges of his sanity fraying. The thought of enduring a month without sleep, constantly jolted awake by electric shocks, seemed like a torture beyond human limits. The physical training had already taken a tremendous toll on him, and now the prospect of this relentless mental ordeal was almost too much to bear.

Collapsed on the ground, Hiro realized the true nature of the training in the Temple of Buddha. It was not just about physical or mental endurance; it was about breaking and rebuilding, pushing beyond what he thought was humanly possible. The Buddha was testing the very limits of his resilience, both physical and mental.

____________

Mai and Momo were lounging in the common area of the Jujutsu High, flipping through a magazine. Momo paused on a page, pointing at a photo of a well-known American actor with a dashing smile.

"Look at this guy, Mai," Momo said, admiration clear in her voice. "He's way more handsome than Hiro, don't you think?"

Mai glanced at the photo and then back at Momo with a smirk. "No way. Hiro is on a whole different level. There's just something about him that's... unparalleled."

Momo raised an eyebrow and chuckled. "Oh, come on, Mai. You're so smitten with him that you can't even see straight. It's like he's cast a spell on you."

Mai's cheeks flushed slightly, but she maintained her stance. "It's not just about looks. Hiro has this charisma, this presence. And his skills as a sorcerer? Come on, that's attractive in its own right."

Momo laughed, playfully nudging Mai. "I get it, I get it. You're head over heels for him. But just for a second, try to imagine someone else. Like this actor here – he's charming, famous, and look at those eyes!"

Mai took another look at the magazine, then shook her head with a smile. "Sorry, Momo. Hiro's just... different. And it's not just about being in love. He's really something special, both as a person and a sorcerer."

Momo sighed dramatically, closing the magazine. "Well, I guess there's no competing with your Prince Charming. But you know, it's good to have options."

Mai shrugged, her tone playful yet candid. "What other options? In Kyoto, there's just Toudo, who's a complete maniac, Kamo, who's not exactly my type, and Mechamaru."

Momo giggled, acknowledging Mai's point. "Yeah, you're right. The pickings are pretty slim in Kyoto. Toudo is... well, Toudo. And Kamo, let's just say he's not everyone's cup of tea. As for Mechamaru, well, that's a whole different story."

Mai leaned back, her thoughts wandering. "Exactly. Hiro, on the other hand, he's got this mix of strength and charm. He's unpredictable, and that makes things exciting. Sure, he can be an idiot at times, but there's more to him than meets the eye."

Momo nodded, understanding her friend's perspective. "I guess when you put it like that, Hiro does stand out. He's definitely one of a kind. But just make sure you're not putting him on too high of a pedestal, Mai."

Mai smirked, her confidence unwavering. "I'm not. I see him for who he is, flaws and all. That's what makes him interesting. Besides, a little competition would be good for him. Keeps him on his toes."

____________

Hiro was on the verge of succumbing to the overwhelming need for sleep, his body and mind pushed to their absolute limits. Three weeks without a wink of rest had taken a visible toll on him. His eyes were bloodshot, with dark circles so pronounced they seemed almost bruised. His movements were sluggish, his thoughts jumbled and slow. His once neat hair was now a disheveled mess, and his skin had taken on a pallid, almost ghostly hue.

Just as his consciousness began to slip away, a sudden jolt of electricity surged through his body, snapping him back to wakefulness with a painful shock. He gasped, his heart pounding painfully in his chest, each beat a reminder of the brutal regimen he was enduring.

Buddha's laughter echoed around the cavernous room, mocking and cruel. "Three weeks, Hiro Takashi, and already three cardiac arrests. You're really outdoing yourself."

Hiro, struggling to form coherent thoughts, muttered hoarsely, "This is... inhumane..."

The statue seemed to find amusement in his plight. "But look at the progress you're making. Pushing past human limitations is the essence of this training."

Hiro glared weakly at the statue, frustration and exhaustion battling for dominance in his expression. "Progress... or torture? What's the point of this... if I break before I finish?"

Buddha's tone was merciless. "The point, Hiro, is to transcend. To become more than you ever thought possible. You wanted to be stronger, didn't you?"

The Buddha's smile was almost sinister as he watched Hiro's struggle. "Are you bored, Hiro Takashi?" he asked, his voice echoing through the cavern.

Before Hiro could even attempt to respond, thousands of curses materialized around him, their forms shifting and contorting in the dim light. Hiro's already frayed nerves snapped at the sight. He was beyond exhausted, both physically and mentally, and this new development pushed him to the brink.

"Wait, what is this?" Hiro shouted, his voice cracking from fatigue. "You said I just had to stay awake. Now I have to fight too?"

The Buddha laughed, a sound that reverberated off the cave walls, filling the space with its chilling resonance. "Yes, you will fight them for 24 hours a day for these last seven days of your sleepless month. I was getting bored."

Hiro looked around at the encircling curses, his mind racing. His body was on the verge of collapse, his eyes heavy, his movements slow. The thought of enduring another week of constant battle, on top of the sleep deprivation, seemed like an impossible task.

"How is this training? This is madness!" Hiro protested, trying to gather his waning energy.

The Buddha's voice was cold and unyielding. "This is the path you chose, Hiro Takashi. To surpass your limits, you must face the impossible. Remember, pain is temporary, but the strength you gain from this will last a lifetime."

Hiro clenched his fists, his resolve hardening despite the overwhelming odds. He knew he had no choice but to face this challenge head-on. With a deep breath, he readied himself for the onslaught, determined to survive and emerge stronger, no matter the cost. The battle began, and Hiro threw himself into it with everything he had left, fighting not just for strength, but for his very sanity.

_________

Panda and Inumaki were seated under a tree on the Jujutsu High campus, engaged in a heated discussion that was unusual for their typically laid-back demeanors.

Panda, looking serious for once, turned to Inumaki and said, "You have to understand, Inumaki, communism in its pure form just doesn't work. It's idealistic, but it ignores basic human nature."

Inumaki, usually a man of few words, responded with his unique onigiri speech. "Salmon... Tuna mayo," he said, which, in his unique way of communication, meant something along the lines of, "But it's about equality and helping everyone."

Panda shook his head. "But every time it's been tried, it ends up being corrupt or inefficient. People are just too diverse in their wants and needs for such a system to work effectively."

Inumaki countered, "Onigiri... Wasabi." His point being that while there are flaws, the principles of ensuring everyone's basic needs are met are admirable.

Panda sighed, realizing the complexity of the topic. "I agree that the principles are noble, but the application is where it falls apart. It's like in jujutsu - theory and practice are two different things."

Inumaki nodded, understanding Panda's point but still holding onto his beliefs. "Mayo... Tuna."

Panda, usually the more pragmatic of the two, leaned forward, his expression earnest. "Inumaki, you really should consider dropping that whole communist ideology. It's just going to make you the butt of society's jokes."

Inumaki looked at Panda, his expression showing a mix of surprise and contemplation. He responded, "Shake... Salmon."

Panda sighed, his concern for his friend evident. "I know you believe in the ideals, and I respect that. But you have to think about how it fits into the real world. Ideals are one thing, but practicality is another. You're a smart guy, Inumaki. You know how the world works."

Inumaki, usually not one for long debates, seemed to ponder Panda's words. "Onigiri... Mayo," he finally said, indicating he understood Panda's point but wasn't entirely convinced.

Panda placed a comforting hand on Inumaki's shoulder. "Just think about it, okay? I'm not saying you have to change your beliefs, but be open to different perspectives. That's how we grow."

Inumaki nodded slightly, appreciating Panda's concern and advice. The two sat in silence for a moment, each lost in thought.

__________

The Buddha's laughter filled the cave as Hiro's broken and exhausted form lay sprawled on the ground. Tears streamed down Hiro's face, his sanity fraying at the edges from the relentless torment and resurrection.

"You died 34 times this week, Hiro Takashi," Buddha said, almost gleefully. "That makes a total of 46 deaths in two months. Impressive, isn't it?"

Hiro, pushed beyond his limits, was a shadow of his former self. With a trembling voice broken by sobs, he pleaded, "Enough... please, I want to quit. I can't do this anymore."

But the Buddha's response was a cruel laugh. "Quit? Oh, there's no quitting here, Hiro. Once you start this training, there's no way out until it's complete."

In a moment of despair, Hiro grabbed his katana and swiftly sliced his own neck, his body collapsing into a growing pool of his own blood. The sight was gruesome, but it was short-lived. Almost immediately, his body twitched back to life, the wound sealing itself, leaving behind only a scar as a reminder of his desperate act.

Buddha chuckled. "That's the second time you've tried to end your life, Hiro. But death is not an escape here."

His laughter grew louder, echoing ominously around the cavern. "You still have five months of fun left. Let's see how much more you can endure."

Hiro lay there, gasping for breath, his mind reeling from the trauma. The realization that he was trapped in this cycle of death and rebirth, with no end in sight, was almost too much to bear. But deep down, a flicker of his indomitable spirit still burned. Despite the overwhelming odds, Hiro knew he had to find the strength to continue, to survive this hellish training and emerge stronger. For himself, for those he cared about, and for the balance of the jujutsu world.