Satoru’s vision blurred slightly as he blinked, trying to refocus on the path ahead. The constant use of his Six Eyes had taken its toll, and he could feel the weight of his fatigue pressing down on him. But no way in hell would he admit it.

"Why do we always have to be the one doing all the work?" he grumbled, his voice dripping with irritation. God, he was tired. His head throbbed with every heartbeat, and his vision blurred slightly at the edges. He knew he looked terrible; even with his limitless energy, the lack of sleep was catching up to him. "I mean, what’s the point of being the sorcerer if all it gets you is endless missions and no sleep?"

"They should fend for themselves," he continued, his tone more bitter. Every few minutes, his eyes would twitch involuntarily "Why do we have to protect the weak? It’s their problem if they can’t handle it."

The truth was, Satoru's head felt like it was going to explode. He hadn’t slept in days, his brain was frying from the continuous strain of his technique, and every step felt like a colossal effort. He was beyond tired, but admitting that would mean admitting he had limits. And Satoru Gojo didn’t have limits.

At least, that’s what he told himself.

He glanced over at Suguru again, hoping his friend didn’t notice the bags under his eyes or the way his hands shook slightly from exhaustion. Suguru had always been there, and Satoru knew he could rely on him. But he didn’t want to seem weak, not even to him.

"Seriously, these missions are a joke," Satoru said, trying to inject some of his usual arrogance into his voice. "I could do this with my eyes closed. Literally."

The truth was, he wanted to close his eyes right now and sleep for a week, but he pushed that thought aside. He had to keep going. As long as Suguru was by his side, he could manage. Or at least, that’s what he kept telling himself.

But even the strongest sorcerer had his limits, and Satoru was dangerously close to reaching his. He just hoped Suguru wouldn't push him to admit it.