Chapter Text
As the end of the month approaches, countless other students like Yuuji Itadori should be doing their homework and finishing their school projects, especially with looming deadlines casting a shadow over them. It’s that time of the month when quizzes and exams are fast approaching—haunting the students with the promise of lack of sleep.
However, just like many other students, Yuuji finds himself succumbing to the peak of procrastination, which strikes unexpectedly, like a tiger ambushing its prey.
It’s a student’s greatest enemy, one that causes a chain of harsh consequences. Whether it be failing grades or parents being greatly disappointed as ending results, it all starts when a student brushes the idea away of studying in favor of doing something they want. Yuuji will soon obviously fall victim to this as he lies comfortably on his bed, playing on his phone rather than paying attention to the abandoned textbooks on his table. He couldn’t help it, he had said so himself internally with a small smile on his face, it was just so tempting playing this fun game.
As a loyal gamer of the video game Jujutsu Kaisen—a multiplayer game that allows players to fight monstrous creatures, connect with other people, and complete missions—Yuuji is adamant about having his name at least recorded on the leaderboards, wanting to be one of the strongest players around since he has been playing this game for years. However, he would be lying if that was his only purpose for continuously playing the game.
Playing the game itself is one reason, but playing the game with someone else…?
Unlike many players, Yuuji formed an unlikely online friendship with someone he's been gaming with since the beta version. While it may seem odd at first, everything felt like a puzzle that is finally starting to fall into place, a friendship so strange that it's somehow befitting… Like it was meant to be this way, and Yuuji couldn’t figure out why.
Yuuji wouldn’t say that his friend is a nice person too, known to be somewhat malicious and abrasive, yet so helpful and intriguing that Yuuji can't resist playing together every single night without fail. Not to mention, this player has been efficient in boosting Yuuji’s progress, thanks to the skills and title this player had earned after years of playing.
The player with the username DisgracedOne holds the unique title of "The King of Curses," a coveted position that only one player can claim. He’s the most formidable competitor in the region, notorious for possessing impressive gaming skills, having dominated national tournaments, and still maintaining his reign even to this day. Thousands of people are intrigued about him, the anonymous individual yet known player who could easily one-shot everyone on the server—with dozens of people claiming he’s been using hacks to do so when, in reality, it’s far from that.
Yuuji is fortunate to count someone of his caliber as a friend. And despite their long-time relationship, due to their ‘gamer’ agreement, neither of them shared their real names. A disappointing thought, yet perhaps it’s for the best. But after Yuuji’s persistent requests to have something to call each other rather than using their respective long username, his friend finally gave in and created an alias for him.
Suna.
Yuuji also chose to create a name of his own, yet he opted for one that closely resembled his given name—Yuu.
Meeting Suna was sort of a miracle. At that time, Yuuji was still new to the game, unfamiliar with its core concepts and the mechanics crucial to master early on. All he really sought was a teammate...
Yuuji scratches his head in confusion. Apparently, he needs to finish this side quest first before he begins on the main mission. However, when he clicks on this NPC in front of him, it provides him with a set of requirements needed to be done to complete this darn side quest. The NPC blabbered to him animatedly and in such a fake voice, “This mission requires two players to complete! Invite a friend to start the mission!”
Yuuji groans out loud. “Oh, this sucks!”
He contemplated for a bit whether to just quit the game or wait till someone came in the area to play with him before ultimately deciding to go to the World Chat to ask for help.
Divergent_Tiger: Hello. I need help to complete the level 10 side mission. It’s this stupid duo mission type. Anyone?
It only took Yuuji a couple of seconds before someone was actually online and responding to him. To him, this was a simple stroke of luck.
DisgracedOne: I’ll be there.
Yuuji grins.
Divergent_Tiger: Awesome! Thank you!
At that time, he was oblivious that he was about to meet the server’s best player. What he initially thought would be a smooth game with this ‘helpful’ player didn’t take long for things to get tense. When Yuuji found out that Suna was actually ranked on the leaderboards, he panicked.
Their first meeting was a mess.
Like many others, Yuuji also became a target of the DisgracedOne’s harsh attitude—becoming a recipient of his infamous remarks, enduring insults, and mockery for being weak and pathetic. Though Yuuji was thankful for the help from a pro, he couldn’t resist rolling his eyes and throwing some insults back. Seriously though, what did this guy expect? Yuuji was only a level 10 player back then! Why all the bullying?
However, Yuuji had the urge to prove himself. Despite his ‘weak’ level, he excelled in doing what he needed to do, and by the end of it all, Suna gave him one compliment that sparks happiness, which burns in his chest.
DisgracedOne: Impressive.
After that, Suna left, and Yuuji thought he could finally move on from the toxic player now that the side mission requiring two players was complete. However, much to his surprise, the next day, he found himself being forcefully invited by the same person again.
DisgracedOne: Don’t assume things. I needed a backup competent enough to last this mission, that’s all.
And then the next, and the next, and the next. So on and forth. Yuuji is confident enough to say that he is a damn good player that even a pro like Suna—someone of his caliber—sought his skills.
But that is only the beginning of their relationship.
Since then, they’ve been friends for years. They slowly grew comfortable with each other. They chat daily, from morning to night. They learned a little bit about themselves, from the littlest things to the personal ones. But not their names.
Ah, but who cares? Their relationship may be odd, but it’s exactly what Yuuji never realized he needed. He enjoys the company of this player behind the screen—funny and helpful when it counts. Suna can be blunt and full of himself, but he's always a bit gentler with Yuuji. And Yuuji may get himself killed if he ever points this out, but this friend of his can be… oh, dare he say… soft only to him.
Countless players have faced the unforgiving nature of DisgracedOne, often reduced to mere challengers—someone who can easily be brushed away—swiftly defeated if they happen to cross him the wrong way. Even professional players struggle to match his skill in 1v1 duels. It’s no exaggeration when they say Suna rightfully holds the top spot on the leaderboards. But with all the negative thoughts circulating about him, and with all the worse acts he had done to other players, it is not always like that for Yuuji. Because the King of Curses only ever tolerates one person… and that is Yuuji himself.
For the first time, Yuuji feels an intense desire to meet the real person. Each time he thought of it, it sent a fluttering sensation through him, a feeling he was fully aware of but had never been able to accept.
Isn’t it so silly to have a crush on a person he only met online?
A crush! A budding one, at that, but a crush nonetheless. Yuuji feels so stupid thinking about it because how could this even happen? Not even meeting the boy, and yet here he was, heart racing at the thought of playing the game with his friend again. A fool, yes, that’s what he is.
Well… it wouldn’t be so bad, right? To fantasize about finally meeting Suna. Not just as a character in a game or through chat conversations but to actually see, speak to, and get to know the person behind the animated playable character. Maybe one day, when they’re older and more mature, Yuuji’s wish might just come true.
Because why couldn’t he wish about it? Especially when every message made Yuuji feel special. As if he matters the most in this massive world they live in. Suna would often ask about Yuuji’s day in the subtlest of ways. He would force Yuuji to spill everything that he’s currently interested in, and Suna would pretend he doesn’t care, only for Yuuji to find out that Suna somehow stored this information later in the future.
One time, Yuuji had wanted to play a game called ‘Animal Crossing,’ something so simple and peaceful. Animal Crossing had been a trend lately, and he wanted to play it with someone. So when Yuuji had notified Suna that he’d been playing the game, Suna had demanded to play together.
A game so odd for a boy like the King of Curses. But does Yuuji ever care? Of course not. This gives him more opportunities to spend time with Suna after all…
They’ve since started playing different kinds of games together, extending to not only just Jujutsu Kaisen but to every multiplayer game possible, indulging both their gaming hearts. Yuuji’s feelings only grew each day as he interacted with Suna, flourishing in every second. He couldn’t help it, of course, when Suna acted so strangely with him. His aggressively sweet attitude causes a strange sensation Yuuji thought he wouldn’t experience until he was old.
In multiplayer shooting games, Yuuji would be prioritized to be rescued when he’s down over and over rather than finishing off opponents or saving other teammates. In survival types when, Yuuji’s character would need food and water to live, and Suna would immediately come to aid by providing his own, berating Yuuji in the process yet still protecting him from the dangers that lurk in the area. After every game they ever played, things would always end with conversations that lasted for hours until it was time to go to bed. Yuuji cannot control himself for ever allowing his heart to open—to develop his feelings for the boy who he may never know in real life.
So, it isn’t so bad to daydream about meeting Suna, right?
Because for now, this will have to do.
Tonight is yet another round of gaming of Jujutsu Kaisen, and it’s not ending in a good light.
This was all his fault.
They were so close to defeating the final boss and completing the mission, but Yuuji had to mess things up! It was supposed to be a smooth battle; each plan was so successful. It got them through the very last floor. Yuuji was a bit too confident, thinking that with their prowess, they could easily beat one of the most difficult missions in Jujutsu Kaisen. Perhaps he was a bit too eager because it’s a special-grade mission as well, wanting to dive into the delicious rewards by defeating every cursed monster there is in quick succession.
Now, Yuuji will be facing the consequences of being too excited over that fact.
But just as his character is about to be crushed, his online friend—and obviously as a pro bearing the highest level attainable—easily swoops in and finishes off the boss with a single, decisive strike before it can get to Yuuji's character.
The boss lets out a final roar and disintegrates into dust, leaving Yuuji and his friend's characters alone. With the realization that he is safe, Yuuji quickly jumps to the chatbox, not even healing his character from the gratefulness of being saved for the umpteenth time, typing…
Divergent_Tiger: Thanks for saving me! I almost got us into trouble, didn't I? T-T
Suna’s animated character, who was some distance away, swiftly closes the gap between them and uncharacteristically hands Yuuji some healing equipment, which the latter takes without hesitation. Barely two seconds later, Suna responds…
DisgracedOne: You're welcome, Yuuji.
Time felt like it skidded to a halt. Yuuji blinks once. Twice. And then realization hit him like a splash of icy water.
Disbelief swiftly swept through his mind, and his eyes were blown wide, and his breath hitched.
‘Wait…’ Yuuji's fingers froze, unable to tear his gaze away from the message as he read it once more. ‘How did he know my real name?’ This, he muses, all the while, leaving his brain trying to process what’s going on because surely… surely… his eyes aren’t lying to him, is it?
In an instant, his mind was overwhelmed with questions, eyes still glued on the screen. Because there’s no way this just happened. Yet the message is clear and bright before him. 'What is the meaning of this?' Is the question his brain could only supply. He hadn’t expected this moment, and he knew for sure that this would certainly change their routine.
It’s not every day that Yuuji is surprised by something so unusual, and when he does, he tends to dismiss it as insignificant in the grander scheme of things. He prefers his life to remain ordinary and uneventful, content with his routine as an average student. With his parents frequently away due to their jobs, Yuuji lives alone, though his grandfather is two houses away, and thus, his life is boring the way he prefers it to be. Nothing impressive to note. Whenever something does manage to surprise him, it momentarily throws him off balance. However, he is always quick to regain his composure, evaluating whether this surprise might impact his life in any way, either positively or negatively. That’s always been his approach.
Perhaps it’s his fault for not considering change. He’s ignorant sometimes, and he blames it on himself for being so used to things that it remains as if nothing has happened with time constantly marching on. He is so used to this unchanging routine that he is unprepared for this suddenness that thrusts on his face at this very moment. He felt all things at once. Unacceptance, disbelief, and even fear.
It’s always been rather simple. School, home, game. School, home, game. Nothing unique and nothing impressive. He’s just an ordinary student…
But when Suna—his online friend who had both haunted players with nightmares and brightened Yuuji's days with his presence—pulls this unexpected move out of the blue, Yuuji finds himself completely caught off guard. He's getting too lenient these days, and when something finally occurs, he can do nothing but feel stupefied.
Panicking, Yuuji nervously types that question.
Divergent_Tiger: How the hell do you know my name!?
It almost feels like it’s done on purpose. Suna's character stands unsettlingly close to Yuuji, gazing at him as if peering into the very depths of his soul. If Yuuji were to describe it, he might suggest that Suna finds the situation amusing, judging by his responses, as if he hadn't done anything out of the ordinary and life-changing.
DisgracedOne: What do you mean? Of course I know your name.
Yuuji’s heart is thundering, his shoulders tensed.
Divergent_Tiger: But I never told you!?
DisgracedOne: You didn’t have to.
Then, a moment later, another message appears…
DisgracedOne: I know your name because we go to the same school.
Yuuji exhaled shakily. His finger immediately moved towards the button to quit the game, but he hesitated when another chat bubble from Suna appeared.
DisgracedOne: Shouldn’t you be studying, Yuuji Itadori?
Yuuji yelps in fright and shuts his phone off.
~~~
While Yuuji is left rather shaken to the core after last night’s incident, he is more confused than actually frightened.
How did Suna know who he was? Did Yuuji somehow mention his name without realizing it? Is this perhaps a stalking situation? Or is Suna so smart that he guessed who Yuuji is after the multiple stories he shared with him alone?
Did he see Yuuji playing on his phone at school?
Suna can’t be a creepy stalker, right? It’s way out of his character. He may be a little crazy about the game, but surely that didn’t reflect his whole persona in real daily living. Still, it caused Yuuji to lack sleep, judging by the dark circles around his eyes once he saw himself in the mirror. He felt apprehensive, knowing full well that Suna was not lying when he said he attended the same school as him. Because how on earth would he know Yuuji’s complete name then?
Despite this, though, Yuuji’s senses are heightened. All these thoughts and questions flooding in his mind had led him to be hyperaware. His eyes are sharp, glancing at one classmate or schoolmate after another, scrutinizing their very faces if they ever look his way strangely. But it appears they are already looking at him that way. It’s not their fault when Yuuji is intently eyeing them down as if they were caught doing something suspicious.
His classmate—a dear friend of his—noticed his recently developed attitude because Sasaki had a look of concern on her face when she stopped him from walking further that morning.
“Hey, Yuuji. Are you okay? You kept stepping on my shoes.”
He stops and blinks rapidly, embarrassment trickling to his cheeks as they flush red. “O-Oh, my bad, Sasaki. I wasn’t paying attention.” Even when he’s hyperaware, it still causes some issues with his attention.
They were both heading to their classroom, still early in the morning, walking at a leisurely pace since they have still a lot of time to spare before classes started. This is also one of many chances Yuuji had to scrutinize and look haphazardly at every single student in the hallways.
Sasaki scoffs. “Obviously. Otherwise, my shoes would’ve remained spotless as always. What’s gotten into you?”
Yuuji couldn’t provide a good answer to that. “Nothing. I just had a really bad nightmare. I couldn’t sleep well at all!”
Oh, how he wish that it was just a nightmare.
“Well, nightmares are only just that. Nightmares. You’ll forget about it soon enough,” Sasaki remarks. “Now, come on. Iguchi is waiting for us.”
In a sense, she is right. Nightmares are only just nightmares, a terrifying dream that people normally experience and one that can be easily forgotten. But this… This isn’t a nightmare, unfortunately. And it is most certainly not a normal experience at all.
It’s two hours to school; lectures are as boring as ever. Yuuji’s professor is kind enough to initiate break time when he notices the exhausted looks on all of his students’ faces even though it’s still the first class of the day and every student roars in delight after the declaration. Yuuji, though, was still at a loss for what to do, and he couldn’t even muster a smile when he knew he desperately needed that break. He rushes out of his classroom, thinking he could buy a snack to hopefully distract him enough about last night’s incident.
It didn’t go as planned.
Yuuji’s train of thought travels to one particular gamer while he walks. Suna has taken over his mind, and it’s getting really disturbing. There’s no solution to this mess, or perhaps there is… It only requires a heck of a ton of effort.
Maybe Yuuji, too, could do a little bit of investigating. If Suna knows who he is by doing something that provides him with information about Yuuji from the start, then surely Yuuji could, too. But really, what will be this something? Where does he even start? A lot of information between them has been shared, but not something too deep that Yuuji could figure out. Maybe he could do a little bit of scrolling through their old messages to see that some hints are—
RIIIING!!
“Crap! The bell!”
The bell signifies his first class is over, meaning his short break that his professor kindly gave them is over as well. His next professor is coming any second now for another class, and Yuuji realizes he is walking way too far from his classroom. Buying a snack isn’t worth it anymore once his next teacher starts to question where he is…
Yuuji starts running.
He zooms past hall after hall, trying not to get caught by professors who might be walking around to go to their next class. Yuuji is nearly there—
“Running is strictly prohibited in these halls!”
Yuuji’s heart nearly leaps out of his chest from the commanding voice thundering behind him, forcing him to a halt. He could’ve kept running, could’ve ignored it. Nothing in those words said that he should stop and listen. What stops him, however, is the fact that he knows that voice all too well.
A voice so infamously known in the school since this individual had represented himself with various school events, performances, and competitions, which landed him in this very position that he now rightfully claims.
Yuuji slowly turns, completely caught in the act, and his face pales at the sight.
The strictest and most intimidating student council member. Sukuna Ryomen. The student president of the year. Yuuji gulps the thick lump stuck in his throat from nervousness.
Some say getting caught by him, out of all council members, is the worst. Students getting caught in his presence are subjected to unjust punishments based on the 'flaw' they made. He’s a stickler for rules, making no exception even to his friends, and is every teacher’s favorite student intellectually and athletically. Many students praise him, often tattling about how he’ll become his year’s valedictorian. And many students agree that he is handsome, with girls chasing after him like puppies after a treat. However, if it weren’t for his rigid rules and his hellbent on punishing students for breaking laws or causing misconduct on the school’s premises, he would’ve been everyone’s all-time favorite.
Sad to say, Yuuji will experience the hellish experience his upperclassmen always warn him about.
“Yuuji, you're quite the troublemaker, but be careful not to get caught by that boy! They say Sukuna Ryomen has four eyes because he quickly spots students breaking the rules no matter what. I have to admit that rumor may sound true... Simply because there’s no slipping past his gaze.”
Yuuji trembles, watching as Sukuna approaches him with that stoic expression he usually wears around the campus. Never mind the fact he’s handsome… He’s too intimidating to even like about! Yuuji thinks this while tilting his head up to look at the rather tall boy, trying to remain calm even when his heart beats like crazy.
“Even the simplest of rules, students still possess the audacity not to abide by them,” Sukuna reprimands, his gaze feels heavy when they drill on Yuuji’s smaller form. “Running is not allowed lest a student slips and falls, causing injury that can be fatal to oneself,” he pauses and then crosses his arms with a brow raised. “Isn’t it annoying, brat? Want to know why?”
“W-Why?” Yuuji meekly utters.
“Because I often ponder if these students are blind since this rule is already cemented on the wall as a warning sign, clear and bright for one to properly read.” And as if to emphasize his point, Sukuna glances to the side, looking at something very specific—an old yet glimmering metal sign posted on the wall that says ‘No Running!’ on it. Yuuji winces at the sight. “To think you’re breaking the most common of rules… Perhaps you’re blind too, but then again, when are blind people known to run so confidently going in a certain direction?”
Man, I am screwed.
“I-I am so sorry!” Yuuji cried, desperation filled him the more he’d been glared at. “I was just trying to go back to my classroom before the next class started! I just wasn’t paying attention, but I promise I won’t do it again!”
But the student president is unmoved, and Yuuji is reminded once again why Sukuna is the last person a student wants to get caught by. “You ought to bear a good reason for wandering the halls during class if you want to avoid punishment. So, what’s your excuse? Last I checked, lunchtime isn’t until a few hours.”
Yuuji forced himself not to shake under the scrutiny of Sukuna’s sharp eyes. “The professor gave us ample time to go grab a snack and drink. He said it’ll be a short break.”
“Well, it seems you’ve extended your time, haven’t you?” Sukuna remarks, bringing up his wrist to glance at his watch. “And the next class just started, a perfect time to report this misconduct to your new teacher.”
Oh, this guy!
“I-What… No!” Yuuji spluttered, pointing at Sukuna accusingly. “It’s your fault now that I’m late! If we weren’t talking right now, I would’ve been in my classroom already!” He’s wrong to start accusing the president of his fault, but he knows all too well that this guy isn’t even nice enough to consider his situation.
If Sukuna was a good leader, he would’ve simply nodded in understanding and allowed Yuuji to pass. Or even walk him to his class to inform the teacher about Yuuji’s minor misconduct. This will never happen.
“And if you would’ve continued sprinting to your classroom, your teacher would’ve caught you already in the process.” And Sukuna isn’t one to back down, too. “Now come, you have no choice but to obey.” With that, he walks away, not even looking back to see if Yuuji is following.
Getting caught by the teacher is much preferred. Perhaps his next professor would understand him! He is just unfortunate that Sukuna is the first person he’s come across with.
Yuuji felt anger, embarrassment, and also defeat all at once. ‘It’s no wonder why no one really likes this guy! He’s literally the last person they want to be caught by! Not the teachers and not the principal!’ Yuuji couldn’t fathom the fact that a lot of students still admire him when he’s a complete ass. He may be only doing his job as a student president, but being reprimanded like a parent to a child is infuriating.
“I could literally say the same thing about you,” Yuuji mutters angrily. “You’re outside, which means you must have skipped your classes right now.”
But Sukuna heard him, and without turning around, he said. “I have student council privileges. My professor understands my role enough to excuse me out of class to perform my presidential duties. Besides, I already understood some, if not all, subjects they could lecture. Unlike you, I have a better and more understandable excuse.”
Yuuji felt his blood boil. The fact that Sukuna is the epitome of perfection clearly sets Yuuji’s mood to an even worse state. Having been told by his online friend that he knows him has been alarming, and now, Yuuji has to deal with this guy who seems like he got a stick up on his ass.
Finally, they arrived at Yuuji’s classroom. If Yuuji allowed his anger to cool down for a little bit, he would’ve wondered how the student president even knew where his classroom was, yet Yuuji was too mad about the whole situation. Sukuna knocked twice and waited. Yuuji’s teacher opens the door and is surprised to find Sukuna standing before her. While Sukuna retold the whole story, Yuuji could only cross his arms and look away defiantly. His prayers are soon crushed when the teacher herself is all too eager to agree with the offer Sukuna had provided as if happy to please him rather than considering her own student’s situation—to allow Sukuna to take control of this matter at hand even when she has the power to do so. Yuuji’s hopes are further stepped on the moment the door is shut, leaving Sukuna and him alone.
I hate this. Yuuji is utterly pissed.
However, the expectation of being subjected to a cruel punishment right there and then is swiped away when the following events confuse him the most because once the door closes on them, Sukuna turns to look at Yuuji and smirks. His professional form is completely gone, becoming that of a languid, lazy pose.
Yuuji blinks.
“Follow me,” Sukuna commands, his tone changed drastically, startling Yuuji in the process. The air of arrogance and the smug face Sukuna bears only confused Yuuji further as he walked past him, their shoulders brushing, and the latter just had to follow his gaze after Sukuna, staring at his back bewilderedly.
“What the hell was that?” Yuuji whispered to himself before reluctantly following Sukuna. It was like Sukuna didn’t have to pretend anymore, acting like a cat that got what it wanted, and Yuuji was so puzzled that it left him to question whether this was all planned or not.
But it couldn’t be, right? Sukuna is simply acting on his duties, not out of whim.
The silence between them is uncomfortable. Yuuji could only do nothing except follow the student president and observe his back from a respectable distance. He knew, of course, that he was in big trouble. He garnered the attention of this member of the student council, one who many of his peers have warned him about, and that alone is scary. Yuuji felt dread in his stomach as he imagined the punishment he was about to receive.
Finally, they arrived at their destination. Yuuji gulps when he realizes that they’re at the student council’s office and gets even more nervous when the office is also empty, leaving them just two. Well, that’s a good thing then, Yuuji mused, at least no one is here to see my doom. He glances at Sukuna nervously, who had shut the door after Yuuji went in, and walks confidently to the head of the table. The student president is quick to settle on the chair there, whilst Yuuji starts to fidget his fingers from apprehension.
“Go on, sit.”
The command forced Yuuji to move, hesitating whether or not to sit close to Sukuna before ultimately deciding to take two chairs away from the latter. Sukuna lifted a brow in amusement as he watched Yuuji fumble around, not even looking at him.
“You’re supposed to complete your math homework, correct?”
Yuuji looks up at him, startled again. How did he know that? “Um, yeah.”
Sukuna nods and faces to his side to pull out a drawer from underneath the table. “Your professor recently covered units two up to three, from pages twenty-five and to thirty-three.” And as if he knew what would Yuuji would ask him, he said. “Your year’s student governor notified me about your recent lessons, so I know what topic you’re currently covering.”
Damn, he sure does take notes of things.
“I-I see,” Yuuji muttered, feeling intimidated at the sight of the math textbook Sukuna pulled from the drawer, already understanding where this was leading.
“The deadline for your homework will be two days from now. Since you have yet to start on that, you may as well do it here and now.”
Yuuji's face fills with surprise as he looks between the math textbook and Sukuna. "Wait, that’s all!?"
"Unless you’re looking to make your punishment even worse..." Sukuna arches a brow, clearly unimpressed. "I can easily make that happen."
“No, no, I’m fine.” But that’s not what surprises Yuuji the most. “Wait a minute. How did you know I haven’t done it yet? What if I actually just finished it?” Maybe Yuuji could be free from this torment now, but the oddness of the situation still didn’t sit right with him. But surely not even his year’s governor told him about every student’s current predicament. Only a crazy person could take note of that!
Then, a small smirk is visible on Sukuna’s lips. “Oh, but you told me.”
Yuuji stared at him incredulously. A flood of questions rushed through his mind, trying to remember if he had ever spoken to Sukuna, the student president, in the past months. He was certain this was their first conversation, and he would definitely have remembered if they had talked before—after all, Sukuna was impossible to forget! But before Yuuji could open his mouth to ask, Sukuna slid the textbook to him along with a paper and a pencil and said. “You have well within an hour to finish.”
“An hour!?”
Sukuna rolls his eyes. “Surely you think I have all the time in the world right now? I have classes to be, duties to be done, and you have another class after this period, too.”
Yuuji groans and hurriedly grabs the textbook. “Alright, fine,” he mutters, snatching the pencil with a little too much force. He starts his homework, oblivious to the man's quiet satisfaction and the softened look cast in his direction.
~~~
“You’re very distracted today.”
The sudden comment from Sukuna had Yuuji startled out of his focus, almost releasing his pencil from his hold as he looked up to find Sukuna already staring at him way too intently.
“S-Sorry?”
“You’re very distracted lately,” Sukuna repeated, leaning back on his chair so nonchalantly. “Why is that?”
Flashes of his online friend’s messages had Yuuji looking away and muttering. “I’m not.”
“Then why do you keep bumping into people and forgetting things?”
Damn. Nobody is lying when people say Sukuna pays too much attention to the littlest of things. His attention to detail is not a laughing matter at all. “A stalker, aren’t you?” Yuuji is brave enough to say. “Why stick to my business? It’s not your problem at all, so what’s your excuse?”
Perhaps the reason why he’s so bold is because he’s gotten sick of having strangers know him all too well. And with the recent incident that took place last night, he isn’t exactly in the mood to be the friendliest person at the moment.
“Because as a president, I always look out for the wellbeing of my juniors and my peers.” Sukuna’s head is held high almost arrogantly. Yuuji felt the need to roll his eyes at the perfectionist for mentioning such a title over again as if Yuuji needed repeating. “Is it wrong to help people, Yuuji?”
Why does he even say his name like that? Yuuji brushes his hair back as if to shake away that strange sensation. Did he even mention his name to Sukuna? Yuuji can’t remember.
“No, it’s just—” Yuuji sighed, looking back at Sukuna and then fighting back the idea of looking away again when he noticed that the latter had his elbow propped up and chin on his palm, studying Yuuji with that heavy, intense, and interested gaze that’s still on him as ever. Yuuji clears his throat, returning his focus. “It’s just a little weird how you kept a close eye on people, is all.” A little? No, more like a hundred times more weirder than usual.
"It's not like that," Sukuna counters. "I'm doing this to ensure everyone stays safe, focused, and taken care of. Now tell me, what's got you so distracted?"
Annoyance begins to set in, and Yuuji snaps. “Look, I told you it's none of your business! Anyway, i-it's kind of weird, so I really can't tell you.” How could he possibly explain his situation? Sukuna wouldn’t even understand!
However, Sukuna simply lets out a noncommittal hum before finally letting out a sigh of defeat. “Fine then, if you insist.”
Silence engulfed the room, spreading like fire through dry wood. Yuuji waited for what felt like minutes, wondering if Sukuna would speak again, before cautiously returning to his homework. Uncertainty lingered in the air as he stole glances at the student president, finally forcing himself to focus on the paper in front of him. If he could get this homework done in record time, then he’d be out of here at the speed of light, too. Away from his presence and certainly away from those eyes.
“I noticed you like to play on your phone during recess.” Sukuna starts again, startling Yuuji for the umpteenth time. Sukuna ignored the glare being sent his way and continued. “Do you know that you are not allowed to use your phones during classes?”
Fuck. How does this man keep knowing!?
“Y-Yeah? I know.”
Sukuna tilted his head, eyes half-closed like a cat basking in contentment. “Are you aware that this is interfering with your studies? If it continues, your grades may suffer to the point where you won't even graduate.”
That’s a harsh way of saying it.
‘What the hell is this guy’s problem?’ Yuuji clenched his teeth, his grip tightening around the pencil in his hand. ‘Does he really enjoy pointing out people’s wrongdoings so much out of the blue?’ “It’s just that classes are really boring.” Yuuji felt compelled to explain himself, like he was unable to hide it from him, and then sent Sukuna another fierce glare. “What do you plan to do about it anyway? You can’t just make a student remove boredom, can you?”
The smirk appearing on Sukuna’s face is enough to give Yuuji an understanding of what he’s going to do.
Yuuji’s shoulders tense. “Wait… Don’t tell me you’ll report this to the teachers.”
Finally, Sukuna shifts in his position. Yuuji felt he could breathe again when Sukuna wasn’t looking like he was so intent on studying Yuuji’s whole form. “Normally, it would have been my responsibility to report any findings to the teachers—” Since when?—“and they will inform your parents about the fact that you’re not doing as well as they would like. Since, after all… You’re distracted with playing games on your phone.”
At the thought, Yuuji felt his stomach churn from fear. “Please don’t.”
“And why shouldn’t I?” Sukuna grins wickedly. “Clearly, one of their students is failing in class.”
Damn this guy. He’s enjoying this!
“Don’t tell them, please!" Yuuji quickly added out of panic. "I promise I’ll do my best from now on.” He would have to beg even harder just to wipe that smirk from Sukuna’s face.
“Is that so?” Sukuna’s tone sounded so fake when he expressed his understanding. “And how will you keep your promise when it clearly shows you don’t put much effort into it?”
“I’m being serious this time! I-I’ll be a good student!”
“And how many times have you repeated that to the teachers? You should know that those lines don’t affect me, unlike your teachers who take pity on you.” Sukuna remained unperturbed at the way Yuuji’s palm curled into a fist. “Perhaps it’s time to inform the principal of your behavior.”
Panic lanced through Yuuji’s heart, and he wanted to leap from his chair just to prevent Sukuna from actually doing so. “Wait, no! I’ll do anything! I-I just need some time.” Getting involved with the principal is where it crosses the line. His parents would learn about this, and his phone would surely be taken away. If that happens, he can't talk with Suna again.
“Time?” Sukuna, unfortunately, stands up from his seat, causing Yuuji's heart to skip a beat in fright. Then, slowly and languidly, Sukuna approaches Yuuji, towering over him. The latter felt so small like this, looking up at the taller boy. “No, no. It’s not time you needed, Yuuji.”
Yuuji felt a surge of fear once more as Sukuna approached him with an unnerving, predator-like confidence. He had to resist the urge to get up and escape, knowing that moving would only draw more attention from Sukuna. And with a fake innocent smile, Sukuna said. “It’s me. ”
“Are you crazy!?”
His shout went ignored as Sukuna slid into the chair next to Yuuji. The unexpected move made Yuuji flinch, prompting him to lean away, heart pumping so fast, as he realized how close they were now. “Clearly, you need some guidance with your studies,” Sukuna said, shifting in his seat to face Yuuji with that same unbearable smug expression. “I’m happy to lend you my help.”
The urge to flee had never gotten so strong. “And w-why do you think you’re fitting to help me? Surely, you have presidential duties to attend to.” Everything about this causes red alarms ringing in Yuuji’s brain. For the first time in his high school life, he feels danger around a student. He never garners any alarming attention from his schoolmates. Sure, he may be praised athletically, but there’s a handful of students capable like him, too. But this one? This is an entirely different matter, and he has no idea why Sukuna Ryomen even wanted to bother an ordinary student like Yuuji Itadori.
“Tutoring can only be effectively provided by capable and knowledgeable students,” Sukuna explains. “Teachers are also available to assist, and this includes members of the student council. Since I meet the initial criteria, I can teach you.”
Oh, hell no.
“Look, I don’t need a tutor—”
“Oh, but you do,” Sukuna cuts in. “Unless you’re fine with not acing your quizzes again. I’m sure you’d like to improve those C- grades, right?”
Yuuji found the entire situation both confusing and unsettling. “I can handle things by myself!”
“But not well as you’d hope.”
Yuuji could only think of one reason for Sukuna's insistence on 'helping' him: perhaps Sukuna was trying to increase his reputation. If the teachers learned of his involvement with a struggling student, it could cast him in a more favorable light. Yuuji imagined Sukuna's actions were aimed at portraying himself as a diligent student eager to assist others rather than leading them to their doom. However, Yuuji couldn't help but feel that Sukuna's true intentions seemed quite the opposite.
Rather than expressing kindness and offering help gently, the threats that are ready to launch out from his voice are what he truly conveys.
A surge of frustration rises in him. The thought of being used as an example didn't sit right with him, and the last thing he needs is to elevate Sukuna's status. A struggling student? The most perfect student helping out a poor kid like him? This is unacceptable. Yuuji can’t hold it back any longer. “Why are you doing this?”
Is Sukuna doing this for entertainment? Is he really bored enough to bother someone like Yuuji all of a sudden? Why is this even happening to him? What even caused this unexpected outcome? It's all unfair!
“As student president, I have a responsibility to help those who are struggling to achieve their full potential,” Sukuna said confidently, using those lines again with his chin raised as he noticed Yuuji trembling with anger. “You’re having a tough time with your studies, and I’d be more than happy to offer you the support you need.”
“And what if I don’t want your help.” It’s not even a question anymore but a declaration.
“Then, best of luck with your meeting with the principal later. I doubt your parents will be pleased about this.” Sukuna tilted his head back, crossing his arms as if lost in contemplation. The harsh words clashed with the feigned innocence on his face. “Hmm… Maybe the principal would be open to my suggestion about enforcing a strict ban on cellphone use in class.”
A heavy silence hung in the air as Yuuji clenched his teeth, staring at Sukuna's irritatingly mocking grin. “What do you think? Doesn’t it sound appealing?”
At the mention of the principal, hopelessness swiftly overcomes Yuuji like a waterfall cascading down at him. “You know what…” Yuuji says after a long pause, “I don’t like you.”
“You’re not the first one to ever say that to my face, brat.”
Yuuji couldn't comprehend how some students idolized this man. It was beyond him how anyone could truly tolerate a person like Sukuna. And let alone to think that a person like Sukuna actually exists in the first place… For the first time in his high school experience, Yuuji felt truly intimidated and threatened by someone who could potentially ruin his life. After all, it was entirely possible. Yuuji is just an average student, while Sukuna is the student president. Many believed he would be the class valedictorian; he was admired and adored by teachers and a local heartthrob, having won the affection of numerous girls and earned the respect of his male peers.
However, those were the individuals who never witnessed this side of Sukuna. Delinquents and fellow troublemakers encounter the darker side of Sukuna, which leads them to harbor a lasting animosity towards him. Sukuna is certainly not easy to deal with. He’s harsh and unyielding due to the threats he issues. Students who create even the slightest disruptions come to realize that Sukuna isn’t just the charming, intelligent student they believed they knew; he’s someone they should have avoided entirely.
Yuuji knows that despite Sukuna has brought some positive outcomes to the school—like winning numerous competitions, earning trophies and medals from various sports tournaments, and ranking at the top of their year—he is also the primary reason for the many restrictive rules enforced in the school. Students who see through Sukuna’s facade, unlike those blinded by his ‘good-student values,’ are acutely aware of this and remain vigilant whenever they encounter him in the halls or cafeteria. They understand the risks that come with his presence and choose to keep their distance.
Yuuji made the mistake of leaving his classroom on this day.
They can’t do anything either, especially when they feel powerless. This power isn’t just about his title as student president; it stems from being a teacher’s favorite, the principal’s preferred student, and an effective leader of his club. Many students resent him because, for some inexplicable reason, he always seems to catch others, even when they’ve only committed the slightest rule-breaking.
Hurrying to school while late, dropping crumbs on the floor, wearing an improper uniform, sporting messy or damp hair, having dirty shoes, slacking off in the library, discouraging couples from getting too close, or even banning unkempt bags—nothing goes unnoticed by those keen, observant eyes. Many students harbor a deep hate toward him, and Yuuji could understand.
Though Yuuji doesn’t really hate him, there’s no one to blame except himself. After all, he left the classroom for a quick snack.
Or maybe… Maybe it’s Suna’s fault. Suna, who had been occupying Yuuji’s brain lately.
That being said, Sukuna evokes a mix of hate and admiration. While he is strict and harsh, he is also incredibly charming, attractive, and worthy of being at the very top.
Yes… Very attractive.
“How about it, Yuuji? Let me teach you a thing or two,” Sukuna purrs with a sly smile, his eyes gleaming with pleasure as he leans forward to properly look at Yuuji's fuming face. And Yuuji ignores the way his heart skipped a beat when the handsome boy moved closer. He can’t help but feel unfortunate, being the next target of Sukuna’s otherworldly demeanor. He gazes downward in defeat, releasing the fists that had clenched in his palms, realizing there’s nothing he can do against someone so flawless that they can get away from almost everything.
“Fine…” Yuuji mutters, not seeing the delighted expression on Sukuna’s face. “I’ll accept your help.” It's best to get over it anyway. Once Yuuji finishes this kind of punishment, he'll be free from Sukuna's scrutiny! No more of being under his watchful eyes!
Or so he thought. Because what he didn't know was the fact that his fate had been sealed. Completely and utterly oblivious that Sukuna Ryomen will never let him go.
~~~
Yuuji went home as fast as he could that night and immediately went online the second his phone reached his Wi-Fi. Suna would be online in a couple of minutes, and Yuuji could do nothing except wait. All thoughts of Sukuna are gone. Everything started because of Suna, and now Yuuji will have to suffer from all the things he has just experienced.
Finally, Suna is here. His animated character in Jujutsu Kaisen, sporting four arms, and a taller, huge frame, almost engulfed Yuuji’s own. That didn’t deter Yuuji, though, as he chatted straight to the point.
Divergent_Tiger: Dude, do we know each other irl? Have we ever talked???
DisgracedOne: Yes.
Yuuji’s heart is pounding at that one lone word.
Divergent_Tiger: omg IS THAT YOU IGUCHI!?
There’s a pause from the other’s end, and then…
DisgracedOne: You’re an idiot. How did you come to that conclusion. I’m obviously not!
Divergent_Tiger: DON’T TELL ME THIS IS SASAKI IM TALKING WITH!!
DisgracedOne: Last I checked, I’m a male.
Divergent_Tiger: Then, who are you?
DisgracedOne: Just keep guessing.
Divergent_Tiger: Uhhh
Divergent_Tiger: You’re not Junpei are you?
DisgracedOne: Didn’t I tell you yesterday we both go to the same school?
Divergent_Tiger: omg idk who u are. youre just lying to me right now, arent you?
DisgracedOne: Why would I be lying to you, sweetheart?
Yuuji blinks. ‘Sweetheart?’ That was new. Suna is messing with him again, as always. He lets out an irritating sigh.
Divergent_Tiger: ok look. I give up. Idk who else i could think of.
Divergent_Tiger: You’re not stalking me, right?
DisgracedOne: Maybe.
Yuuji shudders.
Divergent_Tiger: IS THAT YES OR NO!?
DisgracedOne: Fine.
DisgracedOne: Yes.
This is crazy.
Yuuji’s heart beats so loud he swears anyone can hear it in close distance. There’s fear palpating in the room, all coming from him as he reads that one word repeatedly. Suna isn’t that crazy, right? Right!?
So, he playfully chatted, even when his fingers were starting to shake.
Divergent_Tiger: Ok. so ig you’re a certified creep. I should’ve known.
DisgracedOne: Hardly. I only want to know you a bit more.
A bit more!? Then why does he know Yuuji in real life!? To that extent?
Divergent_Tiger: You want to know me a bit more? Dude. You already know me more than usual.
DisgracedOne: Not quite.
Divergent_Tiger: Oh yea? Is knowing my name and where I go to school and actually meeting each other not enough for you???
DisgracedOne: No.
This guy… Yuuji sighs.
Divergent_Tiger: Srsly?? What else do you want to know more about me? Like what???
DisgracedOne: Hmm..
Yuuji waits with bated breath. The awaiting reply took seconds than usual.
And then—
DisgracedOne: Like how your lips feel against mine.
Yuuji’s brain shortcircuited. He had to pull his phone away, far away from his face.
He tries to recall a time when Suna has been acting strange to the point that it led to this confession. He tries to connect the dots, wanting to know where this started. If Yuuji considers those moments when Suna was protecting his character, helping him level up, ignoring the rest of their teammates in favor of assisting him or chatting with him all night long, then perhaps that was the starting point of it all.
Surely his brain is projecting things? Surely this is all just a dream?
How did this come to be? What was the sign? How is Yuuji so blind to this? But perhaps he's always been so blind, as pointed out by Sukuna Ryomen hours earlier. So blind, in fact, that Suna, too, also has feelings for Yuuji and it happened right under his nose in the midst of nursing his own crush too! It's a strange concept… and one that Yuuji will have a long time accepting.
It didn’t stop there.
DisgracedOne: Or how you taste like once I kiss you. Or how warm you feel in my arms.
The confusion muddled Yuuji’s brain so much that he had to stop there and process the messages laid out before him. And even when he snaps out of his shock, he tries to type out a reply but can’t.
He starts to contemplate blocking Suna forever but…
DisgracedOne: Don’t block me. It’s futile. I already know who you are in person so it doesn’t really matter.
Yuuji inhaled and released it heavily.
Divergent_Tiger: Look.
Divergent_Tiger: I need to block you.
Divergent_Tiger: You’re weird and it’s not funny.
DisgracedOne: This isn’t a laughing matter anyway.
DisgracedOne: Like I said, I do want to know you more.
DisgracedOne: But first, I’m going to make you like me.
Yuuji feels numb all over.
DisgracedOne: Yuuji, my sweet tiger of mine. I can’t wait to start.
Yuuji isn’t ready. He isn’t ready at all. His crush on him has grown exponentially, but to think that Suna has been forming this strange obsession with him is too much. A crush is fine… But this!?
This crosses a line. To think that Yuuji considers himself weird for liking someone online…
Divergent_Tiger: Oh yea?
Divergent_Tiger: And how are you going to do just that? I already found you weird.
DisgracedOne: Oh, you’ll see, brat…
DisgracedOne: You’ll see ;)
If it weren't for Yuuji's crush on Suna, he would've blocked him right there and then. Yet here he is, allowing himself to sink deep into a completely new territory for them both. And Yuuji, for some reason, didn't want to get himself out of it.
~~~
[ YEARS AGO ]
“How unacceptable.”
The decision to hold their meeting in this small shop fills Sukuna with a seething anger. He’s baffled by the poor judgment of using such a private space for an important and confidential project that it made him stand in the center of the shop, surveying every corner with disdain.
He’s enrolled in a prestigious school for the elite, but things are already off to a disappointing start. One of his group members picked a cheap place for their project planning, and already, the first year of high school was starting to dampen his spirits.
The old dingy place smells even strange, and the food here looks so disgusting he might as well barf.
He's the heir to the Ryomen Clan, for heaven's sake! One day, he'll lead with pride! His classmates come from Japan's wealthiest families, and they couldn't manage to choose the right location he generously assigned to them. It's honestly frustrating—they've barely contributed to the planning, and Sukuna kindly gave them this straightforward task: find a suitable place for their meeting… and they messed it up!
Sukuna lets out an exasperated sigh and begins to walk toward his oblivious groupmates at the far corner table. However, something catches his eye, causing him to halt.
He turns to see a young boy, likely around his own age, sitting alone at a table. The boy is completely absorbed in whatever game he's playing on his phone. Unbeknownst to Sukuna, he is drawing nearer to the oblivious, distracted student, moving closer and closer, and the latter has no idea someone is standing behind him. Now, Sukuna finds himself watching the boy play, not completely understanding why he's even doing this.
Sukuna notices the game this pink-haired boy has been playing. Jujutsu Kaisen.
Ah, how strange.
Then, out of curiosity, he glances at the boy’s username—and his eyes widen just a bit, surprise clear on his face.
What are the odds?
He was surprised to come across a username he recognized well—one he had been interacting with for the past few months. Sukuna stood there, now openly observing the boy’s figure with keen interest.
This uniform… It must be that school near this shop.
What are the odds, indeed… A smirk enters Sukuna’s face as a plan formulates in his mind.
That day, he ultimately decides to transfer schools next year—the same one attended by the person who calls himself 'Yuu.' Even if the school isn’t to his liking, even if the school is no longer the highly coveted school that wealthy people could only afford, Sukuna is willing to sacrifice such prestigiousness just to know more about this boy before him.
And ‘Yuu’ is unaware that a boy standing behind him is starting to form an obsession that will last for years to come.