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Chapter Text

16 June, 2018, Sendai, 2200 hours

It was a serene night. The moon was high up in the sky. A light breeze was blowing across the landscape.

Tsumiki opened the door of the little shed. Beside her was Megumi Fushiguro, a first year student of Tokyo High. He was fairly tall, with long, spiky black hair, which gave him the appearance of a sea urchin, and blue eyes. He was wearing a standard jujutsu student uniform.

The shed was empty. The box that was supposed to be inside, was gone. This was an alarming situation. Megumi immediately called their teacher, Satoru Gojo.

Megumi : Code Red. The talisman isn't here anymore.

Gojo : Oh no. Get to work both of you. I'll arrange a hotel. No coming home until you find it.

The phone hung up. Megumi was annoyed. So typical Gojo.

Megumi : We're gonna have to stay here for awhile.

Tsumiki : Oh. But at this hour, will we find a hotel?

Megumi : Gojo sensei said he's looking into it.

Megumi's phone rang up again, Gojo had called them to give directions to the hotel. This was annoying. Megumi couldn't have asked for a worse situation, even if he had begged for it.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

17 June, 2018, Sendai West Junior High School, Spare Storeroom, 1430 hours

Sasaki : Our world is cursed by humanity's sins. There exist other beings with us, who inhabit this world. Beings, who are very different from us. Who are, much more powerful.

Iguchi : One such being inhabits our own school grounds. The spirit of a deceased construction worker, who now haunts the school playground. As a result of his influence, students have been falling ill one after the other!

The lights of Storeroom lit up. On another chair sat the third member of the so called Occult Club. Yuji Itadori. Tall for his age, sharp eyes. Heterochromic, and he was somewhat unique. He had two sets of bi-colour eyes. His left one was green-yellow and his right one was blue-red. A set of square-shaped, rimless glasses adorned his face. A head of pink hair, with bits of black on the top, and brown hair at the back. Sharp jawline, high cheekbones. Strong, muscular, athletic. The man every woman fantasized about. There were even scars on his face. One across his right eye, and an x-shaped one on the left side of his head. He was wearing the school uniform, yet somehow he was owning the outfit. He was smiling, a borderline smirk.

Sasaki and Iguchi looked at him with expectant eyes.

Sasaki : How was it?

Yuji : Sounds plausible. And mysterious.

Just then, the door of the storeroom opened and the student council president entered. A pretty ugly guy, with a bowl haircut and glasses. He tried to put up an air of confidence.

President : This room isn't meant for you. Vacate now!

Sasaki : But we submitted a form stating that this was the room of our club.

President : Well, your club doesn't fit the criteria of three members.

Iguchi : Why not?

The coach appeared on the scene. Obnoxious and bald, he tried his best to appear as imposing as possible.

Coach : Because Itadori is in the track team.

Yuji : I didn't put my name there.

Coach : I know. I did. Face it or not, we need you in track.

Yuji : Not interested.

Coach : You don't have a choice.

Yuji : Then let's have a little contest. Shot put. If you can throw further than me, you win and I become part of the track team. If I throw further, I stay right here.

Coach : Challenge accepted.

Within moments, the ground was set up and measuring tape was arranged for. Students had gathered to see who would be foolish enough to challenge Yuji Itadori.

Megumi was lurking nearby, strolling along the playground, seeing weaker curses abound. This wasn't so unusual in schools. He came closer to see what the commotion was about.

The coach picked up his shot put ball. It was heavy. He threw it as far as his body could allow. A student measured with a measuring tape.

Student : 8 metres.

Yuji picked up his ball. He chucked it lightly. It went and broke the side of the goalpost. The student ran with the measuring tape.

Student : 25 metres.

Megumi couldn't believe his eyes. He had seen a world record being broken. In a setting as ridiculous as this.

The coach had to back off. Sasaki and Iguchi had been watching from the sidelines.

Sasaki : Whoa! He's that strong?

Iguchi : He was known as the Tiger of West Junior High. Can't be in vain.

Yuji walked up to the two, who had somewhat sad expressions on their faces.

Yuji : Why the long faces?

Sasaki : You really should have joined any of the sports teams. We'll just be wasting your time.

Yuji : It's fine. I need to get off by 5 o'clock anyway.

Iguchi : It is 5 o'clock right now.

Yuji : Oh shit, I have to run. Thanks for bringing my bag, Iguchi. I'll see you two tomorrow.

Yuji took his bag and ran. On the way, his path crossed with Megumi. The particular properties of cursed energy emanating from him left no doubt in Megumi's mind that Yuji was the one who took the box. However, before he could say something, Yuji was gone.

Yuji bought a bouquet from the florist, and went towards the hospital where his grandfather was admitted. At a road crossing, he had to wait for some time. A baby reached out for the flowers but Yuji pulled them away, subsequently he took one flower and gave it to the baby. The mother apologized and thanked him.

Yuji reached the hospital and walked towards his grandfather's room. It wasn't that impactful of a sight, in fact, it was pretty neutral. Some people were rejoicing that they lived to see another day. Others lamented the death of their loved ones. Yet others, mostly the staff, were indifferent and carried on with their duties.

Yuji entered his grandfather's room. Wasuke Itadori, the man in question, opened one eye to see who it was. Then he closed it and his face became annoyed. He was an old, wrinkly man with spiky grey hair pushed backwards. Apparently he had had a fuller head in his youth, something that Yuji found difficult to believe.

Wasuke : I thought I told you not to come. And especially not to waste your money buying flowers for me.

Yuji : They're not for you. They're for the nurse.

Yuji put the flowers in a vase by he window. Of course it was a lie. They both knew.

Wasuke : Yuji. About your parents....

Yuji : Zip it. I'm not interested.

Wasuke : Didn't you hear me?! It's about your parents!

Yuji : And I said I don't care!

Silence fell around them. Wasuke was sulking. He turned around, away from Yuji.

Wasuke : Like it's a man's fault to want to go out in style.

Silence again. This was becoming tedious. Yuji waited by the window.

Wasuke : Yuji. You're a strong kid. So help as many people as you can. Even if it's just one person, it's fine. And don't die alone, like me. Die surrounded by loved ones. Forget all that has happened until now and make a new life for yourself.

Yuji : You're not alone, grandpa. I'm here.

Wasuke : Just a matter of half an hour more. Then it'll be over. I'm sorry I'm leaving you alone.

Yuji : Don't be. I'm glad you won't have to suffer anymore.

Wasuke felt reassured. Like he wasn't making the wrong decision. Yuji had always been too mature for his age.

Yuji : I'll be going to the loo.

Wasuke hummed in affirmation. Surely he would come back soon.

Yuji entered the washroom and entered a cubicle. And then, the electric current to the hospital was cut off. The lights went out. Darkness fell upon them.

Chapter Text

The lights had been off for about half an hour. Yuji's stall had been locked off from the outside. The entire hospital was in a state of panic. The hospital's electric team had been working on the circuits, having found an encrypted jammer with a timer. There was no current. Machines weren't working. Patients were going into critical state. All while something more sinister was going on.

Another hour later, the current came back on. Yuji broke through the door and bolted towards his grandfather's room. He ran across the corridor and reached his grandfather's room, and was met with a horrible sight. Wasuke lay there, dead. His body, slashed. Massive wounds all over his torso. And blood having soaked the entire bedsheet. So this was it. The last victim of the Sendai Skinface.

During this time, a lot of critical operations had been stalled. Life support systems had shut off. Other medical systems, like dialysis, had also been cut off. Surgeries had been halted. A total of 160 people had died in this incident. All just so the Sendai Skinface could kill one man.

Yuji sat onto a chair, his eyes, shrunken, and his face pale as paper. He had no words to say, even as hospital staff came and took Wasuke away.

For the next few hours, the staff sorted out the formalities upon Wasuke's death. Yuji sat in the reception, feeling numb and sensation less.

At around 8 or so, he was called upon. He went to the reception and saw the papers, read through them and signed them. Then, he walked out of the hospital, looked at the sky, once, sighed exasperatedly, and walked away. Wasuke's body would be released tomorrow, and then Yuji could proceed with the cremation and all.

Soon after, someone entered the reception and enquired about Yuji. It was Megumi. He walked in the direction where the pink haired boy had walked. He spotted Yuji at a traffic crossing and approached him. Tsumiki walked beside him.

Megumi : Yuji Itadori?

Yuji turned around. He was smoking a cigarette. He tucked a lighter into his pocket, which was noticed by Megumi. So he was a punk of sorts.

Yuji : Yes?

Megumi : Did you pick up an old box from a shed recently?

Yuji : What about that?

Tsumiki : We want it back.

Yuji : And why should I give it to you?

The Fushiguro siblings presented their student ID cards. Grade 2 sorcerers for both.

Yuji : What the hell? Sorcerers? Is that a joke?

Tsumiki : No, we're actually sorcerers.

Yuji sighed and ruffled his hair. This is unbelievable. He took out the box from his other pocket and handed it to them.

Megumi took the box and opened it. It was empty.

Megumi : Where's the talisman?

Yuji : Oh, that is with my friends.

Tsumiki : And where are they?

Yuji : At the school. They're gonna open the seals tonight.

Megumi : And put their lives in danger.

Yuji : What?

Tsumiki : Quick. We need to get there. Show us the way.

-----------------------------------------------------------

Sasaki and Iguchi sat in the dark room, lit by a lantern, with the talisman. Sasaki was unwrapping the seals.

Iguchi : Are you sure that's right?

Sasaki : Let's see.

The seals came undone. Inside was a rotting finger. The two looked at it quizzically. What they didn't notice above them was the creature emerging through the ceiling.

Yuji, Megumi and Tsumiki ran towards the school, Yuji leading the way. They stopped at the gate.

Megumi : Wait here, we'll be back with your friends.

The Fushiguro siblings ran inside. Yuji watched, tense, as they disappeared into the building.

Megumi : Divine Dogs.

His chant summoned two wolf shikigamis, one black and one white.

Sasaki was hiding behind a beam, careful to not make a noise and attract the attention of the monster that was looking for her. She looked up and heard Iguchi.

Iguchi : Sasaki?

Sasaki : Iguchi, thank God, you-

There was a smaller monster attached to his head. He was bleeding. Sasaki screamed in horror.

The Fushiguro siblings reached the place and found the two in the grip of the cursed spirit. Tsumiki brought her thumb and index finger positioned in front of her eye, ready to unleash her technique.

Outside, Yuji was still standing. His grip on the gate had turned his knuckles white and bent the gate itself. He thought over what his grandfather had said. To help people, even if just one. Now was his chance. To fulfill the wish of his grandfather. His chance at a redemption.

He steeled his resolve and gripped the metal bars even tighter. He propped himself up, and jumped. He crashed through the window, avoided the cursed spirit's claws, punched it in the eye, grabbed the unconscious Sasaki and Iguchi, and jumped away from it.

Tsumiki, who had watched in astonishment, now activated her power and paralysed the cursed spirit. Megumi's Divine Dogs charged at it and tore it up and ate it.

Yuji put the two onto the ground, the talisman in his hand. He looked at the Divine Dogs eating the cursed spirit.

Yuji : That looks gross.

Megumi : You can see them?

Yuji : Yeah, why not? They're right there.

Tsumiki : Well they're shikigamis. Not visible to normal people. Only in exceptional conditions such as dense concentration of cursed energy, or while approaching death, can a person see them.

Megumi : By the way, give me that.

Megumi stretched out his hand to take the finger from Yuji. Just then, another cursed spirit broke through the walls, much stronger than the previous one, and blasted a huge ball of cursed energy, which sent them hurling through the walls, and onto a terrace.

Megumi curled up his fists and brought it into a sign. Just then, Yuji reappeared and hit its eye, rupturing it. They were all evidently after the cursed finger. Yuji threw it into the air, but was caught by the cursed spirit as he attempted to jump. He caught the finger in between his teeth, flung it up again, and swallowed it. Then, he went limp.

Megumi : No! Why did you swallow that, you idiot?!

No sign of life from Yuji.

Megumi : That was a special grade cursed object. A deadly poison. Most people die before anything happens. But, in the rare case they don't, in the one in a million chance he survives....

Yuji's body came back to life and broke through the cursed spirit's grip. Then, he hurled a gust of cursed energy through the wind, that slashed the cursed spirit into two. The body was Yuji's. But it wasn't him.

The moon peeked out from behind the clouds. The light fell upon the figure standing in front of them. Tsumiki sat up, wincing from the pain of the impact, blood trickling from her mouth. Megumi had blood flowing from his skull. They watched with bated breath.

Two extra eyes appeared under Yuji's own. They were all bi-colour, like his. A type of reddish brown. A mad laughter, unlike Yuji's voice, rang through the air. This was it. The one in a million worst case scenario. The cursed spirit of the object had been reincarnated. And this one was none other than Ryomen Sukuna himself.

Sukuna : WHAT A WONDERFUL FEELING! THE SENSATIONS OF LIGHT! AND AIR! TO BE EXPERIENCED IN THE FLESH, INSTEAD OF A DISGUSTING CURSED SPIRIT!

Sukuna tore off Yuji's yellow hoodie. Yuji was certainly athletic. Or was this Sukuna's physique? He had even grown claws on his right hand.

Sukuna stood on the railing, feeling the world after a 1000 years.

Sukuna : WHAT A WONDERFUL TIME TO BE ALIVE! WOMEN AND CHILDREN CRAWLING AROUND LIKE MAGGOTS! IT'LL BE A MASSACRE!!!

Suddenly, the right hand grabbed the throat and pushed the body back.

Sukuna : Huh? Brat, you're not dead yet?

Yuji : No. Give me back my body.

No one could believe it. Two voices from the same body.

Sukuna couldn't make sense of this? How could a mere brat like him resist the King of Curses?

Megumi brought his hands into a sign again.

Megumi : Yuji Itadori, do not move. As per jujutsu law, I'm required to exorcise you as a cursed spirit.

Just then, someone called out to him.

Gojo : Yo, Megumi. Tsumiki.

Megumi turned around. There he was. Satoru Gojo.

Megumi : Gojo sensei? What are you doing here?

Gojo : Oh well, I had come to take sweets, and ran into you two here. You look pretty beaten up.

Gojo took out his phone and took photos.

Gojo : I'll show these to the second years.

Megumi : Please stop.

Gojo : So, where's the finger?

Yuji : I ate it.

Silence. And confusion.

Gojo : You, what?

Yuji : Yeah.

Gojo walked closer to Yuji and inspected him thoroughly. Then he smiled, impressed.

Gojo : You really managed to contain Ryomen Sukuna? How does it feel?

Yuji : Nothing special.

Gojo : Interesting. Could you let him out once? Only for ten seconds.

Yuji : Are you sure? He was just screaming about massacring women and children.

Gojo kneeled down and stretched, confidence etched onto his face.

Gojo : Don't worry. I'm the strongest here.

He chucked the bag of sweets he had bought towards Megumi, and started blabbering about some sweets of Sendai, that frankly, others could do without knowing. In fact, Megumi was more worried about Sukuna over here.

Megumi : Watch out!

Sukuna had stealthily transferred body with Yuji and jumped towards Gojo, crashing into the spot where he had been standing. When the dust cleared, Megumi was face to face with the King of Curses. And Gojo was sitting on top of him. Sukuna charged at Gojo, who seemingly disappeared, only to reappear a split second later.

Gojo : My students are watching me, afterall.

He grabbed Sukuna and threw him to the side, then sent a gust of cursed energy, aided by a very faint Red Divergence to repel him away. Sukuna quickly recovered and charged back.

Sukuna : You jujutsu sorcerers have been a nuisance across ages!

He flung cursed energy enhanced debris at Gojo, which seemingly crashed into him. Once the dust cleared, the debris were floating in air, and Gojo was unharmed.

Sukuna : What the-

Gojo : 8. 9. And 10. Alright Itadori, thanks for indulging.

Sukuna felt a searing pain in his chest, almost as if his heart was being forcefully stopped. He fainted, giving way to Yuji to gain control back of his body. Gojo, Megumi and Tsumiki watched with amazement.

Gojo : So you really can control Ryomen Sukuna!

He put two fingers on Yuji's forehead, knocking him out. He caught the boy, and turned to his students.

Gojo : What should be done now?

Megumi : Gojo sensei. No matter what happens, please don't let him die.

Gojo : Is this for a personal reason?

Megumi : Consider it so.

Gojo : Fine. As you wish. Freshen up, both of you. We're going back to Tokyo.

Chapter Text

June 18, 2018, Undisclosed location, unknown time

Yuji came around. A trickle of blood had dried at the corner of his mouth. He was in a strange room, surrounded by archaic seals and symbols, he didn't quite understand. He tried to move, but found himself bound, with his hands behind his back, and him on a chair.

An little yellow orb lit up the entire room. Sitting in front of him was Satoru Gojo. Wearing his signature grin of pride. Waiting for Yuji to wake up.

Gojo : Welcome. I was waiting for you.

Yuji : Who are you?

Gojo : Satoru Gojo. First year instructor at Tokyo Jujutsu High. Teacher to the siblings you met.

Yuji : Oh right, where are they?

Gojo : They're on their way to Tokyo.

Yuji : And where are we?

Gojo : We're in a containment room at Sendai Auxiliary Outpost 22. Meant to detain prisoners. In this case, that's you, Yuji Itadori.

Yuji : How do you know my name?

Gojo : Who doesn't know your name? Yuji Itadori. The strongest student in all of Japan. You're practically a celebrity.

Yuji : What do you want?

Gojo : Try to understand. If any human eats Sukuna's finger, they'll die of poison. If a cursed spirit eats one, they become stronger, without reincarnating Sukuna. You are a once-in-a-millenium talent, who is able to effectively contain Ryomen Sukuna, despite his conscious reincarnation. As such, you have been sentenced to death.

Yuji : What?!

Gojo : Don't worry. I was able to stall it. You won't be executed immediately.

Yuji : What do I have to do?

Gojo : Eh?

Yuji : You couldn't have done it just like that. You want something from me. Why else would you be interested in this matter?

Gojo : Smart. If a bit pessimistic. But yes. I have a mission for you.

He searched through his pocket and produced another of Sukuna's fingers, identical to the one that Yuji had consumed a few hours ago. He held it up for Yuji to see.

Gojo : Another of Sukuna's fingers. There are twenty of them in total.

Yuji : Both arms and legs?

Gojo : No. Sukuna had four arms. His soul, power, cursed energy and technique were stored among his twenty fingers. These have traversed the ages and have become cursed objects. Jujutsu Society currently has eight of these fingers, alongside two more under surveillance, one of which you consumed last night.

Yuji : Why don't you just destroy them?

Gojo : Good question. Believe me, we've tried. But...

Gojo flung the finger into the air. As it fell, he shot a powerful burst of cursed energy towards it. The finger was blasted and embedded into a small crater in the wall, but was unharmed.

Gojo : They're indestructible. They were greatly weakened in the Heian era, when Ryomen Sukuna was sealed. However, over the ages, they've become stronger. And now they're dangerously close to regaining their original strength, which could wreak havoc. But here's the deal, if Sukuna's fingers find a suitable host and the host dies, Sukuna dies with him. And here's where you come in.

Yuji : What do you mean?

Gojo : Here's the reason how I postponed your death sentence. I proposed that we let you live for now, and have you consume all twenty of Sukuna's fingers. Once all fingers are there, then we execute you. This way, Sukuna will die with you. Your body has a congruence with Sukuna that has never been seen before. So, the choice was simple. Either have you die now, and wait for another thousand years for another vessel, or get rid of Sukuna now. Now, the choice is yours.

Yuji : Either die now. Or live a little longer, eat all of Sukuna's fingers, and die after that.

Gojo : Exactly.

Yuji stared at Gojo with a deadpan expression.

Gojo : It's fine. Take your time. Think it over. I know this is a huge decision.

Yuji went silent. He was thinking. He could effectively die now.

Yuji : Were they okay?

Gojo : Megumi and Tsumiki? They'll be fine.

Yuji : Not just them. Sasaki and Iguchi?

Gojo : They're fine too. In hospital, for their injuries.

Yuji went back into thought. He had technically already fulfilled his grandfather's words. He had helped his friends. And if he died now, it wouldn't matter of he had any loved ones or not. He didn't have any anymore. Was it worth it? But then, his death would be in vain. It would be meaningless. To have gone through all that, only to die so pathetically, the idea felt disgusting. This could be the redemption he had been desperately wishing for. The redemption he had hoped to have.

Yuji : Would this help anyone?

Gojo : Almost 10000 people go missing in Japan every year due to curses. If Sukuna dies, that number could be reduced to half.

So, people would still be in danger. But Yuji could save some people. That was his comforting thought. His mind had cleared, he knew what he would do.

Yuji : I will go with you.

Gojo : Excellent choice.

Yuji : But I have a condition.

Gojo : Go on.

Yuji : I will first take care of my grandfather's funeral. Then I will go to Tokyo.

Gojo : Sure. Works for me. What all do you want to do?

Yuji : Just Matsugo-no-mizu. Followed by cremation. Then, burial at our hometown, Kitakami. Nothing much.

Gojo : You're from Kitakami?

Yuji : You got a problem with that?

Gojo : Nope. No. Just curious.

Yuji : Ok. Now untie me.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

June 19, 2018, Sendai Auxiliary Outpost 22, 1800 hours

The entire previous day had been used up in getting the paperwork ready to release Yuji. Then, more paperwork to get Wasuke's body released. Finally, the priest had come and the  Matsugo-no-mizu had been done. Now, the windows were setting up the cremation chamber, as Yuji and Gojo sat outside, with Wasuke's body.

Gojo : You alright?

Yuji : Yeah.

Gojo : Anyone who needs to be informed? Any relatives?

Yuji : All dead. I was grandpa's last living relative.

Gojo went silent. This was clearly a sore topic for the boy.

Sometime later, Wasuke's body was put into the pyre. The flames burned away the last of the mortal remains of Yuji's grandfather. Somewhere inside, they also burnt away a part of Yuji himself. All those years, all those memories. The man behind them. Gone. Up in flames.

Yuji felt empty. Disassociated. Unhappy, certainly. But also kind of relieved. He knew how much his grandfather was suffering. Now that wouldn't be the case. All he asked, however, was for life to be fair. All of a sudden, Yuji was alone in this world, with no recourse, other than this white haired stranger, who claimed to be his benefactor.

Once the flames were out, they thanked and the priest, who went back to his temple. Yuji collected Wasuke's ashes in an urn and sealed it. He sighed.

Yuji : Gimme another finger.

Gojo : You sure?

Yuji : Yeah.

Gojo gave him the second finger. Yuji ate it and waited.

All of a sudden, Sukuna tried to dominate his mind, and take over his body. Yuji felt a sharp pain shoot through his body, like it was being impaled. He pushed back against Sukuna's influence, straining and foaming at the mouth, while having violent muscle spasms. He leaned against a wall to steady himself. Gojo prepared himself for combat.

After sometime, Yuji stabilised. He had been able to control and contain Sukuna.

Gojo sighed. Yuji was already impressive.

Yuji : Now that I pay attention, this thing tastes absolutely bullshit. Like soap and dogshit mixed together, with sprinklings of vomit.

Gojo : No need for the description. Shall we go?

Yuji : Yeah.

They took the urn and walked towards where Yuji had been living until now. Gojo was surprised. Yuji lived in a slum, in a shack. It was run down, with no roof in certain parts of the house. The door was broken. Yuji went in, followed by Gojo.

The plaster of the wall had come off at so many places. Entire walls were missing in rooms. The kitchen consisted of only a bonfire setting and a pot. The bedroom only had a torn futon and no blanket. To its corner, lay Yuji's stationery. Of which there were very limited numbers. Beside the door was a damaged wardrobe, inside which, there was only place for a set of black hoodie and black jeans, that Yuji was wearing now, and Yuji's old school uniform. Now, the uniform was of no use. Yuji pulled up an old suitcase and packed his little belongings into it. He was ready to go.

Before long, they were in a train, bound for Kitakami. The journey went by in silence. Gojo didn't speak, observing Yuji and his reactions. Yuji, on his part, looked outside the window.

At Kitakami, they travelled for about an hour, reaching the twon graveyard. There, they buried Wasuke's ashes in his grave, beside Yuji's grandmother, Sakura Itadori. They had a gravestone erected for Wasuke. The entire affair had been a very solemn one.

By the evening, they had left the place and were on their way to Tokyo. This time, the silence wasn't uncomfortable. Gojo gave Yuji the space he needed. After all, he had lost the last person he called family. This was a big loss. Yuji simply sat and looked out of the window. Gojo tried to change the topic.

Gojo : So, while you were unconscious at the Outpost, I had your measurements taken. Your uniform will arrive by 21st. Any changes you wanna make?

Yuji : No. Do what you want.

Gojo : Alright.

Yuji : Where will I live?

Gojo : You'll spend tonight at my house. No one's home. From tomorrow onwards, you'll live as a student of Tokyo Jujutsu High. In the student dorms.

Yuji went silent again. This was all he had to say for now. His thoughts drifted back to Sasaki and Iguchi. What would happen to them?

Yuji : I wanna talk to Sasaki and Iguchi senpai.

Gojo : I got their numbers. We'll get a phone for you tomorrow. Then you'll be able to talk to them.

Yuji : Ok.

The rest of the journey was filled with silence. Yuji had dozed off, unaware of what transpired in the world around him. The journey was quiet, peaceful, yet solemn and taxing. Yuji pushed these thoughts to the side, as his eyes closed, and he fell into a deep sleep.

Chapter Text

June 20, 2018, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 0940 hours

Gojo guided Yuji along the path to the principal's office. The entire place was serene and peaceful. There was greenery abound. Little waterfalls had been set up here and there. The entire structure had, apparently, been rebuilt last year. Now, there were two sections of the school. The administrative section sat at the very edge of a forest, which is where they were headed. It was a great castle like building, built in traditional Japanese style. The building has three parts. The central part was the conference wing. The principal's office, and residential quarters, were located at the ground floor and first floor here, respectively. The left wing was meant for assistant managers and windows. The right wing was meant for teachers. A smaller guest house was built at a corner of a small pond to the northwestern part of the compound. This was where recuperating sorcerers took rest.

In front of the administrative section, another building stood, same design, but with only one storey. This was the main class compound, where classrooms were located. There were four classrooms located on either direction of the building, with the canteen in the middle. The first years classroom was located to the east, the second years to the north, the third years to the south, and the fourth years to the west.

On the edges of the compound stood four smaller buildings, also built in traditional Japanese style. These were the student quarters. The ones on the left were the first and second year quarters, whereas those on the right were the third and fourth years quarters.

Right now, Sukuna was somehow sprouting mouths on Yuji's cheek and taunting Gojo as they walked.

Sukuna : A hierarchy not based on strength is boring. But you, you have intrigued me Satoru Gojo. Intrigued me into an intellectual debt. When I take over this brat's body, you'll be the first one I'll kill.

Yuji slapped a hand onto the mouth in annoyance.

Gojo : It is an honour to be targeted by Ryomen Sukuna himself.

Yuji : Is he that famous? Who is he?

Gojo : Ryomen Sukuna was an imaginary fierce god. But what very few would know is that he was once an actual human. A sorcerer, in fact. He reigned as the strongest during the Heian era, which was said to be the peak, the Golden Era of Jujutsu. Sorcerers and cursed spirits were at the height of their power. When legendary sorcerers like the Constructionist, Yorozu, the Frozen Star, Uraume, the Sun Moon and Stars squad, the Five Generals of the Void, the Three Onryo of Japan existed at the same time. When the Primordial Curses reached the peak of their power. It was at this time that Ryomen Sukuna emerged as the strongest of them all, and etched his name in history.

Gojo (continues) : With four arms, four eyes and two mouths, he established himself as a force of nature to be reckoned with. Unable to be controlled. Feared. And revered. Ultimately, sorcerers and cursed spirits from around the globe rallied and united in their quest against him. He took on 200 million enemies all by himself. And won. Sorcerers sharpened their skills against him, yet fell. His wrath burned the Earth away. And in the end, what was left was Ryomen Sukuna, on a heap of corpses. The land below him submerged into the sea, as a result.  The Earth still bears these scars, Japan stands separated from the Asian continent after all. And, it is said that he was the one who killed the ancestral clan of sorcerers so powerful, no one else could have defeated them. In other words, Ryomen Sukuna remained undefeated his entire life.

Yuji : Then how did he get turned into a cursed object?

Gojo : It is said that he was bored of his life. So, he initiated something we are not fully aware of and divided his existence amongst 20 fingers. He lay there, watching, waiting, perfecting. Not entirely conscious, but not entirely dormant either.

Yuji : Who's stronger? Him or you?

Gojo : Well, if he reincarnated at his full strength, he might give me a little trouble.

Yuji : But would you lose?

Gojo : Nah, I'd win.

The thought comforted Yuji a little. Even if he harboured a harbinger of the armageddon in him, there was someone capable of stopping it.

The two entered the principal's office. There, Yuji saw a strange sight. A giant man, even more buff than Gojo, was sitting. More importantly, he was sewing cute dolls. This was the principal of the school. Masamichi Yaga.

Yaga : You're 8 minutes late.

Gojo : Only 8 minutes. How does it matter?

Yaga : Punctuality matters to me. This is the boy?

Yuji bowed respectfully.

Yuji : I'm Yuji Itadori. Nice to meet you. I hope to become an exemplary student in this institution.

Yaga : Why are you here?

Yuji : Heh? For the interview.

Yaga : No, why have you come to Jujutsu High?

Yuji : To learn jujutsu?

Yaga : Why? What about after that?

Yuji : Collect and eat the remaining pieces of Sukuna. They're dangerous after all.

Yaga : People die of incidents and accidents all the time. But when it comes to curses it becomes inexcusable?

Yuji : Well, it's the last request I was left with.

Yaga : Last request? So you're here on someone else's whim? Disqualified.

Yaga stood up and put his hand out. One of the dolls came to life and growled at Yuji.

Yuji : It wasn't a doll?

Yaga : Cursed corpse. A doll infused with my cursed energy.

The doll charged at Yuji and punched towards his stomach, which Yuji blocked with his suitcase. It was a heavy punch that sent him stumbling back a few steps.

Yaga : People answer more honestly when they're in a pinch. She'll keep on attacking until I get a satisfactory answer.

The doll punched Yuji in the face, drew blood and sent him hurling to the wall. Yuji got up and moved away as the doll tried to land another hit on him.

Yaga : I'll ask you one last time. Why are you here?

Yuji : Because my grandpa asked me to!

Yaga : Then will you cursed him when you're about to die?! When you have to tear apart a curse, with the knowledge that it killed a comrade of yours a few steps back?! Despite the unpleasantness of it all?! Don't make me laugh! I'd been more amiable if you had just said you did it to postpone your execution. But here you are, about to fight curses because someone else asked you to.

Yaga (continues) : Every sorcerer needs to be their fair share of crazy. That's the only way to survive in this job. Otherwise, the only thing sorcerers have at the time of their death is regret.

Yuji locked the doll in his arms and sat in thought. Why did he choose this?

Yuji : I've never thought of myself as special. As something different. Even though I always was. Always have been different from others. I never even thought that there was something only I could do. But here it is.

Yuji (continued) : Consuming Sukuna's fingers is something only I can do. Only I can vanquish the curse of Ryomen Sukuna. Even if I ran away from all this, I'd always have to live with the knowledge that someone out there is dying because of my cowardice. Yes, people die all the time. But just because they do doesn't mean we stop trying.

Yuji (continued) : Death is the only guarantee in life. Then why do we have medicine and jujutsu? Why do we still try to save others, even though we know they will eventually die one day? Because it makes life worthwhile. And I want to make my life worthwhile. I want to redeem myself from my past. And I don't want to regret the way I live. So that when I die, I don't have regrets. So yes, that's why I want to become a jujutsu sorcerer.

Yuji couldn't see the moisture in Yaga's eyes behind the principal's large sunglasses. He was proud.

Yaga : Satoru. Take Itadori to his dorm and explain the security rules to him. Yuji Itadori. I welcome you as a student of Tokyo High.

Yuji let go of the doll and tried to get up. However, before he could, the doll landed another upper cut on him.

Yaga : Sorry about that. Forgot to sever the connection.

After the entire fiasco, Gojo led Yuji to his dorm. They were in the first years quarters. These buildings were made into the shape of a key. The long corridor had eight dorms. And the horizontal extensions were the common lounge, and the pantry. Yuji's dorm was at the end of the corridor. His room consisted of a large bed, a wardrobe, a study table and an attached washroom. A large window graced the ineermost wall. It was opulent, Gojo had made sure of it. Yuji put his suitcase to a corner and sat on the bed.

Gojo : Yuji, how about you rest and the other students and me find the fingers for you? You don't need to fight.

Yuji : I said I'll do it.

Gojo : Yeah fine. We need you on the field anyway.

Yuji : Really?

Gojo : Yes. You're not just a vessel, you're also a radar. Sukuna would try his best to find his other fingers, so we can use that to our advantage. After all, some of his fingers are loud, some quiet and some have already been eaten by a cursed spirit. So it'll be tricky and we'll need you.

Gojo and Yuji went out of his room. Just then, Megumi emerged from the room beside.

Megumi : Seriously? Right beside me? There were plenty of other rooms

Gojo : I thought it would be lively.

Megumi : Weren't missions and school enough?

Yuji : Wow, you sure have a jolly attitude, huh?

Megumi : Shut it.

Gojo : Come on now, boys, look a little bit more cheerful. We're going out tomorrow. For shopping. And also to welcome the final first year student.

Megumi : Another one? That makes it five.

Gojo : The more the merrier.

Chapter Text

1230 hours

Since last year, the timetable had seen some change. Students were let off at 12:30 to go for lunch. Classes resumed at 13:30.

Yuji and Megumi walked into the canteen. Trays were ready with food to be taken. They took their respective trays and sat down at a table. Opposite to them were two girls.

Both of them looked similar. Perhaps they were twins. One had blonde hair, tied into a messy ponytail. The other was a brunette, who couldn't bother to tie her hair. Both of them had been looking at something in their phone, evidently very excited. As soon as Yuji sat, their gazes shifted towards him. And so did their expressions. First surprise. Then suspicion. Yuji could feel them glaring, their eyes narrowed in passive hostility towards him. He stared back with a deadpan face.

Megumi : Girls, this is our new classmate, Yuji Itadori, grade 2. These are the other first years, Nanako and Mimiko Hasaba, both grade 3. And yes, they're twins.

Yuji nodded in acknowledgement. The girls kept up their suspicious expression. But there was an undercurrent of amusement that someone like Yuji, who was an expert at reading people, couldn't miss.

Mimiko : Are those pink hairs natural or is that your rebel phase?

Yuji : Natural.

Nanako : And your eyes?

Yuji : Also natural.

His eyes and hair. So this is what it was about. Megumi ate his lunch quietly, watching the interaction unfold.

Nanako : The scars?

Yuji : Again, natural.

Mimiko : You got into a lot of fights?

Yuji : Kinda.

Mimiko and Nanako : Weirdo.

Megumi ate quietly, trying his best to stop his laughter. Yuji turned towards him.

Yuji : Where are other students? I thought this was a four year school. Where are the students of the other years?

Megumi : They are out on other missions. Some to countryside. Others to different islands.

Yuji : They send you elsewhere too,  huh?

Megumi : Yeah they do.

Yuji : We got anything else to do today?

Megumi : Nah. Our missions begin tomorrow.

Yuji : Okay.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

20 June, 2018, Tokyo station, 0930 hours

Gojo and the students waited at the Tokyo station for the final first year to arrive. The girls looked into their phones, apparently excited about some movie. Megumi scrolled through the news. Yuji sat on the railing, looking at his new uniform. It was a very deep shade of blue, with golden buttons, and a red hoodie, unlike others. His gaze fell upon the new phone in his hand. Gojo had bought it for him the previous day, and the girls had helped set it up. Ereyesterday, he had basically nothing other than the black hoodie, black jeans and his books, glasses, stationery, and old school uniform, which was now to be used as a pajama. Now, he had a reason to live, a purpose, a phone, accounts on social media, and the numbers of some of his friends, including Sasaki and Iguchi. Apparently, Iguchi had been hospitalized, and Sasaki only needed first aid. Otherwise, they were ok. They would miss him, but no one could do anything about it. Yuji decided to one day go and visit them, perhaps in the next summer break.

Yuji : Say, sensei. What's about this hoodie?

Gojo : Oh you can customise your uniform on request. I figured this is what you'd like.

Yuji : I don't particularly like like hoodies. They're just convenient.

Megumi : Why are we meeting up in Harajuku?

Gojo : She requested it.

Nanako : Another girl? Cool. That makes three girls and two boys.

Mimiko : Easier to keep them in check.

Megumi sighed. He couldn't deal with this anymore.

Gojo : There she is.

A little distance away, a man was trying to get a woman to do modelling for his agency. He was roughly pulled back by another girl. She was short. Very short. With orange hair. Nothing particularly remarkable. The only standout aspect of her was the fact that she was wearing the standard jujutsu student uniform.

Girl : What about me?

Man : What?

Girl : What about me? For modelling?

Man : No. I-I'm in a hurry....so...

And he took off. The girl sighed. Another opportunity gone.

Gojo : Over here!

The girl noticed them and walked over. She put up an air of confidence and introduced herself as Nobara Kugisaki.

Nobara : Nobara Kugisaki reporting!

Nanako : I'm Nanako Hasaba and this is my sister Mimiko.

Mimiko : Hi. I'm Mimiko.

Megumi : Megumi Fushiguro.

Yuji : Yuji Itadori.

Nobara scrunched her nose at the boys. For her, Yuji seemed to be the type of guy who ate his boogers as a kid. And Megumi seemed like the type of guy to set an oil drenched gull on fire. She sighed. The twins were a saving grace for this batch.

Yuji noted it all through. And snorted.

Nobara : Oh what is it that you find funny, huh?

Yuji : So much attitude. At such a short height. Funny.

Silence fell. Megumi had anticipated for Yuji to not have filters, but this was too controversial. Even Gojo simply waited and watched. Finally, Nobara burst out, trying to reach Yuji, who held her back by pushing her away and holding her with a hand on her head.

Nobara : WHO ARE YOU CALLING SHORT, BASTARD?! I'LL KILL YA AND DUMP YER BODY IN A DITCH!!

All of these were ultimately empty threats. Yuji towered over her, and could just pick her up and carry her to the top of the car and put her there for the whole day. Ultimately, Gojo had to step in to break up the fight.

Gojo : Alright, kids. Let's calm down over here. Since we have all first years, two of whom are from the countryside, how about we go sightseeing around Tokyo?

This seemed to be something that Nobara and Yuji agreed on.

Gojo : Where should we go?

Nobara : Let's go to Disneyland.

Yuji :That's in Chiba. Let's go to Chinatown.

Nobara : That's in Yokohama.

Yuji : Still Tokyo.

Gojo : Alright, I'll announce where we'll go.

Everyone watched with bated breath.

Gojo : We'll go to Roppongi.

And they did. Only, it wasn't a fancy tourist attraction. No, it was an abandoned building beside a graveyard. Nobara clutched her head, feeling betrayed.

Nobara : Seriously?! Don't mess with us country folk! You think you can deceive us that easily?!

Gojo : There's a cemetery nearby, which is why there are a lot of cursed spirits there and in this building too.

Yuji : They come out of graves easily, don't they?

Mimiko : It doesn't work like that. For cursed spirits to be born, people must fear a particular thing. And graveyards are prime scary sites. So there are lots of cursed spirits around graveyards.

Yuji : So like cursed spirits will be born of whatever humans fear?

Nanako : Yeah, but it must be above a threshold.

Yuji : What is that threshold?

Mimiko : Unknown until now.

Yuji went deep into thought. So curses were born of humanity's fear. And as per Gojo, negative emotions in general. That would mean that there are different cursed spirits based on different ideas, with varying degrees of strength. So while something like a butterfly curse would be very weak, a curse for genocide would be insanely strong. The system was becoming clearer in his mind. All while Nobara was ranting to the girls about how Gojo apparently broke her dreams and drowned her in unending sorrows. She had a dramatic streak.

Nobara : Wait, Itadori doesn't know all this?

Megumi : Well...

It took him about 5 minutes to explain that night.

Nobara : He swallowed it?! Gross!

Gojo : Anyway, Nobara. Yuji. You two will exorcise the curses inside.

Yuji : But I can't do sorcery.

Gojo : Take this. It's a cursed weapon called Slaughter Demon. And yes, under no circumstances whatsoever should you let Sukuna loose, is that clear, Yuji?

Yuji : Yes.

The two went into the building. Gojo and the others sat down, the students on a bench, and Gojo on the ground. Megumi looked anxious.

Megumi : Perhaps I should have gone too.

Gojo : Don't push it. You're recovering.

Megumi : Yeah, but Itadori must be monitored.

Gojo : True. Even so, the one being tested here is Nobara Kugisaki. Not Yuji Itadori. He's already passed from the moment he controlled Sukuna.

Inside the building, Nobara couldn't believe it.

Nobara : Great. We have to tackle curses first thing in Tokyo.

Yuji : Let's take this a little more seriously. Curses are dangerous.

Nobara was irked. She quickly came down and kicked Yuji further down the stairs. Then she walked away again.

Nobara : I don't want to hear that from someone who was a normie until a week ago!

Yuji : What's your problem?! This attitude is insufferable!

Nobara : You're unpopular among girls!

Yuji : You're in no position to comment things like that!

He was now alone in that corridor. He had to calm himself down. He was on a mission, and couldn't afford to get distracted.

Right as he turned around, he was met with the sight of a cursed spirit. Big. Pale with dark spots. A semi human face, stretched and shrunk at the same time. Two mantis pincers as hands, and four more as legs. It growled at Yuji, before charging at him. Yuji dodged the strike and used Slaughter Demon to sever one of its 'arms'.

Curse : Here is your receipt.....

Speech? Weird. But who knows. Yuji ducked down to avoid another of its blows and slashed its leg. Then he jumped over it and pushed the weapon down its head. The cursed spirit went limp.

Yuji : Yup. I can still move well.

Outside, a different discussion was going on.

Gojo : Yuji's pretty crazy. He's lived as a regular high school student, yet he's already having a sorcerer's mentality. He might be kind and helpful, but he can kill curses without hesitation. Today, I want to see if Nobara has that craziness.

Mimiko : But she's experienced. Wouldn't she already been crazy?

Gojo : Curses are born from human minds and increase exponentially with them. The curses of Tokyo are very different from those in the countryside.

Elsewhere, Nobara entered a room full of mannequins. However, she had no problem identifying which one was the cursed spirit. She whipped out her hammer and some nails.

Nobara : Hey you, in the middle! Come out and I'll exorcise you as you are.

Upon receiving no response, she shot two nails directly into the mannequin's head. This time, it stopped its fall and looked at her with numerous eyes. Her intuition had been right.

Nobara : It would have been best for you to take out those nails. After all, my cursed energy flows through them.

The nails exploded, breaking apart the curse's head. Nobara sighed. Perhaps it was over? Oh, she'd be very very wrong about that.

Chapter Text

Nobara looked at the remains of the curse as it turned into dust. She was relieved.

Nobara : It's settled.

Suddenly, she heard a sound. A boy was crouching behind some boxes. Nobara was surprised. Perhaps he had snuck in to play and was trapped by the curse.

Nobara : Hey, it's ok now. Come here.

The boy shook his head. Nobara was dumbfounded.

Nobara : Maybe it's true that kids feel intimidated while approaching beautiful people. Lemme call Itadori.

Boy : No! Please don't leave!

Another curse emerged from the wall. It was shorter than even the boy, had sharp-clawed hands, two big, round eyes, and was covered in fur all over. It grabbed the boy and held him up, and sunk a claw into his neck, drawing blood.

Nobara : No way, it has intelligence? It can't be more than grade 4 or the lowest dunga of grade 3. Yet it accurately assessed it's strength and created a hostage situation.

Outside, Gojo was still talking to the students.

Gojo : When I say level, though, I don't just means jujutsu sorcery. Slyness is also a factor. Intelligent beasts pit one life against another to confront us with a cruel scale.

Inside, Nobara was panicking. This was a terrible situation. If she died, the boy died. But if the boy died, she didn't necessarily have to die. She should at least try to save herself while she could.

The hammer fell from her hands. Followed by the puch on her belt, that carried her nails. She put up her hands.

Nobara : I surrender. Let that kid go.

Of course it didn't. Nobara chided herself for being an idiot. All she wanted was to see Saori one last time.

Just then, the wall behind the curse was uprooted and thrown away. Everyone looked back in shock. From the dust emerged Yuji Itadori.

The cursed spirit tried to turn around, the boy still with him. Yuji acted swiftly, cutting off its arm, freeing the hostage. It wasted no time, running towards a window. Nobara picked up her hammer and two nails.

Nobara : Itadori! Throw that arm towards me! I won't let it escape!

And he did. Nobara brought out a voodoo doll from her uniform, placed it on the severed arm, and charged up her hammer and nails with cursed energy. The cursed spirit had already jumped out of the window. Nanako got up and aimed her phone at it, ready to exorcise it. Gojo stopped her, wanting to see where this would go.

Nobara : Strawdoll - Resonance!

The nails struck the voodoo doll. The curse felt a sharp sensation, almost like stabbing. Similar nails erupted from its body, killing it permanently. It disintegrated into dust as it fell.

Gojo : Oh well, she's crazy enough.

Nobara reflected on why she was here anyway. When she was in first grade, Saori had moved in from Tokyo. For Nobara, she had been an angel of sorts. She even made sweets that Nobara had never heard of. But the villagers didn't like her and thought that Saori believed country people were stupid. They ostracized her so much that she moved away. Now, Nobara had come to Tokyo in search of her.

Yuji : That's why I told you doing this is dangerous on your own! But you don't listen!

Nobara : You didn't say 'on your own'! And what did you eat as a kid to be able to uproot entire walls like that?!

Yuji : It wasn't steel reinforced concrete!!

Nobara : It should still be impossible!!

Silence for a few seconds. Then Yuji asked her the question he had been meaning to.

Yuji : Why did you come to Tokyo High?

Nobara : Because I hated the countryside and wanted to live in Tokyo! And this is the only way to do it without money.

Yuji : That's it? You'd risk your life over something like that?

Nobara : Yeah. That's why I'm me.

Yuji could read people. But he couldn't understand them. Then again, everyone had different conditions in life, and he wasn't some messiah who should try and relate with them.

Nobara came and ruffled the boy's hair.

Nobara : And thanks to you too. Whether I would have survived or not, the future would have been bleak. So, thanks.

Yuji : Yeah. I guess a more complex reason doesn't make people more admirable.

Nobara : Hey. I said my thanks. So it's done. We're even.

She grinned and giggled like a funny maniac.

Yuji : What's with her?

By evening, around 1700 hours, Gojo had dropped the boy off at his house. He was safe.

Gojo : So, kids. What should we get to eat?

Yuji : Beef steak.

Nobara : Sushi.

Mimiko : Pork belly.

Nanako : Dango.

Megumi was standing a bit to the side, scrolling through news. Apparently, the dangerous Sendai Skinface had stopped killing. Maybe his reign of terror was finally over. The people of Sendai could breathe in peace. Gojo led the other students away, claiming such negativity would deter them, letting Megumi catch up to them. The whole exchange was pretty humorous for Yuji.

2100 hours. They were back at the campus. So this is what the life of a sorcerer looked like. Yuji could get accustomed to it. He was in his room, standing by the large window, smoking, and looking outside. The moon was high up in the sky, enlighting the surrounding landscape. A light breeze blew, raking up the trees, branches and fallen leaves. Cricket chirped in the grass, giving a sense of calm to everything. Yuji adjusted his glasses and took another drag on his cigarette. He had to keep this hidden from others.

His phone came to life. He looked at a message from Gojo. A solo mission for him the next day. He sighed. Not out of any negative feelings. But rather from the lack of them entirely. Life was looking up for him at last. The only tragedy? He only had 18 more fingers to live. Fate was indeed cruel, granting Yuji his biggest dream of a life without suffering, only towards the very end of it all. His cigarette had ran out. Yuji closed the window, turned off the lights and laid down in his bed. Before long, he had drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Text

Yuji had settled into a routine of his own. Mornings began at around 3:30 AM, and were accompanied by a cup of coffee and some exercise to train the body. This was followed by an ice cold shower, and some time spent on grooming himself, taking care of his face and styling his seemingly untameable hair. Then, his trusty black hoodie and black jeans came upon him. The old school uniform turned pajama was discarded for laundry. All due to Gojo's influence.

Next, he made his way to the canteen to have his breakfast. He usually arrived much earlier than others, so he ate his breakfast alone. And by the time others arrived, he was done. This was followed by a stroll across the forest, then a jog through the city. The dawn was the best time to be awake. The fresh air blew across his hair, making them flutter. The birds found this time to chirp and sing. The sun graced the sky in a shade of pinkish orange, the city still asleep and unaware of this ethereal beauty. Yuji usually jogged upto the top of the Tokyo Skytree. The city would usually be asleep, and inactive. The skyline of Tokyo was impeccable. The lights would slowly start going out, as the city would be preparing for the day. A very faint mist was there, not quite visible, but a silent spectator of the city's activities. From this height, everything seemed small and insignificant to Yuji. He adjusted his glasses and stretched a bit to get rid of stiffness in his joints. Then, he came back down, and made his return jog towards his school.

Upon arriving, he changed into his school uniform, discarding the hoodie and jeans for laundry too. He packed his books and copies and stationery into a bag that Gojo had bought him two days ago, and walked towards his class. His classmates would usually be present by then, even if it wasn't time for classes. Even so, Megumi would look disheveled, with a coffee in hand. Nobara would look grumpy and annoyed. And the twins would still be half asleep. How Yuji could look so fresh and ready was beyond any of them.

The fact that Yuji jogged almost 200km everyday, from Tokyo's outskirts to the Sumida district, and back, was perplexing to everyone else. They simply couldn't fathom the idea that someone would be able to cover that much distance in just an hour,  it's beyond their understanding. Classes began from 8, though it was just Gojo blabbering about his son, Satoshi, and how adorable he was. Apparently, the little boy would soon turn 3, and Gojo was keen on inviting all his students.

Actual classes began from 10. The assistant managers, Ijichi and Nanri, arrived and took classes on the subjects that any other school would as well, like maths, science, literature etc. Megumi was the most studious, followed by Mimiko. Nanako and Nobara weren't as good, they managed to stay afloat. Yuji seemed average in class, but outperformed everyone else during tests. Defying his expectations, no one seemed to have any problem with that, or be salty towards that fact.

Classes were over by 1:30. Well, normal classes anyways. After this, students went into locker rooms and changed into tracksuits. Next was sports class, usually done either by the students themselves, or guided by seniors. But, seniors were out at this time of the day, so the first years did all of it on their own.

A curious fact that had plagued Megumi all this time was an observation he had made while he and Yuji changed into tracksuits. While he had made no comments about it, he had seen scars on Yuji's body. Some were light. Some were deep. Yet, there was no plausible explanation for any of his scars. There were a strange set of scars on Yuji's collarbone, cigarette burns in a linear pattern. Another whip scar across his back, accompanied by several smaller cuts. Several medium length scars graced the front of his torso. Despite his curiosity, Megumi made sure to never speak of them in front of Yuji.

Sports class went by smoothly, with Yuji once again proving that he was the best in the batch. No one was his match there.

Around 2:30 PM, the students were assigned missions for the evening. Yuji had been assigned two missions, both in Tokyo thankfully. Since the second and fourth years were already out on missions to other areas, th first years were given missions in Tokyo itself. After lunch, the first years set out for their missions, around 3:15.

Yuji was dropped off by Ijichi at the place of his first mission. Infestation of a grade 2. A dark alleyway. Yuji walked in. He wasn't afraid. Wasn't uneasy. Wasn't anything really. He had a mission here and he would complete it. No matter what.

Deep in the alley, he felt an unusual spike in cursed energy. The curse had to be nearby. He continued walking. Growls could be heard. From inside and abandoned ground floor apartment. He slowly opened the door and went in.

It was dark all around. The only light that came in from outside. He walked slowly and silently. Some distance in, his eyes adjusted to he darkness, and he spotted it. Sitting and growling at him. Large. Almost equivalent to a man's height. Quadraped. Dog's body. With the face of a disfigured falcon. And fur all over its scalp. Disgusting.

The curse charged at him. Yuji sidestepped, locked it in his arms, picked it up and slammed it into the ground. Then, he restrained it there. He pulled out the Slaughter Demon from his belt and stabbed the curse's scalp with full force. It resisted against his attack, trying to free itself. Yuji lodged Slaughter Demon in its head, grabbed its jaw and twisted its neck. Then he stabbed it for another 11 times. Purple blood splattered all over him, drenching his uniform in the disgusting liquid. Finally, the curse disintegrated into dust.

Yuji got up and dusted himself. This was a dirty and messy affair. He pulled out Slaughter Demon, sheathed it back into his belt and walked out. Remains of cursed spirits that came into contact with other living beings usually weren't visible to the public, but they took longer to decay. In other words, the blood and guts on Yuji weren't visible to other people, but they were to other sorcerers, and they would stay for 2-3 hours or so. Well, he needn't worry for now. The first job was done.

Yuji walked among the crowd, blending in. He was on his way to the location of the second mission. Semi grade 1. An old wedding hall. It was being renovated for a wedding, but one of the workers had been brutally injured. Windows had confirmed the presence of two curses, graded at 3 and semi grade 1. Yuji walked in, already having unsheathed Slaughter Demon. He was cautious. Any wrong move, and a catastrophe would ensue.

Something moved in the corner of his eye. Yuji turned towards the left and walked into a kitchen. There, he spotted it. A small cursed spirit. Ugly. Hideous. Like a little worm. It growled at him in a shrill voice, not threatening in the slightest. Yuji simply walked towards it, took up a tray and smashed it into paste. One down. One remained.

Yuji walked towards the main reception area. All alone. And, once again, unusual spike in cursed energy. It was nearby. There were two mannequins on the podium, of bride and groom. Yuji walked to the mannequins and inspected them. Nothing unusual. He still stabbed them nevertheless.

Then, he walked to the basement. It was dark. He switched on the light. It flickered and then went out. The curse was nearby. Yuji walked deeper into the dark space. He could feel its presence, but he couldn't see it. Of course he couldn't, for it was right behind him, its wide eyes staring intently at him, its claws ready to strike.

Yuji felt the air pressure around him change. He dodged a blow of claws and came face to face with his target. Tall. Lanky. Slender. Humanoid. Two large round eyes. Long arms athat touched the floor and had sharp claws. Legs resembled sticks. Semi grade 1.

Yuji dodged another strike and moved in. He slashed off one of its arms and slammed Slaughter Demon into its guts. Then, he cut off its legs and slashed it into two longitudinal halves. That's it. The curse had been exterminated. And yet again, Yuji was covered in curse blood.

Yuji waited outside the wedding hall. Ijichi arrived in due time to pick him up. They drove back towards Tokyo High.

After a shower and change of clothes, Yuji sat down for homework. Nothing too difficult. Around 8 was dinner time. Then, hanging around with the other students in the common lounge. They usually played Uno or just talked about their day. By 10, everyone was back in their rooms.

Yuji wrote his journal. Yes, he had a habit of maintaining a journal. Today was July 3rd. He recorded the events of his day meticulously, as he had always done. Then, he changed into the old school uniform, which had become his pajamas and got into bed. Laundry usually arrived by 7, so Yuji could pick it up comfortably. He switched off the lamp and laid down on the bed. His eyes closed, and he drifted off into a peaceful sleep. And that was his daily routine. Which he had gotten dearly used to.

Chapter Text

August 20, 2018, Eishu Detention Center, West Tokyo City, 2230 hours

Night had fallen. The detainees were being led inside. The guards were on full alert. Several windows were among them. Suddenly, one of the windows pointed towards air and began to exclaim.

Window : Everyone! There! That egg like thing! A cursed womb!

The windows gathered around him, as the prisoners and guards watched in puzzlement. What they couldn't see was the cursed womb that had appeared in the sky. An unnamed apparition, potentially special grade. Jujutsu High had to be notified.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

August 21, 2018, Eishu Detention Center, West Tokyo City, 0930 hours

The emergency notification had been relayed to Tokyo High. Due to the unfortunate unavailability of sorcerers of the relevant grade, owing to the fact that Satoru Gojo was overseas, Jujutsu High had to dispatch  five first years to the site, alongside assistant manager Kiyotaka Ijichi.

Ijichi always seemed a step away from exhaustive unconsciousness. He was, quite surprisingly, younger than Gojo, but he had so many marks on his face, it gave him the impression of a middle aged guy. His glasses rested on the bridge of his nose awkwardly. His hair was in a middle part parting, nothing too remarkable.

The group arrived at the Eishu Detention Center. Police had erected barriers, preventing the entry of unsuspecting civilians, even though there weren't any, except for a woman. The group deboarded and walked over.

Ijichi : A special grade apparition was spotted at this site, last night. At least two windows have confirmed the sighting. Your task is simply to go and find any survivors. No need to engage with the curse, unless absolutely necessary.

Mimiko : Couldn't they have sent someone more competent for this?

Yuji : Sorry, but what exactly does special grade mean?

Ijichi : Let me quickly explain grades of cursed spirits. Grade 4 refers to insanely weak curses, that can be taken care of with just a wooden bat. Grade 3 refers to those that require a shotgun to be taken care of. Grade 2 may need you to use machine guns for a non sorcerer. Grade 1 would have to go toe to toe with a tank to be finished. And the strongest are the special grades. They can resist an entire environment booby trapped with carpet bombs, and still strike. If you are lucky, you may get a teensy scratch on them.

Yuji : Yeah, I side with Hasaba. Why is someone more competent sent here? Why us?

Megumi : We're the only ones available. The other students are out, and Gojo sensei has gone to Africa for some business.

Yuji : Oh for fuck's sake. When will the other students return? They've been out for almost two months.

Megumi : Dunno.

The group heard a commotion from outside and looked to see the woman making a fuss.

Woman : Tadashi! Is my son in there? Tadashi!

So she was the mother of one of the inmates. Tragic. But inevitable. Prisons were the ideal location for curses to spawn.

Ijichi : Emerge from the darkness, blacker than darkness. Purify that which is impure.

Yuji : Should all of us go in at once? I'll stay outside to prevent anything from escaping.

Nanako : No. You're much stronger than us. I and Mimiko will stay. You three go in.

A curtain descended upon the place, shielding it from outside gaze. Megumi summoned his divine dogs. The three students ventured inside.

They were confronted with the sight of a large, unending chamber of sorts, filled with pipes. It seemed grim. Nobara exclaimed upon turning backwards.

Nobara : The door! It's gone! What do we do?

Megumi : Not to worry. Shiro has already smelled it. We'll find the exit.

Nobara : Aww. Good boy, Shiro. I'll get you beef jerky once we're out.

Megumi : Shiro is a girl.

Yuji : Seriously? Shiro? Couldn't you be more creative? What's the name of the other dog, Kuro?

Megumi : How'd you know?

Yuji : Cuz you named them based on their fucking colour? Duh?

Megumi : Yeah, my bad.

The trio kept walking inside.

Megumi : Seems like we're in an incomplete innate domain.

Yuji : What?

Megumi : It's complicated.

They walked to what seemed to be an indoor playground, now devoid of anything. No. There were somethings. Corpses. To the side. Yuji walked over, knelt down and observed. Mangled. Bloody. Some body part missing. He checked the name. Tadashi. This was the woman's son.

Yuji : Fushiguro. Let us take at least this body back.

Megumi : Negative. We're only supposed to confirm survivors. We can't waste any more time.

Yuji tore off the name card. Then, he got up, indignated. He grabbed Megumi's collar, prompting the other boy to do the same.

Yuji : Didn't you hear what the lady said?

Megumi : If anything happens to any of us, will you take responsibility?

Nobara : Guys, calm down. Right now-

A portal opened below Nobara, and she was swept into it. The boys looked to where she had been. And then it struck. Sheer terror. They were rooted to their spot in it. Mortal fear. It was here. The special grade cursed spirit.

They turned their heads, and there it was, standing. Athletically humanoid. Pale. With a human like body. Feet of velociraptors. Claws drenched in dried blood. Five eyes. And a human like mouth. Wearing only a loincloth, for some reason. Megumi's eyes went everywhere, searching for Shiro. And there she was, lodged in the wall. Bloody. Only the head. Eyes poked out. Evidently dead.

The two slowly moved and disloged from each other. Yuji covertly pushed the name card into Megumi's pocket and pulled out Slaughter Demon and slashed at it, only to have his entire palm severed from his body. The severed palm fell several feet behind him, Slaughter Demon breaking on impact. Blood oozed from where his hand should've been. Now they were left defenseless.

Elsewhere, Nobara stood alone against a barrage of curses looking like Roman theatre masks.

Nobara : Oh what?! You think I'm scared?! Come on, I'll show you!!

She had full faith in her trusty hammer and nails. She took out two of them, ready to strike, and aimed at the curses.

The curse chuckled and sent a wave of cursed energy, which passed through in between them. This wasn't an attack. Rather, it was a show off dominance.

Yuji : Fushiguro. Run. As fast as you can. Find Kugisaki and get out of here. I'll hold it here. And if things go too south, I'll bring out Sukuna. Get yourself to safety as quickly as possible.

Megumi : No way! I won't-

Yuji : Do it. For all of us.

Megumi couldn't argue. This was a risk they had to take. He slowly backed away, one step at a time.

Yuji charged at the cursed spirit, his fist charged up with minute levels of cursed energy. He punched the cursed spirit in the head, sending no impact whatsoever. It grabbed his fist, swung him up, slammed him onto the ground, and threw him to the side. This part was successful. It's attention was now on Yuji. Megumi could escape easily.

Megumi jumped off a height, and summoned his trusty bird companion, Nue, to break his fall. Once on the ground level, he ran towards where he hoped Kugisaki would be. Things had gotten out of hand. They would have to get out of here. And fast.

Chapter Text

BAM!!

Yuji was flung through several walls and landed on the opposite wall. He was now in a large hall of some sort, with a very narrow path, and depths down below as far as the eye could see. Blood oozed from his head freely. Evidently he had hit his head somewhere, resulting in a skull fracture and possibly exposure of his brain. At this point, even that wouldn't surprise him. The curse shot a powerful wave of cursed energy at him. Yuji tried to defend himself, but ended up losing his own fingers on his other hand, which were burned away.  He was flung back to the wall, his uniform and skin on his torso burned to a crisp.

Nobara stood upon a heap of corpses of the curses she had killed. There were only about 5 or so left. But, she was distressed. She had only one nail left. Thankfully, her other nails were still lodged in the cursed spirits, and were still flowing with her cursed energy.

Yuji clutched his head, in pain and despair. He had always regretted his choies in life, a life that he thought had no value. But, no. As he faces death today, he realised that he didn't want to die. He wanted to live. To laugh. To be here. Just like everyone else. Why was he supposed to die, but no one else was?

Yuji : Damnit. Why? Why is it always that everyone else can have fun? Everyone else gets to be happy? Everyone else gets to live? But not me. Why am I always the sacrificial lamb?

He staggered up and moved forward quickly. His despair charged up his fists with cursed energy and he swung a punch at the curse, who caught it easily.

Nobara's hammer and nails lay on the ground. She had been cornered by two larger curses, definitely semi grade 1. One of them wrapped its long tongue around her legs and picked her up upside down.

Nobara : Oh you've done it. I'll show you what I'm capable of, you ass-

Before she could complete the sentence, she was pulled by another long tongue, this time belonging to a toad. This toad shikigami pulled her into its mouth, leaving only her head to the outside. She winced in disgust.

Nobara : I hate toads.

Megumi : Can't help it.

Another toad brought in her hammer and nails. Megumi's snake shikigami tore the two curses apart. Then, the two escaped, as the chambers fell around them ; one of the debris fell upon her head, injuring her. Megumi summoned the black wolf, Kuro, who finally led them out. He saw Mimiko and Nanako, and explained everything that had transpired to them.

Back in the hall, the air had changed. Yuji's body no longer bore any injuries. Rather, the curse could see some marks appear on him. One thing was clear. This was no longer Yuji Itadori. It was Ryomen Sukuna himself.

Sukuna : What a thoroughly annoying brat. Letting everyone else escape so as to minimise the damage. How do I inflict maximum damage on him?

He signalled to the curse spirit. In doing so, he healed one of Yuji's fingers.

Sukuna : Follow me.

The curse chose not to. Instead, it shot a powerful wave of cursed energy at him. Sukuna looked back in disgust.

Sukuna : Idiot.

He healed Yuji's entire palm and blocked the wave, deflecting it onto the walls around. The curse was spooked. Sukuna only looked at Yuji's hand in contempt.

Sukuna : Damn it. Look what you made me do. I had to heal this brat's hand.

His gaze tuned to the curse, with a fake smile on his face.

Sukuna : I had thought you would be more intelligent than this.

Within the blink of an eye, his palm was in front of the curse's eyes, and he had slammed its head onto the ground.

Sukuna : But I suppose I overestimated. After all, you're just a filthy cursed spirit.

He kicked down on it, breaking the beam, on which they were standing. The curse tried to grab his leg and fling him around, but ended up with its own arm cut off. Sukuna reappeared on a broken slab, sitting calmly, the severed arm in his hand.

Sukuna : Even for a curse such as yourself, you still need your arm to do things, don't you?

His maniacal laughter rang out as the curse fell into the dark depths.

Outside, the three had managed to patch up Nobara's head, even as she remained unconscious. Megumi requested Ijichi to get the others out of here. It was raining. Evidently, Tadashi's mother had gone home. The curtain had also come off.

Back inside, the curse was stuck in a wall, its limbs severed from its body.

Sukuna : Did you know that we are both considered special grade by Jujutsu Society? Just imagine, you and me are lumped together in the same category.

The curse freed itself, regrew its limbs and jumped in front of Sukuna, with a grin over its face. Sukuna returned the gesture, with a manic grin of his own.

Sukuna : What, do you want praise? But it is easier for a curse to regrow its limbs, compared to a human. You're nothing but a cheap joke.

Sukuna sent a light wave of cursed energy at the curse. It got split apart into many small, cubical parts. And from there, came into view Sukuna's third finger. Sukuna took the finger and ate it. Then, he walked away calmly, as the curse disintegrated into dust.

Sukuna : Oye, brat! If you want to change back, hurry up!

No response.

Sukuna : Brat?

No response. Sukuna couldn't hold back the maniacal grin that erupted on his face. This was an optimal situation. Just how he wanted.

Megumi waited outside, in the rain. Everything had gone as smoothly as he could have hoped. The others were out of the range of danger. The curse hadn't escaped the Center. Only Shiro had been a casualty. Now all he needed was for Yuji to come back safely. Then, the mission would be truly complete. Yet, he couldn't help but feel like something wasn't right.

Sukuna : Sorry, but he won't be coming back.

So, this was what didn't feel right. Ryomen Sukuna emerged from behind Megumi, calm, dignified and composed. His breath hitched. Terror gripped his very soul. The world seemed to fade as the boy faced down the King of Curses himself.

Chapter Text

August 22, 2018, Tokyo Jujutsu High, Morgue Facility, 0630 hours

Gojo sat on a chair, a solemn look gracing his face. Beside him, Ijichi stood, uneasy and distraught. In front of them lay a dead body. Yuji Itadori.

Gojo : How did it happen?

Ijichi : I don't know exactly how it went. After all, I had taken the girls to the hospital. From what Fushiguro san told me....

--------------------------×××----------------------------

(Flashback)

August 21, 2018, Eishu Detention Center, West Tokyo City, 1000 hours

Megumi watched as Sukuna walked in front of him. He had a jolly mood, unlike someone his reputation. Megumi watched as Sukuna tore off Yuji's shirt, then pierced his chest with his clawed hands. A grin appeared on his face, even as blood dripped from his mouth. In a swift show off power, he pulled Yuji's heart out and held it up for the other boy to see.

Sukuna : I'm taking this boy hostage.

He threw the heart away. Megumi was in a tight place. Sukuna had full control over Yuji's body, and if Yuji switched back now, he would die. In other words, Megumi would have to hold Sukuna back for long enough to heal Yuji's heart.

Wasting no time, he summoned his trusty bird companion, Nue, and readied himself. Sukuna was intrigued. Megumi ran towards him, and swung a punch at him. Nue descended on him from above. Sukuna ducked to avoid Nue, then blocked Megumi's punch. Since he had fought with shikigamis for most of his life, Megumi was sloppy in hand to hand combat.

Megumi swung another punch at Sukuna, which was also blocked. Then a kick. Blocked. Then another punch. Blocked. Nue tried to hit Sukuna again. Dodged. This was getting frustrating. It had even started raining.

Sukuna grabbed Megumi's fist and pulled him in. Then, he landed a backhanded slap across his face, drawing blood. He had a terrifying aura about himself.

Megumi summoned the Grea Serpent, which emerged from his shadows on the ground. It locked its fangs around Sukuna and hoisted him up in the sky, simultaneously injecting poison, while restricting his movement. Nue charges itself up and crashed into Sukuna repeatedly, trying its best to paralyse his nerves. However, as futile as it was, it somewhat amused Sukuna.

Before long, Sukuna tore through the Great Serpent, tearing it into two halves. Then, in an instant, he was on the ground, punching Megumi through the guy and sending him flying. Before he could at least crash into a building, Sukuna reappeared in the air and kicked him onto the rooftop of a nearby building. Then, he picked him up and threw him across several other buildings and walls. Then, just as he was above the Detention Center again, Sukuna slammed down on Megumi, who summoned Nue to shield his fall. The two lay at the bottom, injured and worn out.

Megumi : Damn it. I've used up all of my shikigamis until now. And I've lost Shiro and the Serpent. I can't afford to lose Nue too.

Subsequently, he cancelled Nue's summoning.

Sukuna : Your shikigamis use shadows as an intermediary, don't they?

Megumi : Yes. Why?

Sukuna walked towards them, not having broken a sweat. However, he was no longer malicious. Rather, he was curious.

Sukuna : I don't understand. You have such great potential. Such great power. Why, then, did you run back then? Why didn't you face that finger bearer?

Megumi had no answer. What did Sukuna mean by that?

Megumi : What do you mean?

Sukuna : Anyway, I ain't gonna fix this brat's heart. He's not worth the effort.

Megumi fell into thought again. Then why did he save Yuji Itadori that night?

The only thing he had grown up knowing was that life was only fair in how unfair it is to everyone. Tsumiki, probably the kindest person he had known his entire life, who would rather think of her loved ones than curse someone else, she was once cursed. On the other hand, his father, who didn't care about his gender and name him Megumi, was probably still alive and our there somewhere. Karma doesn't happen on its own. Criminals are disciplined as per law. And jujutsu sorcerers were just the cogs in this retribution. There was probably nothing special about them, good people everywhere were deprived of fairness. If only that could change, the world would be a better place. And so, Megumi resolved to continue saving people, whether it was fair or not.

Earlier, he had seen Yuji's determination in carrying back the body of the lady's son. He had been the one to question it,what would happen if someone he saved went on to kill someone else in the future. After all, they were at a detention center, and the lady's son had been arrested for drunk driving and killing a girl last year. And this was his second instance. But now, he seemed like a hypocrite. If given the choice, Megumi would agree with Yuji and bring the body home as well.

He steeled his resolve and brought his hands in a fighting stance. Sukuna was excited.

Sukuna : Finally! You're willing to go all out. Show me what you're working with, Megumi Fushiguro!

Megumi brought his hands into fists and under a sign in front of himself.

Megumi : With this treasure, I summon, Eight Handled-

But then, he stopped. Perhaps, he had changed his mind. No, he had simply found a more worthwhile way to reach out to Yuji.

Megumi : Just so you know, Itadori, I didn't save you because it was logical or something. You risked your life to save your friends back there. I simply couldn't let a good person like you, no matter how dangerous, die. And so, I've never regretted saving you. Not even for a moment.

What Megumi had hoped, finally happened. Yuji took back control of his body, even if it was imperciptible to others. But his energy changed. It became more relaxed. And thin, like there was only a little bit more time left.

Yuji : So, you finally thought, eh? Good for you. I guess we are both right in doing things in our ways.

Almost as if on cue, more blood spilled onto the ground from the gaping hole in Yuji's body.

Yuji : Guess time is over. Take care of the others. I won't have to worry about Gojo sensei. Live a long life, Fushiguro.

Yuji Itadori dropped to the ground, dead. 10:40 AM. Megumi was thankful for the rain, for it hid his tears. Damn it, where was Ijichi?

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Present)

August 22, 2018, Tokyo Jujutsu High, Morgue Facility, 0650 hours

Ijichi :  .....And that's what happened.

Gojo : And where were you?

Ijichi : Rushing back to the place from the hospital and getting stuck in traffic on the way.

Gojo sighed and grit his teeth. He goes on one overseas mission and his students drop dead like flies. Was this a conspiracy of the higher ups?

Gojo : It had to be intentional. A special grade cursed spirit. Five rescue targets who weren't even confirmed alive. There's no way this is a mission for first years.

Ijichi : But when the mission was planned, they didn't reveal special grade status. And when the window personally revealed it to me, I was nervous.

Gojo : I got a stay on Yuji's execution order, but those crusty higher ups went ahead with this anyway. What a pain. Perhaps I should kill them all.

At that moment, Shoko Ieiri, the resident doctor and morgue worker of Jujutsu High decided to make her entry.

Shoko : You're actually being emotional for once. Did you really have that much of a soft spot for him?

Gojo : Of course. I do for all my students. Whether Yuji, Megumi or Yuta too.

Shoko : Fine. But don't pick on Ijichi. Poor guy might not survive.

Gojo : Don't care.

Shoko pulled back the covers. Yuji's corpse lay on the bed. Eyes closed. White as paper. Body stiff like rock.  Already in rigor mortis.

Shoko : So this is Sukuna's vessel. Such a pretty boy. You sure I can dissect him however I want?

Gojo : Sure. Make it worthwhile.

Shoko : Of course. Who do you think I am?

---------------------------×××---------------------------
Traffic Crossing, 0800 hours

The crossing was abuzz with activity. Among those who were waiting to cross, one woman was clearly the most interesting figure there, in terms of jujutsu. She looked normal, a pretty woman with bi-colour eyes of green and yellow. She also had long, brown hair, tied into a bun. And, she was wearing a brown t-shirt and a pair of blue denim jeans, and a pair of leather boots. Only, imperciptible to others, she had stitches running across her forehead. And around her were cursed spirits. One with a volcano on its head and one eye. One that was very tall, with tree branches arising out of where its eyes should be. And one that was pretty short, with a head covering and growths on its mouth like octopus tentacles. These were the disaster curses, Jogo, Hanami and Dagon, respectively.

Jogo : Was it necessary to use the precious finger, just to get an idea about Sukuna's power?

Woman : No half hearted measures needed.

Jogo : What were you checking anyway?

Woman : Just how much of Sukuna's power had the fingers regained. I'd say, progress has been satisfactory.

Jogo : I hope that's not an excuse.

Hanami : §\'~\|•§×¢§§•{$∆¥

Jogo : Shut up! No one can understand a word of what you say!!

Thankfully, no other person could perceive these cursed spirits. That was a saving grace.

The party entered a restaurant. A waitress came up to them. Once again, the curses went unnoticed.

Waitress : Table for one?

Woman : Yes, only one.

--------------------------×××----------------------------
Tokyo Jujutsu High, Outside School Campus, 0900 hours

Outside the school, the first years were sitting on the stairs to the building with all the classrooms. Their classes had been suspended for the day to observe mourning for Yuji's death. They sat quietly, a gloomy atmosphere surrounding them.

Nobara : So, this is the first time you guys lost a friend?

Mimiko : A classmate? Yeah.

Nanako : And Fushiguro lost his dog. These two were very close, you know?

Mimiko : How are you doing?

Megumi : I'll be fine. I just need some time. What about you, Kugisaki? Didn't you lose a friend too?

Nobara : Oh don't worry. I'm not the type to mope over a guy I only knew for a month or two.

She turned away. But the way her lips quivered didn't go unnoticed by anyone. Everyone was sad. There was no reason to hide it.

Nobara : It's so hot. When will we get our summer uniforms?

Mimiko : Dunno.

Someone approached them. They looked up to see a tall girl with glasses and long, green hair. Maki Zenin.

Maki : Sheesh, you're moodier than usual, Megumi. What is this, a funeral?

Megumi : Oh look, who decided to finally show up, after everything is done and dusted. Zenin senpai.

Maki : Don't call me by my last name.

Mimiko : Fushiguro, don't be rude.

From a little distance away, a giant panda was trying to get Maki's attention. With him stood a short guy with a bowl cut off dirty blonde hair and his mouth covered, and a girl somewhat shorter than Maki Zenin with brown hair in a ponytail tail. Everyone, except for the panda was in uniform.

Panda : Maki, it really happened. A first year student died yesterday.

Toge : Fish flakes.

Maki turned to look at them sheepishly.

Maki : Couldn't you have told me earlier? Now they think I'm some sort of a cold blooded demon!

Panda : Yeah, you kinda are.

Toge : Tuna mayo.

From the distance, two more people were approaching. One was a guy with dirty white hair and brown eyes. Beside him was a girl with black hair and dark eyes, a ponytail and a set of headphones around her shoulders. Both were in uniform.

Nobara : Who are these people?

Megumi : Our upperclassmen. The green haired one is Maki Zenin senpai, the best cursed tool user in this school.

Maki : Remember not to use my last name.

Megumi : That's Panda senpai.

Panda : Maki gets nice whenever Yuta's around.

Megumi : The short one is Toge Inumaki senpai, who uses cursed speech. So he has to talk in rice ball ingredients.

Toge : Kelp.

Megumi : And this is my older sister, Tsumiki.

Tsumiki : Hi.

Megumi : They're the second years. The ones who are approaching us? The guy is Kazuma Koron senpai and the girl beside him is Natsumi Sato senpai. They're the fourth years. There's one more second year student, Yuta Okkutsu, who is the only one who deserves sincere respect. But he is overseas right now. The third years are currently suspended until December.

Nobara : You gonna elaborate on Panda? Or is he just, you know?

Panda : Sorry to be dropping this on you guys like this. Especially right now. But we want you guys to participate in the Sister School Exchange Event.

Nobara : The what?

Megumi : It's an event with other schools of jujutsu. But isn't it open only for second and third years?

Panda : Well it's not exactly strict since last year. Moreover, the third years are currently suspended.

Nobara : What exactly happens?

Panda : Officially, the principals choose the event. But, usually, the first day is for team event and second day is for individual event.

Nobara : Individual events against other sorcerers?

Maki : Yeah. And "no killing" is the only rule.

The first years thought it over. They had to get stronger. For Yuji's memory.

Mimiko : I'm in.

Nanako : Same.

Megumi : Yeah, count me in too.

Nobara : Me as well. But if the training seems pointless, I'm out.

Megumi : Same here.

Panda : Heh. It should be fun putting you guys in your place.

Chapter Text

August 22, 2018, [REDACTED] Restaurant, 0815 hours

Woman : So your leader wants to reverse the roles of humans and curses in this world. Am I right?

Jogo : Not quite. Humans always have a flip side to their positive emotions. An ulterior motive that they want to achieve through such expressions. But negative emotions, such as hatred and bloodlust, they are pure in their intent. Curses born from such emotions are the true beings. We are the true humans. The fake ones deserve to disappear.

Woman : Interesting. But in the end, you'll be the ones to disappear.

Jogo : That's why we're asking for your help in our war. To defeat Jujutsu High.

Woman : How ironic, isn't it? To defeat humans, you need the help of another human. Makes you wonder who is really superior.

Jogo : What did you say? Kaori Geto, if I were you, I would mind what I'm saying.

Kaori : Do you want my help or not? If so, sit down.

Jogo sat down. Even he couldn't help but admit that her help would be valuable. All of them leaned in to listen closely.

Kaori : To win this war, you need to achieve two things. 1. Seal away Satoru Gojo and render him unable to fight. 2. Make an ally of Ryomen Sukuna and Yuji Itadori.

Jogo : Isn't Yuji Itadori dead?

Kaori : I wouldn't be so sure if I were you.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Undisclosed location, unknown time

Sukuna : Don't look up at me like that, brat. I hate it.

Yuji : Then why don't you come here so I can look down on you?

Sukuna : So that is the thanks I get for fixing your arm?

Yuji : And you used it to rip my heart out right after!!!!

Yuji grabbed one of the skills from the heap on which Sukuna was sitting. His grip around the horns became so strong, his knuckles went white.

Yuji : Do I have to spend an eternity with you too? If that's so, then I'll make you regret it!!

He threw the skull at Sukuna with full force. Sukuna jumped upwards to avoid the hit, and landed on a giant bone like structure. He turned around to see Yuji climbing the thing, charging at him.

Yuji punched at Sukuna, which was blocked. Then, Sukuna charged with his own punch, which Yuji dodged. Finally, Yuji struck the ground below Sukuna's feet, aiming for his footing. He attempted to land a roundhouse kick, but Sukuna avoided it.

Yuji : Eh?

Sukuna : You're boring.

He kicked the boy off. Yuji landed in the puddle of this strange blood like liquid. Before he could get up, Sukuna landed on him, and sat comfortably on the boy.

Sukuna : This is my innate domain. It's the manifestation of my true self.

Yuji : What?

Sukuna : Have you heard of the legend of the three masks?

Yuji : Yeah. Every person wears three masks in their life. The first is shown to the world at large. The second to the closest of friends, family and loved ones. The third one, containing our truest self, is seen only by us.

Sukuna : Yes. They represent the three levels of our mind. Conscious, preconscious and unconscious.

Yuji : Since when do you know about Freud?

Sukuna : I was sealed away into fingers, but I wasn't dormant. In fact, I was actively accumulating knowledge.

The thought was pretty creepy to Yuji.

Sukuna : Anyway. The unconscious mind manifests as one's innate domain. This is what we are in currently.

Yuji : Yeah, so this is what Fushiguro was talking about.

Sukuna : Listen brat. I'll fix your heart and revive you, if you follow some conditions of mine. 1. I'll have full control over your body for one minute when I utter 'enchain'. 2. You will forget about this agreement.

Yuji : Nope. The last time you were let loose, it wreaked havoc.

Sukuna : Then how about my word for not injuring anyone else during that one minute?

Yuji : What good is your word?

Sukuna : It's a Binding Vow. One made with another sorcerer, to protect our mutual interests. If I break it, I'll face the most dire of consequences.

Yuji : You're desperate to live too, huh?

Sukuna : Not exactly. The game's changed. Soon, we'll see something interesting.

Yuji : Fine. Go ahead. If it means I'll be revived.

Sukuna got up from Yuji's back. And he was met with a straight right hook to his face. He was sent hurtling back, having been caught off guard.

Yuji : Like hell I'd say that. Revive me without any conditions.

Sukuna : Then how about a battle to the death? If you win, I'll revive you without any conditions. Otherwise...

Yuji : Agreed. Get ready to have your ass kick-

In an instant, the top half of Yuji's head was sliced off and sent flying to the ground.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High, Morgue Facility, 0700 hours

Gojo : I have a lousy personality.

Ijichi : Yeah.

Gojo : Ok, Ijichi, you're in for a serious slap later.

Ijichi : What?

Gojo : I'm not exactly a teacher type. So, what am I doing at Jujutsu High?

Ijichi : What?

Gojo : I have a dream.

Ijichi : A dream?

Gojo : With Yuji, the higher ups proved that they are the scum of the jujutsu world. Idiots, all of them. I'm gonna reset this crappy jujutsu world. But then, I could have just gone off and killed the higher ups. And suppressed dissent, so why didn't I do that? Because it won't matter. Someone else will take their place. If I am to change this system, I'll need to raise a new generation of sorcerers who are willing to reform it. I need to foster strong and intelligent allies, who will stand by each other. So that no one has to be alone ever again.

Gojo (continued) : To that end, I'll sometimes assign my missions to them. Tough love.

Ijichi wondered if that was the reason or if Gojo was just straight up lazy. However, he kept his mouth shut.

Gojo : The next generation is so full of talented sorcerers. Kazuma, Natsumi, Kinji, Yuta, Megumi. Yuji was no exception.

Shoko : Hey. If you're done with your stupid monologue, I'm about to start. Are you just gonna sit and watch?

Behind her, Yuji's body sat up. Colour had returned to his face, and he was alive once again. Everyone was left stunned.

Yuji : Whoa! Full frontal!

Ijichi : G-G-Gojo, he's a-alive...

Gojo : Ijichi, shut up.

Shoko : Damn, he's impressive in all aspects. Shame that I didn't get to land even one cut. Especially there. So disappointing.

Yuji : This is really embarrassing, but who are you?

Gojo : Yuji, welcome back.

Yuji : Good to be back.

The two high fived.

Later on, Shoko and Gojo were discussing Yuji's status while walking down the hallway.

Shoko : So, I'll have to change his report.

Gojo : No, keep it as it is. I want him to train some bit before being put out there. Let him remain dead for now.

Shoko : When will you reveal him?

Gojo : At the Exchange Event.

Shoko : Why? Just for the threatrics?

Gojo : You know me.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Jogo : So, you're saying that even if we work together, we don't have much of a chance in killing Satoru Gojo?

Kaori : Exactly. So instead of trying to kill him, we will reather seal him away.

Jogo : How?

Kaori : The prison realm.

Chapter Text

REDACTED] Restaurant, 0830 hours

Sadao had always been a responsible person. He worked hard daily to earn money and send his four sisters to college. But even he couldn't deny the sense of primal fear that emanated from that table. That table where that one woman sat. If he ever went near that table, he'd die. And he didn't want to die.

The other employees in the restaurant were less than pleased, however, at the situation.

Boss : Why isn't table number 5 ordering anything? That woman is hogging an entire table to herself.

Of course, they couldn't see the Disaster Curses. Typical of non sorcerers.

Jogo : Prison Realm? You have that damned thing?!

Flames erupted from the top of Jogo's head. The temperature began to shoot upwards.

Sadao ran up to his boss. His voice was shaky, and he was deathly scared for his life.

Sadao : Boss, I quit.

Boss : Huh? Hey, wait-

Before he could get another in, Sadao was already out the door, racing down the sidewalk towards his home.

Kaori : Calm down, Jogo. It's getting hot in here.

Jogo : How about this?

Kaori : I'd rather you not cause a commotion.

The boss had walked up to the table and gave a courteous bow.

Boss : Are you ready to order-

In an instant, his body went up in flames. Then, a fellow customer. Then another. Then another waiter. This way, each and every person in the restaurant spontaneously combusted. Kaori coughed and waved her hand to get rid of some fumes.

Kaori : Thank God I didn't choose an expensive restaurant.

Jogo : Geto. How strong am I in terms of Sukuna's fingers?

Kaori : Being generous, I'd give you 8 or 9.

Jogo : Then give me the Prison Realm. I'll add it to the collection. In exchange, I'll kill Satoru Gojo.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

August 23, 2018

Megumi : By the time we reached, your son was already dead.

In front of him stood the woman they had seen at the Detention Center that day. Tadashi's mother.

Megumi : I wasn't sure about saving people in that facility. But my friends asked to bring the body back. Even if we couldn't do that, I managed to get this for you.

He produced the torn off name card that Yuji had taken from Tadashi's body and put in his pocket. He gave the same to the grieving mother. Then, he did a courteous bow.

Megumi : I'm sorry we couldn't save your son.

Tadashi's mother broke down upon seeing her son's name, and clutched the name card close to herself.

Tadashi's mother : Please don't apologise. You did all you could. I'm the only one who will grieve him after all.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High, Training Grounds, 0935 hours

Maki : Megumi, where were you?

Megumi : Does it matter?

Maki : When will you start giving proper answers instead of being rude to people?

Megumi : Senpai, if you could, what kind of people would you save?

Maki : Huh? Never gave much thought to it.

From the distance, Nobara and Nanako's voices ringed through. The two girls' legs were held in each of Panda's hands, and they were being rotated at a high speed, none of their body on the ground.

Nanako : Fushiguro, get your ass over here and switch places instead of conducting a damn interview!

Nobara : This uniform is trash! I'm buying a cute tracksuit later on!

Panda went on to throw them both on to the ground. The two landed upon each other, all tangled up.

Panda : You guys are weak in close combat.

Sukuna's words flashed in Megumi's mind again. The exact same thing he had said. He hadn't noticed Tsumiki walking up to him.

Tsumiki : Say, Megumi, did you really fight Ryomen Sukuna himself?

Megumi : Hmm? Yeah. It was a very weak version, but him nonetheless.

Tsumiki : Amazing. You've grown stronger.

Maki : But there's still journey to cover. First try and win against me. Then we'll talk.

Tsumiki : Sure. But this is a stepping stone too.

Megumi sighed. If either of them had been a guy, he would've called them a married couple. But then, Okkutsu was also in the mix. In the distance, Toge and Mimiko were practicing, both learning to wield nunchuks better.

Suddenly, Megumi was ticked off. Like something wasn't exactly right.

Maki : What's the deal with you?

Megumi : Something just pissed me off. As if someone was making fun of me.

Maki : Hey-

Megumi : Not you. Someone behind my back.

Maki observed him a bit longer. He was strange. He was introverted . But most importantly, he was always struggling to express his feelings. She handed Megumi her staff and told him to try pole arm. He found the length just right.

The fourth years approached the ground and walked up to where Maki and Megumi had been standing. Natsumi ruffled the younger boy's hair.

Natsumi : Feels so nice to see the little ones practicing with such zeal.

Kazuma : Yeah. This will be their first Exchange Event after all. It was exciting for us, surely.

Megumi : Senpai, how did your Event go last year?

Kazuma : Tense. Due to Suguru Geto. Careless. Due to Yuta Okkutsu. Controversial. Due to Kinji Hakari and Kirara Hoshi. And finally, hella fun. Due to everything. But specially Natsu-chan.

Natsumi : Oh shut it. It was fun because of everyone's involvement. I wasn't special or something.

Megumi : How's your sister-in-law, senpai? How's the baby?

Natsumi : Oh he's the cutest baby I've ever seen. Possibly the cutest in the whole world. His name is Haruki. Right now, he's 4 months old. And already saying gibberish.

Kazuma : You're never that excited while talking about me.

Natsumi : What are you, a 4 month old baby?

Kazuma : See how she's being mean again, Maki, Fushiguro siblings?

Natsumi ruffled Kazuma's hair and patted his head.

Natsumi : There there. Someone got sad, huh?

Megumi : What is going on?

Maki : He likes it. Trust me.

Kazuma : Of course I do. It's Natsu-chan after all.

Everyone, except for these two lovebirds, groaned.

Megumi : Oh fuck off.

He went away to train with the others, staff in hand.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Yuji sat in the car, in its backseat, with Gojo in the front, and Ijichi in the driver's seat. Currently, only these people, and Shoko Ieiri, knew of the fact that he was alive. They were driving towards Gojo's house.

Gojo : So, you'll be staying at my house until things calm down. You'll have an entire room to yourself. Spend your time as you wish. I'll try to get you involved in missions, but remember to keep a low profile.

Yuji : Understood.

The rest of the drive was silent. Yuji spent his time, looking into his phone. He was mindlessly scrolling through social media.

Finally, they reached Gojo's house. It was an apartment. A penthouse apartment, at that. Yuji sighed. Of course, Gojo was rich. Ijichi bid them farewell and drove off.

The two went into the elevator. Yuji could see just how high class everything was here. He wanted to be rich too, so he could buy an apartment like this. But alas, it would remain a pipe dream, given the line he had chosen for himself.

Once inside, Yuji looked around and observed his surroundings carefully. Typical rich people apartment. Imported items. Famous paintings. A cute little boy. Cute little boy? There he was, standing in front of them, with expectant eyes and a teddy bear in hand. The famed Satoshi Gojo, about whom Yuji had heard a lot from his teacher. And he had to agree the boy was adorable.

Satoshi immediately went to his father and hid in his arms. Gojo held him comfortably, while leading Yuji to his room. It was a guest room, and Yuji could use it for the time being.

Yuji was surprised at the room. It was even more luxurious than his dorm, which has been more cozy. It had glass panes that gave a view of the whole city. After all, they were at the 25th floor.

After settling in, Gojo entrusted Yuji with looking after Satoshi, as he himself had to return to school. He promised to train Yuji in the evening when he'd be back.

Gojo : Also, be a bit on edge. My wife will also be back in the evening. While I will tell her about your situation, I don't exactly know how she'll act.

Yuji : Got it. Keep my bag packed and be ready to run.

Gojo : No, that won't be necessary. She's a bit cold on the exterior, but once you get past that, there's no one more caring than her.

It wasn't long before the man left. Duties. Responsibilities. No one could avoid them.

Yuji looked at the boy in his arms. He was small. Neither too heavy, nor two light. He was adorable, and looking at Yuji with big, curious eyes. Evidently an introvert, like Megumi. Satoshi also had jet black hair and brown eyes. While there was resemblance of Gojo sensei in him, he also looked somewhat like someone else. Probably his mother. Yuji had a good idea of what this little boy would look like when he'd grow up, he'd be stunning looking, and breaking hearts of people left and right. The thought amused him to no end.

Yuji : I'm Yuji. What's your name?

Satoshi : I'm Satoshi.

Clear speech. He was a fluent speaker.

Yuji : So, Satoshi. What do you want to do now?

Satoshi : Can we play on the bavcony?

Yuji : The balcony? Is it safe and barricaded?

Satoshi : That's what my mom says.

Yuji : Oh she does? She's wise.

Satoshi : It is bawwicaded.

Yuji chuckled. Satoshi was, nevertheless, a toddler. So big words were still out of his reach.

Yuji : Let's go to the balcony then.

Chapter Text

August 23, 2018, Gojo's apartment, 1900 hours

After a long day of playing with Satoshi, and making lunch for themselves, the boys were in the living room, watching television. Adventure Time. Apparently, Satoshi loved the show. Yuji had never seen it himself, but it was pretty entertaining. Seeing a boy and his talking dog go on adventures was pretty fun. Another thing Yuji missed out on as a kid.

The doorbell rang. Yuji's muscles stiffened. This might be it. The pleasant day would come to an end.

Yuji : I'll see to it.

He got up and walked towards the door. Upon opening it, he found his sensei standing there. Beside him was a woman, with jet black hair and brown eyes. And a face that has some semblance to Satoshi. Evidently Gojo sensei's wife. Yuji's face was neutral, but his body was fraught with tension. The two took off their shoes and entered inside. So far so good.

Gojo : Yo, Yuji. How was the day?

Yuji : It was fun. We played, and Satoshi practiced his alphabet. Then we had lunch and he had his afternoon nap. I had a cup of coffee. Then we were watching some TV.

Gojo : Sounds like a fun little holiday. Come here, let me introduce you. Iori!

Said woman came out. She had a tired expression on her face.

Gojo : This is my officially dead but actually alive student, Yuji Itadori. Yuji, this is my wife, Iori Utahime Gojo. She's the first years instructor at Kyoto Jujutsu High.

Yuji nodded in acknowledgement. Utahime had no reaction.

Utahime : Make yourself comfortable. And don't stay up until late.

Then, she went inside. Yuji breathed a sigh of relief. When had he been holding his breath?

Gojo : Oh don't you worry. She won't kick you out. I already talked it over with her. She's agreed already. Give her some time, she's just tired.

Yuji : Hope so.

Gojo : It is so. Chill. Go sit with Satoshi.

Yuji nodded and sat back with the little boy. They were watching Finn and Jake go around again. Yet, Yuji couldn't clear his mind. He was riddled with thoughts of what Utahime would say. After all, he had never been a very welcome person anywhere. All this felt....odd. Too good to be true.

At around 8, Gojo called Yuji into a private empty cinema hall for training. Seriously? A 55 inch TV and a cinema hall? Gojo knew how to go overboard. He arrived to find his sensei already waiting, in his casual black t-shirt and white baggy trousers and sunglasses on.

Gojo : So, Yuji, you're going to learn to use jujutsu. Specially now that you don't have a weapon anymore.

Oh right. Slaughter Demon had been broken at Eishu. He was practically defenseless.

Gojo : Do you know the difference between cursed energy and cursed technique?

Yuji : No.

Gojo : Okay. Watch this.

He fired two shots at two cans kept on a small table to the distance. One was dented and knocked off the table. The other was twisted. Yuji winced at the spilled juice. Gojo noticed his students' concern.

Gojo : Oh don't focus on the juice. Look at the cans. The one that was knocked off was just cursed energy. The one that got twisted? Cursed technique. It's like electricity and electric quipments.

Yuji : So basically, cursed energy is rudimentary energy application and cursed technique is chanelling said energy for productive output.

Gojo : Yes. Basically that. Chanelling cursed energy allows us to use cursed techniques.

Yuji : So I'm going to learn a badass technique.

Gojo : No.

Yuji : Huh?

Gojo : Cursed techniques are defined at birth and awakened by the age of 5 or 6. About 80% of a sorcerer's strength depends on innate and inborn talent. You can't use a cursed technique.

Yuji : Bummer. I wanted to use something like a bankai, rasengan or a spirit bomb. Guess all of them are down the drain.

Gojo didn't mention the entire thing. Yuji was simply unable to use a cursed technique now. In time, Sukuna's technique would be engraved into his body, giving him access to the strongest cursed technique in history. And if Yuji honed it to the full potential, he might even surpass Gojo one day.

Gojo : Alright, get up. You might not be able to use a cursed technique, but you can still do a lot. Cursed energy manipulation is a massive strength on which many sorcerers lose out on. Moreover, you can learn seals, barrier techniques and shikigami summoning. And a resourceful sorcerer with these general tools is more dangerous than a novice with a technique.

Yuji : Ok, and how do we do all of that?

Gojo : We learn to get our cursed energy manipulation under control. By watching movies.

Yuji : What?

Gojo : Cursed energy is born from negative emotions. When you were overwhelmed by fear, anguish and dread in the Detention Center, you could charge your fists with cursed energy. But, sorcerers can't really rely on such outbursts. So, we need to get our emission under control. By watching movies, we experience tons of different emotions and our cursed energy emission fluctuates. If we can get it under control, we'll become much stronger sorcerers.

So that was the reason of the movie theatre. Gojo walked over to a heap of CDs and searched through them.

Gojo : Any particular preferences?

Yuji : Nah.

Gojo : Then I recommend this. Pretty gruesome. If you're ok with it.

Yuji : Yeah sure.

Gojo placed the CD in the projector and aimed it at the screen. Yuji sat down comfortably.

Yuji : So sorcerers emit cursed energy?

Gojo : Everyone who is capable of emotional processing emits cursed energy. Even curses emit cursed energy. Sorcerers can simply manipulate and restrict and redirect its emission. That is also how we are identified.

Gojo brought out a doll of a teddy bear with boxing gloves. Based on the work, it seemed to be a creation of Masamichi Yaga.

Gojo : This'll help you. Everytime your cursed energy emission fluctuates, it will hit you. To pacify it, your emission must be regular.

Yuji : Huh. Got it.

BAM! The doll landed a punch on Yuji's chin. Yuji quickly recovered and grabbed it. He restrained it, feeling his cursed energy flowing through his body.

Gojo : By the way, when you were with Sukuna, did you talk to him? Did you enter any sort of contract?

Yuji : I don't particularly remember, why?

Gojo : No, nothing. Alright, the film is starting. Enjoy.

Yuji watched with rapt attention, not realising that Gojo had already left. The story flashed in front of his eyes, his emotions moving by each scene. And through it all, he concentrated. Entirely aware of the nuisance on his lap, he concentrated hard, getting his cursed energy under control. It wasn't particularly difficult, but his body did feel weird for sure.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Over the last few days, he had really settled into his routine. Waking up at 3:30, as usual, for some yoga and exercise. Then a run across Tokyo, till the Skytree, and back. Then an ice cold shower and self styling. Finally, breakfast. Then he got busy with his studies and homework.

After lunch, he was free and spent his time playing with Satoshi and reading. Gojo had a huge library of different types of books, most of which he had never even read. Some particularly mundane ones, like cooking recipes, to deep philosopies like Socrates. And of course, some of them written to see outside the system, for example Bonhoeffer. Each one provided a detailed insight into life.

Evenings included watching TV with Satoshi and receiving Gojo and Utahime. The two were still on icy terms, and Yuji was so scared that he practically refused to move an inch. Then, watching movies until 11 PM. Followed by sleep. Then, next day, repeat.

Honestly, Yuji had no complaints from his life right now. He could continue this discourse for years. Eventually, however, he knew he'd have to be back on the field, to get the rest of Sukuna's fingers. Life was indeed cruel to him, allowing him to enjoy its pleasures, but only towards the very end. Even so, he resolved to make the most out of it.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

August 27, 2018, Tokyo Jujutsu High, Training Grounds, 1000 hours

Megumi : Carrying cursed tools, huh? I won't disagree, there are advantages to them. But even the tiniest thing, like a sheath is cumbersome. Maki senpai, how do you carry your cursed tools?

Maki : I usually hand some to Panda.

Megumi felt like he shouldn't have asked.

Panda : There are sorcerers who use curses to store their weapons. However they are very rare sine it is so difficult to tame cursed spirits.

Maki : I'd love that. Find me one.

Panda : For a year's worth of sausages.

Megumi was deep in thought. How could he carry cursed tools while keeping his hands free for combat? And what did Sukuna mean by running away? Did he stand a chance against the special grade that day? Surely not, he was only grade 2 after all. He looked at the ground. The sun was blasting down on him, casting a shadow on the ground. Wait, shadow? Megumi touched the area of the ground on which his shadow fell. His fingers sunk downwards. He smiled. An idea had taken root in his head. He knew how he would carry his cursed tools.

Toge : Tuna tuna.

Maki : Huh?

Megumi : Senpai, I think we're good. I have an idea.

Meanwhile, Nobara and Nanako pulled on Tsumiki's arms, pulling her with themselves, while Mimiko followed closely behind, looking on her map for Ura-Harajuku. Tsumiki was worried whether their newly bought tracksuits may get wrinkled. The girls paid no attention to such things, and continued to look for Ura-Harajuku, anger and annoyance evident on their faces.

Chapter Text

August 28, 2018, 2100 hours

The car sped on, the wind blowing about it. Gojo sat inside, a serious look on his face. He was going to meet Masamichi Yaga at Tokyo High.  Ijichi was driving him.

Ijichi : You still have some time before your appointment with the principal. Would you like to pass some time?

Gojo : No. Let's be early from time to time.

His expression changed to curiosity. In a second, his decision changed.

Gojo : Stop the car.

Ijichi : Here?

Gojo : Yes.

The car came to a halt. Gojo deboarded.

Gojo : Go ahead without me.

Ijichi : Is this some sort of test? Like you'll slap me if I actually do that?

Gojo : What do you take me for?

The car sped off. Gojo looked upwards. He stepped to the side, as a cursed spirit crashed down onto the place he had been standing on.

It was a strange looking curse. He had a volcano for a head. One eye. Black teeth. Blue-gray skin, like ash. Human like hands. A black garment to cover his body. And a cape over it, with leopard print.

Gojo : And who might you be?

Jogo : Take this.

A volcano like growth, similar to Jogo's head, appeared on the wall beside Gojo. It fired off a powerful beam of lava and fire, Gojo disappearing in its ambit.

Jogo : Heh. He was nothing special.

The smoke began to clear. A familiar voice rang through.

Gojo : Who are you calling nothing special?

There he was. Unharmed. Not even broken a sweat. The remaining lava, ash and smoke moved away from him in a circular motion.

Jogo : Rascal.

Gojo was deep in thought. Not only could this curse communicate clearly, it also had absurdly high levels of cursed energy. An unregistered special grade? He could be stronger than current Sukuna.

Gojo : Special grades are called so because they are pretty special. I'd be thrown off guard if you came at me recklessly like that.

Jogo : Did I hurt your pride?

Gojo : Nah, I'm starting to have fun.

Jogo : Really? You have no sense of danger.

Gojo knew why this curse chose an area without people, he wanted to avoid potential reinforcements. He cracked his knuckles in anticipation.

Gojo : Yeah, sounds about right.

Jogo : Amber Insects!

Several flies, made of lava, flew towards Gojo, who put up two of his fingers. They got stuck, and began to produce a deafening screech. Just then, they all exploded. Gojo jumped out of the way and landed on a patch of land higher than his previous level.

Gojo : Combination of sound and pyrotechniques. How clever.

Jogo appeared on his side, his hand charged with fire. He sung his fist at Gojo's head, setting it on fire. The body stumbled backwards. Jogo put a hand on the abdomen and blasted a huge beam of cursed energy induced lava, that incinerated a long way out. He scoffed at the destruction and walked away.

Jogo : I overestimated the weak. What a pity. Today's humans are just a sham. They live by falsity, not truth. And it is repulsive. Vomit inducing, even. True, real strength.... I'll show them through death.

Gojo : You've said that before, haven't you? Won't you learn?

Jogo turned around. There was he. Again. That bastard. Satoru Gojo. Completely unharmed. As if he was being mocked over here.

Jogo : What is the meaning of this?

Gojo : You didn't hit me.

Jogo : Impossible. I clearly remember touching and killing you.

Gojo : No, you didn't touch me. What you touched was the Infinity that exists between you and me.

Jogo's quizzical expression amused Gojo to no end.

Gojo : I'll explain it. Put your hand out.

Sensing no murderous intent from the man before him, Jogo obliged the request. And in doing so, he saw his own hand freeze in the air, unable to reach Gojo. A force constantly obstructed its path. Or rather, better to say, it stopped right before reaching him. Was this Infinity?

Gojo : See? It doesn't stop, it simply slows your hand down. However....

Gojo intertwined fingers with the curse.

Gojo : I can just hold hands with you like this.

Jogo : I refuse!

Gojo : Don't be shy. I'll start to get embarrassed too. Just think, you're making a married man embarrassed about holding hands.

Jogo : You bastard!!

SWAP! Gojo landed a strong punch to Jogo's gut, repelling him away. Purple blood emerged from Jogo's mouth. Gojo wasn't just fast or strong, there was something else too.

Gojo : I'm not done yet.

Two more punches, pushing Jogo away onto the ground. Gojo brought his index and middle fingers together in front of him.

Gojo : Infinity is omnipresent. My technique simply brings it into reality. Cursed Technique Reversal : Red.

A red orb of cursed energy formed in front of Jogo. It blasted with a huge force, sending him flying about 200 meters away. He crashed into the forest but Gojo was there, waiting. As soon as he came into Gojo's purview, Jogo faced two punches to the face, followed by another Red that threw him up in the air.

Jogo : Take this!!

He speed lava from his hand in an attempt to get away from this man. Unfortunately, Gojo was already behind him, his Six Eyes shining through the blindfold itself. Gojo kicked the curse towards a pond, where the water extinguished his flames.

Gojo : About damn time.

Jogo staggered up. Kaori had warned him that he'd die. But Jogo still hadn't listened. No, he had been too arrogant. And now, he was desperate. If he couldn't kill Gojo normally, he would drag him into his territory. But where was he?

Gojo : Aww, were you waiting for me? I'm flattered.

As if on cue, Gojo reappeared on the water, floating instead of sinking. In his right hand, he held Yuji Itadori by his black hoodie, who was trying not to be touched by the water.

Jogo : That is....

Gojo : This is Yuji Itadori, who will observe our squabble.

Yuji : Gojo sensei! That guy has Mt Fuji on his head!

--------------------------×××----------------------------

(Flashback)

Gojo arrived back at his apartment. Iori was helping Satoshi learn the alphabet, for whom it was seemingly difficult. Gojo ruffled the toddler's hair, and moved to the movie theatre. Yuji was sitting and watching movies as usual. A horror. Human Earthworm series. The doll was asleep in his arms. Gojo was impressed. Yuji's manipulation of his cursed energy had improved greatly. Now, he could simply meditate to improve further.

Gojo : Yuji.

Yuji jumped. He hadn't expected any interference now.

Yuji : Sensei? Didn't you go to Yaga sensei for some errand?

So Yuji's manipulation was stable even in times of interference. Good. His movement was very precise. It also seemed like Yuji himself could look into himself and manually change the pathways of his cursed energy. This was advanced level manipulation. Yuji might be returning sooner than he had expected.

Gojo : We're going on an extracurricular lesson. Let me show you the peak of jujutsu. Domain expansions.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

(Present)

Yuji : Sensei, we were at your apartment ten seconds ago. How did we reach here?

Gojo : We flew.

So he wouldn't explain. Yet. Yuji sighed.

Jogo was relieved and cautious at the same time. So Sukuna's vessel was alive after all. Having to kill Gojo and take on Itadori.... could they have become aware about their plan?

Jogo : What is that brat here for? Act as a shield?

Gojo : Shield? No no. I'm going to teach the kid some stuff. He'll learn by observing.

Jogo : Taking an obstacle willingly. How foolish.

Gojo : It should be fine. After all, you're weak.

The comment was uncalled for. Jogo felt every fibre of his body go up in flames. Fury gripped his soul, shook his body. His ears and head, all mini volcanoes, erupted with lava furiously.

Jogo : DON'T YOU DARE UNDERESTIMATE ME, YOU BASTARD!!!!! I'LL MAKE YOU SWALLOW THAT PRIDE OF YOURS!!!!

Yuji looked in bewilderment. This guy was weak? What was Gojo thinking? Of all the monsters he had faced this one was by far the strongest yet. Gojo understood what was going on in his students' head, and placed a comforting hand for reassurance.

Gojo : Don't worry. No harm will come to you as long as I'm here.

Jogo intertwined his thumbs with each other, and crossed his index and middle fingers. Then, his ring fingers touched each other, whereas his pinky fingers remained free. It was some sort of hand sign, a mudra perhaps.

Jogo : Domain Expansion - Coffin of the Iron Mountain.

A barrier entrapped all three of them in a separate space. The temperature inside gre hotter and hotter, until this space took the form of the inside of an active volcano. Yuji looked in shock and amazement.

Yuji : What is this?

Gojo : This is a domain expansion. A barrier that is constructed to entrap people and space into a separate dimension for the caster's benefit. Once imbued with a technique, it becomes a complete domain. The one you faced at Eishu was an incomplete domain, because it wasn't imbued with a technique. If it had been, all first years would have died. Likely a newborn curse.

Yuji winced as some lava hit his arm. It was scalding.

Gojo : It takes a crazy amount of cursed energy to construct a domain, but it has its advantages. One, you get a stat boost from the environment, which is tailored to suit you. Kind of like a video game buff. Two.

A huge pillar of lava advanced towards Gojo, but slowed down nonetheless. One knock off his fingers, and it shattered.

Jogo : Tsk. An average sorcerer would have been toast the moment they entered my domain.

Gojo : The technique imbued into the barrier will always hit the target. This is the notorious property of the unavoidable hit.

Yuji : It'll always hit?

Gojo : Always. But there are ways to counteract. One way is to counter the blows with your own sorcery. Another, not really recommended way, is just to run out of the domain. It's usually impossible, so it sounds stupid. However, there is a third, more powerful way to counter a domain expansion.

Jogo : So, if I attack you now, my attacks will hit you? They will bypass Infinity?

Gojo : Yup. They will.

Yuji : Infinity?

Jogo thought. He had come here partly to play. If he couldn't kill Gojo, he would at least seal him away in the prison realm. But no, Gojo had displayed just how much of a power gap there was between him and the rest of the world. Jogo's pride as a curse, a new found human, couldn't let this slide.

Gojo grabbed Yuji again, this time, holding him by the waist. This was absolutely crucial for what he was about to do next.

Gojo : The most effective way to counter a domain expansion is to expand your own domain. This leads to a domain clash. The more refined and polished domain wins and overpowers the other. Once a domain expansion concludes, sorcerers are unable to use their innate techniques for a period of time. This is part of the Binding Vow with domains.

Jogo : I WON'T LEAVE EVEN YOUR ASHES!!! SATORU GOJO!!!

Gojo pulled down his blindfold, his Six Eyes shining brightly, charged with his power. He wrapped his middle finger around his index finger and brought it beside his head. Another mudra.

Gojo : Domain Expansion - Infinite Void.

Jogo was frozen. He could hear his own thoughts. His territory was outperformed, and he couldn't see or feel anything. No, he could see and feel everything. Every single bit of information in this universe flooded his mind. Movement of atoms. Falling of leaves. Flowing of water. Decomposition of animal carcasees in a forest. He could see it all. And it was this sensory overload that paralysed him. Gojo placed a hand on his head, his other hand holding Yuji tightly.

Gojo : This is the inner world of the Limitless. Where you receive so much information, you are unable to move. And this information is moved through your brain repeatedly. How ironic. Things that help you survive are the ones killing you slowly. But since I have information to get from you, I'll let you off easy this time.

Gojo applied pressure and pulled on Jogo's head, tearing it off of his body. The domain was dissolved, and Jogo's head was thrown onto the ground. Gojo stepped in it, his blindfold slightly removed, ready to strike.

Gojo : Who sent you here tonight?

Yuji gulped nervously. Even as a living organism, Gojo stood far above the rest of the world.

Further away, on a hill, Kaori Geto stood and watched the scene. Beside her was Hanami. She sighed exasperatedly.

Kaori : Look at that fool. Even though I warned him. What should we do? Should we save him now?

Hanami : $ק∆×÷÷§§÷|π√¥

Kaori : I can't afford to be seen by peoe affiliated to Jujutsu High Society. So I'm going home. If you want to saw him, go ahead. Although I don't know if your kind is known for that type of compassion.

Hanami : √'π~π'√|ק§§∆|§•

In a moment, she was gone. Kaori faced twitched in annoyance and disdainful mockery.

Kaori : How dare you say that? When you're nothing more than a cursed spirit?

On the ground, Gojo still stood over the severed curse head.

Gojo : So you don't act on others. Still, you must have some benefit from killing me. Who is your partner? Tell me or I'll exorcise you. Well, I'll exorcise you anyway.

Yuji : Curses can have conversations, huh? I almost overlooked that fact.

Gojo felt another unusual spike in cursed energy. He moved out as a giant cone, like the ones found on alpine trees, fell in front of him. And it gave rise to a beautiful field of flowers. Yuji and Gojo were mesmerized by the scent and the view.

Gojo slapped himself awake. Then he slapped Yuji, and looked for the volcano head. But by then it was too late.

Hanami swooped in and picked up Jogo's head, then ran away just as fast. On the way, she left behind a monstrous tree, that snaked its vine around Yuji's leg and pulled him up and towards itself.

Yuji : Sensei, I'm fine. Go after them.

The monster showed its face, ready to eat the boy.

Yuji : Sorry! Not ok! Help!

Gojo sent little spikes of Red to cut off the monster's branches and set it on fire. Yuji feel face flat on the ground. Gojo turned around, but they were gone. Evidently, this tree curse was fast and good at hiding tracks. Creepier than volcano head.

Behind him, Yuji prostated himself on he ground and blabbered nonsense.

Yuji : Thank you for saving me and sorry because they ran away. Then again, you brought me here.

Gojo : Special grades teaming up. Things are getting interesting. Yuji, I want you guys strong enough to beat that.

Yuji : That? You gotta be crazy!

Gojo : Not at all. I'm just working with a concrete objective. That's the best, isn't it? You'll work a big mission coming your way, learn the foundations of sorcery and then I'll unveil you at the Exchange Event.

Yuji : Sensei, question.

Gojo : Yes , Yuji.

Yuji : What's this Exchange Event?

Gojo : Heh? I didn't tell you?

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Masamichi Yaga's Office, 2210 hours

Yaga and Ijichi sat opposite to and directly facing each other. It was tense and awkward, and Ijichi was sweating profusely out of fear of the larger man. Yaga was extremely annoyed.

Yaga : He's late!!

Ijichi curled further into himself. Even as a 26 year old, he was terrified of Yaga's voice. Then again, with the deep, burly voice this principal had, anyone would be terrified of him.

Chapter Text

Undisclosed location, 2310 hours

Kaori Geto climbed the stairs, and walked to a specific door. The latch turned and opened by itself. Inside, was a vast tropical beach and a vast, expansive ocean, where Dagon, the cursed womb, was happily swimming about. To a distance, a beach chair was situated, with a big umbrella covering it from the sunlight.

Kaori : What a calm domain.

An unknown voice called out to her.

Unknown voice : Geto, what happened to Jogo?

Kaori : He was about to die. But Hanami went ahead and saved him, so he'll be alright.

Unknown voice : How irresponsible of you. You instigated it, didn't you?

Kaori : My my, what a scandalous accusation. The truth couldn't be farther from it. I tried to stop him.

At that moment, the door opened, and the curses entered. Hanami stood, one hand holding Jogo's decapitated head, the other wrapped in a huge cloth.

Kaori : Speak of the devil.

Unknown voice : Jogo, Hanami. I'm glad you're safe.

Jogo : Who do you think you're talking to?

Kaori : Well, that's how it ended. And anyway, he was right.

Jogo was enraged upon seeing this woman. Kaori simply lolled out her tongue, pretending to be silly.

Kaori : I think you understand that Satoru Gojo must be attacked at a certain place and time. And only after we have established our advantages.

Jogo : When will that be?

Kaori : October 31st. In Shibuya. I'll contact you with the details later. Will that be alright, Mahito?

The cursed spirit sat up straight. He looked like a human, with ashen grey skin, heterochromic eyes, one blue and one gray, and stitch marks all over his face, as if someone has stitched him together. His hair was tied into two plaits. He was wearing a black shirt, with one shoulder sliced off, and black leggings. In his hand, he held a book, containing writings of Frederich Nietzsche.

Mahito : No objections here. We'll move ahead, sly as curses, cunning as humans.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

September 1st, 2018, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 0915 hours

Nobara was squatting on the ground, inserting a coin into the vending machine. She was frustrated. There were so less of these things around here.

Nobara : Why aren't there more of the se things?

Megumi : Not possible. Vendors are not allowed in this school.

Elsewhere, the second years were walking down the path towards the main school building, the Hasaba twins in their toe, gossiping about some latest news.

Panda : Where are Fushiguro and Kugisaki?

Maki : They're out on an errand.

Panda : Are they okay?

Maki : They're not three year old. They can run errands.

Panda : That's not what I meant. The Kyoto students are arriving soon. Hokkaido students will arrive this evening. Then Kitakami and Osaka teams by tomorrow. Followed by Hida Uganda and Nevada teams by day after tomorrow. Lastly, the Himalayan team will arrive on 4th. Plus, there'll be a briefing session, right?

Maki : As I said, they're not kids. They can handle themselves.

Tsumiki : True. Let us believe in them for once.

Panda : Again, not what I'm hinting at.

Maki : Then fucking explain, bitch.

Panda : Gojo is on bad terms with the higher ups, right? Because of the Eishu incident. Well, isn't the Kyoto principal one of those higher ups? I wonder what will happen when he arrives.

Tsumiki : It seems unlikely that that old man will cause a scandal in public. Teachers have their positions to upkeep.

Panda : But students don't.

The twins had also stopped and started to listen in on the conversation. And now, they were worried for their friends.

Mimiko : What's going on?

Maki : You mean she's here? Mai?

Panda : I'm just speculating. Students have nothing to do with the briefing. But, they love to harass people.

Megumi and Nobara were facing said harassers. A girl of Maki's height and looks, but she had a short bob cut hair, a condescending air about her and no glasses. Mai Zenin. Beside her was third year student Aoi Todo, still a giant hunk as last year.

Megumi : What are you doing here, Zenin senpai?

Mai : How rude, Fushiguro. When you call me that, it seems you don't differentiate between Maki and me. Call me Mai.

Todo : So you're the subsitutes for Okkutsu and the third years?

Mai : We were worried about you guys, so we came with our principal. Your classmate died, right? Was it painful?

Megumi : What are you getting at?

Mai : Host sounds innocent. But in reality, he was a curse eating monster. To call himself a sorcerer and stand by your side, you must have been repulsed. Aren't you glad he's dead?

Megumi tsked in annoyance, while Nobara's eyes twitched. Thankfully, the discussion was not carried further.

Todo : Mai, shut up. Your words are as worthless as your ideas. I want to test whether they're worthy replacements for Okkutsu. Fushiguro, what's your type in women?

Megumi and Nobara looked at him, perplexed. What did he just say? Todo took off his shirt in front of them.

Todo : Depending on your answer, I'll beat you to half death right here, right now. By the way, my type is a tall woman with a big butt, who can kick ass.

Megumi : Why should I discuss that with someone I just met?

Nobara : Yeah, he seems refined, but I bet he's a closet pervert.

Megumi : Who's side are you on?

Todo : Aoi Todo. Kyoto third year student. Introduction over. Now we're friends, so go on. I don't care if it is a guy either. Remember, a person's inclinations tell a lot about them. Guys with boring taste in women are boring themselves.

Nobara : Hey, are those summer uniforms? How nice.

Megumi was in a tricky situation. Nobara was unarmed. He wasn't prepared. He had to avoid a dispute and leave peacefully.

Todo : This Exchange Event is the turf where my soul runs wild. If someone ruins my last Event, who knows what'll happen to them? Answer me, Fushiguro. What's your type in women?

At that moment, Megumi remembered something Tsumiki had told him. Not being able to tolerate a person wasn't wrong. It was also a type of kindness. After all, there was no one person in history whom everyone liked simultaneously, right?

Megumi : I don't have a specific type. As long as that person has an unshakeable character, it's enough for me.

The girls were impressed. Mai had a very faint blush on her face. Nobara had the look of a proud mother who had raised a gentleman.

Nobara : Good for you. If you had said something like big boobs, I'd have killed you myself.

Megumi : So noisy.

But Todo wasn't pleased. Tears flowed in a constant stream from his eyes. But he wasn't sad. No, he was disappointed. Angry, even.

Todo : Just as I thought. You're a boring guy, Fushiguro.

Todo used his giant arm to slam Megumi away, delivering a dastardly bruise to his forehead. Nobara tried to stop them, but she was held back by Mai, who wrapped her arms around Nobara's waist and tightly held her.

Mai : Poor Fushiguro. Even a genius grade 2 is nothing in front of Todo senpai, who is a grade 1. You can comfort him later.

Nobara : I thought you two looked alike, but I was wrong. Maki senpai is a hundered times more beautiful than you. Are you sleep deprived? Those pores are huge.

Mai : I'll show you how to put that mouth of yours to good use, bitch.

Nobara felt cold metal against her stomach. She looked down and saw the colt revolver that Mai had aimed at her.

Outside, Megumi slowly stood up as Todo approached.

Todo : When I laid my eyes on you, I knew instictively that you were a boring guy. But I don't judge people by their looks, so I gave you a chance. And you trampled over my kindness. Do you have a pineapple for a brain?

Todo wipes the tears off his eyes. Megumi realised who this was. Aoi Todo. The grade 1 sorcerer who had killed 5 grade 1 cursed spirits and one special grade cursed spirit all by himself last year at Kyoto. When the Night Parade of a Thousand Demons was at its peak. For a grade 1 to have done all that, he was truly monstrous.

Megumi : You don't use a technique, do you?

Todo : Hmm? Nonsense. I used it against the special grade last year.

Megumi : I'm relieved!!

He brought his hands into a sign and combined Nue and Toad.

Megumi : The Well's Unknown Abyss.

Several winged toad shikigami emerged from his shadow. They charged at Todo, charging themselves up with electricity. Megumi had anticipated that Todo would be heavy and use close ranged attacks, so he would need to maintain distance from him.

Megumi : So flimsy. Both your body and your taste in women.

Unfortunately, his calculations were wrong. In the blink of an eye, Todo was behind Megumi, grabbing him by the waist. He was fast! Then, Todo picked him up and slammed him down in a German suplex.

Megumi grabbed Todo's arm and summeraulted away. His head was bleeding, blood obstructing his vision. Giving no time, Todo grabbed him again and slammed him into the control center that was under construction.

Todo : I'm not done yet.

Then, he threw Megumi upwards. Megumi  crashed into several metal beams as he flew, more blood oozing from his head. Todo appeared in front of him again, ready to strike.

Suddenly, Megumi's winged toad shikigami pulled on Todo by wrapping their tongues around him. However, their electric discharge was negligible due to Megumi's injured condition. Thankfully, Todo stopped.

Todo : I seriously can't feel your willpower.

Megumi : Fine! You want me to be serious?! Then I'll be serious!!

Toge : Don't move.

Both of them froze in place. Before Todo could think, his mind was hijacked by Tsumiki, who got rid of his aggression and induced thoughts of stepping back. Panda arrived and landed a punch, making Todo stumble backwards.

Panda : What are you doing?

The atmosphere was tense, yet calm.

Panda : Made it in time.

Toge : Katsubushi flakes.

Panda : Maybe not.

Todo : It's been a while, Panda. Inumaki. Tsumiki Fushiguro.

Tsumiki : Why can't you be patient till the Event itself? I'll announce your return to everyone.

Todo : Yeah yeah, we were just going back. Where's my jacket? Tell Okkutsu to come for me.

Panda : I'm a panda. I don't understand human speech.

Elsewhere, the situation was drastically different.

Mai : If you want to continue to be a sorceress, you need to be able to choose your battles carefully.

Nobara was splayed on the ground. Her tracksuit was tattered, and she had sustained bruises. Even now, Mai aimed her revolver at the girl. Suddenly, a whip dislodged her revolver.

Mai : What the-

Before she could get another word out, she found herself stuck to the place, almost as if someone had drawn a boundary around her. Mimiko stood there, the whip in her hand ready to strike again. Meanwhile, Nanako drew a boundary on her phone over an image of Mai to restrict her movement. Their techniques had worked successfully.

Mai felt a wooden katana be put on her back.

Maki : What are you doing to my junior, Mai?

Mai : Oh look who decided to show up. You were so insignificant I didn't even notice you, Maki.

Maki : We're both in the same boat. You don't have a lot of cursed energy and no cursed technique, am I right?

Mai : Better than no cursed energy at all. It hurts your neck to look up all the time. Why don't you try looking down sometimes?

Maki : Nobara, can you stand?

Mai : Are you kidding? I gave her a good scolding after all. She won't be able to move for quite a while.

What she hadn't noticed was that Nobara was right behind her, ready to strike. Maki and the twins watched as Nobara tackled Mai to the ground and landed two strong punches on her face, drawing blood from her mouth.

Nobara : You put a hole in my cute new tracksuit. I'll take your uniform, bitch.

Mai : The next time I get my hands on you, you're getting a good makeover in how to act around those above you. And what happens as punishment for those who disobey. You've acted pretty badly.

Nobara : What are you, a pervert?

Just then, Todo made his entry.

Todo : Mai, stop wasting time and get up. I have important work to do.

The girls untangled themselves and got up. Mai loaded her revolver again.

Nobara : Fushiguro....?

Maki : Don't worry, Panda and the others are with him.

Mai : What do you have that could possibly be more important than this?

Todo : Takada-chan's personal Handshake Event!

All girls looked at him incredulously. Seriously? What the fuck was he talking about?

Todo : I'm finally in Tokyo, so I should make the most of it. If I missed this event, I don't know what I'll do. Mai, follow me.

Todo picked up his shirt, put it on and walked ahead without another word. Mai hurried to follow him.

Mai : This isn't over. We'll sort it out at the Exchange Event.

Nobara : Hey, leave your uniform!!

Maki tapped her on the head.

Maki : Stop it, silly. It's no use now. We'll beat them at the Exchange Event.

Nobara : How can you say that?! She was totally feeling and sizing me up like a creep!

Maki : Yeah, and you'll answer herin the Exchange Event.

Silence fell upon them. Maki sighed. Mai had overstepped boundaries this time.

Nobara : Senpai, is it true that you have no cursed energy?

Maki : Yeah, that's why I need these glasses. I can't see curses otherwise. And unlike you guys, who can get heir cursed energy to do things, I have to rely on cursed tools which have already been embedded with cursed energy.

The girls were saddened.

Mimiko : Then why did you choose to become a sorcerer?

Maki : Pettiness. I've been looked down upon all my life for this. Just imagine everyone's faces when I become a grade 1 sorcerer.

The mood lightened up.

Maki : Let's go to Ieiri sensei already.

Nobara : Sure. Cheers for Maki senpai. Hip hip....!!

Nanako and Mimiko : ...Hooray!

Chapter Text

September 1st, 2018, Gojo's Apartment, 0800 hours

Yuji had been awake for quite some time. For almost 5 hours. But today, he wasn't feeling so well. So he had forgone with his running. He had only done some light yoga, and had eaten very less breakfast. Gojo checked up on him. And his suspicion was right. Yuji was running a fever. 40° celsius. He put Yuji to rest, wished him a quick recovery, and left for office. Today, the Kyoto students were supposed to arrive.

Utahime had had a lazy start. For starters, she had woken up at 8:30. Far too late. After all, she needed rest as well, from looking after the students. Since they'd come to Tokyo, they were Satoru's responsibility for some days. Utahime could spend the day playing with her little boy.

Upon coming out, she saw no breakfast. Usually, Yuji prepared breakfast for everyone. And she had to admit, they were delicious. The boy was a good cook. Then, he'd get to doing household chores. Today, nothing was done. She decided to investigate.

Utahime knocked on Yuji's door. It had once been Megumi's room. Now it was Yuji's makeshift room. She heard a nasal voice affirm her entry. The door opened to reveal Yuji in bed, his face flushed, and a wet cloth on his forehead.

Utahime : You have a fever?

Yuji : Yeah. 40° celsius. Nothing to worry about. Sensei said it'll wear off in a day.

Utahime : Okay. Take care.

She exited his room and sighed. She set the robotic roombas to clean. Then, se quickly cooked up something for herself and Satoshi. The rest of the day went by smoothly.

Utahime was somewhat annoyed at Gojo's habit of picking up every kid he found. Kazuma. Tsumiki. Megumi. Hakari. Kirara. Yuta. And now Yuji. But over time, she has inevitably softened up. After all, they were kids. And Yuji was very responsible. Too responsible, in fact. Sometimes it made her wonder what kind of an environment he grew up in.

Satoru had told her that Yuji lived alone, in impoverished conditions. The day Satoru met him, his grandfather had died. And apparently, his grandfather was his last living relative. That must be painful for a 15 year old boy. To have lost everyone, and have no one to call his own. The thought was, certainly, depressing.

Around afternoon, Utahime cooked some porridge and went to Yuji's room. His bed was empty, so she sat on a chair and waited. Yuji came out of the bathroom, a tub filled with water and the cloth on it.

Utahime : Were you changing the water by yourself until now?

Yuji : Yeah.

Utahime : You could've called me.

Yuji : It's fine. I've always done it by myself.

That just confirmed her suspicions even more. The boy had lived absolutely alone for most of his life.

Utahime : Sit down. You need to eat.

Yuji climbed back into the bed. He tried to take the bowl of porridge, but Utahime beat him to it. She took a spoonful of porridge and blew on it to cool it. Then, she held it out for Yuji.

Yuji : I can eat it by myself.

Utahime : Doesn't mean you will. You're a child, and you're sick. So unless you want a scolding, eat up.

Yuji ate the porridge without another word. She calmly fed the entire porridge to him. He had to have been hungry. After all, he had no breakfast. Unless Satoru made him something.

Utahime : How are you feeling now?

Yuji : Better. I've taken medicines.

Utahime : Good. Call me when you need to change the water.

Yuji : Okay.

He laid back down and covered himself with the blanket. Utahime wringed out the wet cloth for him, and placed it on his head. She was very curious about this mysterious boy, who had somehow turned out to be the solution for one of the biggest menaces of jujutsu world. And why did he have scars on his face? Did he have a violent past? She had so many questions. But, that would have to wait.

She took the empty bowl and spoon and exited the room. Satoshi was standing outside the door, with wide eyes that clearly wanted to know how Yuji was doing. The boys had become very close during this stay, and Yuji was pretty good with kids, quite surprisingly.

Utahime : He's sick, sweetie, so don't go near him today, okay? He'll get better by tomorrow. Then you can play with him.

Satoshi nodded. Utahime smiled. He had always been understanding.

Utahime : Let's go see how we can spend time, what do you say?

Satoshi agreed immediately. The two walked towards the toddler's playroom.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High, Official Guest Lounge, 1100 hours

Gakuganji : Where's Yaga? He's late.

The Kyoto principal sat on one of the two couches in the room. It was well decorated and well ventilated, with large windows to allow in lots of sunlight and air. The old man of 76 stroked his long beard, that reached the ground. Second year student, Miwa Kasumi, stood guard at the door. She was an otherwise sweet child, polite and respectful, but very clumsy.

Gakuganji : For someone with numbered days, such as me, time is precious.

The door opened. Gakuganji gave a grunt of discomfort. Because it wasn't Yaga.

Gojo : Principal Yaga won't be here for a while, thanks to a false schedule I arranged for (through bribing Ijichi with a bar trip).

He sat down opposite to the old man, crossing his legs and folding his arms. Despite an elder present in the room, Gojo had an air of arrogance about him. Then again, Gakuganji probably deserved it.

Gojo : Thanks for setting this up.

Gakuganji : What could 'this' be?

Gojo : Stop playing dumb, gramps. I'm talking about Yuji Itadori. You, the head of the conservative faction, were also involved in what was essentially a cold blooded murder of a child, am I right?

Gakuganji : Good grief. Youngsters these days don't know how to talk politely to elders.

Gojo : Oh, did I not make myself clear? I have no respect for you or your fellow oldie nincompoops.

Miwa : That's enough. I will have to report you to relevant authorities.

Inside, however, her mind couldn't be anymore different. It was muddled with only one thought :- Satoru Gojo was sitting in front of her. The man, the myth, the legend himself. The coolest man on Earth, and her celebrity crush. Satoru Gojo was actually sitting there, in flesh and blood. She wanted to squeal and cry and jump in ecstasy, but she had to control herself in front of her own principal.

Gojo : That's alright. I intend to say much either. Do as you wish.

It took Miwa all her energy to not scream in excitement. Satoru Gojo had just talked to her. How? She couldn't believe it. Gojo turned back to Gakuganji.

Gojo : Last night, I was attacked by some unregistered special grade cursed spirits. Two of them.

Gakuganji : That's unfortunate.

Gojo : Don't misunderstand me. It was a piece of cake.

Miwa was melting inside. Gojo was so cool. More students would arrive tomorrow. Which meant more girls, whose celebrity crush was Satoru Gojo. She could fangirl with them, over him, later.

Gojo : These curses were capable of communication and were devising a plan. I'm sure they have other comrades too.

Gakuganji : Uh huh.

Gojo : Not just that. Kazuma, Natsumi, Hakari, Kirara Hoshi, Yuta Okkutsu, your Todo, Sosuke Kanzo ; the power level of our students has also been skyrocketing in recent years. Then, there's the outliers. Last year, we had Suguru Geto and his Night Parade of a Thousand Demons. And this year, a vessel for Ryomen Sukuna makes his appearance.

Gakuganji : What are you trying to say?

Gojo : That because of you and your pathetic traditions and ignorance, the wave of power that you have been holding back is now falling upon us as a tsunami. The next generation of sorcerers won't be held back only by special grade, they'll surpass it and reach levels of power unseen since the Heian era itself. If you think that, in the future I'll be the only one to bare fangs against you, you're wrong.

Gakuganji : You talk too much.

Gojo : Oh so scary. Guess I need to watch what I say, huh?

He got up and walked towards the door. While exiting, he informed one last thing.

Gojo : Principal Yaga will arrive another hour later.

With that, he left. A silence descended upon the room. Gakuganji turned to Miwa.

Gakuganji : Miwa. Bring me some tea.

Miwa dashed out, not willing to waste another second. If she hurried, she could still catch up to him. And catch up, she did. Just as he was going over a small bridge.

Miwa : Gojo sir! Can I take a selfie with you?

Gojo : Sure.

She took the selfie. Then she thanked him for his time. He obliged and sent her on her way. She almost danced her way back to the lounge, ecstatic on this achievement.

Miwa : I got a photo with him!

Then, she quietened. Put the phone in her pocket. Then entered the room and stood formally just as before. Gakuganji turned to her again.

Gakuganji : Tea?

Miwa : Heh?

Oh no. She'd forgotten the tea.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Convention Center, 1300 hours

There was a long line of fans, waiting to meet Takada-chan. Obviously. She was a popular idol. Pretty cute. Mai couldn't have bothered if it wasn't for Todo, who insisted that she stand with him. So, here she was, waiting for her turn. Currently, it was Todo's. Who was grinning and blushing like an idiot.

Todo : Please give me the Takatan beam.

Takada : Sure. Tan-Taka-Tan!

All the men in the vicinity, including Todo, were mesmerized. The guards pushed him to the side to make way for Mai. She shook the idol's hand. But Takada-chan took interest in her.

Takada : What's your name?

Mai : Mai Zenin.

Takada : Well, Zenin-san, you're invited to join me in my personal backstage makeup room anytime you want.

Takada winked at her. Then she gave her number to her. Mai blushed. What was this? And why was Takada's voice so whispery and husky? So...seductive? What was going on? She had to be dreaming. Did a popular idol just give her number? Ok, she might have to attend Takada's shows from now on. It would be worthwhile. Maybe. Hopefully. Because Mai had to agree, Takada sure was cute. And evidently, she had found Mai pretty good looking as well.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Gojo's Apartment, 2000 hours

Yuji's fever had gone down. He got off the bed, and tidied the room. Then, he walked out to the balcony. It was a windy evening. The breeze felt so nice, blowing in his hair. He could see the city lights, stretching far and wide, like a vast ocean. And everywhere, people were there, normal people leading their own lives with their own difficulties and joys. That's weird. Why was he sondering just now?

Utahime followed suit, coming out on the balcony. She, too, needed the air. It felt so relieving, to not be buried under paperwork for once. She felt it was right to ask her questions.

Utahime : So, who were your parents? Do you remember them?

Yuji : I don't remember my mother at all. I don't even know who she was. As for my father, I have faint memories of him.

Utahime : What about his name? Or names of any other family members?

Yuji : My grandfather's name was Wasuke Itadori. Other than that, I don't remember anyone else much. It's all very fuzzy.

This was curious. And perhaps, not so good of an indication. But Utahime decided to continue.

Utahime : So you're from Sendai?

Yuji : Probably. I don't remember much of my childhood.

Utahime : Did you know anything about the Sendai Skinface?

Yuji : My grandfather was his last victim.

Utahime : I'm sorry to hear that. He's in a better place now.

Yuji : Yeah. It's always convinient to believe that.

Utahime : What do you mean?

Yuji : Hell. Heaven. Reincarnation. No one knows how much truth there is. Realistically, we might just end up in nothingness. There's most probably no afterlife. But the thought had always been comforting to humans, who have feared the unknown.

Utahime : Do you fear the unknown?

Yuji : No.

Utahime : Why not?

Yuji : Because I'm a sorcerer. My entire line of work deals with the unknown.

Smart answer. Utahime was somewhat impressed. Yuji was much too different from others. He was much more mature and wise. Beyond his years even.

Utahime : How did you get those scars?

Yuji : I got into fights pretty often.

Yuji pulled out something from his pocket. Cigarettes and a lighter. He lit a cigarette and took a puff. Utahime was surprised.

Utahime : You smoke?

Yuji : Yeah. Helps me stay calm.

Utahime : Don't. You're only 15.

She pulled out the cigarette from his mouth and threw it away. Then, she confiscated his cigarettes and lighter.

Utahime : I don't care what you do after you're 22. Until then, you're not having these.

Yuji sighed. But he knew that he was the one in the wrong here. Smoking was bad for health.

Around an hour later, Gojo returned. Satoshi immediately ran to him and cuddled into his arms. Utahime followed, taking his bag and asking him about his day. Yuji was still on the balcony. Gojo approached him, as Utahime went inside to keep his bag.

Gojo : How are you doing?

Yuji : Fever's down. I can get to work from tomorrow.

Gojo : Great. Then go ahead, play with Satoshi while I change.

The little boy was transferred to Yuji, who received him gently. The two went inside, presumably to draw or talk gibberish.

After having washed himself up, Gojo sighed. Days were tiring. He sat on the couch as his wife brought him a cold drink can, along with one for herself. The two drank their cold drinks, and turned on the TV.

Gojo : Yuji's ready for missions. He's been meditating all this while, and his cursed energy manipulation has improved manifold. I'm just worried about whom to entrust him with. Or what mission to give him.

Utahime : How about you contact your juniors?

Gojo : Like?

Utahime : How about Nanami and Haibara?

--------------------------×××----------------------------

September 6th, 2018, Kanagawa Prefecture, Kawasaki City, Kinema Cinema, 0900 hours

The cinema hall was empty. Well, mostly. A screening was over. A janitor entered to clean it.

The janitor found the mangled bodies of three male high school students. Cause of death was revealed as strange deformation of the cranium, leading to increased intracranial pressure, paralysed breathing, severe nervous shock and interruption in neural functioning in post-mortem report.

Chapter Text

September 5, 2018, Tokyo High Basement, 0800 hours

Yuji stood awkwardly. Today, he had gone for his trusty black hoodie and black jeans and some old sneakers that Gojo had given him. He had also promised to take him shopping that weekend, because apparently the lack of possessions of Yuji was 'greatly bothering' to both Gojo and his wife.

In front of him was Gojo, as cheerful as ever, along with two other men. One had a neatly done blonde hair, in a 7:3 ratio. He was wearing a blue shirt, a yellow leopard print tie, green tinted goggles that somehow hanged from his eyes, white coat and formal, white trousers. The other hand brown hair, and  wore a white compression shirt, with a dark blue jacket and jeans, imitating the standard jujutsu sorcerer uniform. He had a big scar on the left side of his face, from his chin to the middle of his left cheek. Both of them were pretty good looking.

Gojo : Yuji, it's time you honed your skills in real combat. Unfortunately I can't lead you this time. But I have asked two of my kouhais to do it for you.

He pointed to the blonde man.

Gojo : This is Kento Nanami, a sorcerer who graduated from being a salaryman.

Then, he pointed to the other one.

Gojo : And this is Yuu Haibara.

Haibara : Hi. I look forward to working with you on this case.

Yuji nodded and shook his hand. He was always tense when meeting new people. However, he trusted Gojo enough. He also noticed that a lot of sorcerers covered their eyes. Perhaps because of a Binding Vow or something.

Gojo : Sorcerers are strange, but Nanami was employed. That shows he pulled together, right?

Nanami : Oh please. No one wants to hear that from you.

Yuji : Why didn't you become a sorcerer from the beginning?

Nanami : First, introductions.

He bowed respectfully, inciting Yuji to do the same.

Nanami : I'm Kento Nanami, ex-salaryman and grade 1 sorcerer. I'll be your senior on this case.

Yuji : I'm Yuji Itadori, physically fit and legally dead, grade 2 sorcerer. I'll be working under you in this case.

Nanami : Good. Now, while being at Tokyo High, I realised something.

Yuji : Uh huh?

Nanami : Sorcerers are shit!

What? This was the attitude of such a seemingly well mannered guy? Then again, Yuji should have expected the unexpected.

Nanami : But then I worked at a corporation and learnt that work is even more shit. So if both are equally shit, I'd rather choose the one which requires my aptitude.

A little distance away, Gojo, Yuji and Haibara huddled together, within earshot distance of each other.

Yuji : So pessimistic.

Gojo : I know right?

Haibara : Right.

Nanami : Itadori-kun, please don't think I'm anything like Gojo. I do have faith and respect in his abilities.

Gojo produced a proud face for himself.

Nanami : However, I do not respect him at all!!

Gojo : Huh?!

Nanami : I share his hatred for the higher ups, but I follow rules and regulations strictly. I also don't approve of you being a sorcerer. Although you carry the bomb, Sukuna, in you, please try to prove your own usefulness.

Yuji : I know. I've seen just how weak I was. But I will be strong. I have to be. I will work till the day I earn your approval. You have my word.

Nanami : No no. Give your word to the higher ups. I don't care.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

September 6, 2018, Kanagawa Prefecture, Kawasaki City, Kinema Cinema, 0730 hours

Junpei : If there was a button that made the humans I hate die, I'd probably hesitate to push it. But if there was a button that killed the humans who hated me, I'd press it without hesitation.

He was a skinny boy of average height and long brown hair that covered the left half of his face. He bought a ticket and entered the movie theatre. It was mostly empty, except for three high school students up ahead. The show playing now was Human Earthworm 4. He sat in an empty seat at the back. Somewhere to the left, another.... person (?) was sitting.

Junpei : Damn it. This is the worst. High school students skipping class to come to a movie theatre. Though I'm doing the same. On top of that, of all people....

His mind drifted back to that day.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Flashback)

The bullies had just finished beating him up. To the distance, Tsubasa stood, hiding her arrogant grin under a mask of helplessness for the boys.

Tsubasa : He was looking at my chest with super perverted eyes!

Bully 2 : Well, you do have pretty big tits, Tsubasa, so when you run, they go 'boing'.

Bully 3 : I understand you, Yoshino.

Bully 1 : You guys are damn noisy. So, you looked?

Junpei : No, I didn't.

Bully 1 : Are you saying Tsubasa-chan is lying?

Another kick. Junpei grasped the side where his kick had landed and groaned in pain.

Junpei, injured and bleeding from the
nose. One of the bullies was standing in front of him, whereas the others stood with Tsubasa a little distance away. She seemed quite pleased in using Junpei to raise her status. Braving the situation, he decided to tell her off.

Junpei : Tsubasa, you're not as cute as you think. Those three know that.

Their faces darkened. His words stung right where they didn't want.

Junpei : The only reason they're still vouching for you is to let you allow them to hit on you.

Another punch. Droplets of blood came out of his nose and mouth.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Present)

Junpei shivered as the memories flooded in his mind. He looked at them with disdain. He couldn't concentrate upon the film because of their talking and phone usage. Suddenly, the patch-faced man walked over to them and placed his hands on their heads.

Mahito : Guys, let's have some manners.

Their skulls got horribly deformed. Too horribly. Almost inhumanly. Junpei couldn't believe it. Who was this guy? And where did he disappear off to?

He got up and ran after him. Could a human do something like that? If they could, were they human? Damn that movie. He had to find him ; and find he did, in a dark alleyway.

Junpei : Are you the one who killed those guys?

Mahito : So what if I did? Will you criticise me? Or were they special to you?

Memories flooded his mind again, those guys feeding him a cockroach and recording it. His blood boiled.

Junpei : Can you teach me to do that?

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Kinema Cinema, 1000 hours

Policeman 1 : Who're those three who arrived before the forensics?

Policeman 2 : Dunno. Orders from above.

Policeman 1 : They have a kid too, did you see?

Policeman 2 : Hey, you wanna save your job till retirement? Then shut the fuck up.

Inside, Nanami, Haibara and Yuji investigated the crime scene. The bodies were disgusting. They were giving off a stench. Yuji wrinkled up his nose.

Nanami : Can you see the remnants of the cursed energy? They are left behind when cursed energy is exercised, but are faint.

Yuji : No.

Haibara : Try harder.

Yuji concentrated. Then, he could see it. A wave of cursed energy emanated off them, unusual for non sorcerers, who usually had cursed energy reserves below 80. Then, two sets of cursed energy footprints, one denser than the other, leading away, to the staircase that led to the rooftop.

Yuji : A cursed spirit did this. And a human was present, but uninvolved.

Nanami : How are you so sure?

Yuji : One set of footprints is denser. That level of density is not possible, considering the composition of the human body. Therefore it was a cursed spirit. Who was the primary perpetrator. And a human because the other set is less dense. And the energy emanating from the bodies is identical to only one of the footprint sets, not the other. So while a human, possibly a curse user judging by probable levels of cursed energy reserves, was indeed here, he or she didn't act directly.

Haibara : Amazing job. What can we conclude already?

Yuji : Either an autonomous, unregistered special grade, like the ones that attacked Gojo sensei that night, did this, and was followed by a curious human who has an affinity for sorcery. Or a curse user tamed an unregistered special grade and orchestrated this.

Nanami : Let us move ahead with the former. The latter seems less likely.

They ascended the flight of stairs, towards the rooftop.

Yuji : Also, the human was sitting much too behind the targets. And the cursed spirit was to the far left, then it walked over to them.

Haibara : The former seems even more likely. How about it, Namami-san? Isn't he doing great?

Nanami : I don't give unnecessary praise. I only decide by the objective truth.

Yuji : Got it. Let's go all out.

Nanami : No, if something can be done casually, let's do it casually.

This was annoying. Yuji and Nanami seemingly couldn't see eye to eye.

Yuji : Anything appeared on surveillance camera?

Haibara : Only another boy. And his behaviour shows he wasn't directly involved. Now, whether he was orchestrating from behind the scenes is debatable. After all, he's disappeared too.

The three emerged on the rooftop. It was raining cats and dogs. There were three curses. One looked like a deformed, green, malformed horse, groaning  'bento'. The other was large, fat, pale and had several rows of teeth, mumbling about 'hood detergent'. The third was about human sized, red, with hair on its head, empty eye sockets and sharp claws, shrieking about 'I am late'.

Yuji prepared himself to strike, but Haibara stopped him.

Haibara : It's alright. Calm down. I'll take the red one over there. You take the white one. Namami-san will take the green one, got it?

Nanami : If you think you're unable to win against it, call one of us.

Yuji : Are you guys looking down on me?

Haibara : Not at all. They're all equally strong.

Nanami : It's not a matter of looking down. You're a child and we're adults. It's our responsibility to prioritise your safety over our own.

Yuji : If you're gonna treat me like a kid, you'll basically be looking down on me. I've survived death too, you know?

Nanami : Yes, but that doesn't make you an adult. Finding fallen hair on your pillow. Having your favourite bread disappear from the convenience store. The accumulation of these little things makes one an adult.

With that, he opened the buttons of his coat and brandished a blade wrapped in white leopard print cloth. Haibara walked slowly towards the red cursed spirit.

Nanami : My technique, Ratio, allows me to forcibly create a weak point in any object in a 7:3 ratio, and strike it with great power to land critical hits. This object could be anything, animals, inanimate, even parts like arms or legs. And if it is weak enough, I can even bisect it.

Haibara : My technique, Sound Wave Symphony, allows me to capture sound waves emitted by any object, and freely manipulate it to my needs. I could change its state of matter, change its properties, its physical existence, and use it for anything I want, such as restraints or small range weapons like kunai. This goes for both my own as well as other's sounds.

Nanami : Are you listening, Itadori-kun?

Yuji : Huh? You guys were talking to me? Isn't it kinda dangerous to reveal what your techniques are, though?

Haibara : It's part of a Binding Vow that many sorcerers use. Revealing one's hand. This increases the effectiveness of the techniques themselves.

Nanami : Just like this.

Nanami honed the blunt side of his wrapped blade and focused. Ratio lines appeared on the curse's legs. He swung his blade with full force, landing four critical hits on it. The curse saw its legs severed, and it fell to th ground. Nanami swung the blade to get rid of the blood, which was surprisingly, red.

Nanami : That's it from me.

The red cursed spirit shrieked again. Haibara perceived the sound waves, and pulled them in using physical gestures of pulling. Then, he crossed his arms and focused. The waves took a visible form and turned into a ring coated with deadly spikes. The curse charged at him with its own claws ready. Haibara moved out of the way and dropped that ring on its head. Then he tightened the ring, and closed it entirely. The spikes cut off the curse's head, also spilling red blood, as its lifeless body fell onto the ground.

Yuji was amazed. Even though Nanami's blade aas wrapped, its force was strong enough to take out the curse. And Haibara had really good reflexes. He didn't notice the white curse charge at him.

Haibara : Heads up.

Yuji moved out of the way of its swing. He charged his fists with his cursed energy.

-------------------------×××-----------------------------

(Flashback)

Yuji landed another punch on Gojo, who dodged it. Then another. And another. And yet another. He grabbed Yuji's waist, picked him up and threw him onto the ground. Sometimes Yuji couldn't understand if they were practicing or wrestling.

Gojo : Your cursed energy manipulation is good, but it is slow.

Yuji : What?

Gojo : Yup. Your body movements are just so fast, your cursed energy fails to keep up. Synchronisation issue. But that's alright, it creates an upside.

Yuji : What upside?

Gojo : Well, you see, when you hit, your fist is already coated with a thin layer of cursed energy, which boosts the impact of the hit by a 100%. And then, the cursed energy hits, creating another impact, 120% more powerful than the previous one. Thus, you get a 220% boost in one hit that lands two impacts. This cannot be done even by experienced sorcerers, even if they put their mind to it.

Yuji : Really? So it's unique?

Gojo : Of course. We'll call it Divergent Fist. It'll be a great weapon for you.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present)

Yuji swung his fist to the curse's gut. It grunted in pain and tried to grab Yuji's hair. Then it hit. The wave of cursed energy. And its intestines and other organs flew out and spread all over the area. Blood occupied most of the ceiling. The rain continued to wash it all away.

Yuji's own prowess was superhuman. On top of it, he could finely manipulate his cursed energy once he got hold of it. And then, he would become one of the most dangerous opponents for his enemies.

From some distance, Nanami heard 'bento' again. He realised that the curse he had struck was still alive, writhing and wringing in pain.

Nanami : Apologies. Let me deliver the finishing blo-

A wrist watch caught his eye. What was a cursed doing with a wrist watch? He turned to the curse Haibara had killed. Why was it not disintegrating into dust? A sudden thought crossed his mind and he took out his phone. Then he quickly clicked a picture of the curse. It showed up!

Nanami : Itadori-kun. Please don't hit it anymore.

Yuji : Why not?

Nanami : Come here both of you.

The three huddled close and looked into Nanami's phone.

Haibara : It showed up on camera!

Yuji : But shouldn't that be impossible?

Nanami : I do not know. Maybe it's because....

Chapter Text

September 6th, 2018, Nanami's Apartment, 1400 hours

Shoko : They're humans. Or rather, ex-humans. Same as the three bodies in the theatre, only more deformed.

Nanami : But that could have been confirmed beforehand. These three were filled with cursed energy, unlike the bodies.

Shoko : A possible effect of the culprit's technique. Perhaps they could rewire the brain and the body with it, specially if the victims were in a state of confusion. After all, the brain's relation to cursed energy is still unknown, like a black box.

Haibara : Very well. We have to check if people nearby went missing in recent memory to trace their identities. So we can hand them back to their families.

Shoko : Actually, it would be best to not do that. It could raise suspicions among the general public. As for their identities, I can find that out easily. Their bodies were rewired, but their DNA should still be the same.

Yuji : And what if it isn't? What if the culprit managed to change it too?

Shoko : I'll have to check through on that. But it is unlikely.

Haibara : How are you going to check without records?

Shoko : Oh right. Then I suppose it would make sense for you guys to try and find their identities.

Haibara : That's what I was saying.

Shoko : Yeah yeah fine. Also, Itadori? Their deaths were caused by shock of structural rewiring, so don't worry. You didn't kill them.

Yuji : Got it. Thanks.

Nanami hanged the call up. Haibara got up.

Haibara : I'll get to work. See you guys later.

He ruffled Yuji's hair and walked out. Nanami and Yuji sat in silence.

Yuji : Either way, their deaths do weigh on me. This is terrible.

Nanami noted this. Yuji did feel anger on other's behalf.

Nanami : The remnants were a bluff. It was a trap.

Yuji : No. The human at least most certainly made his way through there. The remnants made it clear that his manipulation of his cursed energy is very rudimentary, akin to what I had before training with Gojo sensei.

Nanami : But why would he do such a thing?

Yuji : Either upon being instructed by the curse or to catch up to them.

Nanami : Hmm. Good point. This case is convoluted. Let's go all out.

Yuji : Roger that.

----------------------------×××-------------------------

Undisclosed location, 1330 hours

Mahito : There are certain curses called as special grade cursed spirits. Curses are formed by concentration of negativity. Fear, anger, grief, regret, humiliation. All of it is leaked by people. This leakage accumulates at a spot and gives rise to curses. It is not necessary for a thing to exist. Even ideas generate curses if they are feared enough.

Junpei : Like yokai and ghost stories?

Mahito : Exactly. Like Hanako-san. Or the Nine Tailed Fox. Their curses are out there somewhere, evading the eyes of sorcerers. Sorcerers record them as special grade cursed spirits, and are extremely diligent in dealing with them. Currently 16 cursed spirits have been registered as special grade. But such fairy tales aren't the only things humans fear, right?

Junpei : Like natural disasters?

Mahito : Having a conversation with you is stress free and helpful.

Junpei : No...that's...

Mahito : The solid Earth, the lava beneath, the forests, the oceans, anything that humans haven't understood properly has been feared by them. The cursed energy accumulated towards them is too great, and apart from appearance, everything else about them has become human. But that's not all. Humans have feared the wrath of the divine, and the cursed. Which means there are curses regarding gods and curses regarding the netherworld. Then, there are the various phobias and their curses. Pretty powerful in themselves. Then there's a curse towards fear of animals in general, and some specific animals. And a curse for the fear towards the collective unconscious of humanity. Most of them are my wonderful colleagues.

Junpei : There are so many types of curses?

Mahito : Yes. But the most powerful of them are the Primordial Curses. Built upon the three in-built, evolutionarily inherited fears of humanity. The Curse of the Unknown, the Curse of Loud Sounds and the Curse of Height. Among them, Unknown is the strongest cursed spirit to ever exist.

Junpei : How come these three are so strong?

Mahito : Cursed energy is a speciality of the hominid family. As such, it has been around since the days os the Homo Habilis and the Australopithecus Africansis. And since then, humans have feared the unknown. Which means that the Primordial Curses have been acquiring power since the dawn of not just civilisation, but the dawn of the hominid family itself. However, the Primordial Curses faced a massive setback when they were defeated by Ryomen Sukuna in the Heian era. They were drained of most of their power in fighting him, and even then they couldn't win. Since then, they went into hiding, and nobody knows about their whereabouts till this day. If anyone fought them today, only Unknown might have reached the peak of his power. The other two are likely only as strong as a thousand years can afford. Hundreds of millions of years of power offset by a single man, Ryomen Sukuna was truly an enigma beyond the mortal understanding.

Junpei : Mahito-san, what kind of a cursed spirit are you?

Mahito : Human. I was born from humanity's hatred of each other.

Junpei gulped nervously. So Mahito was the curse of humanity.

Mahito : Relax. I won't do anything to you. Let's talk about something else. Do you think the person who said 'The opposite of love is indifference' went to hell?

Junpei : What do you mean?

He was holding a small object, that he couldn't discern due to its odd shape.

Mahito : You're telling me that getting involved with people while carrying ill intent towards them is better than not getting involved at all? That's nonsense. 'The opposite of love is hate'. Japanese people love to twist words. But then again, they need excuses. All humans do. Otherwise, how will they carry on living?

In front of them was a giant, bloated, humanoid figure, with blue skin, drool coming out of its mouth.

Junpei : What is that?

Mahito : An experiment to see how big a human can get. I'm kind of a scientist after all.

Junpei was amazed and terrified at the same time.

Mahito : The one you're holding is to see how small a human can get.

Junpei quickly looked at his hand. This thing he was holding....it was a human? The thought sent shivers down his spine.

Mahito : Junpei, have you gotten used to corpses? I wonder...

Junpei : If that was my mother, I'd have probably been nessed up and hated you, Mahito-san. But I've seen the ugly side of humans. That's why I don't expect anything from others. Nor do I care about their deaths. Actually, 'indifference' is what all humans should strive to achieve.

Mahito : When you are indifferent, you get revengeful.

Junpei : Are you saying I'm contradicting myself?

Mahito : Do you think humans have a heart?

Junpei : Yeah. They don't?

Mahito : No. They have a soul. Different from heart. And I'm the only one who understands its structure. Or able to manipulate it to my whims. As I've done numerous times in the past. Human emotion is the result of the metabolism of the soul. For those who can't see it, it becomes precious all too often. But not for someone who sees it daily, like me. It's just there.

Junpei didn't exactly know where this was going.

Mahito : Don't you get it? Life has no inherent value or meaning. It is like water in a river, it just flows. That's it. None of the living beings are special. That goes for you and me too. We're free to choose how we'll live our lives. I'll validate everything for you, Junpei. Give me a chance and I'll show you how to take revenge properly.

Junpei : Alright. What do I have to do?

Mahito : Come with me for a walk. Let me show you how to hunt sorcerers.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

September 7, 2018, Kanagawa Prefecture, Yokohama City, Minato Mirai, 0830 hours

Yuji and Nanami got off the car and walked towards the scene. Haibara couldn't join them today because of some other engagements. After all, they had to keep up the facade that Yuji was dead.

The area had been barricaded off, but the sorcerers entered easily. Thankfully, the crime scene was not contaminated. Yuji carefully examined the body and the area around it. Nanami walked towards the police to sort out formalities and request CCTV footage.

Another malformed body. This one looked like a skeleton with bloated bones, if that made sense. High levels of cursed energy remnants. And same properties as the one at Kinema Cinema. No doubt the work of the same cursed spirit. And there it was, as well. The imprints of the human. It seems they joined forces, even if this person's cursed energy manipulation was rudimentary at best. No more marks of the spirit itself. The human's feet walked away after the murder, towards the railway station. Nanami walked back to where Yuji was standing, deep in thought.

Nanami : It's official now. The case has become one of serial killing.

Yuji : Hmmm.

Nanami : Anything noteworthy?

Yuji : Same culprits as Kinema Cinema. Other than that, nothing much. When was it discovered?

Nanami : The window reported it an hour ago.

Yuji : Consistent. Judging by the intensity of the remnants, and accounting for environmental erosion in the time being, it should have happened about an hour and a half ago.

Nanami : It also seems like the spot was random. What do you think?

Yuji : As grim as this sounds, we will have to wait for one more murder before we make any statements on the location. When are we getting the CCTV footage?

Nanami : It'll take an hour.

Yuji : One thing is clear. The human and the curse are working together. We search for one, we'll find the other.

Nanami : Let's continue looking for clues. You search over there, I'll take over here.

Yuji : Sounds good to me.

The two walked their ways. Any clue, even the smallest, could make or break the case.

Yuji observed his surroundings very carefully. The location was under a bridge, so sunlight would been obstructed. This would have allowed a sneak up. There were no signs of struggle. So the victim was caught by surprise. The human also didn't discharge their cursed energy, which means that the curse was the one doing everything. But something wasn't adding up. Why would a curse carry around a person who wasn't even doing anything? Perhaps the human was a protege? That sounded absurd, but it was a possibility.

Another thought struck Yuji. Nanami walked over, intent on hearing from him first.

Yuji : Namami-san, it seems the human is a protege to the curse. They're learning sorcery.

Nanami : That's absurd.

Yuji : No but it makes sense. Why else would a curse carry around a person who doesn't do anything?

Nanami was stumped. Good point. He hadn't noticed that.

Yuji : This would mean that this curse is capable of sapient communication, like the unregistered special grades that attacked Gojo sensei that night. Perhaps one of their comrades.

Nanami : Entirely possible.

Yuji : What did you find?

Nanami : Not much. Haibara called, he had found the identities of the three people. Workers in the cinema hall. And Ieiri has confirmed that the DNA of the bodies has remained unchanged, despite the transformation.

Yuji : That's good. Let's do the same for whoever this one is. In the meantime, we need to wait for a third murder to properly cement the facts.

Nanami : Aren't you saying that too casually?

Yuji : If you have any alternative methods, I'd be glad to hear them out.

Nanami : No. We need to wait until another person is killed. Let's go back to my apartment and let the police do their job.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Nanami's Apartment, 0930 hours

Nanami handed a mug of coffee to Yuji, and sat down on his couch with his own. Haibara thought over everything the two had told him. Ijichi sat at the final sofa, files in hand.

Haibara : I'm not exactly a fan of the idea of waiting for a third murder, but it seems we would be at a dead end otherwise.

Yuji : Till it happens, let's go over what we know. First murder(s), September 6th, Kawasaki City, Kinema Cinema. Three high school students dead.

Nanami : Second murder. September 7, Minato Mirai 21. The victim was a normal office worker, who didn't go to office today. Evidently.

Yuji sipped his coffee.

Haibara : Is there any link between the victims?

Nanami : None whatsoever. They didn't even know each other.

Yuji : Do we have the CCTV footage?

Nanami : Yes.

Haibara : Then let's see it.

Ijichi typed a few keys into the keyboard of his laptop and started the recording. Everyone else huddled around him.

The recording showed a skinny boy of average height with long, unruly brown hair that covered almost half of his face, passing by the scene and stopping. In front of him, the victim was twisted and morphed into the hideous creature. Then, the boy crept away quietly. And also.... nervously. Almost as if he ran on a moment's whim.

Yuji : We need to find whoever he is.

Nanami : He's the main suspect.

Haibara : Do we still need another murder after this?

Yuji : Can't cement anything yet. If we see him at the spot of another murder, we'll be detaining him.

Nanami : Could he be a sorcerer?

Yuji : Unlikely. He seemed pretty distressed and traumatised by the incident himself.

Haibara : Then a hostage?

Ijichi : True. Although, a missing person's complaint would have been filed if he was taken hostage.

Yuji : Maybe emotional blackmail. But no, that sounds stupid.

Haibara : Why?

Yuji : The guy clearly looks like an emo. Not to be judgemental, but such people can't be easily blackmailed.

Nanami : Very weak line of reasoning.

Yuji : Yeah, I get it.

Haibara : Hey you know what? Take it easy. You're overthinking it.

Yuji : Get me a map, please. A wall map of Kanagawa Prefecture. And some pins and pictures of these murders.

Haibara : You wanna create a board like those we see in thriller movies?

Yuji : Yeah. It has its advantages.

Nanami : Certainly. Let us disperse for today. We can't do much else. Ijichi-san, please drop off Itadori-kun.

Ijichi : Yes, I'll get the car out.

Haibara : Please also drop me off at the railway station.

Ijichi : Sure thing.

Ijichi got up and walked out. The three were left in silence. Yuji was thinking.

Haibara : What are you thinking?

Yuji : The sequence of the murders. Two murders on two consecutive days. Is this a case of organized or unorganised serial killing?

Haibara : Seems like an impatient one, to be honest. But it should be organised, considering the care they have taken in removing their traces.

Yuji : If that is the case, then there are two ways forward. Either the next murder is tomorrow, if they choose to do it daily. Or it will be on September 9, if they are following the Fibonacci sequence.

Nanami : Fibonacci sequence? What made you think that?

Yuji : The posture of the corpse. It was in the golden ratio. Wait, ratio? Could it also be a message for Namami sensei?

Nanami : Well, I'm not teaching anything, so please don't call me sensei.

Yuji : Then how about Nanamin?

Nanami : I'll slap you.

Haibara laughed.

Haibara : That's a good nickname. I'd like one too.

Yuji : I'll think of it.

Before long, Yuji and Haibara were in the car, being driven towards the railway station. There, Haibara shook Yuji's hand and bid him farewell. Yuji watched as the man boarded the train, and it drive out of station. He put his hands into his pockets and walked back to the car.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Undisclosed location, 1100 hours

Junpei was distressed and hyperventilating. Mahito watched him in curiosity.

Junpei : You...you really killed that man?

Mahito : Yeah.

Junpei : What was all this about?

Mahito : Exposure therapy. The more aversive you are, the more you must be exposed to that aversion to get rid of it. Don't worry, you'll get used to it in no time.

Junpei : If you say so.

Mahito observed him some more.

Mahito : Start meditating. It helps you balance and control your cursed energy. Go home and meditate as long as you can without raising suspicion.

From a nearby area, Junpei heard some pretty scary sounds. Mahito understood his next question.

Mahito : Run along, Junpei. My friends are getting closer. And they won't be as beneficial for you as I am.

Junpei didn't waste another moment. He got up and ran towards the exit. He turned left, and disappeared from view. Mahito sighed.

Mahito : So rude. He didn't even say goodbye. Did you have to be so punctual, guys?

From the darkness emerged a curse, a little bit taller than Mahito. He had shiny black skin, and looked like a giant scorpion. He had no eyes but he could see nonetheless. Behind him was a cursed spirit that resembled the Wendigo. The curse born from fear towards scorpions, and fear towards animals in general, respectively.

Mahito : You should atleast announce your arrival, you know? Sasorijin, Hyōketsu.

Sasorijin : A human? Seriously? Have you grown soft?

Mahito : Not at all. This is called using brains. Which Jogo lacked.

Hyōketsu : Oh really?

Mahito : Absolutely. How is he, by the way?

Hyōketsu : He's recovering. He's already reformed his top half. It should take a few days more.

Mahito : Good. We're right on track. Let's hope none of you mess it up over here.

Sasorijin : Oh shut up.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High, Common Student Lounge, 1600 hours

Megumi arrived at the common lounge. Evidently, he was the last. Everyone else had already arrived earlier. He sat down on a chair, opposite to Natsumi, who was chewing gum.

Maki : So, what's the plan for the group battle?

Nobara : Depends on the terrain in Kyoto.

Panda : What do you mean?

Nobara : What? We're going to Kyoto, right?

Tsumiki : The Event happens at the school whose team won the previous year's Event. Since Tokyo won it last year, this year's Exchange Event will happen here.

Nobara : Oh come on! Not fair! I had even packed my bags.

Maki : Back to the point. Any ideas?

Megumi : A question. What are the fourth years doing here? They aren't even gonna participate.

Natsumi : It's called experience and wisdom, little Fushiguro. That's what we are here to give.

Megumi : Please don't call me that. Use my first name if you wish.

Kazuma : Sure sure.

Panda : Look, Aoi Todo will probably be our biggest hurdle. Maki, can you hold him back?

Maki : For about 3 minutes.

Megumi : Good. Then I'll drown him in my shadow and trap him.

Mimiko : I'll use my ropes to hold him there.

Panda : Then I'll transform to my Gorilla form and knock him out.

Natsumi : For plan B, have Tsumiki and Inumaki paralyse him. Then Panda can knock him out.

Megumi : That could also work. Nanako, you must take his picture quickly. Try to hurt him as much as possible, but don't overdo it.

Nanako : What do you take me for?

Maki : There could also be injuries during this, so be careful.

Megumi : Definitely. The other Kyoto students will definitely try to stop us. We need to hold up. Kugisaki, Nanako, you two take the rear guard.

Nobara and Nanako : Roger.

Maki : That's it for now, I guess. We just need to keep up with our training and rehearse the plan to synchronise. Otherwise, we're done.

Panda : If Yuta was here, we wouldn't have to worry at all.

Kugisaki : Who?

Megumi : Yuta Okkutsu. The second year student who is overseas.

Nobara : Damn it. Okkutsu this, Okkutsu that. Just who the hell is this guy?

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Gojo's Apartment, 1700 hours

Yuji rung the bell. Utahime opened the door and let him in. Gojo was at school, and his wife was basically taking a deserving, unofficial vacation.

Utahime : How was your investigation?

Yuji : Complex. This case is a tricky one.

Utahime : What is it about?

Yuji : Most likely serial killing.

Utahime : Damn. Best of luck for that.

Yuji : Thanks.

He walked into his room and closed the door. Then he sighed exasperatedly. He walked over to the windows and looked out. The sun was setting, lighting the sky in a reddish-orange hue. The city looked so small, yet it gave him a sense of serenity he couldn't explain. And frankly, he didn't want to.

After washing up, and changing into his so called pajamas, he took a book from the shelf and began to read. Today, he was reading Hercule Poirot. Hopefully it would be helpful for his case too.

Chapter Text

September 9, 2018, Kanagawa Prefecture, Sagamihara City, 0845 hours

Yuji looked at the body. Malformed. Purple, this time. Set in a golden ratio. He sighed. At least one of his hunches had been right. The killer was following a Fibonacci sequence.

Yuji : How long until we get the CCTV footage?

Nanami : About an hour. What can you decipher?

Yuji : Same culprits. The human's manipulation of their cursed energy has improved. Their remnants are less in quantity. There also seems to be a pseudo presence here.

Nanami : A shikigami?

Yuji : Most likely. We'll have to wait until the CCTV footage arrives. Only then, we can confirm or deny anything.

Nanami : The area covered is too broad. Kawasaki. Yokohama. Now Sagamihara. What's next?

Yuji : Could they be travelling west? If so, then the next target should be in either Kiyokama or Yamakita.

Nanami : Not necessarily. Sagamihara isn't exactly west of Yokohama. That would be Yamato and Zama.

Yuji : Yes, but there are ways to get here directly. And they're shorter than going through those two.

Nanami : Fair enough. Where do you think the next murder will be?

Yuji : It seems the killers are moving according to convenience. In that case, they could most likely strike Yamakita next. On September 12. But that is assuming that they don't commit another murder in Sagamihara itself.

Nanami : Too many variables. Too many uncertainties.

Yuji : Did we trace the guy from the last clip?

Nanami : No. Ijichi-san said that the clip was too unclear to do anything useful.

Yuji : Still they are our only options.

Nanami : Anything noteworthy about the specific locations themselves?

Yuji : All of them are places which are easy to mingle into, yet can be used to corner someone. And if the curse is smart, most likely the human will only watch from afar, while the curse does the job. They might even come separately at the scene to throw us off.

Nanami : So we need to look for suspicious individuals in the clips?

Yuji : Yes. And match them with government records.

Nanami : Seems to be the only way. Can we prevent another murder?

Yuji : Realistically, no. Possibly, we could announce a lockdown in the entire prefecture, but then they might change base of operations.

Nanami : What is the modus operandi?

Yuji : None so far. The victims themselves seeem to be completely random.

Nanami : Damn it. Dead ends. Dead ends everywhere.

Yuji : Let's go back. We don't have much else to do here.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Undisclosed location, 1000 hours

Junpei : Mahito-san, are you sure about this?

Mahito : Hold still, will you?

Mahito hands were positioned around Junpei's head. He was trying to artificially awaken Junpei's cursed energy reserves to allow him to do sorcery efficiently. Junpei saw a small jellyfish like shikigami emerge from his head and float around.

Junpei : Whoa! Cool!

Mahito : Go on. Name it.

Junpei : Moon Dregs.

Mahito : Oh well. Now, let me tell you about your new pet. Moon Dregs will usually be in a different dimension, only accessible to curses and shikigamis, unless you summon him. He'll aid you in combat, and he's your personal shikigami. His tendrils have these drill like appendages, that can spew deadly poison, that can paralyse at weakest and kill at strongest. Take good care of him.

Junpei : Sure. But, he's so tiny.

Mahito : He'll grow. As you get more and more control over your cursed energy, he'll become bigger.

Junpei : Well, then it's fine, I guess.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Nanami's Apartment, 1100 hours

They were watching the CCTV footage with rapt attention, eager to not miss details. Suddenly, Haibara pointed to a hooded figure.

Haibara : There. That guy seems suspicious.

Yuji : What's suspicious about a hoodie?

Haibara : In this weather? Won't you get a heat stroke?

Yuji : Alright. I can see what you're saying. Is there any way we can know what company it was?

Nanami : You will have that information by this hour. A witness is being interrogated.

Yuji : Good. Then we'll trace the hoodie to whatever store sells it. And then access buyer records. Match them with government records. And boom, we have our suspect.

Haibara : We have ruled out personal grudges against the victims, I presume?

Nanami : Yes, no need to worry about that.

Haibara : Good. Best not to keep any open ends.

About an hour later, Ijichi arrived from the police station, where a witness was being interrogated. He arrived with the necessary documents.

Yuji : Which brand was it?

Ijichi : Yohji Yamamoto.

Yuji : Good. Find all the stores in these three cities that have sold this hoodie in the past week. Find buyer records and send them to me.

Nanami : Why just these three cities?

Yuji : I feel like they wouldn't go beyond these. Just a gut feeling.

Haibara : Fine. Not a problem. Let's go, Ijichi.

The two got up, and went to work. It was going to be a long, tedious affair. All window-supported sleeper cells in these regions needed to be activated.

Nanami : Is it really worth it for us to wait for another murder?

Yuji : If this happens as I'm anticipating, we'll basically solve the case. If not, things will drag on. The curse may be intelligent, but it is most likely newborn, given the large traces it leaves behind. So it won't be very patient. Or calculating. Hopefully.

Nanami : Ah yes. A lot of this case hinges on hope. Coffee?

Yuji : Sure.

-----------------------------×××------------------------

1820 hours

Ijichi : Here are all the files you requested.

A heap of files were in front of them. Each containing detailed records of all stores that has the hoodie, the ones who bought them in the last week, their records and details, and finally their criminal records. Many had been prosecuted for petty crimes.

Yuji : Good grief. That's a lot. You guys have outdone yourselves.

Haibara : Yeah, it was tough work.

Nanami and Haibara looked through the records of the buyers, while Yuji and Ijichi stuck them on the wall map.

Yuji : So three candidates qualify for living in an area right here in the suburbs between these cities from where all of them can be easily accessed. Riku Yamamoto. Yuna Sasaki. Junpei Yoshino.

Nanami : Let's find as much information about them as possible.

Haibara : What about the footage from the movie theatre?

Ijichi : It will be available tomorrow.

Yuji : Then let's wait till tomorrow until taking any steps. We don't want to unnecessarily trouble innocent people.

Nanami : Are we taking too much of a risk?

Yuji : No. Now that the Fibonacci sequence has been established, the killer will strike on 12th. So we have three days.

Ijichi : I'll have it here first thing in the morning.

Yuji : Good.

Haibara : What about the next murder?

Yuji : I have a plan. It's stupid and risky. But it might just work.

Nanami : Let's hope it does.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Undisclosed location, 1600 hours

Mahito : Junpei. If you see any students with swirly buttons on their shirts, be friendly to them. They're sorcerers.

Junpei : But aren't they your enemies?

Mahito : Yes. But it would be unwise to unnecessarily antagonise them.

Junpei : Got it.

Mahito : I have to hand it to you. Moon Dregs has gotten so big.

Junpei : Does this mean I've gotten better at sorcery?

Mahito : Of course. Soon, you'll be able to take revenge on your bullies.

Junpei : When?

Mahito : Give me until September 15. Then I'll arrange something for you.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

September 10, 2018, Nanami's Apartment, 0900 hours

Ijichi played the footage. Everyone watched carefully.

Yuji : Zoom on that guy's face.

They zoomed in. It became clear.

Yuji : Which one is this one, again?

Nanami : Junpei Yoshino. Ijichi-san, please collect as much information about this boy as you can. Preferably from last week.

Yuji : Look out for any sudden behavioural changes in these few days.

Ijichi : Understood. I must leave now for I have other duties to attend to.

Yuji : Of course. Take care.

Ijichi left soon after. Silence fell on the three men.

Haibara : Now we wait for September 12.

Nanami : Let's hope your plan works.

Yuji : We'll see.

Chapter Text

September 12, 2018, Kanagawa Prefecture, Kawasaki City, Terminal 3 Observation Deck, 0900 hours

Yuji sipped his cup of tea that he had ordered. The cafe was nice. So was the weather. Then again, he had never been a sucker for atmospheric matters.

Today, he was in a new outfit. That weekend, Gojo had in fact taken him shopping, and he and Utahime had bought a lot of clothes for Yuji, perhaps more than the young man needed. Right now, he was sitting in the cafe, overlooking the vast crowd. He had donned on a white shirt, with black trousers and a premium leather belt, and brown loafers. And topped it off with a beige blazer. A bit formal, but worked for him. He had even taken a fake briefcase, dyed his hair blonde and put on contact lenses on his eye to make them seem brown, all for the sake of the act.

He sipped his tea and sighed. Honestly, if he didn't have to be here to catch a criminal, he could spend hours over here just like this. In these moments, he wished that Gojo was only some kind of a rich billionaire, and he was the older son who was going on business trips to secure deals. But alas, that was just a fanciful dream. He sipped his tea and looked outside.

There he was, walking casually. Weird dress. Torn at one shoulder. Long, blue hair tied into plates. Ashen skin that resembled a body in rigor mortis.  This must be the curse. Undeniably it looked human. Definitely special grade.

Yuji tapped into the comm device plugged in his ear. They had to speak in very low voices.

Yuji : Omega 1. The eagle has been spotted. I repeat, the eagle has been spotted. Over.

Haibara : Zeta 1. Message received. Proceeding to the spot. Please follow suit. Over.

Yuji finished his tea, got up, paid for it, took his briefcase, donned on his blazer, and walked out. He arrived where the curse had been spotted. His comm device came to life again.

Nanami : Zeta 1. The sparrow has been spotted. Over.

Yuji : Copy that.

Nanami had spotted Junpei Yoshino. They had to act fast. Yuji followed the curse. He could feel Haibara's cursed energy nearby. It felt kind of reassuring.

Mahito walked. He knew he was being tailed. He had to run quick. The crowd would be his biggest weapon. There he was, Junpei. He had already come in. He had to act now.

He randomly put a hand on another man's shoulder, who was waiting for their security check. Then came his deplorable chant.

Mahito : Idle Transfiguration.

The man morphed in front of everyone's eyes. He turned into a disgusting shade of yellow, his eyes fell out, his teeth grew to a big size, his body wrinkled, and shrunk back on its bones, kinda like how paleontologists had been drawing dinosaurs until recently. His hair receded, except for a small scruffle in the middle. The body fell into the shape of the golden ratio. Mahito's job was done. He blended into the crowd, and disappeared into it.

Yuji couldn't believe what he saw. So it was a cursed technique. And the body was now filled with cursed energy. Panic gripped the masses, and then came the biggest obstacle. Hysteria. People ran here and there, trying to flee this unseen force that might harm them. Yuji and Haibara got into action, trying to calm everyone down and prevent a stampede. Ijichi called the authorities.  Nanami switched places with Yuji, who followed Junpei Yoshino. He had picked up on the amateur curse user's cursed energy properties.

Yuji followed Junpei outside. The hooded boy began to run, but Yuji was catching up to him. In a moment of desperation, he took out his phone and played the sound of a bomb blast, that he had been instructed by Mahito to record into his phone. This caused more panic. Yuji tried to reach to Junpei, but the panic stricken crowd and its mindless running here and there made it nearly impossible. Junpei disappeared into this chaos, Yuji unable to catch up to him. Damn it, Junpei had even covered his face with a hoodie and a mask, so he hadn't seen his face. That was fine, though. Yuji's job was done.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Flashback)

September 10, 2018, Nanami's Apartment, 1820 hours

Yuji : I have a plan. It's stupid and risky. But it might just work.

Nanami : Let's hope it does.

Haibara : Before we hear your plan, do we have any alternative methods to deal with this? Any other courses of action that we can take, in order to avoid using this stupid and risky plan of yours?

Yuji : Not really. Everything else is a dead end.

Haibara : Then go ahead.

Yuji : Alright. First of all, we need to check the location. Kawasaki, Yokohama, Sagamihara. It forms a scalene traingle of sorts. And that is important. We need to traingulate the area directly covered. It won't go further than that. First of all, if the killers are intent on completing this triangle, they would need a fourth murder. And that would happen in the place where it all started.

Nanami : Kawasaki City.

Yuji : Yes. Take the coordinates of the end points, calculate the centroid, and voila, we have our suspect's location.

Haibara : What if we are off course?

Yuji : The exact specifications are unnecessary. What matters is the general neighbourhood.

Nanami : Then we can find out Junpei Yoshino's address from government records.

Yuji : Exactly. But for that, we need to confirm that the triangle will be completed.

Haibara : How do we do that?

Yuji : The fourth murder. There's no semblance of similarity or relationship between the victims themselves. Therefore, the location is important. And if it is to be done, it must be done at a point where there are a lot of people.

Nanami : The windows say it would most probably be somewhere like Haneda Airport. What do you think?

Yuji : Most likely. We'll be stationed there, waiting for them to strike. Once we catch them in the act, it's done.

Haibara : I still don't understand why we need to do all that. If we already have a suspect, why not go after him?

Yuji : As I said, confirming the location. And also to verify the existence of this curse.

Nanami : So you haven't ruled out the theory of Junpei Yoshino himself doing this?

Yuji : It is about 80% disproven. But not entirely discarded.

Nanami : Fair enough. What is the plan?

Yuji : We will go to the airport, undercover. Take up important areas. They have to be seen somewhere or the other.

Nanami : Then what?

Yuji : Then we wait. And after the killers strike, we will have to deal with the crowd.

Haibara : So that's basically the plan?

Yuji : Yes.

Nanami : It's stupid.

Yuji : I know.

Haibara : It's risky. A lot of people could get hurt.

Yuji : True. And unfortunately, it's the only way out for us.

Nanami : Very well. We'll meet directly at the airport on 12th. No need to convene here.

Yuji : Got it.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Present)

Nanami's Apartment, 1000 hours

Yuji sighed. This had gone just as he had anticipated. Either the curse was stupid, or it wanted to catch their attention.

Haibara : We have the locations and coordinates. You said the case is practically over.

Yuji : The unpredictable part is over, yes.

Ijichi : What is the next step?

Yuji : We have two triangles. One ends at Kinema Cinema. The other at Haneda Airport. Find the centroid of these triangles. Then find their average location. That's where we need to strike.

Nanami : Are we sure we can rest somewhat easy now?

Yuji : Yes. If my assumptions are correct, the curse will temporarily disassociate itself from Junpei and go into hiding. That is when we'll deliver the final blow. Or at least what I hope would be the final blow.

Haibara : Okay, what's the plan?

Yuji : Find Junpei's home address and match it with the coordinates. Then, we tail him for a bit. Ask around his neighbourhood, for any strange changes in his behaviour recently. That will lead us to the curse.

Ijichi : I will get to work immediately.

About an hour later, while Ijichi's calculations were still going on, Yuji pipes up again.

Yuji : It should be somewhere in northern Yokohama. Around Shin-Yokohama or Kohaku New Town.

Ten minutes later, Ijichi completed his calculations.

Ijichi : Correct. How did you do that?

Yuji : Mentally.

Everyone was stunned. Yuji clearly had a very high level of intelligence.

Haibara : Ijichi-san, please check if Junpei Yoshino resided anywhere there.

Ijichi : Yes, he does. He also goes to Satozakura High School, in Kawasaki, which is probably why his family didn't suspect anything.

Yuji : Got it. Ijichi-san please enquire around the neighborhood from tomorrow, regarding Junpei Yoshino.

Ijichi : Got it.

Nanami : Well then, we have nothing else to do for now, do we?

Yuji : No. We need to wait for Ijichi-san to conclude his enquiry. Then we will take further steps.

Haibara : Alright then.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Undisclosed location, 1530 hours

Junpei : Why did you call me here again?

Mahito : Stop coming here for some time. We've got the sorcerer's attention now. It's best for you to lie low for a bit.

Junpei : But....

Mahito : No 'buts'. Do as I say and continue practicing your jujutsu. And if they ask something about me, deny. Got it? Deny, deny, deny.

Junpei : Got it. Deny, deny, deny.

Mahito : Good.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo High School, Common Student Lounge, 1600 hours

All students had been instructed by Gojo to gather in the common lounge. Megumi arrived and sat down. This time, the girls would be the last to arrive. Or most likely, that honor would go to Gojo himself.

Surely enough, it went to Gojo himself. The man was fifteen minutes late.

Megumi : Why did you call us here, sensei?

Gojo : For an announcement. Due to some unforeseen circumstances, the Exchange Event has been postponed. It won't start from tomorrow, rather it will be scheduled sometime later, as notice will arrive so.

The students groaned in frustration. They had practiced with so much zeal and heart. And now the Event itself was postponed. Indefinitely, might one add.

Gojo : Sorry kids. It's just what it is. We have to manage.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

September 13, 2018, Nanami's Apartment, 0925 hours

Ijichi : Here you go. The results of the enquiry.

Yuji : So, Junpei Yoshino. Son of Nagi Yoshino. Goes to Satozakura High School. Average in studies. Aloof in behaviour.

Ijichi : It has been noted that he had been travelling into the underground drainage system of Kawasaki City for some time. A number of hobos confirmed it.

Yuji : I see. Then the drain is where the curse must be. We also have to go for Junpei himself.

Haibara : When are we doing that?

Yuji : Tomorrow itself.

Haibara : Alright. I have another mission for the next three days, so I'll be out of town. Once I'm back I'll join you guys again. Will that be okay?

Nanami : Sure. That's not a problem. Best of luck for your mission.

Haibara : Thanks. See you guys later.

He got up and straightened his clothes a bit. Then he walked out. Yuji sighed. He wanted this case to end as quickly as possible.

Yuji : We need to split into two teams. Nanamin, you go and check out the drains. I and Ijichi-san will tail Junpei. We need to confirm his strength as a sorcerer.

Nanami : What exactly are you trying to achieve?

Yuji : If I'm not wrong, Junpei is most likely an unfortunate victim, who has become embroiled in a wrong situation. But we can still save him, and bring him over to our side.

Nanami : I don't trust you on that idea, but I'm willing to entertain it. Just don't be reckless.

Yuji : I'll remember that. So should you. If you face any difficulty in facing off with the curse, call for help.

Nanami : Sure. I'll keep that in mind.

Yuji nodded and got up. He bid farewell to Nanami and walked out. Ijichi looked at Nanami again.

Ijichi : You won't call at all, would you?

Nanami : Absolutely not. Are you crazy?

Chapter Text

Yuji : So basically we'll have to tail Junpei Yoshino. Any other noteworthy information that I should know?

Ijichi : Well, there has been a slew of disappearances from the area. Almost 30.

Yuji : That just confirms it even more. Pick me up at 9 AM tomorrow. We can't waste any more time.

Ijichi : As you say. What should I bring in order to aid our search?

Yuji : That is up to you.

Yuji got off at Gojo's building. Yes, he owned the entire building and the plot of land, apparently. Rich people. Yuji bid farewell to Ijichi for the day and went inside.

He rung the doorbell. Gojo opened it and welcomed him inside.

Gojo : How is it going?

Yuji : Much smoother than before. It seems we are on a definitive path now.

Gojo : How long until it is resolved?

Yuji : A week at max. How are things going with Tokyo High?

Gojo : I managed to postpone the Exchange Event. But you will have to hurry. We're doing social activities, but the students are getting restless. You guys need to hurry up.

Yuji : Tomorrow will be an important day. If we're successful, we'll be able to close this case within 4-5 days.

Gojo : That's fine. Just hurry up. That's all I ask.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

September 14, 2018, Kawasaki City, 0900 hours

Yuji and Ijichi sat in the car, watching as Junpei Yoshino strolled past them without noticing. Gojo's washing machine was malfunctioning, so his clothes hadn't been washed today. So, he had come in his jujutsu student uniform. He looked quizzically at the seat beside Ijichi's, on which a cage trapped in some weird little creatures.

Yuji : What are these?

Ijichi : Fly heads. Ranked lower than grade 4. They're used to determine if someone can see curses or not.

Yuji : Alright. What's the protocol?

Ijichi : We'll let these fly heads loose on Junpei Yoshino. Now, there are three possibilities. 1. If he is not a sorcerer and cannot see them, please save him. 2. If he can see them, but can't use jujutsu. Then we bring him in for questioning. 3. If he is determined to be a sorcerer of above grade 2, we regroup with Namami-san.

Yuji : Got it.

After some time, they reached his neighbourhood. Yuji ditched the car and walked with the cage of the fly heads on foot. Ijichi followed suit soon after.

Junpei saw a fat man sitting on the stairs of his home and wiping the sweat off his forehead.

Junpei : Satomura sensei?

Satomura : Junpei, you've been skipping class. Did you hear? Sayama, Nishimura and Honda died. You were pretty close to them, right?

What? Junpei close to those three? Was this man insane?

Satomura : They took pretty good care of you, someone with no friends. You know what, I'll go with you, so let's go light some incense sticks.

Around the corner, Ijichi let the fly heads loose. Yuji tried to hold him back.

Yuji : There's someone else there.

Ijichi : Too late.

One of the fly heads flew towards Junpei and Satomura.

Junpei : Ah, now I get it. You teachers get employed in the very schools you've passed out from. So you have no ways to judge society huh? Every last one of you is the same.

Satomura : What are you rambling on about? Did you become weird or something? Haha.

Junpei brought his index and middle fingers near his forehead. He was ready to summon Moon Dregs.

Yuji : Stop!!!

The two turned around to see Yuji gliding through the air, but only Junpei noticed the fly head in his hand. Yuji summeraulted and landed on his feet.

Yuji : I have something urgent to talk to you about.

Satomura : Hey I'm talking to him. You're being rude.

Junpei noticed the button. So he was a student of Tokyo High.

Yuji : Yeah my topic is more important.

Satomura : Who're you to say that, brat?!

BAM! Yuji landed a right jab on Satomura's face. Then he grabbed his collar.

Yuji : I'll beat the living daylights out of your, until your eyes go dark. So fuck off.

Satomura scrambled away, scared for his life.

Junpei : You didn't have to do all that. Could've just pulled me aside, you know.

Yuji : Yeah, but you hated him too, right?

Junpei : How did you...

Yuji : It's not a tough question. But you know what, let's change the subject, since it is clearly something you don't want to talk about. Where's a spot pleasant enough?

Junpei : How about the riverbank?

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

1600 hours

Yuji : Damn it, he's not picking up my calls. Ah fuck it. I'll talk to him later.

At that moment, Ijichi was busy trying to catch the last fly head.

Yuji : So, Yoshino, I'll be very straightforward. Did you see anything unusual that day at Kinema Cinema? Something like this fly head?

Junpei remembered Mahito's words.

Junpei : No. I've only recently begun to see them.

Yuji : Then I have nothing more to ask.

Junpei : Really?

Yuji : Yeah. I gotta wait for my colleague now.

The riverbank was peaceful. A light breeze was blowing across. Dragonflies flew abound. The river made a soft sloshing sound as it strode past the bank.

Yuji : What movie were you watching that day?

Junpei : An old remake of Human Earthworm 3.

Yuji : That's so boring.

Junpei : I know, right? But part 2 was...

Yuji : Actually good.

Their heads snapped towards each other. It was as if the had clicked in an instant.

Junpei : Yeah, part 2 has that kicked that has been missing in later installments.

Yuji : Totally. They're just cash grabs at this point. But part 2 showed the emotional downfall of the perfectionist so well.

Junpei : That's what made it so worthwhile.

Over on the bridge, a hooded figure watched them with great interest.

Kaori : Bullseye.

She walked away into the silence, content that Mahito had heeded her words.

Junpei : 2 was also the most gruesome.

Yuji : Kind of the appeal of the series itself.

Junpei : Yeah. Do you like movies too, Itadori-kun?

Yuji : In a bit of a circumstance. I have to watch them on video in demand, not in theatres.

Junpei : Theaters are fun. The movie really comes to life on th big screen, you know?

From behind them, another voice rang out.

Woman : That's rare. Junpei, you've made a friend?

Junpei : Mom? We just met.

Yuji : We just met, but we've become friends already. I'm Yuji Itadori.

He extended his hand to her.

Woman : I'm Nagi Yoshino. Junpei's mom.

Yuji : Onions really don't suit you.

Nagi : Oh you noticed? I prefer to be a woman who doesn't suit onions.

Junpei : Mom, you're smoking again?

He took the cigarette from her and threw it away.

Junpei : How many times have I told you to stop smoking?

Nagi : Yuji-kun, how about you have dinner with us?

Junpei : Hey. It'll be a bother.

Nagi : My food's a bother?

Just then, Yuji's stomach rumbled. He was, in fact, hungry. And he had nothing better to do. So he decided to hang out at Junpei's place for the rest of the day.

Nagi : Any allergies I should know about?

Yuji : No.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Drain System, Kawasaki City, 1730 hours

Nanami jerked his blade to get the blood off. In front of him lay two bodies of similar nature to the  victims of the murder spree. Apparently, almost 47 people had disappeared from this area last night. And he had good idea where they were.

Nanami : If you want to do this, come out and face me directly. It may be late to say this, but grotesque as they may be, murdering humans makes me sick.

Mahito came out of the darkness. This was some other sorcerer. Oh yeah, this was the one who had originally spotted Junpei at Haneda Airport.

Mahito : What a relief. It isn't Satoru Gojo. Trouble arises when your opponent is too strong because you might lose, and when they're too weak because they might not be a good experiment.

Nanami : I hate working overtime. So let's forego with the chitchat and finish this quickly.

Chapter Text

Drain System, Kawasaki City, 1730 hours

Nanami : They're alike. Gojo and him. The frivolity that hides a sinister strength.

Mahito swung at Nanami, who dodged it. Then, he swung his own blade, that Mahito dodged. Ratio lines appeared on Mahito's arm in Nanami's vision, and he landed a critical hit on the curse's arm. Mahito watched his arm almost dislodge itself from his body. He didn't block a kick that Nanami landed on his chest, sending him hurling backwards.

Mahito : Weird. I thought I blocked that hit. Oh, so it's that kind of a technique. I see.

Nanami : What do you mean by 'that kind'? I hate open questions that are left upto interpretations.

Mahito : Good. That means you don't hate the idea of talking itself.

Nanami : Depends on who I'm speaking to.

His gears were working. A cursed spirit that could hold a conversation well. Similar to the unregistered special grades in Gojo's report. Perhaps, it wouldn't be too wild of a guess if he thought of them as related.

Mahito : Hey. Between the body and the soul, which one do you think came first?

Nanami's quizzical expression prompted him to continue.

Mahito : It's like the chicken vs egg debate. Does the soul exist in the body? Or does the body attach itself to the soul?

Nanami had no choice but to continue the conversation.

Nanami : The former.

Mahito : Wrong. It's the latter. The soul always comes before the body. In fact, the body strictly conforms to the shape of the soul.

As he spoke, his arm returned to normal. Nanami gulped nervously.

Mahito : Make no mistake, this isn't healing. I'm simply preserving the shape of the soul. It's like moulding clay. But you get it already, right? My technique touches the soul and changes its shape.

He pulled out another tiny transfigured human and prepared his next attack.

Mahito : Idle Transfiguration. I stock up on tiny humans and use them to attack. It's pretty hard, you know? When you change the forms of ordinary people, they die. But I wonder what happens to sorcerers?

Nanami looked at his watch and sighed.

Nanami : I have been working since 10 AM today. It is right now 5:40. I will get off work at 6 no matter what.

Mahito launched the transfigured human towards Nanami. He jumped out of its attack range and landed another critical blow on it in a 7:3 ratio.

Mahito : You move well.

He launched two more transfigured humans, that shot as pillar beams at Nanami. He jumped over them and stood atop the same. Mahito was grinning, this was fun for him.

Meanwhile, Nanami was observing Mahito's technique. He could change the forms of the former humans, but not their mass. Either way, that was not compatible with his technique. Suddenly, he heard a groaning voice.

Transfigured Human : Help.....me....

Nanami remembered Shoko's words. Reconstructed humans need not be saved. If they attack, kill them without hesitation. It would also be for the sake of the victims themselves.

Mahito : Ah sorry. I have practiced so much, they don't die right away when they are transfigured. But in terms of brains or consciousness? They have poor accuracy. Sometimes the soul's sweat seeps out. Don't let it distract you.

Nanami : I'm not concerned. Since my principle is to work without being swayed by personal feelings.

Mahito : You're so bad at lying. Your soul is wavering. Let's see... What grade are you?

Nanami : Grade 1.

Mahito : So you're plenty strong. A pretty good guinea pig for my experiments. I'm so lucky, I'm almost getting grateful.

Mahito touched Nanami's gut and charged his cursed energy into it. Nanami resisted it by shielding himself with his own cursed energy. A sharp pain shot up across his body and he moved away.

Mahito revealed his feet, which had transformed into hoofs.

Mahito : Surprised by my increase in speed? I can change the shape of my own soul too, you know?

Nanami staggered back up.

Mahito : Sorcerers can't protect their soul with cursed energy, unlike their body, because they can't recognise their own soul. However, even so, you seem to be shielding yourself with cursed energy. Otherwise you would've been in my hands by now. Well, no worries, in two or three touches, I'll make you stop being human.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Junpei's House, 1800 hours

Nagi : And then?! And then?!

Yuji : And then, Tadashi-kum said with full confidence, "That's an unidentified species of larva!!!" But when he picked it up, it was a konnyaku noodles from lunch.

Yuji had to agree. Dinner with Junpei and his mom was really fun. He had never laughed as much as he had today.

Nagi : Bwahaha!!!! Konnyaku noodles!! He said konnyaku noodles!

Junpei : Mom I think you're too drunk now.

She handed Yuji a tray while still trying to control her laugh.

Nagi : Yuji-kun, how about a monoboke?

He took the tray and sat on the ground.

Yuji : Wilson! Wilson!

Junpei spat out his drink. Yuji's impersonation had been on point.

Junpei : That's from Cast Away.

Yuji : On point.

Nagi : Huh? A joke from a movie? I don't get it.

Sometime later, Nagi was passed out on the table, sleeping peacefully. Junpei put a blanket on her.

Yuji : Your mom is a good person.

Junpei : Yeah.

His mom's words flashed in his mind. She had said that school was like a fish tank, and Junpei had other fish tanks, and even the sea, to choose from. People of his age thought about things too deeply. Perhaps she thought she was saying something great.

Junpei : What kind of person was your mom, Itadori-kun?

Yuji : Dunno. Never met her. I faintly remember my dad. The one I was the closest to was my grandfather. Ah sorry, I have a call.

It was Ijichi. And only one question could be asked. What Yuji was doing.

Yuji : I'm about to watch a movie.

The phone hung up. Junpei decided to ask his question.

Junpei : Itadori, you're a sorcerer, right?

Yuji : Yeah.

Junpei : Have you ever killed someone?

Yuji : No.

Junpei : Will you?

Yuji : No.

Junpei : Why not? You could be dealing with a curse user for all you know.

Yuji : See, we all make decisions that we regret. I have made regrettable decisions in my life too. Even so, I don't want that regret to come from killing someone as a sorcerer. It's like a clingy leech. Once it latches on to you, the prospect grows more and more. And over time the value of life becomes less and less. I can't say that I value other's lives immensely, but at least I don't want that to happen to the people I care about.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

1800 hours

Mahito : So this is what a grade 1 sorcerer is? Interesting.

He was sitting on a railing, his feet still turned into hoofs. Nanami clutched the right side of his torso in pain, blood oozing from an injury over there.

Mahito : You have been moving pretty well. But you should be at your limit, isn't it?

Nanami : It's unfortunate. But from here on out, it's overtime.

Nanami took off his tie and wrapped it around his arm. Mahito watched with intrigue as Nanami's cursed energy began to surge. Interesting. A Binding Vow based on time that out a cap on his cursed energy. Mahito got down from the railing.

Nanami : My technique, Ratio, allows me to forcibly create a weak point in any object in a 7:3 ratio, and strike it with great power to land critical hits. This object could be anything, animals, inanimate, even parts like arms or legs. And if it is weak enough, I can even bisect it.

Mahito : Revealing your hand. You're getting serious?

Nanami : Moreover, this technique is also applicable on non living objects.

Nanami had two options. He could either continue fighting till this curse ran out of cursed energy. Given this curse's level of power, that was not feasible. Second, he could destroy its body with one crushing blow. That seemed like a better choice. He ran around Mahito, who tried to catch him. Then, building upon the momentum, he jumped on a piece of debris, used it as a launch pad, jumped higher and concentrated his cursed energy into his blade.

Nanami : Ratio - Collapse.

His blade struck the wall, sending shockwaves through the entire area. Mahito watched in awe, as the extension technique loaded cursed energy into its perimeter. It would be best to avoid it.

Nanami didn't waste a second. He landed two critical hits on Mahito's legs at 7:3 ratios. The curse fell onto the ground, helpless. The debris was suspended in air.

Nanami : I will be retreating at once. Best to heal your leg quickly. If we both end up alive, perhaps we will meet again.

Then, the debris fell. The ground above shook due to the impact. Nanami escaped the scene before any major injury took place.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Ijichi : You're at Junpei Yoshino's house?! That's a little....

Yuji : It's fine. I'm about to watch a movie, so I'll hang up.

And he did. Ijichi sat in the car, stressed beyond measure. Junpei Yoshino probably wouldn't kill Yuji. But this still was a huge failure on his part as a supervisor. Had it been anyone else, it would be alright. But if the adult of all adults, Kento Nanami scolded him, he would surely cry.

Just on cue, his phone rang. Kento Nanami. He picked up hastily.

Ijichi : Hello. Yes, I'm sorry.

Nanami : I have sent you my location, so please pick me up. We need to head back to Tokyo High for some medical treatment from Ieiri.

Ijichi : Medical treatment?!

Nanami : It's fine. The injury is not fatal.

He was in a washroom of sorts. His blood soaked shirt was off, and he was standing topless. One hand has a piece of cloth, pressing on the wound and applying gentle pressure to stop the bleeding. The other was holding the phone.

Ijichi : Got it. I'll join up with Itadori-kun and be there right away.

Nanami : You're not with him?

Ijichi chided himself for being an idiot. The call was cut soon after.

Nanami reflected on the day. The words of the curse rang in his mind. It was a child, it hadn't been long since he was born. Like the unregistered special grade that Gojo had faced that night, if this one had a similar growth, which it was enjoying, it wouldn't be long until it was able to do domain expansions as well. Nanami had to exorcise it before it became uncontrollable.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Junpei's House, 2100 hours

People have no heart. That was what Junpei had believed. That thought had helped him, saved him and given him power. But now, as he reflected on his ideas, while lying in his bed, it seemed iffy at best. Specially after talking to Yuji, who had left around half an hour ago.

The idea of people being soulless had empowered Junpei in his quest for revenge. But, if that soul was tainted by killing people, he wouldn't be able to do it. No, he definitely couldn't. No wonder the little murder spree he had seen Mahito go on was so disgusting. He had retched day after day, and wasn't exactly desensitized to the idea even today. Perhaps that was for the best.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Drain System, Kawasaki City, 2110 hours

The hooded figure approached the rubble.

Kaori : Yo, Sasorijin, Hanami and Hyōketsu. Did you find him already?

Hyōketsu : How about instead of speaking you help us over here?

The curses were busy removing the rubble under which Mahito had been buried, in their attempt to find him. Kaori giggled at their stupidity.

Before long, a snake like creature crawled out from beneath the carnage. It didn't take Mahito even one second to return to his original human-like form.

Mahito : Ahaha. Despite his posh appearance, that sorcerer was really rash.

Kaori : He sure did put on a show.

Mahito : Ah, welcome, Kaori Geto. And yes, he sure was interesting. I learned a lot from him. Even if I'm smashed to pieces, as long as my soul is intact, I won't die. Consuming cursed energy is its own kind of self sufficiency.

Sasorijin : Any risks?

Mahito : None at all. No matter how much I tamper with my technique. Makes me want to do all sorts of things.

Hyōketsu : Well, where's your opponent now?

Mahito : I don't know, maybe under the rubble? Oh, Geto, did you do as I asked you?

Kaori : Of course. The trap is set. All we have to wait for is for the woman to fall into it. Then, the boy.

Mahito : Good. It seems your idea of this little strong of murders throughout Kanagawa Prefecture was a success. Same for your idea of stopping after four of them. Helped set up the trap perfectly.

Hyōketsu : Let us retreat for now. We'll watch this plot unfold with great interest.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Junpei's House, Dining Room, 2200 hours

Nagi's peaceful slumber was awoken with a start. She sat up in her chair and stretched to get rid of stiffness in her body. Perhaps, Yuji went home. Her eyes fell on the table in front of her.

Nagi : Hmm? What's this? A finger?

She picked up the object and inspected it. It looked like a rotten finger of sorts, with an overgrown nail that resembled a claw. Unaware of the fact that a curse, taller than her, with long hair, and a grotesque body involving several eyes, was standing right behind her, ready to claim the object for itself.

Chapter Text

September 15, 2018, Junpei's House, 0700 hours

On September 15, at around 5 in the morning, Junpei Yoshino found the body of his mother, Nagi Yoshino, in her bedroom. She had been attacked by cursed spirits who were attracted to Sukuna's finger, his upper left pinky. Almost 20 different cursed spirits had attacked and brutally mauled her, so much so, that her body was missing from the waist down. Junpei had called authorities swiftly. After an hour, they took her body away.

Mahito held Junpei, caressing his hair. He held up Sukuna's finger in his hand.

Mahito : It is a cursed charm. It attracts cursed spirits.

Junpei : Why was it in our house?!

He was shaken. Tears rolled down his eyes, and he was shaking violently. Mahito was trying to calm him.

Mahito : There are curse users who make money by killing people. If one has contacts, such murders can be easily arranged. Do you know anyone who had a grudge against you or your mother? Or someone gloomy with too much money and time?

Only one guy came to mind. Itou Shouta.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Satozakura High School, 0900 hours

Junpei stood in front of his school. The place where his sufferings resided. His leather jacket was keeping him warm, perhaps even preventing him from freezing due to his cold heart. He slowly walked up the stairs to the auditorium.

A huge number of students had gathered for commemorating Itou Shouta for a national prize.

Announcer : And the certificate of commemoration for the national book report contest!! The best prize goes to Itou Shouta!!

Itou : Oh I feel embarrassed.

He went up to the stage to get his certificate. His friends were in the crowd, right beside the guy he had threatened into writing his report. Cheers erupted from the students, who were fawning over how cool their senpai was.

Mahito stood on the adjacent wing of the building, invisible to everyone else.

Mahito : Emerge from darkness, blacker than darkness. Purify that which is impure.

A black curtain descended upon the area, shielding it from the view of the outside world.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Gojo's Apartment, 0910 hours

Yuji sipped on his coffee. The first cup of the day. He didn't know what had transpired in Kawasaki City since the previous night. However, based on current information, he could call the previous day a success. The case has turned on its heels, and if things went well, it would be over in a day or two. Then, he could be back at Tokyo High for the Exchange Event.

His phone rang. Ijichi. He picked it up, confused as to why Ijichi would be calling him now. After all, Nanami was supposed to be briefing Haibara about last day. And they didn't have anything planned too.

Ijichi's words made Yuji's head reel. Nagi Yoshino was dead. And Junpei was attacking Satozakura High School. The enemies had started to move earlier than he had anticipated.
He had to act fast.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Drain System, Kawasaki City, 0830 hours

Nanami : I'll go back immediately. Please stand by, Itadori-kun. And report all that happens over there.

The call hung up. He sighed. He had come to the drains again, in hopes of finding Mahito. Instead, he was facing a number of transfigured humans. He turned to the other person, whom he had brought. Ino Takuma. Grade 2. His former protege. Medium height, with brown hair, sharp eyes, and a mask flung over his head carelessly, wearing the standard jujutsu sorcerer uniform.

Nanami : Takuma, I'll leave these to you. I have an emergency to attend to.

Ino : What? But...

Nanami : Is there a problem?

Ino : There are too many of them.

Nanami : I'll oversee your promotion to grade 1.

Ino's demeanor changed in an instant, from demotivated and unsure, to a bright and confident one.

Ino : Alright! Let's do this!

He put the mask on his face and prepared to face the slew of creatures. He didn't exactly know what they were, just that he had to kill them.

Nanami sighed. He took out his phone and dialled a number.

Nanami : Haibara? Satozakura High School. Asap.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Satozakura High School, 0910 hours

Mahito : It's done.

Kaori : I just hope that what you're plotting would soon become a reality. After all, this curtain will soon be reported by windows of Jujutsu High.

Mahito : When Junpei interacted with Sukuna's host, the flow was good. I'll have them clash and then impose a contract to assert Sukuna's superiority over Yuji Itadori. I hope you don't mind about the finger. It was a precious charm.

Kaori : No worries. They are recovering the fingers at a fine pace. I wish Jogo was even half as patient as you.

Mahito : Oh well, his rashness makes him look cute.

Kaori : No doubts. Well then, I'll take my leave. Can't afford to leave remnants.

Mahito : Could've watched, you know. Watched an idiot die, that is.

Inside the auditorium, all the students had fallen unconscious. Satomura kneeled down and shook the lax body of one of the students.

Satomura : Hey, what happened to you guys? Why won't you get up?

Junpei : They won't die.

Satomura : Yoshino. Do you know what's happening?

Junpei : Sensei, do you know what these are?

He pushed up the hair that covered the left side of his face. Several burn marks were visible on his forehead. Cigarette burns. Several of them, in fact.

Satomura : That wound....!!

Junpei didn't need an answer from this fatso. He walked towards the stage, where Itou Shouta was.

Junpei : The things that have happened, and those that are about to happen. All of it....

Shouta : Yoshino.

Junpei : I only have one thing to ask. Were you the one who left it in my house?!

Shouta : What are you talking about?

A sharp pain shot up across his arm. Black spots appeared on it. Shouta screamed in horror and pain.

Shouta : What the hell?! What are you doing to me, you bastard?!

Junpei : You're not answering me.

He landed a slap on Shouta's face, sending him hurling down to the side of the stage.

Junpei : Do you think you're in a position to answer my questions with your own? Though, the kind of treatment you have metted out to me, warrants this in exchange.

He landed another kick on Shouta's stomach.

Junpei : You're going to die regardless. I mean, I can't exactly see through your lies. Even so, at least show me some sincerity in your last moments.

Moon Dregs used its tendrils to pick and hoist Shouta up in the air. Blood began to drop from his nostrils and mouth.

Shouta : I'm sorry....

Junpei : And? So?

A shot of cursed energy flew past his ear and hit Moon Dregs. Shouta fell onto the ground, as the jellyfish like shikigami was thrown into the wall. Junpei turned around. Yuji Itadori. His hand outstretched.

Yuji : What are you doing, Junpei?

Junpei : Back off, sorcerer.

Moon Dregs charged at Yuji, who dodged out the way of its tendrils. Then, he landed a cursed energy enhanced upper cut by its head, sending it crashing into Junpei.

Junpei : I'll tell you one last time! Stay back, sorcerer!! You have nothing to do with this!!

Yuji : That's not for you to decide!

Junpei : What's the point?! Don't you mistake the value of life!!!

Moon Dregs shot its tendrils at Yuji again. This time at full force. His tendrils overwhelmed Yuji and surrounded him.

Junpei : Emotions. Heart. It's all fake. It's all the metabolism of the soul. So don't you try and make me think according to your ridiculous rules.

Yuji's hand emerged from the mass of tendrils and grabbed Junpei's shoulder. Then, he flung the long haired boy out of the window. Junpei landed with a thud, and noticed Yuji come out of the window. He didn't understand. Why wasn't Moon Dregs able to affect Yuji with its poison? And most importantly, why was Yuji interfering in this? His mother's face flashed in front of his eyes, and his blood boiled.

Yuji was still in air, so he must be weak. Moon Dregs shot the tendrils at him again. Yuji dodged them mid air, and smashed the ground in front of him, sending debris hurling towards them. Gojo's words flashed in Yuji's mind. When fighting a shikigami user, attacking the person is important, not the shikigami itself.

Yuji : I have no idea what you're talking about. But splitting hairs like that is nothing but a way to prove superiority over others.

Yuji landed an upper cut on Junpei's chin. Junpei was thrown upwards, and landed on the corridor of the second floor. He composed himself and picked himself up, his body sore. Yuji was superhumanly strong.

Said pink haired guy appeared by the window. There was no way of escape.

Yuji : I don't understand your motive. Nor do I recognise your anger. I'm even sure that you have your reasons, that are most probably justified.

Junpei : Of course I'm justified!! Are you saying that me and my mother were cursed by people having hearts?! That's too much...

Yuji walked over and kneeled down in front of Junpei.

Yuji : Then listen. Everyone has a heart. What matters is how they choose to show it. There was a point of time when I was in your position. No friends. No family. No belongings. Just a sick grandpa whose expenses I had to bear. So I know where you're coming from. But look at me today. I've changed. I saw an opportunity for redemption, and I took it.

Junpei couldn't understand where Yuji was going with this. Yuji sighed.

Yuji : My point is that, we all make decisions that we will regret. It is inevitable. To live is to suffer, and to suffer is to regret. So if regret is to come, let yourself be the cause of it, instead of someone else. Even I'm no exception. So, I ask you, Junpei. Give up. You won't be able to win this. Very soon, other sorcerers will arrive, and they won't hesitate to declare you as a criminal.

Junpei : And are you one of them too?

Yuji : No. If you surrender to me now, I'll ensure, on my life, that no harm will come to you. You have my word for it.

Moon Dregs shot its tendrils at Yuji, who didn't dodge them this time. They pierced his body, and emerged from the other side of his torso. Yuji winced in pain of being stabbed like that.

Junpei : How? I've already done so much damage.

Yuji : Doesn't matter. Come to Tokyo High with me. You'll have teachers who are stupidly strong, and reliable comrades who will accept you no matter how your past was. Together, we'll find the one who cursed you. How does that sound?

Suddenly, they heard clapping. The boys turned to see a patch-faced curse descending the flight of stairs, clapping his hands every 3 seconds.

Mahito : Well well well. Look what we have here. Or rather, who we have here. A celebrity.

Chapter Text

Mahito : Well well well. Look what we have here. Or rather, who we have here. A celebrity.

Yuji : Junpei. Get behind me. And don't move a muscle.

Instinctively, Yuji moved to stand in between Junpei and the curse.

Junpei : No, Itadori-kun. Mahito-san isn't a bad-

Huh? He was in the air? And he had a pair of glasses in his hand? He had been unable to perceive it. Yuji had kicked Junpei and Moon Dregs out of the building and out of the way of harm. He landed on the ground, Moon Dregs breaking his fall.

He felt a hand on his shoulder and turned around. A brown haired man with a scar. He didn't look dangerous.

Haibara : Where is Yuji Itadori?

Inside the corridor, the situation was vastly different.

Mahito : Incredible speed. I'm pleased to meet you. Sukuna's host.

His arm convulsed beneath the skin and expanded. Then, it trapped him to the wall, engulfing his body and trapping him there.

Yuji was trying to hide it. He was afraid. Mahito was, after all, a special grade. His breaths were becoming shallower. But that could be because he was trapped. And restrained. He appealed to Sukuna, in a very low voice, but Mahito was able to hear anyway.

Yuji : Sukuna. Get me out of here for one second. I'll do anything you want. You want me to live, don't you?

Sukuna : No.

Yuji : Which question?

Sukuna : Both.

Yuji : Why?

Sukuna : Because I feel like it.

Mahito : Aww, is someone feeling scared?

Sukuna : Pathetic.

Both of them laughed, their maniacal laughter rang across the hall. Yuji felt like their presence was meant to crush him. Yuji remembered something fundamental. They were, ultimately, curses. Their existence was meant only to reinforce human suffering.

The thought of Junpei finding his mother's body flashed across his mind. He wasn't there, but he had no trouble imagining just how it might have gone. After all, he had lived through the same experience once. His blood boiled, veins appeared on his forehead, and fury gripped the very fibre of his existence. Mahito withdrew his hand in intrigue, as Yuji forgot all about the fear that he had faced a few moments ago. His cursed energy boiled over, emanating in a furiously terrifying wave.

Yuji landed a punch directly in the middle of Mahito's face, sending the curse flying backwards. Mahito landed on a higher step, having lost his balance for a moment.

Mahito : Heh. Strong attack. Too bad it won't work on me. As long as my soul  retains its shape-

Wait, blood? Dripping from his nose? What was this? Had Yuji Itadori managed to hit his soul?

The bleeding stopped and Mahito could return his soul to his original shape. Oh, now he understood what was going on. Yuji Itadori is a vessel. Another soul dwells in the same body as his. So naturally, he has learnt to observe the shape of the soul pretty easily.

Yuji : I'm going to kill you.

Mahito : Don't you mean exorcise, jujutsu sorcerer?

The plan was solid. Mahito would create a situation where Yuji, who would hate him with his guts, would have to create a Binding Vow with Sukuna to defeat him. And that should be enough for Mahito to win Sukuna over. Even if he had to mutilate every student here, in this school, he'd do it. Gladly. So, what was this feeling? This sensation of having a mortal enemy. It felt thrilling.

Yuji swung another deadly punch at Mahito, who transfigured his arms into wings and flew away. Yuji had noted his pattern. Mahito kept distorting his body. So, what should Yuji do. Mahito, for his part, realised that since Yuji had deciphered his strength, increasing size was a bad idea. In that case, even if it was required a thousand times over, Yuji would exorcise this curse again and again. And Mahito would embody a more inspired form of killing.

His arms transfigured into four chained hooks, that he swung at Yuji. Yuji jumped through the gap between the chains. The impact destroyed the building and threw Yuji out on the ground. Mahito transfigured his arm into a drill machine, and launched it at Yuji, who grabbed the flesh the drill was attached to and pulled the curse in. After all, he couldn't stretch forever. Right?

Well, Mahito had other ways, so to say. Spikes emerged from the flesh where Yuji was holding, piercing through his hands, and drawing blood. Nevertheless, he grabbed on even tighter and pulled Mahito again, this time with more force. The curse came flying down, onto the ground. Yuji didn't waste a moment's whim, and rushed to land two punches on his enemy. However, he forgot to target the soul, so the punches didn't do much damage.

Normal people would've let go, Mahito thought. That spike gimmick had been necessary, the more he stretched, the less durability and control he could exercise. He blocked Yuji's incoming punches and emitted three long spikes from his belly, that pierced Yuji's guts. The boy froze in shock and pain as blood flew out of the wounds. The warm liquid gushed down the side of his body, and onto the ground, filling the immediate area with a metallic scent.

Mahito : This is useless. You can't beat me. Hurry up and switch with Sukuna.

He touched Yuji's stomach.

Mahito : Idle Transfiguration.

He gasped. A soul transmission. He was now standing in the innate domain of the King of Curses, looking up at the enigmatic creature, who sat atop a heap of skulls. He felt true, mortally dreading fear for the first time in his life.

Sukuna : You dare touch my soul? Since we shared a laugh at the brat's expense, I'll forgive this transgression once. There won't be a second time.

Sukuna brought his hand under his chin and gave a condescending and threatening look to Mahito.

Sukuna : Know your place, you fool.

Within a moment, Mahito's conscious awareness was back in the real world. Yuji grabbed his head.

Yuji : I'll told you. I'll kill you. No matter what.

He smashed his head into Mahito's skull. Again. And again. And again. And again. Both of them were bleeding from the skulls.

Yuji swung a backhanded punch across Mahito's face. Then a kick to the side. His rage had blinded him. Literally. That's why he couldn't see when Mahito had moved away. The curse was now behind him, his hand transfigured into a giant bludgeon, ready to smash Yuji's head into paste. He swung at the boy.

KLANG! A critical hit. And there he was, Kento Nanami. Once again, he had jumped in to protect a child.

Yuji : Nanamin.

Mahito quickly moved away. And he got himself pierced by a set of spikes that seemingly appeared out of thin air. Yuu Haibara was behind him, and landed a kick to his gut. Then, he joined his teammates.

Nanami : I'll scold you later. What's the situation?

Yuji : I should be the one asking that. Where's Junpei?

Haibara : In the car. Don't worry. He's sound asleep. How are you?

Yuji : I'm fine. Just a few holes on me, but otherwise fit to fight.

The adults were puzzled. Holes in the body? Fit to fight? Then again, this was Yuji Itadori. So this shouldn't be too surprising.

Yuji : The students and teachers are unconscious in the gym.

Haibara : And this is the little serial killer across Kanagawa Prefecture?

Yuji : Yes. If we can stop him here, today, this ends.

Mahito : Looking good, 7:3. I'm glad we both made it out alive. How about a hug for the reunion?

Nanami : Itadori-kun, why does he have a nosebleed?

Yuji : I attacked him at the beginning of the fight.

Nanami : Did his hands touch you?

Yuji : Yeah.

Nanami was deep in thought. Either Mahito's attacks didn't affect Yuji for some reason. Or killing Yuji was not on Mahito's roster. Either way, this worked to their advantage.

Nanami : My attacks don't affect him. Neither will Haibara's. But yours will. We'll create openings for you, and you must hit to the hardest you can. We must exorcise him right here, right today.

Yuji : Got it.

Mahito licked around his lips. He could keep Yuji busy and kill Nanami. But Haibara presented an issue. How would he tackle three opponents at the same time? This was thrilling. After all, he couldn't make any sound, could he?

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Flashback)

September 14, 2018, Drain System, Kawasaki City, 2100 hours

Kaori : There are three people working on your case.

Mahito : 7:3. Yuji Itadori. Who's the third one?

Kaori : Yuu Haibara. Grade 1 sorcerer. He's a bit eccentric. In the sense that he's sane, but his technique poses some unique challenges.

Mahito : What is his technique?

Kaori : Sound Wave Symphony. It allows him to capture sound waves emitted by any object, and freely manipulate it to his needs. He could change its state of matter, change its properties, its physical existence, and use it for anything he would want, such as restraints or small range weapons like kunai. This goes for both his own as well as other's sounds.

Mahito : Sounds weird. That means I can make no sound.

Kaori : Not after he appears, no. Beware. Exercise caution and restraint, and use your instincts and common sense wisely.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present)

Mahito swung the bludgeon arm, as well as his other arm around Nanami and Haibara, who surrounded him from both sides. He hadn't noticed Yuji, who landed a punch straight to his stomach.

Mahito curled himself up as Nanami and Haibara landed their own cursed energy enhanced blows on him. Then, he turned into a ball of spikes, sending giant spikes outwards.

Nanami : Careful, everyone.

Damn it. He spoke.

Haibara immediately caught the sound waves and transformed them into tangible, visible daggers to slice through the spikes. Nanami used his blade to slice right through them, while Yuji simply uprooted them from Mahito's body.

Damn it. This spike idea wasn't good at all. It only worked on puny targets, not on actually capable sorcerers. Not only had they parried it, but they had also broken the spikes right where they mattered.

As the three were about to land their blows on him again, Mahito transfigured himself into his true form. A human like child. And then he ran. To a distance. After which he transfigured back. One hit in that form, from Yuji, and Mahito could have been exorcised. They really were mortal enemies. He had to keep Yuji and Haibara busy.

Yuji : Right before changing, he saves up cursed energy.

Nanami : Good.

Mahito retched up some transfigured humans to use. Thank goodness, he had stocked up on more between these few hours. Nanami realised where the recent disappearances in the area, in the last few hours, had come from.

Mahito : Kill the kid and the brunette.

The transfigured humans advanced towards Yuji and Haibara. The two separated, so as to split them up.

Mahito : Heh. That brat. Yuji Itadori. He won't kill people.

Haibara captured the groaning sounds from the transfigured humans, and shaped then into kunai, which he then launched at them. Then, he dodged a blow from one of the transfigured humans, and landed a strong blow to its guts. He captured the sound of its wheezing, and shaped it into a sledgehammer, which he used to crush its head. He swung it around, smashing the transfigured humans to paste, one by one.

Yuji had climbed onto a terrace. The small transfigured humans advanced towards him. He caught one by the neck and slammed it into the concrete platform, on which they were standing.

Transfigured Human : Let's play.

So this was a child. Yuji stilled. A shiver ran down his spine. Another transfigured human attacked him.

Transfigured Human : Puh....lease.....Kill me.

Back on the ground, Nanami swung his blade again, missing Mahito. He swung back, and Nanami ducked to avoid the hit. Mahito expanded his arm and trapped Nanami to a wall, much similar to how Yuji was trapped not long ago.

Mahito : I'll have him fight you next. What do you think? Will he cry?

Nanami remained silent. He didn't know Yuji's past. So he had no right to comment. Then again, curiously, he had never seen Yuji laugh out loud or cry freely. Just the cold, calculating guy, with an occasional grin of achievement.

Mahito : What a stupid brat. He can't distinguish expectations from reality.

Nanami : I disagree. He's making that distinction now. If anything, you're the stupid one.

Yuji jumped off the roof, having killed the transfigured humans.

Haibara : Itadori-kun! Here you go!

Haibara fashioned his words into a spear and threw it at Yuji, who caught it and drove it deep into where Mahito's ribcage was. The curse had to let go of Nanami, and retreat a few steps.

Nanami prepared his blade. Mahito thought he could avoid it just by changing his shape. Alas, he was wrong. Yuji landed a punch to his face, that affected his soul directly. Followed by one from Haibara. Then a hot of the blade from Nanami. Then Yuji. Then a critical hit from Nanami. Then a cursed energy enhanced punch from Haibara. Followed by another critical hit from Nanami. They were deliberately messing up the order of hits to confuse him.

There was no time to make a decoy. A fresh wave of inspiration hit Mahito. This was death. And in this moment, he had done it. He had observed his soul. He could do it. And now, it was time.

Mahito : Domain Expansion.

Chapter Text

Mahito : Domain Expansion.

Mahito's mouth opened wide, and two tiny pairs of hands emerged within them, creating a mudra. He had done it. The peak of jujutsu.

The immediate area was flooded with Mahito's cursed energy. A barrier formed around Nanami, pushing Haibara and Yuji out. Hand like apparitions emerged and engulfed the barrier, separating it from the outside world, and creating a separate space.

Nanami found himself trapped inside Mahito's domain. He was brought into a space that was comprised of several thousand hands, arranged in impossible patterns. It was somewhat dark, though not completely. He stood on one such palm, that clearly resembled Mahito's own.

Mahito : Self Embodiment of Perfection.

Nanami : Shit.

Mahito : Right now, I'm just thankful to you.

Outside, Haibara continued to punch into the barrier.

Haibara : Damn it. Don't fuck with us, you bastard!!

Yuji was concerned about something else. While he had seen domains before, he didn't have the opportunity to examine their boundaries from so close a distance. It was made of cursed energy, but had no one's signature on it. In other words, it was pure, neutral cursed energy. Such a cursed energy behaved like a substance that could be described as between slime and liquid. It also didn't seem to be from this dimension.

The more pressing danger dawned on him. Nanami was in Mahito's domain. Trapped. If it came down to this, he had to take a chance.

Yuji : Haibara-san. I have another risky idea.

Inside, Nanami observed his surroundings with wonder. To be able to attack one's targets with his own cursed energy and entrap them in this barrier, it was the height of jujutsu sorcery that Nanami couldn't obtain. As he was in Mahito's domain, he was literally in the curse's palm.

Nanami : Shit.

Sorcerers are shit. Sometimes they had to force others to sacrifice their lives to save further others. That's why Nanami quit. Or rather he ran away. All those years ago. And for all these years.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback)

The girl in the bakery looked at him inquisitively.

Bakery Girl : Do you like cassecroute?

Nanami : Huh?

Bakery Girl : No, it's just, it's what you always choose.

Nanami : The convenience store here stopped selling it.

Bakery Girl : Ours tastes better than the convenience store, huh?

Nanami : Of course. This is a bakery.

Bakery Girl : How harsh. Please come again.

She was jovial and cheerful. And there was a fly head on her shoulder. Well, Nanami shouldn't bother. He'd look like some shady medium if he tried.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

At work

Boss : Are y'all selling it?

Nanami was addressing a new joinee.

Nanami : Managing someone's money is like managing their life. There should be a balance between risk and profit. Since you're just starting out, don't do anything drastic. Just be sincere with your clients.

New Employee : Yes!

Boss : Nanami! Don't scare the poor boy. He's just joined, right?

He turned to the boy.

Boss : The first and foremost thing you should think of is the company's profit. That is directly tied to the customer's profit.

Nanami : Even though we give them garbage stocks with no potential to grow?

Boss : That's right. That's what we get for monitoring the market round the clock. You're already in your second year here, Nanami, so you should go a bit more wild. I have high expectations from you.

Nanami wasn't someone with a purpose in life. He'd just half heartedly make money, till he was in his 30s or 40s, then he'd retire to a country with low cost of living. It has been four years since he left Tokyo Jujutsu High, and the only thing he was able to think of, whether awake or asleep, was money.

Days passed by. Life began to feel monotonous. It became routine. Get up. Go to work. Work till evening. Then go back home. At the end of the month, your salary would be credited into your account. Every single month it repeated. Again. And again.

He wasn't living anymore. He was just making through each day. Like a machine. In an unverified belief that as long as he had money, people and curses won't matter. Money, money, money, money, money.....

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Bakery

Bakery Girl : Are you okay? Have you been sleeping well?

Of course not. The dark circles under Nanami's eyes spoke the truth. Nevertheless, he changed the subject.

Nanami : You're the one who looks worn out.

Bakery Girl : Ah, you noticed? My shoulder had been stiff for quite some time. And I've been having trouble sleeping.

The same fly head. It had grown. Evidently from stress.

Nanami : My job involves holding rich people's money, and making them richer than they are. Even if I'm not there, nobody will be bothered. But without bakeries, people who want bread will be troubled. But I got out of that cycle. A job like mine pays better, after all. It's ridiculous, don't you think?

Bakery Girl : You're showing off.

Nanami : No. Please step forward.

He swiped his hand in front of her. She couldn't see the wave of cursed energy that hit her shoulders, and dismembered the fly head.

Nanami : How does it feel now?

Bakery Girl : Oh. It feels so light.

Nanami : If shoulder pain persists, please go to the hospital.

He walked out of the bakery, calmly. He didn't see what happened behind him. But the chiming of the bell at the door of the bakery indicated all that he had to know. She had walked out.

Bakery Girl : Thank you so much!!! Please come again!!!

Nanami continued walking. 'Thank You'. A word he hadn't heard from a long time. A deed done after a long time. Helping someone else. It had been so long since he had exorcised a curse to help a fellow human. It felt.... right. Like this is where he had belonged all along. Perhaps, that was his purpose all along.

It began raining soon after. Nanami was standing in a bus stop, so the rain wasn't affecting him. He sighed and took out his phone, from whose contacts He fetched a particular number. Satoru Gojo. Another sigh. He had hoped to never have to dial that number again. After all, he had resolved to leave that world behind, that life behind, once and for all. Since Fuyumi....

He dialled the number and brought the phone to his ear. The call was picked up shortly after.

Nanami : Hello. This is Nanami. I have something to talk about.

Gojo : Well, let's discuss it over a cup of tea. When are you free? Does tomorrow work?

Nanami : Yes. I'll be at Tokyo High tomorrow.

Gojo chuckled.

Nanami : What are you laughing at?

Gojo : Nothing much.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present)

Mahito : I really am thankful to you, 7:3.

Nanami took off his goggles and sighed exasperatedly.

Nanami : There's no need for that. Throughout my life, I have received gratitude from enough people.

The face of the girl at the bakery floated across his mind. She was cute.

Nanami : I have no regrets.

Suddenly, a hand broke through the barrier of the domain, shattering it like glass. Followed by another. Then, Yuji and Haibara broke through the barrier. It seemed like a miracle to both occupants of the domain.

However, it wasn't a miracle, just an application of basic knowledge. Domains were created to trap opponents in. As such, their strength and resistance was built up on the inside, in order to prevent escape. The outside, however, was a different story. It was much weaker than the interiors of the barrier, due to less amount of cursed energy reinforcement. As such, invading a domain from outside was just as easy, as escaping it from the inside is difficult. This was especially pertinent for domains like Infinite Void and Self Embodiment of Perfection.

However, there was an additional variable, that always went unaccounted for. Yuji Itadori. After all, in his present state, he was 'something' that domains couldn't afford to touch. And the reason became increasingly clear a moment later.

Sukuna : Didn't I tell you?! There would be no second chances!

He swiped his claws through the air. Slashes hit Mahito to the left side of his chest and shoulder, drawing red blood. This pathetic curse had done everything in its capacity to appear human.

Sukuna could perceive the soul too, after all. Throughout heaven and earth, he alone was the honoured one. Only his pleasure and displeasure existed. The double faced spectre doesn't care if Nanami or Mahito die. He's only interested in one person, Megumi Fushiguro. Other than him, he simply couldn't care about anyone else.

Mahito's domain crumbled. He fell onto the ground, bleeding profusely. Seeing him, Yuji froze for 0.1 second. And in that instant, he confronted an old, familiar feeling. One he had desperately wished to leave behind upon enrolling at Jujutsu High. But, no. Here it was, back as a pest. It was bloodlust. Utterly transparent bloodlust. Yuji felt his blood boil again. He charged his fist with cursed energy and ram towards Mahito.

Said curse was kneeling on the ground, reeling from the attack. Domain expansion. What an enormous swathe of cursed energy. Truly a final trump card to be used. And Sukuna had to ruin it. However, this was a critical moment.

Yuji watched as Mahito inflated like a balloon. The last bits of his cursed energy. Mahito had gotten huge, but the flow of his cursed energy was dying down. This wasn't a counterattack, it was simply a gamble to escape. Tactics were unnecessary, only bloodlust was.

Yuji : Divergent Fist.

His fist made contact with Mahito's body, sending a shockwave through the curse, and bursting his body. His pieces floated around the area, as if made of paper. This was strange. Suspicious, even. Why did Mahito not resist? Haibara and Nanami ran towards a nearby drain. Mahito had turned into a slime like creature, and was escaping through the drain.

Mahito : See ya. It was fun.

He was gone by the time Nanami's blade landed. There was no significant damage, other than the cover of the drain being displaced.

The curtain was slowly lifted. Sunshine poured in again. The cries of birds were audible, at last. That's right. It was still daytime.

Nanami quickly dialled up a number.

Nanami : Ino. The curse had fled through the drain. Check all sewage systems southeast of Satozakura High School. At its current weakened state, even you'll be able to exorcise it.

Yuji head reeled from the damage he had accumulated. He slumped onto the ground. Haibara rushed to hold him.

Nanami : We need to go!!

Haibara : We can't!!

Nanami saw Yuji's condition and ran over. Yuji was still not giving up. His body wasn't listening to him. Mahito would run away. And not towards southeast. Yuji had an idea where he would go. He could get to Mahito, beat him to a pulp, and kill him. Only if he could tell the others.

The light slowly faded from Yuji's eyes, as his eyelids fell upon each other. Nanami, Haibara and Ijichi carried him to the car, to be taken to the hospital.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Drain System, Kawasaki City, 1200 hours

Mahito sat in the drain, clutching the left side of his body. Of course he had escaped north, to avoid the sorcerers. He was panting from the pain. So that was Ryomen Sukuna. His current strength would be below Jogo, but his soul was on a different level.

He was certain. Even if their whole team was annihilated, as long as Sukuna remained, the age of curses would still be brought about. Despite it all, he had this really primal urge to kill Yuji Itadori.

Mahito : This is so tantalizing. Well, whatever. Unlike the body, I can kill the soul any number of times I want. Now, how should I kill next?

Chapter Text

September 15, 2018, Auxiliary Outpost 36, Kanagawa Prefecture, 2000 hours

Nanami : I thought we told you to rest.

Yuji : I'm fine. The injuries weren't that bad. But most importantly, that curse got away.

Haibara : That's fine. We solved the case. And saved Yoshino. So it's done.

Yuji : Let's hope so.

They were outside the main room, pathced up and bandaged for their injuries. Inside, Junpei and a priest were overseeing his mother's funeral.

Nanami : I'll go and see if they need anything else.

He got up and walked inside. Yuji sighed. This had been.... alright. Not too good. Not terrible. Could've been better, somehow, if he thought hard enough. But this was okay too. Except for Nagi Yoshino's death.

Haibara was in the adjacent chair, typing away in his laptop. The keys clacked against each other, pulling Yuji out of his reverie.

Yuji : When will Gojo sensei arrive here?

Haibara : Within an hour. I'm just writing down the report of this case.

Yuji : Alright. This was once in a lifetime kinda case.

Haibara : True. I'll remember it for a long time.

Yuji : What's next?

Haibara : Back to normal life for us. As for you, I have no idea. Whatever Gojo-san decides I guess.

Yuji : Yeah, you're probably right.

Haibara : How was it, though? This kinda case?

Yuji : Intriguing. We couldn't catch the patch faced curse but at least the case is closed. What was his name again?

Haibara : Mahito, I believe.

Yuji : Mahito. True human. Ironic.

In an hour, Nagi Yoshino's funeral was done. Junpei collected her ashes into an urn. Nanami and Ino thanked the priest, who left subsequently after. Junpei sat beside Yuji and sighed.

Junpei : I shouldn't have followed Mahito out of the movie hall.

Yuji : True.

Junpei : Mom would've been alive otherwise.

Yuji : Yes.

Junpei : Are you just here to affirm my guilt?

Yuji : Didn't you trust Mahito because he validated everything you believed?

Junpei : ....Yeah.

Yuji : Then we'll go step by step. If he validated your bad parts, we'll validate your faults, to make you realise the error of your ways. Then we'll validate your good parts, simultaneously, to bring you back. That doesn't mean I'll invalidate the truth.

Junpei : Would he have gone ahead even if I wasn't there?

Yuji : Probably. You were just a pawn, an excuse for him to hide behind.

Junpei : Damn it. I acted like an immature kid, believing whatever Mahito told me.

Nanami cane over.

Nanami : I thought you were warned against engaging the curse head on, Itadori-kun.

Yuji : You here to scold me? What kind of person scolds their own saviour?

Nanami : Me. His technique meddled with people's souls, but in your case, he directly aggravated Sukuna himself.

Yuji : Then all of us were saved by Sukuna's whim.

Nanami : I sense Yoshino-kun has a question. I'm willing to hear it out.

Junpei : It's just..... I've always believed that everyone had to die, inevitably. So, people should at least go out the way they want. They should at least be able to decorate their fish tank, even if the oxygen was running out. Then how come such a tragedy befell my mom?

Yuji : Basically he means why did she not have a proper death. I've asked it myself. How could I be so careless that this level of negligence contributed to someone's death?

Junpei : What could you have done?

Yuji : I should have put some deal or charm to defend against cursed energy. But no, I neglected my duty. And your mom had to pay the price with her life.

Nanami : I suppose it was something none of us could've thought of.

Yuji : Since my actions, or lack thereof, have resulted in someone's death, I've been asking myself. What is a proper death?

Nanami : Even I don't know the answer to that. Let us suppose that that would mean good people die benevolent deaths, whereas evil people die horrible deaths. But then, what would we classify as benevolent deaths and horrible deaths? Even people who pass away in their sleep may have left regrets, which could make it a horrible death. Whereas, people who got into accidents may have been freed from the suffering of life, which makes it a benevolent death. So what is a proper death?

Haibara : Building upon it, most people in the world are not entirely good or evil. All of us exist in shades of grey. Death is the final destination for us all, but no two people die the same death. It is unique for us all.

Nanami : Guiding all souls across that path is tricky and brings misery. I personally wouldn't recommend it. However, I know you will walk down that path nevertheless, Itadori-kun. All I ask is that you do it in moderation, for you might die otherwise. And that would be a problem. It's not just me, several people depend on your survival today, for their future survival. Remember, you are a sorcerer.

Haibara : That goes for you too, Yoshino. You may have been complacent in killing people, but there is a chance to turn back. Revenge inevitably begets more of itself, it is never fruitful in the positive sense. So, we'll advise you to turn back and mend your ways before it is too late.

Junpei : Really? I can still be saved?

Haibara : You already have been. Thanks to Itadori-kun. All that is required is for you to work with everyone else and build something of yourself. Oh, looks like my report is done.

Nanami : Yoshino. Any relatives to inform?

Junpei : None important.

About half an hour later, Gojo arrived at the spot. He looked around and walked inside.

Gojo : So. Congratulations to all of you for another successful case.

Haibara : Thanks. I've sent you the report.

Gojo : Oh that's fine. Now, what is the matter you were calling for?

Nanami : Itadori and Yoshino.

Gojo : Yes. I have talked it over with Yaga sensei. Yoshino is to be admitted into Tokyo High after a brief interview with me. No worries. I'll have it recorded as done. As for Yuji, things get a bit further.

Yuji : What do you mean?

Gojo : You've been legally dead for almost 24 days. You can't just join back tomorrow and pretend like it was nothing.

Haibara : Then, what is the plan of action?

Gojo : Yuji will go with me to the headquarters of Jujutsu High Society, where his license will be reinstated. Then, he'll have to complete a solo mission to prove that he has improved in strength. Only then, he'll be reinducted into service.

Yuji : So everyone will come to know about it?

Gojo : No. Not until you have been reinducted. It'll be a secret until then. To ensure that an impostor isn't taking advantage of the situation.

Nanami : That's fine. Where will these two be for tonight?

Gojo : Yuji will be at my place, as he has been for the past month. As for Yoshino, I'll get residency for him at one of the Auxiliary Outposts. Tomorrow onwards, he'll be living at Tokyo High.

Haibara : Well then, it's done. I'll help Yoshino pack, then we'll meet at the station.

Nanami : Since my work is done, I'll leave. Itadori, Haibara, Yoshino. I'll see you all later.

With that, Nanami got up and walked away. He nodded once to Gojo, then walked out. Yuji knew they'd meet each other again.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Gojo's Apartment, 2230 hours

Yuji sat down on the sofa and sighed. He was back. And it had been a long and tedious case. All he now wanted was to rest. Gojo sat opposite to him, facing him directly.

Yuji : What did you do today?

Gojo : Took the girls to shopping. They're a spoiled lot. But it was fun.

Yuji : I get it. They can be.... entertaining, to say the least.

Gojo : Was it interesting? The entire investigation?

Yuji : It was..... something. I can't describe it properly.

Gojo : I get it. It's an overwhelming moment for any sorcerer. From what I heard from Nanami and Haibara, you were exceptional in solving the case. I'm thinking of doing an IQ test for you.

Yuji : I'll pass. I've had enough tests already.

Gojo : Well, you'll have to go for one more. Suit up.

Yuji : For what?

Gojo : We're going to the headquarters of Jujutsu Society. It's time for your grand return.

Yuji : Oh right. Gimme 5 minutes.

Gojo : Get your old student ID card while you're at it. And wear your black hoodie if possible.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Gojo's Car, 2245 hours

Yuji : So, how will it be done?

Gojo : You'll reveal yourself to those old bastards. If they advance, so will I.

Yuji : And why did you ask me to wear this hoodie?

Gojo : Drama. You love to see it.

Yuji sighed. Typical Gojo.

2300 hours. They stopped in front of an open field and deboarded. There was a dilapidated hut in the middle of the field. Was this a joke?

Ijichi drove away. Yuji looked alarmed.

Yuji : Sensei! Ijichi-san is-...

Gojo : It's fine. There are spells here to conceal the location of the headquarters. So, when we exit, we'll be at the forest behind Tokyo High. That's where Ijichi is going.

The two entered the hut. A seal lit up on the floor, emitting a blinding light.

Gojo : Hide your face for now.

Yuji did so. The light receeded, revealing a dark corridor, illuminated by candles placed in pillars. It was eerily silent. And quiet.

Gojo and Yuji walked forward. At the end of the corridor was a door with strange archaic seals and symbols. Yuji looked quizzically at his sensei. Gojo realised what his student wanted to ask, even below the hood and the mask, and signalled him to hold his thoughts. Then, he knocked on the door.

Overseer 1 : Come in.

Gojo opened the door and walked in, followed by Yuji. Five partitions lit up around them, one by one. The Overseers were curious as to who this figure was.

Gojo : I've come for his grade promotion examination. Go ahead.

Yuji walked forward. Once he came under the purview of the incandescent yellow lantern hanging above, he took off his hood and mask, and put on his spectacles. There was a hue and cry in the room.

Overseer 1 : What is the meaning of this?!

Gojo : Are y'all blind? This is the legally dead grade 2 sorcerer, Yuji Itadori. In flesh and blood, in front of you. We're here to promote him to grade 1.

Overseer 2 : This is treachery!! You have directly disobeyed our commands!! Your impunity shall be costly!

Overseer 3 : I'll call the forces.

Yuji : That's enough!!

He slammed his foot on the floor. A wave of cursed energy flooded the room, overpowering the emissions of the Overseers. Gojo was impressed. He didn't even have to step forward.

Yuji : Did you not hear him? I'm here for my grade promotion examination.

His cold tone sent shivers down the spines of the Overseers. Yuji Itadori was evidently much stronger than what he had been before.

Overseer 4 : We'll arrange it shortly. You'll have to wait for about half an hour.

Yuji : We will.

A telephone rang behind one of the partitions. Yuji heard as one of the Overseers told someone over the phone about a grade examination. The call hung up soon after.

Overseer 5 : They'll arrive in 10 minutes. Please proceed to Hall 4.

Before long, Yuji and Gojo were walking towards Hall 4. It was quiet. There was sound of water, meaning the place was underground, somewhere below the water table. Yuji would have to study about seals and symbols to make sense of jujutsu.

Yuji : Sensei. Do you know where I can learn about seals from?

Gojo : I'll get you a book. Study it thoroughly, and you'll be fine.

Yuji : I also want to learn about the soul.

Gojo : The soul? That's a very obscure topic. You'll have to talk to Yaga sensei for that.

Yuji : Alright.

They sat on a bench, watching the officials arrive and set up the machine. Around half an hour later, Yuji was called. He got up and walked into the machine.

The officials attached the contraptions to his body, then they exited the machine. Upon pressing some buttons, the doors closed. The machine whirred into life, glowing with a greenish hue.

About 10 minutes later, the machine went lax. The doors opened, the officials took off the contraptions, and Yuji walked out. Gojo was standing right there.

Gojo : How are you feeling? Anything unusual?

Yuji : Not really.

Gojo : Good. Some people feel dizzy.

One of the officials came over and handed a card to Yuji. Grade 1 student ID card.

Gojo : Let's go to the higher ups.

The two walked back into the room. Yuji put his new card on the floor, in front of the partitions labelled #3. There was no response.

Gojo : What's the matter?

Overseer 3 : The Overseers have deliberated. We haven't seen Yuji Itadori in action, so it would be too risky to promote his grade.

Gojo : What?

Overseer 4 : There is a remedy. Yuji Itadori must go on a grade 1 mission, all by himself, to prove his mettle.

Yuji : Sounds reasonable. What do you say, sensei?

Gojo : Fine. But any mission assigned to him must go through me for verification.

Overseer 5 : Verification of what?

Gojo : That another Eishu Detention Center incident doesn't happen.

Overseer 1 : Very well. That concludes our meeting for today. This new card will remain with us. Once the mission is done, you'll submit the old one and take this one.

Yuji : Got it.

Overseer 2 : Very well. Then you have been excused.

Gojo and Yuji wasted no time, getting out of there. The place seemed unappealing from the beginning. As soon as they stepped out of the room, their worlds faded into black.

When they came to, they were in the forest behind Tokyo High. Yuji got up and walked to the edge of the thicket. The lights of the dorm building were off. So was every light in the compound. He missed the place, the people. The fun he had while here. Gojo came and put a comforting hand on his head.

Gojo : Don't worry. One more day, then you'll be back here.

They walked towards the exit of the campus, where they found Ijichi waiting for them, with the car.

Yuji : Is Junpei safe?

Gojo : Yes. Haibara got the boy in before leaving. He's at Auxiliary Outpost 31, Central Tokyo Division. As for his house, it is up to him to decide about it, later on.

By midnight, the two were back at Gojo's apartment. Utahime was on the sofa, little Satoshi in her arms with a pout on his face.

Gojo : What's the manner? Why is he so fussy?

Utahime : He wants to sleep with his newfound older brother. Itadori-kun, would you mind?

Yuji : Not at all. Let's go, buddy.

As soon as Yuji took him in his arms, Satoshi's pout disappeared. The two bid the couple good night and retired into Yuji's so-called 'room' for the night.

Chapter Text

September 16, 2018, Sumida District, Tokyo Prefecture, 0930 hours

Ijichi : This is where your mission is.

Ijichi and Yuji were standing in front of a factory. Today, he had gone for a white shirt and tan trousers, paired with black loafers. Since he hadn't been reinducted into service yet, he wasn't allowed to wear his student uniform. The hair dye had come off, revealing his natural pink, black and brown hair as before. His square, rimless glasses sat on the bridge of his nose perfectly.

The two walked up to the destination. It was a factory. With a warehouse behind it. That was the destination for the mission. Apparently, two workers of the night shift had been found dead in the warehouse. The preliminary assessment by windows had yielded signs of a grade 1 cursed spirit. The report, and the location had been scrutinized by Gojo to verify the grading. Only then, Yuji had been assigned to it. And now, he was here.

A large swathe of cursed energy was emanating from the warehouse, enough to make a grade 3 sorcerer dizzy. Thankfully, Yuji had become resilient enough.

Ijichi : Confirm and exorcise the curse to be promoted to grade 1. If you fail, you will be demoted to grade 2 again. But don't hesitate to call if you need help.

Yuji : I won't.

Ijichi : Which one? Fail or call?

Yuji : Both.

Yuji walked into the warehouse and shut the door behind him. Ijichi dropped a curtain over the site to ensure smooth proceedings.

Ijichi : Emerge from the black, darker than the black. Purify that which is impure.

The place was shrouded in the darkness, resembling nighttime.

Yuji looked around his surroundings. It was a normal two storey building, with boxes here and there. It appeared mostly normal. Except for a door on the opposite wall, on the ground floor. Strange. Was that a second storage facility? He walked towards it, feeling the cursed energy swell. So this was where the curse was. Nevertheless, he opened the door and looked inside. Then, he tapped the intercom on his ear.

Yuji : It looks like a basement of sorts. Too dark to figure anything out. I'll report later.

Ijichi : Okay.

It was a set of stairs leading down, into seemingly unending darkness. Darkness so thick, it almost felt like a tangible presence. Yuji walked down the stairs, taking the comm device out of his ear and attaching it to the wall beside the door as a marker. The door closed behind him, and he was cut off from the outside world.

Outside, Ijichi was asking a worker about the door.

Worker : What are you talking about?

Ijichi : The basement door, on the ground floor, that leads further down.

Worker : There's no basement for the warehouse. The two storeys are enough.

Ijichi's breath hitched. There was no basement? So what had Yuji gone into?

Yuji found himself in a hallway. A long, unending hallway. It was dark, with small lights placed in the ceiling at regular intervals. These lighted some parts of the hallway up, and Yuji could make out that the hallway was painted a very dark shade of blue. So far, nothing unusual from the perspective of a sorcerer. He walked forward, slowly and carefully, fully aware and observant of his surroundings.

It was along, tedious walk. Without any apparent end, too. Was this hallway a curse in itself? Yuji wasn't sure, the cursed energy was all over the place, with a more or less homogeneous distribution. He looked back, but couldn't see the other end of the hallway, from where he had started walking. Strange. Had he walked this far?

He resumed his stance and continued advancing forward. His sense of unease was growing. Suddenly the hallway turned left. Finally, something different. Yuji turned left and walked to find another door. It answered no questions, but as a sorcerer, he wasn't even supposed to be asking any. He opened the door, and went in, closing the door quietly behind him. After all, he had no idea who might be hearing. He also limited the emission of his own cursed energy to just 1.1%, in order to become nearly invisible. Over a month of practicing with jujutsu, and intense meditation had worked wonders for him, taking his cursed energy manipulation to a whole new level.

The place was a series of paths, arranged in a maze like pattern. A labyrinth? No, it wasn't circular. In fact, it had no definite shape, just continuing to as far as the eyes could go. And even then, it seemed endless. Yuji sighed. This would be troublesome. He resumed his walking, moving through the first path that he could understand.

It was quiet. Eerily silent. So much so, that if such silence existed in the outside world, Yuji would have been able to hear conversations that would be happening in different continents. But surprisingly, there was no such sound. None. Not even flies or crickets chirping. Suspicious. And everything was so clean. Like it was maintained by a five star cleaning service. Yet another point of contention was its size. It hadn't been too long..... actually Yuji wasn't even sure if time flowed here. It had all felt like two minutes to him. But it could very well have been hours for others outside. He had deciphered one thing. This was an innate domain. And incomplete one, but an innate domain, nonetheless.

Having thought so, he set about making sense of the place. It was similarly dark blue, so dark that without light, it faded into black. And again, seemingly random areas were lit up, without any visible light source. And the paths were twisted. Whenever Yuji turned even a bit, there was a wall blocking his way. Almost as if the maze was sentinent. Was it? He wasn't sure. So, he kept walking along what path was free for him to do so.

After walking some distance, Yuji heard the sound of laughter. Like a little girl, who was giggling. He hid behind a wall and peeked out. There she was, a little girl with blonde hair and a pale face, holding a doll, standing a few feet ahead of him, under a light. Her clothes resembled those of 19th century European girls. She had no eyes, yet she was staring at his general direction. And giggling.

Girl : Come play with me.

Yuji was creeped out. A bead of cold sweat went down the side of his face. So the curse was opting for usual scare tactics to frighten him. Was it related to fear or apprehension? The former seemed more likely. This was troublesome. Curses born from fear were particularly nasty to deal with.

Yuji hid himself completely behind the wall, and breathed deeply. He had to get himself and his body under control. Fear will only make the curse stronger. He looked around. Looks like there was no other way to go. He would have to brave it. He took another deep breath, and steadied himself. Then, he wiped the sweat on his forehead with the back of his hand. He wasn't weak. He had gone toe to toe with a special grade cursed spirit, just yesterday. He wasn't weak. He was stronger than ever before.

He came out of hiding and walked towards the girl. His fists were charged with cursed energy. That he slowly and covertly shaped into spiked forms. The girl giggled again.

Girl : Do you want to play with me?

Yuji : No.

Girl : Aww, you're such a bully.

In front of his eyes, she grew in size and transformed into a gigantic malformed humanoid lizard, with blisters and warts all over its skin. The doll turned into claws, and attached themselves to its plams. It growled and charged at him.

Yuji sidestepped and drove his spiky fists into the entity's stomach. It howled in pain. It swept its claws at him, but he caught the palm and twisted it. Another pained howl. Finally, Yuji slammed both his fists into its head, crushing it and finally killing it. The curse fell in front of him, and disintegrated into dust. Yuji panted, trying to catch up on air. He had gotten sweaty, grimy and covered in curse blood. Disgusting.

Still, the innate domain hadn't been dispeled. That meant that this wasn't the actual curse. Yuji sighed exasperatedly and continued on. He had no other choice.

Outside, Ijichi was losing his mind. It had been five hours since Yuji had gone inside. And no communication with him. Gojo will have his head for this.

Yuji had been walking for quite some time, without any further incidents. To a distance, behind a wall, something caught his eye. An image of himself. Built to the perfection. Only, it didn't have eyes. Or a normal mouth. No, it had completely white scleras and an inhumanly wide grin that showed off rows of humanly impossible sharp teeth. At least four such rows. Yuji was spooked again. But within the blink of an eye, the figure was gone. Now his unease heightened. A static target was something else. A moving target? Something entirely else.

Nevertheless, he walked forward. Toward the spot where he had seen the figure. There was nothing. He inspected the surroundings. Nothing. No unusual spike in cursed energy, which had been the case with the apparition of the girl. Strange. He scratched his head and sighed. What was going on?

He turned around, and almost screamed in fright. There he was. Standing. Right in front of him. With that big, stupid grin. Yuji's face went pale, his blood ran cold. What the hell? How had he not noticed the spike in cursed energy?

The figure screeched and threw a punch at him. Yuji dodged, grabbed his arm and landed a backhanded punch across the figure's face. Then a straight one to the middle of his face. Then he grabbed his hair and twisted his neck. Yuji couldn't take the risk. He had to take this one down as soon as he could. He kicked the figure in the torso, and trapped him to a wall. Then, he pulled on he hair, while pushing away the body. Eventually, the head was torn off, spraying blood and gore everywhere. His oesophagus was pulled out, and so was his spinal cord. Well, that was that. Yuji breathed a sigh of relief.

There was a noticeable drop in overall concentration of cursed energy. So, the curse was becoming restless. Good. That would only work in Yuji's favour. He resumed his air of confidence and continued walking forward.

Before long, he reached the end of the hall. There, he found another door. He opened it and walked ahead. A similar hall to the old one that he had been walking in before coming to this maze. Interesting. He continued on, paying no mind to the uncertainties lying up ahead.

Another long hallway. Similarly tiring. How long had it been since he entered? Yuji had no idea. For all he knew, it could have been days, or even a month, since he entered, even though he hoped that wouldn't be the case. After all, time, in the sense most people interpreted it, didn't exist inside innate domains.

His steps were making a lot more sound than before. Intentional. Yuji was growing restless as well. He wanted to end it as soon as possible.

After what felt like anything between an hour and an eternity, Yuji finally reached the end of the hall. And it was just a wall. Nothing else. How anti climactic. Just a wall? After all this walking? Not fair. But just as his mood was going sour, he felt a massive spike in cursed energy behind him. His mind was elated. Finally, this shit was about to end. He turned around.

The curse was tall. As tall as him. It was impossibly thin. Almost as if it was just skin, no muscles, no flesh, no bones either. Just skin. Two deep set eyes, that were emotionless and dead. No mouth. In fact, it had no other features on its face. It had long arms, that were dragged on the door behind it. And it was hanging in the air. Or rather, it would be better to say that its feet weren't touching the ground , they were levitating a few centimetres off it. Humourously, there were about 20 or so hair follicles on its scalp. And the cursed energy signature was the same as the rest of the innate domain. There was no doubt. This was the grade 1 cursed spirit that Yuji had been sent to exorcise.

It screeched at him. How? It didn't have a mouth! Well, Yuji had no time to think as he was thrown towards the wall by a swing of the curse's palm. He crashed into the wall, ending up in a dark space behind it. It was composed of the same black liquid like substance from which domain barriers and curtains were created. Unfortunately, Yuji had no time to study any of it.

He got up and dusted himself. Then, he took a rod sticking out of the broken wall, holding it between his teeth, while folding his sleeves until his elbows. He then slammed the rod onto his knee and broke it in half. Then, his cursed energy flowed through the rod, eventually taking the shape of two machetes.

The curse screeches again and charged at him, prompting Yuji to do the same. The curse's palms clashed against Yuji's makeshift machetes. Another clash. And another. Each clash was strong enough to produce small sparks. Yuji struck at its head, and ended up receiving a slash to his head, drawing blood. Yuji landed several blows in succession. The curse concentrated its cursed energy and blasted it, sending Yuji flying backwards. He quickly recovered and struck a blow to its face. The curse howled in pain. So that was its weak point.

Yuji struck another blow on its face, prompting it to blindly swing at him again. Yuji dodged the blow, sunk a machete into its palm and pinned it to the ground. Then, he prepared to strike. The other machete was aimed at its face. Just then....

The curse let out a sonic boom. Yuji covered his ears in cursed energy to defend himself, but even then, he was disoriented. His head spinned, static ringed through his ears. Drool came out of his mouth, and his eyes were getting blurry. He fell onto his knees, watching as the curse slowly advanced towards him. He concentrated to get his cursed energy under control and to activate his body again.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Tokyo High, 1630 hours

Junpei sat and watched Gojo go through paperwork. He was tense, he had no idea what Gojo would ask. He took a deep breath to calm himself.

Gojo : Relax. This is just a formality.

Junpei : Yes. Okay.

Gojo closed the file and handed it back to Junpei.

Gojo : Okay. You're admitted.

Junpei : That's it?

Gojo : Yup. That's it. Now, you will see the first years dorm at the southwest end of the compound. The other first years have already been informed about your arrival.

Junpei : Okay....? Thanks.

Gojo : Relax. It's my job as your teacher. Now, I'll have to run along to where Yuji is and see if he is alright.

Junpei : Is he okay?

Gojo : Let's hope so.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Undisclosed location, unknown time

Yuji's breath hitched in his throat. The curse's palm grew tighter around his neck, straining him of what little oxygen he had. He had been pushed to the wall, his skin turning blue, his feet off the ground, and the living daylights being choked out of him. This couldn't be a grade 1. Was it?

Yuji's hand caught another metal rod. The curse noticed it and tried to pull him away. In that moment, Yuji pulled out the rod and stabbed the curse's eye with it. The curse shrieked in pain. Yuji didn't let up, he immediately doubled down by hitting its head again and again with the rod. The curse used another sonic boom, sending Yuji flying backwards. It huffed and stood up, most of its cursed energy drained from having to maintain the innate domain. It would have to rest, probably eat Yuji's corpse, and regain its power.

Just then, a metal rod came flying towards the curse, and struck it in what should have been its nasal area. From he carnage in front of it, Yuji emerged, more blood oozing from his mouth, but otherwise unharmed. He charged his fists with cursed energy.

The two charged at each other, the curse saving up its energy for another sonic boom. It swung a punch at Yuji, who dodged it and landed one on its stomach. Then, a roundhouse kick to the side of its head. Then, he grabbed its tail and slammed it backwards onto the ground in a German suplex. The curse was ready to release the sonic boom. And just as it attempted to, Yuji landed a punch to its face, pushing the sonic boom back into its body, and blasting it, and the ground below. However, he was blown backwards by the impact as well.

He stabilized his stance, as the curse stood up. It lunged at him, but he caught and twisted its arms, and landed a punch to its face. Then another. And another. And another. He landed a total of 8 punches, making the curse stumble backwards.

By now, it was ready for another sonic boom. Yuji braced for impact. Just then....

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Outside, 1715 hours

Ijichi was sitting on the ground as Gojo arrived.

Gojo : What's the situation?

Ijichi : It has been over 8 hours since Itadori-kun went inside. And no response either. It seems he entered an innate domain of sorts.

Gojo : Innate domain? Of a grade 1?

Ijichi : Well, it is possible that the curse evolved mid mission into a special grade 1.

Gojo : Dang. That is problematic. I'm going in.

Ijichi : Wait! It's a service curtain. You can't enter it until the mission is over.

Gojo : Damn it. What an I supposed to do here? If I blow up the warehouse, we lose the innate domain. Then Yuji Itadori is as good as dead.

Ijichi : How about we wait for some more?

Gojo : Alright. Until 5:30. Then, I'm going in.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Undisclosed location, unknown time

By now, it was ready for another sonic boom. Yuji braced for impact. Just then, it struck. A wave of cursed energy. Almost 120% more powerful than Yuji's punches. Yuji grinned. Divergent Fist had finally taken effect.

The wave was followed by two more. By now, the curse had lost control, and its sonic boom was dispeled. Wave after wave of cursed energy struck it, weakening it further. Yuji rushed to capitalize on this. He charged up his fist with the maximum amount of cursed energy he could muster.

Yuji : You see? You were really fucking annoying. Let me end this shit for both of us.

One punch landed on its face. Then another. Then a wave of cursed energy. Then a punch. Then a wave. Then another. Punch. Wave. Punch. Wave. Punch. Wave. In quick succession. No time to breathe.

Finally, Yuji managed to rupture its face. He tore through its form, sending guts and purple blood everywhere. It was finally dead. Torn longitudinally in half. Yuji was panting from exhaustion. He drew a non decomposition seal on it with his cursed energy. Just a circle with two squares in it. Even the reading the book on seals had worked well.

The domain around him was dispeled. He was, once again, in the warehouse. His earpiece was still on the wall, beeping. He plucked it out and put it in his pocket. Then, he picked up the curse and walked towards the exit.

It was evening. The sky was lightened up in a golden hue. The sun, a red ball of fire, was setting in the horizon. Birds were flying back to their nests. A comforting breeze blew across the landscape. Gojo and Ijichi sighed in relief and watched as Yuji walked out. What caught their attention was the curse that was slinging on his shoulders.

Gojo : Welcome back. And well done. Your mission upgraded itself while you were engaged, but you managed to defeat it nonetheless.

Yuji : Yeah. It was worthwhile.

Gojo : What is that for?

Yuji : Research.

Gojo : We'll put it in the storeroom of Jujutsu High for now. Let's get you reinducted. Then, you can do whatever research you want in your dorm. And while we're at it, let's get you patched up.

Yuji : Sure. Works for me.

The three walked towards the cars, relief and exhaustion washing over them. It had been a perilous day. But it was over. Finally. Gojo turned to Yuji again.

Gojo : What do you want for dinner?

Yuji : How about takoyaki?

Chapter Text

September 17, 2018, Jujutsu High Society, Headquarters, 0700 hours

Overseer 1 : Yuji Itadori has now been officially reinducted into service as a grade 1 sorcerer.

Yuji looked at his new card. Grade 1. Same as Nanami and Haibara. Good. He was one step closer to exorcising Mahito.

Overseer 2 : Will that be all?

Yuji : Yes. That's all for now.

He turned around and walked towards where Gojo was standing. But then, he abruptly stopped and turned.

Yuji : Actually, here. Keep the change.

He flicked the old card at them. It fell in front of them, on the ground. Such disrespect. But they were already gone. The Overseers breathed a sigh of relief.

Overseer 1 : It seems our calculations went wrong somewhere.

Overseer 2 : Perhaps we didn't count Sukuna in.

Overseer 3 : That must be it. But now Gojo has put his hand on the boy's head. How do we get rid of him?

Overseer 4 : We'll have to wait. Until Satoru Gojo is out of the picture. Then we'll kill Yuji Itadori.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Gojo's Car, 0710 hours

Yuji sat in the car, watching the outside world pass by them in a blur. He had gone for a dark green shirt and black trousers. The sleeves were folded up to the elbow, and the uppermost button was open, to not smother his neck or create pressure on his Adam's apple. This was paired with some black shoes, and a watch on his left wrist.

Yuji : So, what's the plan?

Gojo : Let's do a dramatic entrance. I have a grudge against someone, and I want you to do something about it.

Yuji : Sure. What do I have to do?

Gojo : Alright. Here's the plan....

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Tokyo High, Training Grounds, 0800 hours

Junpei fell onto the ground with a grunt. Everyone here was stronger than him. And since he didn't know anyone, that made it more awkward. He had just lost another fight, this time against Mimiko.

Maki : Seriously? Have you never played any sports in life? Or were you just a shut in?

Junpei : I'm more of a movie guy.

Damn it. He was all alone, amongst strangers. Where was Yuji when you needed him?

Maki : That won't work. The Exchange Event is in three days. Work up on your strength within then. By hook or by crook.

Yes. Gojo had informed them that the Exchange Event was to start from September 20. So the next three days, they didn't have any classes.

Natsumi came over and waved at them.

Natsumi : It's time. Come on.

The students followed after her. They arrived at the front porch. Kyoto Jujutsu High principal, Yoshinobu Gakuganji had to return to Kyoto for a few days due to work. Now, he was back. And they were all waiting for Gojo.

Utahime : Where's that idiot?

Yes, she was in a bad mood. Her mini vacation had been interrupted by this old hag of a man. But she couldn't very well say as such.

As if on cue, Gojo arrived with a bag slung over his shoulder.

Gojo : Don't worry, everyone. I'm here.

The faces of so many girls lit up in admiration. None from Tokyo High. Utahime clicked her tongue in distaste. Was she jealous of teenagers with a celebrity crush? Absurd.

Gojo : Here are your souvenirs from abroad. Special talismans made by local tribes.

He handed the talisman dolls to everyone there, except for Tokyo High students and Utahime.

Gojo : Sorry, none for you. Tokyo High students have a different gift.

Utahime : I don't need any.

At that moment, Gakuganji decided to stir up trouble.

Gakuganji : How come first years are participating in the Event?

Gojo : It's fine. They've got enough experience.

Gakuganji : Unacceptable. Remove them immediately.

The old man's cursed energy flared up. Gojo covertly created a seal in the air. Gakuganji took a step forward.

SLASH! The figure swept through the air like a knife through butter. A gash appeared on Gakuganji's form, drawing blood. The figure landed on the steps of the classroom building behind everyone. And a giant wave of cursed energy engulfed the area. Sukuna's cursed energy.

Yuji Itadori let go of the cursed energy sword, as it dissolved into air. He turned around and faced everyone else. And all of them were surprised, specially Tokyo High first years. None of them were happy, though. Everyone except Gojo, Utahime and Junpei.

Gojo : Students of Tokyo High, here's your gift. Your dead friend Yuji Itadori in flesh. Now appearing as a grade 1 sorcerer.

He slowly descended the steps, towards the ground. Gakuganji watched, his eyes furious.

Gakuganji : What is the meaning of this?

Gojo : Oh I'm glad to see you still standing, principal. I was afraid that you'd die of a heart attack upon seeing my student.

Gakuganji : You'll pay for this!

Yuji : Didn't the higher ups inform you?

Gakuganji : They knew?

Yuji : Since the last two days. Guess you're just that unimportant to them.

Gakuganji's eye twitched. A vein appeared on his forehead.

Gakuganji : What did you just say to me, you indignant brat?

His cursed energy flared up again. And so did Yuji's own. The emissions clashed. Everyone watched with bated breath.

Yuji : You will have heard what I said if you aren't fucking deaf. Old bastard.

Yaga : Alright. Let's break it up. We don't want to hurt the students here.

Gakuganji : I'll see you at th Event, brat.

Yuji : Yeah? Try me, grandpa.

Their cursed energies withdrew. Yaga breathed a sigh of relief. Yuji was much stronger. Way stronger than Gakuganji. And probably most people here.

Yuji walked past the hunched old man and towards his comrades at Tokyo High. They were definitely not happy with his apparent return.

Yuji : Uh, guys? What's the matter?

Megumi : You have a lot of explaining to do.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Tokyo High, Common Lounge, 0830 hours

Yuji : Isn't it enough already?

Nanako : Not until we say so.

Yuji sighed. The girls had forced him to hold a frame, specially used in funerals, on his face and sit on a spot for so long. It was getting tiring.

Panda : Come on, girls. He has explained himself. You could forgive him now.

Yuji : Whoa, the panda talked!

Toge : Sushi.

Yuji : What?

Megumi : Inumaki senpai. His technique is cursed speech, which amplifies whatever he speaks into commands laced with cursed energy that binds people to carry them out. So, he only speaks in rice ingredients.

Yuji : That's inconvenient. But like, if he told someone to go die, would they? Cause that would be hella awesome.

Panda : It's not that easy. Larger words have a stronger recoil, so they can hurt Toge pretty bad.

Yuji : I see. Can I put the frame down now?

Nobara : Yeah fine.

Yuji sighed and put the frame down. His shoulders had become sore. The fourth years watched the scene unfolding before them with amusement.

Maki : Alright, Itadori. All talks aside. Give me back Slaughter Demon. Gojo gave it to you, didn't he?

Yuji quickly remembered what she was talking about. So, Gojo had taken Slaughter Demon from Maki. Then he had given it to Yuji. And it had broken in Eishu Detention Center. Oh no. It was broken. Yuji gulped nervously. He couldn't tell her the truth.

Yuji : Gojo sensei has it.

Maki : Damn it. That blindfolded moron.

Somewhere in the world, Gojo sneezed.

Tsumiki : Anyways, now that we have another member, should we rethink our plan? Change battle formations?

Maki : Not enough time.

Panda : That depends on what Itadori can do. What can you do, Itadori-kun?

Yuji : Punch. Kick.

Panda : We got enough of that.

Yuji : Precise cursed energy control that can be shaped into makeshift weapons?

Panda : That's new.

Natsumi : Wait, like, you're the Yuji Itadori?

Yuji : What do you mean the Yuji Itadori?

Kazuma : Like, the strongest student in Japan?

Yuji : Yeah, I guess so.

Natsumi : Cool.

Megumi : I don't know what this man has been up to while he was dead. What I do know is the fact that if all of us, all students, all teachers, even Gojo sensei and Sukuna, all of us fought Itadori, without any sort of trace of cursed energy whatsoever, only Gojo sensei and Sukuna would be able to keep up with him. For anyone else, who isn't named Satoru Gojo or Ryomen Sukuna, Itadori would win.

This was news to the second and fourth years. Yuji Itadori was that strong? Maki was elated. If Megumi was saying so, it must be true. After all, he had fought Todo.

Maki : Nice.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Kyoto Guest Lounge, 0940 hours

Gakuganji : Kill Yuji Itadori. We will chalk it up to an accident.

Mai : Isn't he around because he couldn't die?

Gakuganji : His last death was a suicide. What precautions do we take when we deal with sorcerers, Kamo?

Noritoshi Kamo. Semi grade 1 sorcerer. Third year student at Kyoto Jujutsu High.

Kamo : We hit them with cursed energy to avoid any post death curses from arising.

Gakuganji : Correct. Yuji Itadori controls that body. As long as Sukuna doesn't surface, killing him should be easy.

Todo kicked the door open and began to stomp out.

Todo : This is pointless. Do as you wish.

Kamo : Come back, Todo. The principal is still speaking.

Todo : Takada-chan is a guest at the walking show at 11. Do I need to explain myself?

Kamo : Record it later. This is more important.

Todo : I'll watch it in live and in recording too!!! You want to mess with me?!!

Mai couldn't believe it. Was this guy for real?

Todo : Listen up all of you!! You too, old man!! I've been long disappointed in your tastes in women!! Scheme all you want. But the next time you try to order me, I'll kill you!!! All of you!!!

With that, he stomped out. The principal left soon after.

Miwa : What do we do? He won't listen to us.

Miwa Kasumi. Second year student of Kyoto Jujutsu High. Grade 3. She didn't want to kill any student, that would be too morbid for her.

Momo : It's fine. He'll fight Tokyo High anyway. We can focus on the game while he goes berserk.

Momo Nishimiya. Grade 3. Third year student at Kyoto Jujutsu High.

Mai : But we have to kill Yuji Itadori, right? Todo doesn't fight to kill.

Mechamaru : Then we'll observe Todo and finish Itadori ourselves.

Ultimate Mechamaru. Second year student at Kyoto Jujutsu High. Semi grade 1 sorcerer. He appeared as a robot to the public.

Miwa : There would be curses too. Will it be too troublesome?

Kamo : No. It will be a problem if a half baked goody two shoes like Yuji Itadori is allowed to fight. As a member of the Kamo clan, I cannot stand for it. We will attack him all at once.

Momo : No. Inumaki might be there too. It'll be risky if we all go in.

Kamo : No worries. Just shield your ears with cursed energy and it'll be fine.

Mai : Leave Maki to me. And that short girl too.

Kamo : What a Todo level remark.

Mai was irked. How dare he?

----------------------------×××--------------------------

September 18, 2018, Tokyo High, Gojo's Staff Room, 1100 hours

Utahime placed her cup of tea on the table and sighed.

Utahime : So, what did you want to talk about?

Gojo : It seems like a sorcerer from Jujutsu High is colluding with curse users and spirits.

Utahime : What an absurd allegation. Not just a curse user, but a cursed spirit? That too, a sorcerer from Jujutsu High?

Gojo : They're coming out a lot more often. Won't be too unusual. I want you to look into students in Kyoto High. I've already talked with teachers from other schools.

Utahime : And what if I'm the spy?

Gojo : Of course not. That would require someone with guts.

Gojo manually put up his Infinity as Utahime threw the cup at him in rage. The cup and the tea didn't even touch him, it all froze mid air and landed on the floor with a splash.

Gojo : In all honesty, you wouldn't be the traitor. I believe in you, you know?

Utahime was both flustered and annoyed. He had no right to be saying sweet stuff right after teasing her.

Utahime : Shut up.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

September 19, 2018, Undisclosed location, 0930 hours

The onsen was quiet. There was steam all around, from all the hot springs. Jogo sat on the rock and smoked on his pipe Mahito had made for him. He had mostly recovered his body. Sasorijin, Hanami, Hyōketsu, Kegire,
Reishiki, Dagon, Mushiken, Shinsai, Narakuhō, Mugabaku, Mahito and even Kaori Geto were there.

Mahito : Ah, you're all right!! Jogo!!

The naked curse jumped into the hot spring, splashing water everywhere.

Mahito : Seems like your body is recovering well. This place is nice, humans don't usually find it.

Kaori : You seem pretty exhausted too, Mahito.

Mahito : Ah, you could tell? Sukuna's host seems to be my natural enemy. I thought playing with a toy would be ingenious, but it didn't go so well. Maybe I should've created a hostage situation to force a Binding Vow.

Kaori : It's difficult to do that with others. Pretty easy for the self, though.

Mahito sat up on the rocks around. The others were still in the water.

Mahito : Jogo. Let's go forward with Geto's plan. Sukuna is that valuable.

Jogo : Gather all fingers and offer them to Sukuna. Even if we all die. That was it, right?

Mahito : Ah, you remembered.

Jogo : Fine. We won't have to laugh 100 years from now, in a wasteland. As long as curses live as the new humans, our mission will be successful.

Kaori : Good. Then let's retrieve the six fingers in possession of Tokyo High. I'll get the other fingers under surveillance.

Jogo : Do we have to? The sorcerers will feed the fingers to Yuji Itadori.

Kaori : They're still gauging his strength as a vessel. Just in case for unintended consequences of eating too many fingers. Worst case scenario, the higher ups may even eliminate Yuji Itadori.

Jogo : So we go to the tiger's den? What a pickle.

Kaori : I've dealt my hand. That's why I let Tokyo High collect the fingers, after all.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

September 20, 2018, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 0830 hours

Finally, the day of the Exchange Event has arrived. Everyone was pumped up. The Tokyo students were at the back gate, ready to go into the forest and win the Event. The fourth years were wishing them best of luck.

Megumi : Hey, Itadori. Are you all right?

Yuji : Yeah. Why?

Megumi : Nothing. Just checking up on you. Nothing happened right?

Yuji : It would be wrong to say that. I guess I should say, I'm dealing with it much better.

Megumi : I see. Well, it's fine then.

Yuji : Yeah, let's go win this!

Maki kicked him from behind. What was it with girls kicking him from behind?

Maki : Who said you could take front?

Chapter Text

September 20, 2018, Tokyo Jujutsu High, Battle Grounds, 0858 hours

The speakers, that had been set up on poles at regular intervals, blared to life.

Gojo : There's two minutes left until the Event starts. A few words of encouragement from our Kyoto instructor, Iori Utahime Gojo!

Utahime : Heh?! Me?! What do I...

Gojo : Anything would be fine.

Utahime : Well.... don't hurt each other, co-operate.... remember to show camaraderie with other students of your school...

Gojo : Time's up.

Utahime : Hey!! That's not fair!!

Gojo : 9 AM. The Exchange Event begins now!!!!

The teams rushed into the forest. Maki led the Tokyo students through the thicket, moving to quickly secure good positions.

Yuji : Where will the grade 1 cursed spirit be released?

Panda : At the centre of the forest. With operational mobility all across.

Maki : Remember to split into the Panda team and the Fushiguro team when you receive the signal and find the curse. Itadori, we're counting on you. Remember the plan.

Yuji : Roger.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Flashback)

September 19, 2018, Tokyo Jujutsu High, Common Student Lounge, 2000 hours

Maki : Todo would probably charge straight at us. I wouldn't be surprised if Mai arrived in his tails to get me. Todo is a monster, if we all went to attack him, we'd get annihilated.

Nanako : We were initially considering leaving Panda senpai or Fushiguro to deal with him. But with Itadori here, I think he's the most logical solution.

Maki : Alright then. We'll leave Todo to you, Itadori. You don't have to win. Just waste as much of his time as possible. After all, we would only have until 3 PM.

Panda : But you can be daring. Since you're an unexpected reinforcement, we don't really care too much if you get eliminated.

Yuji : Oh my. Such lovely and encouraging senpais I've got. I'm so lucky.

Maki : I bet you wanted to fight Todo, didn't you, Megumi?

Megumi : I don't care.

Panda : Super dry.

Yuji : But senpai. Know this. If I'll fight Todo, I'll fight to win.

To the side, Kazuma and Natsumi sat on their reclining chairs and sipped frappuchinos. The first years were working so hard. And so were the second years.

Natsumi : Cute.

Kazuma : True.

They collided their frappuchinos together in a motion of 'cheers!'

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present)

Kuro howled. He had picked up on a trail. A curse in front of them. Spider like. With two false eyes on its rear. And several more on its head. Much larger in size than other spiders. It was hanging upside down to a tree branch through a web. It was shades of green and yellow.

Cursed : Where do you think you're going?

Maki : Small fry.

She honed her naginata. Ready to strike. Kuro picked up on another scent.

Megumi : Senpai, stop!!

From the thicket, the giant Aoi Todo burst into view. The force tore the branch off and sent splinters flying everywhere.

Todo : Alright!!! Everyone's here!!! Come at me all at once!!!

They didn't. Yuji grabbed his head and kneed him in the face. The others took the distraction and dispersed into teams, one following Panda, and the other following Megumi.

Megumi : Todo was alone.

Maki : It was a good idea to leave it to Itadori.

Nobara : He really was a monster.

Panda : Yup. So we're gonna ignore that.

Toge : Tuna.

Back at the spot, Yuji landed on the ground, a bit in front of Todo. The hunking giant spat out a bit of phlegm.

Todo : Nice hit. It's my turn now, first year. Guard with your life!!!!

Todo swung a punch, with all his power. At that moment, the spider curse from before appeared at the scene.

Curse : Wheeeeere-

The punch hit. The curse disintegrated. Yuji blocked the hit with his full might, but he was still flown backwards, into a tree. And with him, a giant gust of cursed energy enhanced wind had also flown, sending wood splinters flying, some of which had pierced through his body, leaving cuts. He was now several metres away from where he had been standing.

He coughed. The hit had been brutal. If the curse hadn't appeared, it would have been worse. Thankfully his arm was still there. He was a grade 1 sorcerer, but he had forgotten the difference between grade 1 sorcerers and grade 1 cursed spirits. And he had unfortunately confused the two.

Just as he looked up, he found Todo's foot slam into his head. Followed by his fist. Again. And again. And again. And again. And again. And again. Blood splattered everywhere. He grabbed Todo's fist and crushed his fingers.

Todo : Oww! You're strong.

Yuji : Shut....the....fuck....up!!!!

He grabbed Todo's fist the same way Sukuna had grabbed Megumi's at the Eishu Detention Center. Then, he swung the giant around, making him go through several trees, before crashing him down onto the ground, head first. Then, it was his turn. Yuji brought down his fist onto Todo's face. Again. And again. And again. And again. And again. Blood splattered everywhere. And some more. Todo kicked him to some distance away, and slowly stood up.

Todo : 1st year. What's your name?

Yuji : Yuji Itadori.

Todo : Well then, Yuji Itadori. I have a question for you. What is your type in women?

Yuji : I guess, my type is a tall woman with a big butt, who can kick ass. Boobs are fine too, I guess.

Todo stared at him with exclaimed eyes. He couldn't believe what he had just heard. A man with actual taste?

Just then, memories flooded Todo's mind. Memories of a life that never happened. A life where they both were high school best friends, and Takada was a fellow student.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Delulu)

Todo : I'm going to confess to Takada-chan.

Yuji : No way. I don't want to have to console you.

Todo : Why are you going with the assumption that it won't go well?

Yuji : Rather why are you having the assumption that it would?

Todo : Anne Sullivan once told Helen Keller, "As if there's a moron around who thinks he's gonna lose before he fights."

Yuji : Inoki said that.

Later, Yuji watched from a distance, as Todo did, in fact, confess to Takada under a cherry blossom tree.

Takada : I'm sorry. I have someone I like.

Todo was heartbroken. He sat on the corner of the rooftop of their school, still moping over his heartbreak, long after Takada was gone. Yuji sighed exasperatedly. He was now left with the task of consoling a moping Todo.

Todo : Maybe I'm the one she likes secretly?

Yuji : No way in hell. Come on. Get up. Ramen. My treat.

Before long, the two were on their way to the ramen stall, with Todo cinematically narrating all the happy delusions he had thought up of him and Takada, including their supposed married life.

------------------------------×××------------------------

(Reality)

Todo : Invincible in your home turf, huh? It seems we are best friends.

Yuji : Even though you just learned my name!!! And what's with all the tears and smot?!!! Gross!!!

No one noticed the figure in the air.

Momo : Yes, straight ahead. But Todo is also there.

Kamo : No problem. He's the one who told us to do as we want.

Yuji looked around. The Kyoto students had gathered around them, having surrounded them from all sides, even as Todo's joyous crying continued.

Mai began the assault. She fired three bullets towards Yuji, which he dodged. Then, he ran around the trees, in order to reach her. Miwa emerged from the thicket, drawing her sword.

Miwa : New Shadow Style - Simple Domain - Batto Sword Drawing.

She swing her sword at full force, but it was no use. Yuji jumped over it, grabbing it with his legs, and swinging it to the side, driving Miwa into a tree.

Yuji summeraulted away, and landed on his feet. From his side, Mechamaru emerged and prepared a beam to fire towards him. As the beam rushed towards him, Yuji ducked and charged at the robot. He grabbed his opponent's arm and twisted it towards the branch where Mai was standing, throwing her onto he ground. Then, Yuji condensed some of his cursed energy into a dagger, that he drove directly into Mechamaru's eye.

Kamo had an arrow prepared to fire at him. Yuji realised that this was an attempt to kill him. Just as everyone got ready to fire at him again, a clap was heard throughout the scene.

The next moment, Noritoshi Kamo found himself as the target of everyone's attack, except his own. Did he switch places with Itadori? That would mean Todo used his technique.

Just as he had anticipated, the giant was right behind him. He swung down a powerful slam onto the ground, but Kamo dodged it easily.

Todo : Didn't I tell you? If you get in my way, I'll kill you.

Kamo : No. You said you'd kill us if we ordered you around.

Todo : Same difference. Piss off.

With this, Todo walked towards Yuji. On his way, Noritoshi called out to him once again.

Kamo : Do kill him, though.

Todo : That will depend on him. After all, what kind of boorish man holds back with his best friend?

Mechamaru : So, we're retreating.

Mai : So lame.

Miwa was glad. She wouldn't have to kill a fellow student.

Before long, the Kyoto students were making their way through the jungle. Their start had been messy. The other teams may have already scored some points. They had left Todo to his own devices. As it was, hunting curses would be futile without air based recon. Momo sighed exasperatedly.

Momo : What a pain to carry everyone. Do your best, me. You're so cute today.

Megumi : Get her.

Momo turned to her left to find Nue flying towards her at full speed, with electricity flashing through his wings.

Momo : Heh?

The bird struck her with its electricity. The Kyoto team had effectively been blinded. They had to get to her fast.

Kamo : Mai. Mechamaru. Cover Nishimiya.

Mechamaru : Roger.

Mai : Such a pain without her.

They separated. Miwa followed Kamo.

Just then, Maki emerged from the bushes, and swung her naginata at Miwa, who blocked it with her katana. Kamo shed the sides of his bow, revealing hidden blades and charged at Megumi, who blocked the attack with his tonfas.

Megumi : Kamo senpai. Are you guys trying to kill Itadori?

Chapter Text

Momo groaned in pain. She sat up. She was stuck in a tree. So that was Nue. Its electricity would affect her movement for a while.

Nobara : Nishimiya saaaan. Let's plaaaay.

Nobara and Panda. That long, annoying, condescending tone. That evil look. They weren't cute at all.

Elsewhere in the forest, Megumi blocked another slash from Kamo.

Megumi : Kamo senpai. Are you guys trying to kill Itadori?

Kamo : What if I say that you're correct?

Megumi : Then I'll tell you that you've failed. Itadori won't die in such a short time.

Kamo : We have no reason to kill him.

Megumi : Sure you do. At least your superiors and the Kamo clan do.

At yet another place in the forest, Yuji blocked another elbow shove from Todo. He quickly moved to block another of his punches, countering it with one of his own. He landed a kick to Todo's abdomen and kneed him in the side of his face. Then, as Todo pounced towards him, Yuji jumped backwards and caught a branch of a tree behind him. Then, he swung his legs towards Todo, who slid under his attack. He quickly got up on his feet.

Todo : What incredible toughness! And he's using the terrain to his advantage too.

Todo realised that he couldn't see Yuji. He looked up and that's where he was, descending towards the hunking giant. Yuji landed a strong punch to Todo's head. Then a wave of cursed energy hit him, 120% more powerful than Yuji's last punch. He blocked another punch from Yuji, only to realise that it was a decoy, and Yuji landed a punch on his chin with his other arm. That was followed by another wave of cursed energy.

This tremendous power! Yuji had more power in his body than Todo. That's why his hits were accentuated by a thin layer of cursed energy. Moreover, he deliberately moved his cursed energy around his body. Which made it difficult to read his movements by reading his cursed energy. A genius tactic. The only fact that irked Todo was the fact that Yuji's cursed energy set in with a time lag.

Todo : This!! Is!! Wrong!!!

His voice echoed across the forest, reaching the other students who were dispersed throughout the landscape. In an instant, they all knew that Aoi Todo was displeased with something.

Maki : Was that Todo ?

Miwa : Seems so.

Maki : I see, that's the reason why you guys won't be able to kill Itadori. So, why did you get away from Kamo? Trying to hide from fellow sorcerers?

Miwa : It sounds like an excuse, but I'm not like the others. Sorry about Itadori, I don't want to kill him. But even so, I want win in this Event. Sorcerers get pay raise based on recommendations they get. And to get recommendations, this Exchange Event is a great opportunity. I want to start earning money on my own as soon as possible.

Maki : Why?

Miwa : Because I'm poor. And I have two little brothers to take care of.

Maki : You're too nice. Do you get along with Mai?

Miwa : Eh? Probably...

Maki : I'm not going to hold back, you know?

Miwa : No problem. I didn't tell you to anyway.

In their spot, Todo was displeased with the small, apparently perceived lack in skill.

Todo : That lag in your cursed energy. It's a bad habit, isn't it?

Yuji : My Divergent Fist?

Todo : As long as you're satisfied with that, you can neither beat me, nor can we be best friends.

Yuji : Wha-

Todo : Tell me, are you satisfied with being weak?

That struck a nerve. Right where Yuji was sore. A small vein appeared on his forehead, a sign of his indignation.

Yuji : No!

Todo : That's right! My best friend!

One's 'hands' don't develop faster than your 'eyes'. If one lost their eyes to discern good ad bad, the hands would stop striving to improve. A well known phrase among authors. And a truth across genres. The growth rate of those with good eyes surpasses those without.

Yuji went for a left straighter at Todo's face, right after a right hook. Something he wouldn't have done  before. He was growing.

Todo : He's eating me up! Aoi Todo!

He grabbed Todo by the back of his neck, as Todo grabbed one arm. Then, Yuji heaved with enough power to throw Todo downwards. On his way down towards the ground, Todo couldn't help but comment on how beautiful that fall was.

As Todo fell gleefully, Yuji lunged forward and attempted to even it out with a Divergent Fist. However, Todo intercepted the move by headbutting Yuji's ready fist, before it was accelerated. Then, he stood straight and slowly pulled off Yuji's arm.

Todo : This isn't what I want you to eat. Your Divergent Fist is born from adding cursed energy to a superhuman speed that others normally wouldn't. It's tricky. A common sorcerer would be confused even without realising what happened. It does have enough power, but only if your opponent is inferior. Not against special grades. What will you do, besto friendo?

Yuji : Pour a bunch of cursed energy into my fists with all my might.

Todo : Good. Then why does cursed energy lag? Because you're flowing it.

Yuji : So, I gotta increase the flow?

Todo : Flowing cursed energy is something a lot of sorcerers do consciously. The theory is that negative emotions pool in the gut and flow from there to the rest of the body. Of course, this is not true, cursed energy is produced  everywhere in the body. But, this is how most sorcerers visualise the flow, from the guy to the torso, then shouder, and finally arms. This mindset of driving your body is what causes cursed energy to be late. Flowing cursed energy isn't wrong, but it's only the first step. A grade 1 sorcerer's cursed energy is supposed to be hard to read. Tell me, do we think with our stomachs, or does anger come from head? Listen carefully. We exist in this world with our whole body and soul. A truth so obvious that most people forget it.

That's right. Humans exist with their whole body and soul. So why should cursed energy only be restricted to rigid norms of the body? After all, Yuji himself was living proof of how good of a vessel the soul could be. Moulding to fit more was a strength of humanity, both from perspective of environment and the soul.

Yuji : Thanks, Todo. I won't forget it.

Todo : So, we won't need more words.

From now on, whatever Todo had to say, he simply told it to Yuji in his mind. He'll guide Yuji with full strength. So all Yuji had to do was not die and climb to his heights.

At another point of the forest, Mimiko and Nanako encountered Sosuke Kanzo, a star first year student of Hokkaido Jujutsu High.

Sosuke : Thank goodness. I thought it would be Yuji Itadori for a second.

Mimiko : And that's why you would underestimate us?

Sosuke : Not at all. But you two are more capable of being fought than Yuji Itadori.

Nanako : What's the entire deal with students being afraid of Itadori?

Sosuke : You don't know?

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback)

September 19, 2018, Hokkaido Jujutsu High, Common Guest Lounge, 1930 hours

Sosuke : You guys saw that, right?

Sosuke Kanzo. First year student of Hokkaido Jujutsu High. Semi grade 1 sorcerer. Highest ranked student in the school. Medium length messy black hair in a middle parting. Medium height. Brown eyes. Considered a prodigy. Not too bad looking.

Leo : Yuji Itadori? I have to agree, Gojo-san has guts to pull off a stunt like that. It would have been better if he had informed beforehand, though.

Sosuke : Yeah, but that's beside the point. Yuji Itadori is a grade 1 sorcerer. Much stronger than most students. And he's also one of the most relentless fighters out there.

Kaito : So, what do we do now? Change our battle plans?

Kaito Arisawa. Second year student of Hokkaido Jujutsu High. Grade 2 sorcerer. Tall. Brown hair. Hazel eyes.

Sosuke : How about that?

Kaito : Why are you so afraid anyway? You're the strongest student in this school. Have a little bit more faith in your abilities.

Sosuke : I'll try. But we will still avoid him for as much as possible.

Yuzuki : Fine. Whatever calms your nerves, I guess.

Yuzuki Hoshino. Medium height. Greenish yellow eyes. Pretty. Black hair tied into twin buns. Having a chewing gum and scrolling through social media. Had she been in a regular school, she would've been one of the popular girls.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present)

Nanako : So just because he's stronger, everyone fears him?

Sosuke : He's somewhat of an enigma. But then again, so is your entire school. The strongest sorcerer of the modern era. The heir of an outlawed clan. A rogue curse user turned student. A special grade prodigy last year. Now, the vessel of Ryomen Sukuna. Quite a bundle.

Mimiko : Yeah. And they're some of the dumbest, most annoying and sweetest guys we know.

Sosuke : I wouldn't doubt that. But, I also don't care. I'm here to fight, and that's what I'll do.

He honed his own cursed energy, ready to strike. The twins brought out their weapons, a rope and a smartphone. Two grade 3 sorcerers against one semi grade 1.

Mimiko swung her rope, as a whip, at Sosuke, who dodged the attack. He quickly moved in, his right hand ready in a mudra.

Sosuke : Hive Mind - Typhoon Secretion.

Sosuke Kanzo's technique, Hive Mind, allowed him to control insects. Except for solitary or gregarious species like butterflies or dragonflies for combat purposes. He could use his cursed energy to direct these insects according to his wishes, be it for combat, recon, espionage, assassination, defence etc. The only drawback of this technique is the fact that he cannot control more than 10000 specimens of insects, across species, at his current level, though it is subject to improvement. Moreover, if uncontrolled, the insects may turn on him. Typhoon Secretion, an extension technique, gathered any one species around the target as a small typhoon and secreted any fluids like formic acid to induce irritation or rashes, or even dire skin diseases, in the target.

Nanako immediately pulled out her smartphone, opened her camera and started a video around Mimiko and the formative typhoon of ants. She clicked a picture and drew a rudimentary shield around her sister with her stylus, successfully protecting her. Nanako's technique was Picture Perfection. Whatever she took a picture of video of, and manipulated the same with her trusty stylus, successfully replicated the manipulation in real life.

Mimiko swung her rope again, this time at Sosuke himself, who once again dodged. This was followed by a kick from Nanako right to his ribs, but it didn't hurt much. Mimiko charged up her rope with cursed energy and struck Sosuke's left side, leaving marks. Sosuke immediately retorted by summoning a shower of black widow spiders. Nanako pulled Mimiko closer and drew a barrier around themselves to be protected from the rain of spiders.

Sosuke moved in, landing two kicks enhanced by cursed energy on them. Mimiko struck back, with two cursed energy enhanced punches of her own to his neck, but he blocked both of them. Taking advantage of the distraction, Nanako landed a right hook to his face. The spiders, having exhausted their time limit, started to disappear one by one. Sosuke managed to land a decisive punch to Mimiko's stomach, disabling her cursed energy.

Then, he moved on to Nanako. He swung a punch at her, which she dodged. Then she swung a punch at him, which he blocked. They both kicked each other, and their kicks met mid air. Sosuke quickly moved down and did a handstand and landed a horse kick on Nanako, throwing her off balance. Then, he finished the fight by landing a final backward kick to her guts, disabling her cursed energy as well.

Sosuke : Well, that was something.

Nanako : Oh was it?

Sosuke : Yeah. You were a good fight.

Back at the base, Nanako and Mimiko's parchments burned in blue fire. Two Tokyo High students were disqualified.

Chapter Text

Nobara : Hey, that old man of yours. He's the one who told you to kill Itadori, wasn't it?

Uh oh. Momo was worried. The girl had good instincts. Or it was most probably Panda.

Momo : Eh? What are you talking about?

Nobara : No need to play. I'm going for the kill myself. Especially with that girl Mai, who runs around with Maki senpai's face.

What did she just say? Momo was irked.

Momo : Hah?

Nobara was thrilled. So this midget bitch on the tree could get angry. Well, Nobara was pretty angry herself.

Nobara : Don't you "hah" me. Even Mr. Pepper could come up with a better response. Speaking of which there was a Mr. Pepper in your team, right? Guess I'll scrap him and turn him into recycled pottery.

Panda shivered upon hearing her words. She was scary.

Panda noticed a flash in the thicket. No sooner than that, a beam of cursed energy pierced him through his shoulder, moved across his body and came out of the other side. He fell onto the ground, deflating like a balloon.

Nobara : Panda senpai!!

Mechamaru : That's a cursed corpse. He won't die but he also wouldn't move for some time. So, who were you calling Mr. Pepper?

The robot walked out of the thicket and into the light, one of its eyes gone from the skirmish with Yuji. No one would like to admit it, but if Todo was not taken into the equation, Yuji could single handedly fight all of Kyoto Jujutsu High at once. And he'd still probably win.

Momo flew down from the tree.

Momo : Wait, Mechamaru. I shall cutely knock down this first year. In the meantime, I'll teach her about Mai-chan's hardships and why women are sorcerers. In lots of ways.

Just then, Panda rose back up.

Panda : Just kidding.

He landed a solid right hook at Mechamaru's face, sending him hurling backwards.

Panda : You like attention? Should've just hid yourself and stuck to support. But let's not worry. Instead, let's try to get along, since we're basically the same.

Mechamaru was enraged.

Mechamaru : Don't you talk like you anything, you damn doll!!!

He tore off one of his sleeves, revealing a hand with large, mechanical claws, ready to strike. Panda sighed exasperatedly.

Panda : Good grief. We're supposed to be hunting curses.

In a dark room, a boy sat in a tub of various liquids, like saline, hydration agents, nutritional supplements, pain suppressants, IV drips, medical solutions and blood products. Some of them were coming from drips as well. His entire body was wrapped in bandages, in between of which, wrinkles were visible on his skin. He had sharp eyes, and a his hair was tied into a rigid ponytail. His right arm was missing from below the elbow. In front of him were machines and interfaces that allowed him to see. He was irked at what Panda had said. This was Kokichi Muta, the guy who was controlling Ultimate Mechamaru.

Mechamaru : Sword Option - Boost On.

Mechamaru's clawed hand grew more blades from the arm, the entire appendage began to spin.

Panda : Whoa!

Mechamaru : Ultra Spin.

The spinning appendage missed Panda by a few inches due to his movement. Panda watched as the spinning appendage cut through a tree trunk and threw it away, all from the sheer force of its movement.

Mechamaru : You sure can run.

Panda wanted to finish this quickly and get back to Nobara, but this guy had long range weapons. Besides, they had no information on Nishimiya, Miwa or Mechamaru. Perhaps Mechamaru was grade 2, whereas the others were grade 3. Harsh on Nobara.

Panda : What grade are you?

Mechamaru : I don't see why that is relevant. But if you must know, I'm Semi grade 1.

Uh oh. That would be a problem.

Mechamaru held out his left hand, which parted to reveal a hand cannon.

Mechamaru : Ultra Cannon!

A giant wave of cursed energy engulfed Panda, who hunched on himself, and shielded himself with his cursed energy. The wave subsided, revealing Panda standing there, unharmed. Mechamaru retracted his arm.

So it was a technique with a large charge up and recovery. In other words, ineffective unless Panda's core was pinpointed.

Cursed corpse is avery generic term, for any non living objects with a curse residing in it, allowing independent movement. Cursed corpses have an artificial core that acts as a heart. Panda is the greatest creation of the principal of Tokyo High, Masamichi Yaga. A mutant cursed corpse born with emotions. Panda is not a panda.

He was made by Yaga as an experiment, but the man had been suffering from severe loneliness after his divorce. Subsequently, he began to raise Panda as his own son, training him in combat and jujutsu. And today, he stood tall, as a proud grade 2 sorcerer.

Panda landed several punches across Mechamaru's form, who was frustrated at being unable to read his movements. Panda swiped at Mechamaru, throwing him towards the ground. Then, he used his waist to push Mechamaru further away.

Panda : Well I did hear some rumours that there was something like me. But you're different, so a real sorcerer must be controlling you from somewhere. Now, you don't have to be made to be mistaken for a cursed corpse. You don't want to be lumped in with me, so shall I get offended?!

Mechamaru staggered to his feet.

Panda : Looking at your power, the real thing shouldn't be very far. Nah, it's just probably outside the limits so it would be a waste of time to go look for it. Plus, you'd be left free. So let's just break you, instead.

Mechamaru : Neither is going to happen. Do you know about Heavenly Restrictions? Unlike normal Binding Vows, these are placed upon an individual at birth. I was born without my right arm, or anything below my knees. Moreover, I can't feel anything below my waist. My skin is fragile enough to be burnt by moonlight, and every pore on my skin feels like it is being pricked by needles constantly. In return for all this, I have high cursed energy reserves and a range that extends all over Japan. But I didn't wish for any of these. If I could, I'd give them up in a heartbeat. So, I discarded my body. But seeing a doll like you walking in the sun without any issues, I just can't stand it!! Ultimate Mechamaru - Mode : Albatross!

A bigger cannon came out of his mouth, followed by two hand cannons. What a tremendous amount of cursed energy! Nobara would get caught up in it. Panda would have to take it all.

Mechamaru : Ultra Cannon!!

A titanic beam of cursed energy engulfed the forest, blowing and burning it away. The entire area lit up, almost like a wildfire had broken out. A few seconds later, it was over. Smoke was floating everywhere, making it difficult to see inside the carnage. The land was scorched and had a giant vein, about a foot deep, running towards what had been Panda's direction. No vegetation remained in the direct path of the blast.

Mechamaru : Dead. No, the very concept of death is wasted on you.

He turned around and walked away.

Panda : So you were charging up your cursed energy while telling me about your misfortunes? Such a sorcerer behaviour.

He was still alive? Mechamaru quickly got cautious and turned around.

Behind him, Panda emerged from the carnage, his body now made of hard muscle, and his hands much larger, like a gorilla. His eyes glowed pink, and his teeth were sharp and protruding out of his mouth. In fact, Panda was resembling a gorilla. This was Panda's Gorilla Mode. He was not a panda.

Panda : I'm kinda pissed off now.

Mechamaru : What the hell is that form?!

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Flashback)

Yaga : Panda, you should know that you have a big brother and sister.

The diaper clad Panda watched Yaga with curiosity and confusion.

Panda : No I don't.

Yaga : Yes, you do. They're inside you.

Panda : Inside me?

Yaga : Yes. And they'll always help you.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Present)

Mechamaru : Sword Option - Ultra Shield.

Mechamaru brought his right arm in front of his head, from which several spikes emerged, designed to block any hit from an ordinary sorcerer. Fortunately, Panda was no ordinary sorcerer.

Panda used his hand to land one swing at Mechamaru's form, sending him flying backwards. His spikes were also broken apart.

Usually, cursed corpses have 1 core as a heart, but Panda was special. He had 3 cores and convert his body by switching between them. The dominant core was the balanced panda core. Then, gorilla core, meant for power-based close quarters combat. And a shy big sister. Her core was done for in the first attack by Mechamaru, and would be unusable for some time. Panda core was exhausted from the current fight. It would be his end of he didn't finish his opponent off before the Gorilla core wore off.

Another punch from Gorilla Mode Panda sent Mechamaru flying through the air and onto one of the rooftops, crashing into it and displacing several tiles. That power wasn't on the level of Todo, but that punch echoed across his insides. He had taken damage even though he had blocked the attack.

Panda : I see you've discovered Gorilla Mode's speciality. The unblockable Drumming Beat.

This was a tense situation. If Mechamaru took a hit to the head or chest, he wouldn't be able to move. His right hand was damaged, so sword or cannon were no longer options. The power of the Gorilla Mode was bananas, but it would mean that Panda was in a hurry.

A similar line of thought was crossing Panda's mind. He had broken Mechamaru's right hand, so his attacks were limited. Although he couldn't ascertain whether Mechamaru's left arm had only cannon, or it had swords, still, judging by the damage inflicted, Mechamaru shouldn't be able to fire at whim.

Moreover, Mechamaru would probably have the thought that he was unable to finish off Panda twice. Even though two of Panda's cores were on the verge of death. Mechamaru would try to pinpoint the exact location of his last core to kill him. But if it was at close range, Panda had the advantage.

Mechamaru jumped onto the roof Panda was on, and threw a few roof tiles at him, which he kicked to break and throw the debris towards his opponent. Panda brought his arms together to block the debris. Mechamaru used jet acceleration to push himself forward, evading a swing of Panda's fist.

Mechamaru : This time I won't miss. The core is where the cursed energy build-up is the most dense. Right here!

He brought out his cannon on his left hand and fired through the spot. Panda grunted in pain.

Mechamaru : You did pretty well. For a doll.

Suddenly, Panda grabbed Mechamaru's hand.

Mechamaru : What?!

Panda : Don't lump me together with curses. Of course I can bluff about the location of my core.

He grabbed Mechamaru's head and lifted him off the ground. Then, he threw him away, tearing off his left arm in the process. The robot fell a few feet away, his detached metallic arm dangling from Panda's paws, with its wires on full display.

Panda : You lost because you underestimated dolls too much. To be honest, I never once thought of myself as similar to humans. On that aspect, I can relate to you. Even though I never got jealous or something.

Mechamaru : What?

Panda : Humans are gross. They risk their lives and work hard for a goal. Acting all refreshed and reserved. I don't get it since I don't have it, but I also kind of like it. You seem to have suffered a lot, but that doesn't necessarily make you right. Or rather, I'm not even your enemy. Why are you a sorcerer anyways? Is it because you have nothing else? Not that it matters anyway. If you want to do something, I'll help you.

Mechamaru thought about it. The faces of his peers at Kyoto Jujutsu High flashed in his mind.

Kamo : Mechamaru, don't waste energy on large attacks. Sometimes the enemy is right in front of you.

Todo : If you can't answer on your type in women, you'll never become a proper sorcerer.

Miwa : Hey, I got you some new batteries.

Mechamaru : I don't eat that.

Miwa : Eh? But Mai said...

That was it. All he had ever wanted.

Mechamaru : One day....with everyone....

In his mind, he was finally freedom from this prison, free to walk out, towards his friends and enjoy the light of the world with them.

Panda : Hmm? Come again?

Mechamaru : I wonder if you'll still say that even after knowing what I look like.

Panda : Seriously? Who am I to judge someone based on their looks? I'm a panda. See ya. I'll visit you someday.

Mechamaru : Shut up, you damn doll.

Despite the words, the animosity was gone. He had renewed hope in his eyes.

Back at the base, Mechamaru's parchment burned in red fire.

Panda : Oh I forgot. Can I use your phone?

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Maki rotated her naginata and struck another blow towards Miwa, who blocked with her katana, again with her full force. Who was she kidding to? Maki Zenin was crazy strong, after all!

Chapter Text

(Flashback)

Mai : Maki? She's worthless! She can't even see curses. She's basically just an ordinary person swinging cursed tools. Forever stuck at grade 4. I don't even get it why she bothers being a sorcerer.

Utahime : Break time is over.

Mai : Oh all right.

Miwa felt relieved at this information.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present)

Mai was an idiot, as Miwa realised. Maki Zenin was crazy strong!

Maki rotated her naginata, bringing the blade from behind her to the front, in a circular motion. Miwa applied all her strength to her katana to block the attack. Even though Maki was using along range weapon, Miwa still had her hands full defending from her. There has been at least two separate instances wherein Maki's blade would've proven to be fatal for her had it struck. And the worst part? The blade wasn't even exposed. It was covered with a sheath.

Maki couldn't be a grade 4 sorcerer, Miwa decided. She could clear grade 2 curses with ease. And Miwa had no idea how this girl was using a long range weapon in a crowded space like the woods.

Miwa : New Shadow Style - Simple Domain - Batto Sword Drawing.

Miwa's Simple Domain targets anyone who gets within 2.21 metres of her. Those who enter this range are automatically intercepted. However, if both of her feet are taken off the ground, the technique ends. Furthermore Batto is a sword technique suited optimally for enemies directly in front of the user. It covers the blade in cursed energy, and increases the speed within the hilt. It is the fastest sword drawing technique. All Miwa had to do was not get distracted.

Maki noted it all. An Iai technique to disarm her cursed tool and create an opening. Even though Maki had the advantage of reach, she would have to take the risk. She brought the naginata onto her knee, snapping it into two. Miwa was stunned, Maki had just given up her reach advantage.

Maki threw the lower end of the naginata at Miwa, forcing her to block, which distracted her from her technique. Maki ran around, landing several blows on Miwa, from various sides. Miwa honed her katana, only to block a kunai that seemingly appeared from nowhere. No, it was a hidden weapon, from Maki. This girl had amazing instincts, she was using decoys to close the gap.

Finally, Maki slammed the naginata down onto Miwa's katana. She blocked it with all her might. Both her feet had moved, but that was alright, as she had planned to get Maki closer.

Suddenly, Maki grabbed the hilt of Miwa's katana and swung it around. Miwa was flown away, landing on a bush, which shielded her fall. Aikido. Maki had skills. Wait. Why were her hands empty?

Maki : Pretty nice blade you've got.

Disarming skills.

Miwa : Can I get that back? Please?

On a branch, a crow perched and watched. And through it, visuals were being broadcasted back at the base. The primary person controlling then was Mei Mei, a grade 1 sorcerer, but everyone else was also able to see.

Mei Mei : What an interesting girl. Why don't you promote her to grade 2 already?

Gojo : I agree. But her family, the Zenin clan, are opposing it. They should just be honest and acknowledge her skills.

Mei Mei : I don't understand connections not based on money.

Gojo : And that's why you'll be a cheapskate. Anyway, I noticed something curious. The video feed around Yuji seems to be a little inconsistent. Why is that?

Mei Mei : You know, animals will be animals. It is tiring to share vision with them.

Gojo : Are you sure about that? Question for you. Whose side are you on?

Mei Mei : I'm on the side of money, of course. There's no value if something can't be bought, since it can't be exchanged for money.

Gojo : Spoken from experience.

Gojo knew, whatever the higher ups had up their sleeves, it wouldn't work. Yuji was different now. He was stronger.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Nobara chased after Momo, who flew around on her broom.

Nobara : Get down here, you stupid witch!!

Momo : I've flown down a few times already. Will you catch me or not, first year?

Momo flew up and rotated her broom a full 360°, sending a gust of cursed energy infused air towards Nobara. It was mixed with gravel and dirt. Enough to hurt her. She brought her arms to guard herself.

Just then, Nobara felt Momo's brrom behind her. Before she could turn, the brrom charged at her and hit her on the face, only to fly away to catch Momo landing onto it.

Nobara : How dare you hit my beautiful face?!

Momo : A scar on the face is a plus for guys. Not for girls. Do you think that the world of jujutsu is only based on skill?

Nobara : It is, right?

Momo : Only for guys. If a girl has skills, but she isn't cute, she'll be looked down upon. If she is good looking, but has no skills, she'll be looked down upon. Women sorcerers are expected to be not just skilled, but perfect. And Mai had to deal with even more discrimination. Now do you get it?

Nobara : Yeah, I get it. You're an annoying fucking bitch!

Nobara started to lunge forward towards Momo, but another cursed energy infused wind blew her away. Momo was apprehensive about using too much power, lest she kill the first year, who was so accustomed to fighting. No, that was an excuse. The real reason was the fact that Toge Inumaki was still out there, and she didn't know where he was. He was a pain in the ass, to deal with.

Nobara : Are you done lecturing me?!!

She took three nails and shot them at Momo, who dodged her hits. The nails lodged themselves in the trees around.

Momo : What's expected of Mai isn't just simple perfection. As a member of the Zenin clan, one of the Big Three clans, perfection is the norm. Inheriting the sacred technique of the clan is for the privileged. Any other technique starts out at much further below. Even then, many women aren't even allowed to stand at the starting line. They say that if you're not a member of the Zenin clan, you're not worthy of being a sorcerer. And if you're not a sorcerer, you're not worthy of being a human being. Spending your life serving a family that lacks love. Being despised.

Nobara shot more nails around, each one missing Momo and lodging themselves into the trees.

Momo : The life that we enjoy and take for granted. Do you know the pain that she and Mai went through to achieve this? Can you comprehend it, even with a brain that thinks of the curse Yuji Itadori as an ally?

Nobara : SHUT UP!! I refuse to believe that someone who has been victimized deserves to be forgiven all the time, while someone who has had a fortunate life must be ridiculed at every turn! It doesn't matter how she was raised, I don't like her. Despite a similar upbringing, I really like Maki senpai. Have you ever made an effort to know the person Yuji Itadori, whom you condemn as a curse?! Why do I have to answer to 'perfection' or 'unfairness'?! Is my life just a job?! Strawdoll - Hairpin!!

The nails that had been lodged around came to life and began to explode one by one. So that was why Nobara had been intentionally missing her shots. Momo was caught up in the explosions, driving her broom through between them, and trying to escape. Nobara ran towards her, and jumped up to grab the broom, managing to catch a bristle. That was it. Momo flew away, thinking she had gotten away.

Nobara pulled out a voodoo doll from her coat and inserted the bristle into it. Then, she honed her hammer and nails.

Nobara : Boys versus girls?!! Shut up!!! I don't want your crap!! I love the me that wants to dress up and look beautiful!! I love the me that is strong!!! I'm Nobara Kugisaki!!Strawdoll - Resonance!!!

Momo lost control of her broom, leading to both of them falling onto the ground. As she fell, she saw Nobara pull out a squeaky hammer and swung at Momo's head. The hammer struck her head from the right side. Nobara honed the squeaky hammer once again, ready to strike.

Just then, a bullet hit Nobara on the head. The force sent her reeling to the side, as she fell unconscious from the impact. A little far away, Mai sat on a branch, satisfied with what happened.

Mai : Just within range. I'm happy it hit the mark.

Back at the base, Nobara's parchment burned with blue fire.

Mai : Hello? Momo? Yeah, it's fine. It was a rubber bullet. Listen, that light earlier must have been Ultimate Cannon, but Mechamaru isn't answering. Which means they got to him, and Panda will be back. Get away from there and support us from the air, got it?

Momo : Got it. Mai, I...

Mai : It's ok.

The call hung up. Mai sighed exasperatedly.

Maki : Are you sure about not calling reinforcements? I'm good for a two on one.

Mai : No thanks. I'd rather have you all to myself.

Maki : How about we begin by calling me 'big sister', lil sis?

Maki sniggered. Her friends were worried about her. She had to win this. She advanced towards her sister.

Mai : What are you laughing at?!!

Mai fired two bullets from her revolver. Maki swiped them away with her newly acquired katana from Miwa. Then, she summeraulted in the air, creating a slash that sent s gentle gust of wind flying towards all directions. The branch on which Mai had been standing gave way, breaking and letting her fall to the ground.

Maki advanced towards her again. Mai fired a shot, desperate to land a hit. Maki dodged the bullet and landed a kick to Mai's right side.

Mai had always known. Maki had something that she didn't. After all, she could move so carefree. She hated her sister, who kept moving forward, into the future.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Flashback 1)

Unknown Person 1 : Did you hear about Ogi's daughter? One of them can't even see curses, let alone use jujutsu.

Unknown Person 2 : As we thought, twins are a bad omen. Maybe it's for the better. She won't be noticed, she's just a servant to the heir, after all.

From behind a door, at some distance, a little girl was hearing it all. Mai didn't like how they spoke of Maki. She was her sister, after all.

Later, they were walking down a small bridge, when Mai stopped.

Maki : Mai? Hurry up.

Mai : I don't wanna. Something's there.

Maki : Again? Fine.

Maki couldn't see it. A humanoid figure with dark skin, that absorbed most of the light falling on it, with a neck that was inhumanly long. And a bell-shaped head with horizontal growths sticking out.

Curse : Nobody's here....

Maki : Close your eyes.

Mai : Huh?

Maki grabbed her sister's hand and ran through there. Mai's eyes were tightly shut.

Maki : If you can't see it, it's like it's not even there.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback 2)

Naobito : So you're leaving, Maki.

Naobito Zenin. The 26th head of the Zenin clan. Special grade 1 sorcerer. And a heavy drinker. He was a gigantic man, with a body hardened by years of experience, yet a cunning gleam in his fox-like eyes. His hair was slicked back, and he had two thin moustache strands on his face.

Maki : You've got enough people for the menial tasks. Don't worry about me. I'll be back in no time.

Naobito : Why return at all?

Maki : I intend to become the head of the Zenin clan, after all.

Naobito laughed heartily. A woman? Become the head of the mighty Zenin clan? She must be out of her mind.

Naobito : How about I make your life harder?

Maki : Do what you want.

Naobito : And Mai...

Maki : She stays out of this!

Maki opened the door and briskly walked out. Mai, who had been sitting on the other side, sighed lifelessly.

Mai : Liar.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Present)

Mai : I hate you!

She did. She hated everything about Maki. Everything she stood for.

By now, her six bullets had extinguished. Maki could move in.

Mai hated everything about Maki. That's why she never told her who was her first crush. Or what her technique was. Truthfully, she never told Maki anything. That's why she was surprised when Mai began to bleed from her nose.

Construction. Mai's technique. It allowed her to condense her energy and create objects out of thin air. Unlike effects of a domain, created objects existed even after they were detached from their original source of cursed energy. However, it required an immense amount of cursed energy, which hurt Mai's body. Her limit was one bullet per day. However, the obvious six bullet count of her revolver was optimal for creating a bluff.

Mai thought she had won. She couldn't be more wrong.

Maki grabbed the bullet mid air and held on to it, until its momentum died out. Mai was amazed. Maki dropped the inert bullet onto the ground, a little bit of blood coming from her pal, where the bullet had made contact.

Maki : These shouldn't be handled barehanded.

Maki had something that Mai didn't. Similar to Mechamaru's Heavenly Restriction, but also the opposite. Trading cursed energy and jujutsu for superhuman physical prowess. An ability shunned by the Zenin clan. And an ability that Mai didn't have. As Mai sat at the base of the tree, she looked up at Maki, and realised just how much difference there was between them.

Maki : That's game set, isn't it?

Mai : Why did you leave?

Maki : Hah? What do you mean? You go to Jujutsu High too.

Tears appeared on the eyes of the girl on the ground. Years old rage, frustration and desperation had built up inside her, and now, they were about to spill.

Mai : I NEVER WANTED TO BE A JUJUTSU SORCERER!! IT IS ALL YOUR FAULT!! YOU, WHO PUSHED SO HARD, BECAUSE OF WHICH I WAS FORCED TO DO SO AS WELL!! THE FEAR, THE PAIN, ALL OF IT!! Why couldn't you just fall in line, be a servant and do chores?!!! Why couldn't you live a normal life with me?!!!

Maki looked down. She hadn't considered what her sister had to go through. It was so selfish of her.

Maki : At that rate, I would've hated myself. I'm sorry, Mai.

Images flashed in Mai's mind. The little girls were still holding hands and running. Mai's eyes were still closed, her trust implicit in her sister.

Mai : Big sis, don't let go, alright?

Maki : Yeah I won't.

Mai : Promise me, you wouldn't let go of me.

Maki : Of course. We're sisters, aren't we?

Mai hugged her knees and hid her face among them. Her tears were flowing freely now. Maki was gone, her friends needed her help.

Mai : Liar. I hate you!!

Back at the base, Mai's parchment burned in red fire.

Chapter Text

Kamo's arrows flew from his bow and towards Megumi. Toad appeared and stopped and arrow mid air. Megumi used his tonfas to break one of them, sending a trickle of blood to the wall.

Kamo : You can summon two shikigami at once, correct? I don't appreciate you holding back.

Megumi : You're on your last arrow, too. I'd hate for you to have anemia.

Plus, Kuro was busy elsewhere. But he couldn't say that to Kamo.

Kamo : Don't worry. They're prepared in advance.

Kamo had a technique of the Big Three Clans. The ability to control blood in any way, alongwith anything that blood touches. Controlling one's own cursed energy to regulate Blood flow. Blood Manipulation. Fitting for someone from the clans that value bloodline so much.

Megumi had inherited the sacred technique of the Zenin clan. The ability to summon shikigamis from one's shadows. Appropriately named the Ten Shadows Technique. If only Maki and Mai had inherited it.

Kamo shot two arrows to the ceiling, causing it to collapse. Using the commotion, he vanished, only to reappear right in front of Megumi and landing a solid jab to his side, which he blocked with his tonfas. Was Kamo always this strong.

Kamo : Nice reflexes. Don't lose focus now.

His eye opened and condensed blood formed an x-shaped mark on his right eye. He landed a hit on Megumi by swinging his hands in a claw stance, breaking his tonfas. Megumi had to admit, he had always been a little late with cursed energy reinforcement. Even so, Kamo's speed and strength are on another level.

Kamo could manipulate blood beyond its form or motion. Body temperature, pulse rate, number of Red Blood Cells, blood composition - all of it was under his control. This was Blood Manipulation - Flowing Red Scale.

Megumi : Doping.

Kamo : Very good. Although I don't appreciate the negative connotation.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Miwa : My katana has been taken.

The wind blew. She was alone in the forest. Well, in that part anyway. She was sure there would be more students around.

Mai's sister was so strong and could run so fast. Well, now that her katana was gone, Miwa was basically unable to do anything substantial.

Miwa : Does tapioca love up to its hype?

Suddenly her phone rang. It was Mechamaru. She answered with a cheerful voice, like her character, but unlike her situation.

Miwa : Hello. Useless Miwa here.

Toge : Sleep.

Miwa fell on to the ground. Unconscious. Asleep. Her snores could be heard over the phone. Back at the base, her parchment burned in red fire.

Toge stood there, Mechamaru's phone in one hand, his detached arm in the other. Damn this guy. He had employed a finger based biometric lock. Beside him, Kuro stood, panting. Toge flung away the detached arm of Mechamaru. Then, he petted Kuro.

Toge : Return.

As the shikigami disappeared into the shadow, Toge walked towards river. Most of the remaining students had forgone with the mission and had gathered there to chat and socialize.

Suddenly, he felt a wave of cursed energy emanate from behind him. Coming from a thicket.

Back at the base, Utahime was freaking out.

Utahime : I need to get to her, quick! It's dangerous to leave her alone in a forest full of curses!

Gakuganji sat and watched. He wondered whether this plan would go aptly or not.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback)

Kamo : What's this?

In front of them was a grotesque quasi humanoid creature, with a hominid head, but a serpentile body and small, stubby limbs. It was a dark shade of green, and had hair and warts all over. Frankly, it was extremely disgusting.

Gakuganji : The grade 1 cursed spirit that we will release into the area.

Kamo : Even among grade 1 cursed spirits, it's on the stronger end. Are you sure the students will be able to handle it?

Gakuganji : That's because it is not meant for students to handle. We're a little disorganised, that's all.

He produced a vial containing a liquid. This, he handed over to Kamo.

Gakuganji : The scent you would need to control it. If possible, use it to kill Yuji Itadori.

Kamo : What if it is exorcised beforehand?

Gakuganji : Don't worry. It has been trained to sit still until the scent is used.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present)

And he had. Kamo was a skilled boy. When the video feed cut, he must have applied the scent on Itadori. Fighting Todo wouldn't leave Yuji Itadori unscathed. Timing the grade 1 curse right after that is a surefire way of death. Well, he could think of that later. Right now, he had to attend to the issue at hand. He stroked his long beard thoughtfully.

Gakuganji : Yes, I'm worried about Miwa. Go get her, please.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Tsumiki walked along the forest, with Junpei trailing behind her. Both were cautious, but Tsumiki had to be brave, for her junior's sake.

Tsumiki : So, how did you and Itadori meet?

Junpei : Quite a wild tale. Essentially, my mom died and I almost became a murderer. But Itadori saved me from it.

Tsumiki : Oh I'm so sorry for that. She's in a better place.

Junpei : It's fine. It was my fault anyway. I got in with wrong company.

Tsumiki : You have no need to be sorry. You didn't know any better. I don't know your mom, but she would never have wanted you to blame yourself, would she?

Tsumiki was right, Junpei contended. His mom would never want that. She had always wanted him to be happy and have fun.

Junpei : Yeah. I suppose you're right.

Tsumiki was relieved. She looked forward. They had mostly completed their walk. A few metres ahead, and they'd reach the river, where everyone was, apparently, hanging out. In fact, Tokyo, Kyoto, and two students from he Hokkaido teams were the only ones serious about confrontational combat in this competition. That's why, not many people had been disqualified. A rare occurrence.

Tsumiki : Since we'll almost be at the river, how about we split up? You go west and I'll move to the north of the river. One last round, then we convene here. How does that sound?

Junpei : Sounds good to me. See you later.

Junpei turned and walked away. Before long, he disappeared into the thicket. Tsumiki continued walking.

After walking some distance, she encountered him. Kaito Arisawa. The only other serious person in this tournament from Hokkaido. If she could get him out, there would be no competition for Tokyo left. After all, most of Kyoto was already disqualified and no one else was interested.

Tsumiki : Let's do this quickly and easily. No need for unnecessary threatrics.

Kaito : Oh come on. You Tokyo folks take the fun out of things.

Tsumiki was on guard. She had no idea what this guy's technique was, only that it has aspects similar to her technique. That would be a problem. Sorcerers with same or similar techniques turn out to be resistant to the other's technique.

Kaito : Willbend Mindwire.

Tsumiki felt her guard slipping. She was vulnerable to his attacks. She had to act fast. But no matter what, she couldn't do it. It was as if something was preventing her from willfully taking a decision.

Willbend Mindwire allowed the user to take over the prefrontal cortex of someone's brain, almost up until a minute, leaving her vulnerable. But that was also its weakness. It couldn't do much more than that. And it had to be maintained in the same position, otherwise the hold would break. This relegated it to mostly support roles, not active combat. Moreover, it needed to charge up for about 15 seconds before it could be used again.

Due to similarity of technique, however, Tsumiki was able to break the hold on her quickly. She had 15 seconds ; shehad to act fast. She moved toward him, and landed a kick to his side. She tried to get a punch at his head, but he intercepted it. He threw a punch at her, that she blocked, grabbing his arm and twisting it. Not giving a chance to breathe, she finally landed a punch on his face. A cursed energy enhanced punch, at that too.

He stumbled back, caught off guard. Taking the opportunity, Tsumiki joined her index and thumb in a circle, in the middle of which was his face, and activated her technique.

Tsumiki : Mind Manipulation - Paralysis.

Mind Manipulation, as a technique, was very simple to understand. It allowed the user to take control of someone else's mind. The extension technique, Paralysis, stopped all locomotive neurotransmitions for a second or more, depending on what the user specified.

Kaito felt himself completely paralysed in his limbs. Not a single movement. Not even a muscle. He was rooted to his spot. He looked forward at Tsumiki, cursing his luck for having run into someone who had a similar technique as himself.

Tsumiki : Is it fun now?

Kaito : Point noted. What do you want?

Tsumiki : Surrender. And retreat to the river. That's all.

Kaito : Pretty easy terms.

Tsumiki : I know. I'm a lenient person.

Kaito : And yet you want me to explicitly surrender. And a similar technique as mine.

Tsumiki : First, I'm lenient, not stupid. Second, we aren't similar. I'm the better you.

Kaito : Damn. Arrogance.

Tsumiki : I know. But since I'm an older sister, I have to rein it in most of the time. Now, are you surrendering or should I paralyse you further?

Kaito : Alright alright. I surrender.

Back at the base, Kaito's parchment burned in green fire.

The paralysis came off and Kaito fell to the ground. Tsumiki walked on, without sparing so much as a glance at him. He groaned as he stood up, and slowly made his way towards the river.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Toge held the zipper of his uniform, ready to pull it down and take care of things. This was it. Tokyo could win this.

The curse peeked out from behind a tree, its ugly head poking out. Np sooner than that, it got decapitated. Toge watched in horror as a far, far stronger curse emerged from the thicket.

Tall. Durable. Left arm wrapped in a giant cloth. With branches for eyes. It was Hanami.

Hanami : |°'^~√'^|°^°'√~•§∆∆וπ^

He assumed a fighting stance, much more unsure of himself.

Toge : Salmon cod roe.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Junpei had been walking for quite some time. Just this one round, and he would go back. His part would be over.

Suddenly, he felt a sharp increase in cursed energy in the area. They sound of someone's footsteps were heard in the bushes. Someone was coming. And it wasn't a human.

Soon, he came into view. Tall. Shiny black. The body of a scorpion, but a grin with human teeth. And a cursed energy signature similar to one of the signatures at the drain beneath Kawasaki the other day. No wonder, it was one of the curses Mahito had told him about.

Sasorijin : Look who I met. An old friend.

Some distance away, Mahito sat on top of a rooftop, sighing as if in peace.

Mahito : Well, it's begun. Shall we go in, boys?

Behind him was a man of medium height, tan skin, buff build, black kohl across his eyes and a bald head. He had an axe in hand. Jūzo, a curse user.

Jūzo : I heard Satoru Gojo is about 190 cm tall. He'll make a good coat rack.

Chapter Text

Noritoshi Kamo had grown up looking at how his mother had been tormented. When asked why, he was told it was because she was because she was a broken mistress. When further asked why they favoured him and deceived him into becoming the heir of the Kamo clan, h was informed that it was because the rightful wife of the clan head couldn't bear a son who inherited the cursed technique. So, he had grown up in his life, knowing that he would one day become the head of the Kamo clan.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present)

Kamo landed another jab at Megumi, who defended himself with the other tonfa that was intact. Kamo quickly landed another strike, a rotatory one, trying to hit Megumi's side, but being blocked and pushed back. Megumi's other tonfa broke, and he threw away the useless piece of wood.

Kamo : A shikigami user who can hold his own in a hand to hand combat situation. How valuable. The fact that you've grown makes me happy.

Megumi : Why are you suddenly acting all familiar?

Kamo : Sympathy. You will one day be the head of the Zenin clan, one of the three pillars of the jujutsu world. I intend to kill Yuji Itadori.

Megumi : Because of Principal Gakuganji?

Kamo : No. This is my own decision. As a member of the Kamo clan, I feel it is right. I believe you will also understand. You and I are the same.

Kamo had to play his part as the heir to the throne of the Kamo clan. For his mother's sake. Even if he didn't agree with killing another student.

Megumi : No we're not.

Megumi was weirded out by whatever Kamo was saying.

Kamo : Yes we are.

Megumi : No, we're not! If you want to talk about it, go seek Maki. I don't want anything to do with your stupid clan politics. I don't even consider anything to be objectively right.

He pondered over for a second.

Megumi : Actually, I don't care if what I do is right or wrong. I simply believe in my conscience. And I'll continue to do so and save people, even if that means going against or crossing your values. If you disagree with it, then let us curse each other.

Megumi's cursed energy flared up.

Suddenly, Toad emerged from behind Kamo. Megumi had kept the shikigami around. Kamo turned around to respond, but Toad disappeared into shadow. So, the wounded shikigami was a decoy.

Megumi : This takes a lot of cursed energy, so I can summon it only once. After all, I acquired it recently.

He brought his hands together, positioning one above the other and grabbing the palm below lightly. Then, he pushed the middle finger of the palm below downwards. The mudra was complete.

Megumi : Max Elephant.

A giant, pink elephant emerged from Megumi's shadow, adorned with archaic seals and symbols. Kamo could see just how big of a target it was, and was convinced that he needed to initiate the attack. But before he could, Max Elephant flooded the area with water, sending a powerful wave that sent Kamo flying towards the wall. The force eventually broke through the building, sending Kamo outside.

The volume and pressure had pushed Kamo outside. But more importantly, it had left him wide open. Megumi created another mudra.

Megumi : Nue.

The giant bird swept through, striking Kamo with a weak dose of electricity, enough to momentarily stun him. Visions of his mother flashed in his mind, quickly snapping him out of his reverie. He could not lose! He threw a blood packet into the air.

Kamo : Blood Manipulation - Crimson Binding.

The blood moved out of the packet, wrapping around Nue like ropes. The bird crashed to the ground, as both Kamo and Megumi set their feet on the ground.

Kamo : I can't afford to lose!!

But before the battle could continue, it was interrupted.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Junpei had been walking for quite some time. Nothing substantial had been spotted. He was thinking of going back and settling down at the riverbank.

It wasn't too bright, in fact, the area was pretty dark. The vegetation was thick, the canopy filtered out most of the sunlight, letting only a little bit through. Despite it being fall, one could still hear crickets chirping in this deep of a forest. Apparently, there was a graveyard further in somewhere, where sorcerers who died in service were buried in quiet secrecy.

The darkness surrounding the place was deeply unsettling and disorienting for someone like Junpei, who had been a sorcerer for less than a week. Others could be used to scenes most notably seen in horror movies, but not him. The fear of the unknown was real. He was really motivated to turn back now. And he probably should have. But the intense need to impress the other students overpowered his feelings of fear, and he kept going.

Deeper in the forest, he encountered a fly head. Noticeably bigger than what Yuji had described them as. He sighed, relieved. Grade 4. He quickly summoned Moon Dregs and got rid of it. There. 3 more points for Tokyo. He was doing his part.

Having walked further and seen nothing of much value, Junpei decided to turn back. Just then, he felt a surge in cursed energy. The readings were similar to the ones he felt with Mahito in the drain the other day. He turned around, shakily.

From the darkness emerged a curse, a little bit taller than Mahito. He had shiny black skin, and looked like a giant scorpion, complete with a giant tail. He had no eyes but he could see nonetheless. And he saw Junpei pretty clearly.

Sasorijin : My my. What a surprise. A familiar face in these unfamiliar territories. Mahito should've done away with you when he had the chance.

Junpei honed his position. Moon Dregs was right behind him. He just had to get out of here. Somehow.

Sasorijin shot his tail at Junpei, which Moon Dregs blocked for him. Junpei blocked a punch from the curse, but his other pincer hit him on his torso. Blood spilled onto the ground, a warm gushing feeling spreading across his body.

Moon Dregs immediately grew in size and pierced Sasorijin with one tendril, buying some well needed time. Junpei grabbed Moon Dregs, who flew away from the scene, carrying its owner away from danger. The two moved away from danger, with Sasorijin in pursuit.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Megumi and Kamo looked up in the air. A large wall of wood was coming upon them like a tsunami wave. What the hell? And was that Toge Inumaki?

Megumi : Inumaki senpai?

Toge's eyes fell upon these two. The muffler on his mouth came off.

Toge : Run away.

Their legs began working, driving them away from the scene of danger.

From a distance, Jūzo watched with curious eyes.

Jūzo : Oh? Getting exciting, huh? But curses don't leave behind anything when they die. I can't make anything from them, can I?!

He slammed his axe onto the ground.

Jūzo : Oh right. Emerge from darkness, blacker than darkness, purify that which is impure.

The black liquid of the curtain descended upon the area.

Jūzo : Ah good good. Coat rack....how exciting!

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High, Surveillance Control Room

All the parchments begam to burn. Every single one of them. In flames of all colours, except blue. As if Tokyo had defeated all students. Everyone, both the fourth years and the elders were caught off guard.

Utahime : Game over? All in red, yellow, green, purple and orange?

Mei Mei : Strange. My crows haven't picked up anything either.

Gojo : As GTG - Great Teacher Gojo - I wanna say that my students defeated them all.

Yaga : Even so, if someone whose cursed energy hasn't been registered defeated a student, the parchments should burn with grey flames, not blue.

Utahime : Maybe an intruder?

Mei Mei : Does that mean that Master Tengen's barrier isn't working properly?

Gakuganji was put into an unfamiliar situation. The students were skilled enough to exorcise the grade 1. Specially Todo. Then, who could it be?

Gakuganji : Intruder or not, this is an unexpected situation.

Yaga : I'll go and check up on Master Tengen. Satoru, head over to the students alongside the others. Mei will stay here and try to get an idea of where the students are located. Let Satoru and the others know of your findings. Some of you, come with me.

Mei : Got it. I expect a bonus.

Natsumi : We'll go with you. If it's one of the unregistered special grades that Gojo sensei has faced, you'll need more people on your side to get the students out. Come on, Kazuma, you lazy bum.

Kazuma : Oh all right.

Gojo : Come on, grandpa. It's time for your walk. You already had your lunch, remember?

Utahime : Let's hurry.

Leo : Yes, we don't know how much time we may have to evacuate the students.

Sayaka : Last we checked, they had all huddled together around the river.

Sayaka Morikawa. First year instructor at Hida Jujutsu High. Grade 2 sorcerer.

Leo : That has advantages and disadvantages. Formerly, we can get to them quickly. Latter wise, they are all exposed to danger at once.

The curtain was descending upon the ground. The students looked up at it, confused and puzzled.

Yuji : A curtain? Why now?

The teachers were all running towards it at full speed.

Utahime : Satoru! Run! Get to it now!

Leo : You're the only one who can!

Gojo : It's no use! Unlike normal curtains, where the practical and visual effects coincide, in this case, the curtain is already down! It's just the cursed energy filling up the space and making it visible!

Kazuma : Now how does that work?!

Natsumi : Basically when you are drawing and colouring. Normal curtains combine the two. In this one, drawing is happening first, and the colouring is happening later to give the illusion of it happening later than it actually did.

Sayaka : Pretty skilled sorcerer.

Gojo stood in front of the curtain and observed intently. The others arrived in due time.

Gojo : Oh well. We'll just rip it apart.

As soon as Gojo touched the curtain, he felt an electric shock go up his hand, forcing him to withdraw.

Utahime  : Satoru. Look.

Her hand had gone through the curtain. Without any trouble. But his hadn't. He looked at it, confident, yet wondrous. He smirked.

Gojo : I see. The rest of you, go ahead. This curtain filters out the individual by the name of Satoru Gojo, while allowing free access to everyone else. We're dealing with a very skilled curse user, who has a decent amount of information on us. Come on, get going. I don't know what their objectives are, but if even one student dies, we lose.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

The curse was standing in front of them. Tall. Buff. With branches for eyes. And a giant cloth wrapped around its left arm.

Kamo : Why is a curse here? And who brought the curtain?

Megumi : Whoever is working with it.

Toge : Koff.

Kamo : Do you know something about these?

Megumi : It is one of the unregistered special grades that attacked Gojo sensei that night. I could recognise it even from his drawings.

Toge : Tuna mayo.

Megumi : You're right. We need to get to Gojo sensei.

Kamo : Wait. You can understand what he's saying?

Megumi dials up Gojo's number on his phone.

Megumi : Does that matter right now? For all we know, this curse may use domain expansion on us. We need to contact Gojo sensei and retreat-

Kamo sensed the curse standing right behind him. He quickly turned, expecting a blow. Megumi got ready as well.

Toge : Don't move.

Everyone froze. Kamo was the first one to be released, immediately tearing open a blood packet and getting into action.

Kamo : Slicing Exorcism.

The blood formed a powerful rotating disk, that flew towards the curse's head, slicing through it. In reality, however, there was no damage. Kamo gloomed over the failure of his move.

Nue descended from above, smashing Hanami onto the ground. The violent discharge of a huge amount of electricity paralysed her just for a moment, long enough for Megumi to slice through her legs with a long blade. Kamo was perplexed. Where had Megumi been hiding that blade?

In retrospect, the move wasn't very successful. The slash had only managed to tear through what seemed to be Hanami's trousers. No other substantive damage whatsoever.

Hanami : √✓^°^×~§∆§'(Stop it, you foolish children.)

The actual words flashed across their minds.

Megumi : What the- It's gibberish is intelligible? Creepy.

Hanami : ∆§∆\•~|'|~*#¢×'§∆'∆'{|'§'∆~×'|\|π||\'×'~§∆~§~✓×~§÷'π~×''π|§'∆~∆'×|×||'×~~§∆××'||''|•√§'§'ו√√π§∆|∆^°^^\✓ (I simply wish to protect this planet. The forest, the sea, the sky - They're crying from the horrors they've had to endure. We can no longer live in peace with humans.)

Kamo : It's just the curse talking nonsense. Don't listen to it.

Megumi : It's not exactly a low level cursed spirit, either.

Hanami : ~§'§|×|∆''∆§|§|∆|∆'|§|§∆||∆|§§||§∆|∆•∆•§|'∆'∆∆~✓✓✓^°^^°^§~∆~∆'§'§'§''§'\\'∆'§''ק'∆'\'\'_—·>><∆~§'§''><§'~'>§∆✓<∆\|§^§'×~∆§|∆~§'×|§| (Of course there are humans, who do care for the environment. But how useful is mere compassion?)

Megumi : They've formulated their own language!

Kamo : Get Inumaki out of here!

Hanami : ~∆∆'|§∆||§|§'∆~∆'∆'∆|∆|∆•∆∆•|∆|||^°^><\∆'∆'\<>∆'÷|ק'§'§'÷|÷'§~∆וπ'×'∆∆??!/*!*!:;!>
(All they need is time. Time to heal, to shine a bright blue once more. Time without humans!)

Behind her, giant columns of wood began to form and move like sentinent beings.

Hanami : ×~∆~∆'§'§∆'§|§||∆•§|'∆∆'§|ו|§'∆><>~§'× (Thou shalt be exalted to sagehood through death.)

Chapter Text

The teachers and fourth years had entered the curtain. They looked around the area, scanning for dangers. In front of them, a large, well built, bald man came down the steps.

Jūzo : Hey hey hey hey! Where's Satoru Gojo?!

A curse user. Not the main one but very skilled nonetheless.

Jūzo : That depraved monk! He tricked me!

Gakuganji : Children. Leave this one to me. You must save your energy for the students.

Jūzo : Hey! Lemme kill at least some of them. I can't make anything worthwhile with the hollow bones and wrinkled skin of an old man.

Gakuganji : Hollow, huh?

The container in Gakuganji's hand opened, and put came and electronic guitar.

Gakuganji : Let's see just how hollow these bones are.

Jūzo : Get some flesh on those bones, you rotting geezer.

The rest of them moved on.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Megumi, Toge and Kamo ran at full speed, evading the range of the wood columns that were forming behind them. Too many. Too destructive. Too close. Toge gulped down on throat medicine, despite how horrible it tasted.

Megumi : Are you okay, Inumaki senpai?

Toge : Koff.

Kamo : Here it comes!!

Hanami created three big balls made of wood, with spikes coming out of them. These balls then charged towards the three students.

Toge : Stop!

The balls froze in mid air. Kamo clasped his hands together and aimed at Hanami's head.

Kamo : Piercing Blood.

A projectile of blood shot at her at one-sixth the speed of sound. It grazed by her head, splintering the branch like growth in her eye socket by just a little. So Kamo had managed to hurt the curse. He must have been going easy on Megumi earlier.

Kamo : Hurry! It'll heal and be after us soon enough!

They didn't need to be told twice. The three turned on their heels and fled, with Inumaki still drinking throat medicine.

They were in a dangerous situation. They would need Inumaki to hold the curse to put some distance between them after every attack. This way, they would have to work until they got out of the curtain and were able to get to the principals. But this couldn't keep up for too long. Inumaki's cursed speech was losing effect. Perhaps the curse might even be able to figure out a counter to the technique.

The curse's true objective was also a mystery. There was a chance that the other sorcerers were immobilized. Finding Todo was a priority. Hell, even Miwa would do now.

The three jumped outside, onto a roof, with Nue flying closely by. The curse followed, quickly appearing on the roof.

Megumi : Inumaki senpai will stop it. Don't be afraid.

Nue flew towards Hanami, ready to land a blow. Toge also braced for his move.

Kamo watches with distress as Hanami's hands pierced through Nue's body, sending blood splattering on the roof. Blood also emerged from Toge's mouth, his figure hunched over on the roof, coughing incessantly. He had reached his limit first.

Hanami appeared behind Kamo and landed a strong punch to his face, sending him flying. He was followed by those same wooden balls from earlier. Before their spikes could stab him, however, Megumi pulled him away.

Megumi : Kamo!! You still alive?!

The speech that was used wasn't particularly strong itself, but that didn't stop it from nearly crippling Toge. And such injuries were created by the difference between the two sets of cursed energies. That's showed just how strong this curse was.

Before Megumi could do anything, he felt a pat on his shoulder. Toge staggered forward, determined not to let his junior be endangered.

Megumi : Inumaki senpai?

Toge walked forward, briskly. Slowly. With purpose in his strides.

Toge : Blast away!!

Hanami was blasted, and flew backwards. Toge fell onto his knees, more blood oozing out of his mouth. His voice could be gone permanently, for all he knew, if he continued to push himself like this.

Of course Hanami wasn't hurt. At all. This was too weak to even faze her. Behind her, Maki had crept up with Miwa's katana in hand, and had positioned herself to deliver a blow to her head.

Hanami : §∆§§∆~'|''~• (You can't cut me with such a sword.)

Hanami blocked the sword with her hand, the katana's blade breaking off. Maki clicked her tongue in disappointment. But it gave an opening for Megumi to use his long blade and sliced off Hanami's eye branches. So that was its weak spots.

Hanami wasn't particularly worried. Her eye branches grew back almost instantly.

Hanami : >~'|>~∆∆§ (That one's blade is strong.)

Maki : I'll show you something better.

Megumi tucked the blade back into his shadow, and pulled out another weapon. It looked like three red flourescent tubes joined together by chains in between.

Maki : Although it doesn't feel quite right.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Junpei and Moon Dregs crashed onto the ground. His side was still bleeding. He looked up. He was still in the bushes, but the river was in front of him. And everyone had gathered there.

He stood up and staggered towards them. Seeing him come out of the bushes, all bloodied and bruised made everyone worried. Nobara, Nanako and Mimiko had been sitting on some rocks as chatting, but as soon as they saw him, their faces went pale and they hurried over.

Nobara : What happened to you?!

Junpei : There's no time to explain! We need to get out of here. There's an unregistered special grade cursed spirit coming this way.

Mimiko : An unregistered special grade? Are you kidding me?

Junpei : No, damn it! Just get out while you still can! Where are the others?!

Kaito : Well, I'll inform Kanzo and Fushiguro. Wherever they are.

He summoned two small fly heads and related the message to them. Eventually, they flew away to wherever their recipients were, with the warning.

Yuzuki : We can't really do anything else now. Let's get out of here fast. Which way to the exit?

Momo : I don't know. Which way, Tokyo students?

Nanako : Should be towards north. But the curtain complicates things.

Before long, Sosuke Kanzo and Tsumiki Fushiguro emerged from different directions. They were frantic upon hearing the news. Tsumiki's eyes widened in horror, looking at Junpei's condition. He was bleeding, and a part of his intestine had become visible.

Tsumiki : Oh my God! We need to get you to Ieiri sensei right now!

Junpei : How?

Tsumiki : We'll figure something out, don't worry.

From the thicket, Sasorijin emerged, walking patiently towards all the students.

Sasorijin : Sure. Take your time. I'll simply mince you into a giant pile of meat, in the meanwhile.

Sosuke sprung into action, erecting a barrier that would protect the students until help arrived.

Sosuke : Come on, everyone. Do you expect me to hold this up by myself?

More students joined in, lending their strength to holding the barrier up. Well, two could play this game. Sasorijin would wait until the students got tired and the barrier collapsed. Then, it would slaughter them.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Cursed tools were weapons with cursed energy. Or curses. As with sorcerers, cursed tools were graded from 4 to 1 and above, based on strength and potency. Their power was directly proportional to their grade.

Maki : Handle this one carefully.

Megumi : I will.

Maki : It can fetch around 500 million.

Megumi : Wha-

They were talking about Playful Cloud, special grade cursed tool.

Maki rotated the weapon and hit Hanami with one section of the staff, sending her flying far away into the forest. That wasn't a bad hit.

Megumi : Divine Dog - Totality.

The shikigamis of Megumi's Ten Shadows Technique, once destroyed, cannot be summoned again. This isn't the case for shikigamis that were created by combining other shikigamis, eg. The Well's Unknown Abyss. In this case, only that instance of the shikigami is destroyed, but the constituent shikigamis remain intact. In case a base shikigami dies, however, its power is absorbed by the remaining shikigamis. This is why, Divine Dog had come out as a giant, black and white wolf, much stronger than either Shiro or Kuro could be.

The wolf charged at Hanami, landing several scratches on her torso, and eating away at her arm. Hanami felt Maki's presence in the woods.

Surely enough, Maki landed a blow on Hanami from behind, but she had Megumi's sword. Megumi emerged from behind, landing two critical blows using Playful Cloud, sending Hanami flying. She fell at the river, just a little bit away from where Sasorijin was furiously attacking the barrier created by the students.

Sasorijin : What's the deal with you? Beaten up by some kids?

Hanami :~'§∆∆~ (Shut up.)

The Zenin cousins landed on the spot, quickly switching weapons. Megumi slashed through Hanami's torso, while Maki landed another strike on her. Her eye branches were cut off, and she grunted from the pain.

Megumi : Never make me use a three section staff again.

Maki : Once you get used to it, it's - Megumi!!

Blood came out of his mouth. A bud was growing from his stomach. Maki felt a sharp wooden growth pierce her through the arm.

Megumi : Maki!!

Damn it. Had Megumi messed up? Totality appeared at the side, but it sunk back into the shadows. Megumi had dispeled the technique.

Hanami : ~'§∆''>§∆<§∆~'|•''∆'|§•√•'§'∆§§|§§'∆'∆~°^∆'∆\\∆~∆'✓∆~§|÷|×'§∆∆'§'§|ו§•∆'∆~§||§|§|∆∆'∆~°^°^§'∆∆•§•×•∆'∆×|∆'∆~×|§|∆'∆~§∆''§'×'∆∆§§'*#*/!?//## (It's futile. That bud grows the more you use cursed energy. You're finished already. )

Megumi : Thanks for explaining, bitch. You were planning on killing me anyway, weren't you?

Hanami : |∆'∆~§||∆∆'§|•§√§•∆'~∆'}|§•§ (I heard explaining them made them more effective.)

From the back, Sasorijin cackled. Jujutsu sorcerers were interesting and emotional. Whenever one of them was hurt, others would leave themselves wide open. Well, he wouldn't hamper Hanami's playtime.

Maki wasted no time, springing into combat, swinging Playful Cloud to push Hanami away. She landed another hit on Hanami's abdomen, even if her moves weren't as sharp as before. Hanami easily wrapped a branch around, Maki's arm and neck, restraining her movement and raising her off the ground.

The situation looked bleak. Junpei was in the barrier with everyone else, and he would die if not treated timely. The others were also trapped. Maki was in the hands of the curse. Kamo and Inumaki were still wherever they had been. He himself was having his cursed energy sucked out by a bud. Megumi felt responsible for everything. He had to use everything he had, even if it killed him to do so. He had the least burden, so it would be inexcusable for him to back down first. He honed his hands, ready for a desperate last gamble to assert his idea.

Maki : That's enough, Megumi. Our job is done. Time to pass on the baton.

As if on cue, Yuji and Todo dropped from the air, splashing water all around.

Todo : You good, Yuji, my friend?

Yuji : Yes! Ready and pumping!

On the other end, Kazuma and Natsumi dropped onto the area, surrounding Hyōketsu from both sides.

Kazuma : Well well, look at that. A special grade.

Natsumi : Time for some hunting.

Chapter Text

Todo : You good, Yuji, my friend?

Yuji : Yeah!

Megumi : Wait, Itadori, that's not the type of enemy you wanna go up against!

Megumi coughed violently, blood coming out of his mouth again.

Kazuma : Open.

A giant giftbox appeared on the scene, unraveling itself to reveal a giant jeep. It was big enough to fit all students in it.

Kazuma : Panda.

Panda came running towards the scene. Where had he been until now?

Todo : Take them all and get out of here. We need this area empty.

Panda : Got it.

Sosuke finally let go of the barrier, letting it drop. Help had arrived, the fourth years were more than capable of holding back a special grade. After all, they themselves were grade 1 sorcerers.

Panda and Tsumiki helped all the students onto the jeep, letting them all board it.

Mai : Wait! What about Mechamaru?! Or Kamo senpai?

Panda : They'll be fine. The teachers are getting to their locations.

Maki : Does the curtain somehow curtail our movement?

Panda : No, all of us have free access. In exchange for Gojo being unable to enter. Now, quick!

All students had boarded the jeep. Panda walked towards Megumi, who was still crouched over the river.

Megumi : Itadori, you-

Yuji : Fushiguro. Please.

He was reminded of that moment. When Yuji had asked him to go. At the Eishu Detention Center. But this was different. Yuji was much stronger. Megumi grit his teeth as Panda picked him up.

Todo : You can see it too, can't you? He's beginning to spread his wings. From here, where he stands now, he must find his own way.

Megumi : I'll kill you if you die.

Panda : All right. Let's go.

Yuji : Guess I can't die now.

The students were gone. Panda drove the jeep away, leaving the six combatants alone.

Kazuma : Open.

Another giftbox appeared in the sky. From there, emerged two sets of arm attachments, that had mini hydraulic presses attached to the ends. These attachments wound around Kazuma's arms, preparing him for combat. Natsumi changed her arms into sledgehammers.

Natsumi : 1 or 2?

Kazuma : 2.

That was their code. 1 meant the right side, whereas 2 meant left.

Kazuma moved to the left of Sasorijin, aiming for a straight right hook to his head with his hydraulic presses. Sasorijin moved out of the way, and was met with a strike from Natsumi's sledgehammers. Kazuma landed a hit on Sasorijin's stomach, sending him flying backwards.

Sasorijin landed on his feet, and quickly moved to the offensive. He blitzed Kazuma and landed a jab at his stomach using his pincers. It didn't hurt much, just stung a bit, for Kazuma had shielded himself with his cursed energy. He landed a kick to the curse's side, then a strike, that should have been a palm strike, but Kazuma had hydraulic presses instead. So, the move ended up tearing off Sasorijin's epidermal layer, exposing his insides.

Sasorijin quickly landed a pincer strike on Kazuma's right shoulder, drawing a trickle of blood. Natsumi moved in, landing a strong hit down on Sasorijin's cranium. He spun and tried to land a hit on her, but she evaded his attack.

Todo : My friend. I will not help you until you land a Black Flash on that curse. Got it?

Yuji : Got it.

An intriguing situation. Sasorijin was busy over there, with those two. They were undeniably strong. Over here, Hanami faced Sukuna's vessel, and this guy who had a great aura about him. However, looking at his overall cursed energy level, he was weaker than her. Maybe he had a powerful cursed technique? Either way, she couldn't afford to make careless moves. Plus, there was this mysterious Black Flash.

Hanami : ק§§×'|•'∆ (So, what's your move, Sukuna's vessel?

Yuji : So you can talk. I have a question. Do you know a human like cursed spirit with a patched face? I believe his name was Mahito, am I right?

Hanami : ~'||~||§∆§§•|'>(And what if I do?)

Yuji : Then I'll mark your grave in these waters.

Yuji landed a cursed energy enhanced punch on the riverbed, sending a wave of water flying around and blocking him from her sight. From the  wave, he threw two giant rock debris towards her. The debris collided with the wrapping around her left arm and bounced off, leaving no significant damage. But they acted as distractions for Yuji to close the distance.

Before Hanami could fully turn around, Yuji jumped off the ground, and landed a kick on the side of her abdomen, followed by one on the side of her torso, and finally one on her face. He was clearly more agile than Maki. Yuji dropped to the ground, charged up his fist, and swung a punch at Hanami, sending her hurling backwards. Then, he loaded his fist with cursed energy, and proceeded for a Black Flash. But just then, the injured faces of Megumi and Junpei flashed in his mind, and he lost focus. He knew he had compromised his position, and was vulnerable to an attack. Todo noticed it too. Immediately, Yuji withdrew from there, hopping away from there.

Todo : Itadori, my friend.

SLAP! A sharp and precise one across his face. His face stung, but the sensation in his mind was more important. Yuji rubbed the area where Todo had slapped him, and it was still clearly sensitive.

Todo : Anger is a valuable trigger for a jujutsu sorcerer. There have been instances whereby people have been humiliated because they provoked an opponent. But the opposite is true as well. Mishandling cursed energy due to anger is wasteful and results in defeat. Fushiguro was hurt. Our bonding time was interrupted. I get why anyone would lose their cool. But that anger is not for you. So, suppress it for now.

SLAP! Another one. But this one was mostly recreational. Hanami couldn't understand. Was this a falling out between the two?

Todo : Any more distractions?

Yuji : Nope.

Todo : Good. Keep it in mind.

Yuji : I will. Thank you, Todo, my best friend!

Black Flash. A tricky topic. When cursed energy is applied within 0.000001 seconds of a physical hit, a distortion in space is born. This creates an impact that is equal to the normal hit raised to the power of 2.5. Not a single sorcerer could use it at will. However, for those sorcerers who have hit a Black Flash, such as Gojo, Nanami, Ino, or Utahime, and those who haven't, their understanding of cursed energy was vastly different.

Yuji was concentrating right now. So much so that he began to drool from his mouth. Hanami was amazed. Humans were an interesting subject for study. As for Yuji, the rest of the world faded away, only his target was remaining in his perception.

When cursed energy is applied within 0.000001 seconds of a hit, space is distorted and curses energy flashes black. That phenomenon is called a Black Flash.

Yuji's fist finally connected with Hanami, as he landed his first ever Black Flash. His cursed energy flashed black, sending Hanami flying backwards, and breaking off her entire right forearm.

Todo : There it is.

Yuji looked at his own hands in amazement. That was a Black Flash? From his own cursed energy?

Todo : That was a sample of your cursed energy. Until now, it was as if you had simply been putting ingredients in the pot without knowing and cooking haphazard dishes. But now, you have the recipe, cursed energy, at at your disposal. Now, you can make the most delectable delicacies to your heart content. Congratulations, brother. You will be strong.

Hanami had been told that Sukuna's vessel was an experienced jujutsu sorcerer. And there was this mysterious man. There was something different in them compared to the rest. She quickly regrew her arm, it was important for her to be at her best for these two.

Yuji : Huh? It healed itself?

Todo : Yes. Curses are beings made of cursed energy. So they can easily regrow their body and heal by simple cursed energy, unlike us humans who have to use reverse cursed technique. But its cursed energy has weakened. If we can get its head, game over. So what do you say, best friend? Shall we get cooking?

Hanami : §~§§'∆|∆|'~§'§| (For you, I will have to try harder.)

The wrapping around her left arm came off, revealing a much stronger arm in dark brown shade, and a giant rose plant atop her shoulder.

A ginormous wave of wood tried to envelop Yuji and Todo, prompting them to jump and ride it to a height. They were now near the buildings in Tokyo High, over 100 metres away.

Yuji : Whoa, that's a huge attack!

Todo : Don't worry. Such attacks sacrifice speed and efficiency for range.

Seeing Hanami, Sasorijin decided that he was done holding back. He wanted to have fun too. He, too, summoned a giant wave of scorpions.

Natsumi : Behind me!

Kazuma immediately his behind Natsumi, who turned towards him and turned her back into a giant boulder to deflect the onslaught.

Kazuma : Open.

Another giftbox. From there, a large radioactive laser gun. Kazuma aimed the laser at the ground, ready to incinerate the scorpions. Natsumi changed her feet into a spinning appendage and began to rotate at high speeds, drilling herself into the ground. No problem, Kazuma would pull her out. Said guy was currently using the radioactive laser gun to destroy the scorpions. And some beams were even hitting Sasorijin, burning parts of him away.

Once all the scorpions were gone, Kazuma pulled Natsumi out of the ground. Sasorijin immediately got into action, trying to land a roundhouse kick to Kazuma's side. Natsumi moved in, intercepting the same, and landing a cursed energy enhanced punch of her own.

Sasorijin : Ghost Pincer.

He snapped his pincer in air. The damage was transferred to Kazuma's side, drawing blood. Natsumi, distracted, tried to help him and ended up with a strong right hook to her cheek. Kazuma landed another punch on Sasorijin's stomach, pushing him away.

As Yuji and Todo watched around, Hanami emerged from under the branches. She launched small buds at them, which were easily dodged. The two landed heavy punches on Hanami's torso. Not as heavy as the Black Flash from earlier, however the individual punches were strong enough to hurt her.

Yuji : Todo, let's synchronise better.

Todo : Roger that.

But then, the entire structure of wood vanished from beneath their feet. Their footing was gone. They had underestimated it, and had assumed that the curse was manipulating actual branches using its cursed energy. However, it was simply using its cursed energy to provide a physical basis to illusions. That was a special grade.

Hanami conjured one of her wooden orbs, ready to strike her airborne opponents. Attacking while still in the air? That was unfair.

Todo : Brother!!

The two used each other's feet as support to launch towards opposing directions, avoiding the orb. Yuji condensed his cursed energy into a hammer and struck Hanami downwards, with all his might. As she fell, she grappled with an important question. They had dodged her attack, nevertheless. But what was this feeling?

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback)

Mahito : You should be truer to yourself, Hanami.

Hanami : |§'§∆~§'§•∆|•§§√§∆•∆|∆'§ (I'm not trying to be anything else.)

Mahito : I'm not saying that you're lying. I know why you fight. But as long as we're at that, why not enjoy it?

Hanami : §|'∆∆~∆||§|∆∆|∆'~∆ (Is it fun for you, Mahito?)

Mahito : Yeah. But the pleasure and motivation of fighting didn't grip me until recently. Before I knew it, all the deceit and killing had left me satiated. Just like humans, curses have instincts too. But just because we can reason doesn't mean that we should abandon our instincts. Spirit is a balance of impulse and reason. And no one gets to dictate that to us. Your spirit feels constrained, Hanami. I feel like you're much stronger.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present).

Sasorijin shot a beam of cursed energy at Natsumi, who turned her palm into a mirror to deflect it. Taking the chance, Kazuma swung another punch at him. Sasorijin dodged it and moved away.

Kazuma : Open.

Another giftbox appeared. And from there, a large hand cannon. That Kazuma had named Big Trunk. Capable of shooting cursed energy. He aimed the cannon at Sasorijin.

Natsumi moved in, intercepting his movement and landing a right hook. Sasorijin retaliated with a Ghost Pincer to her shoulder and launching poison from his tail, which burned away at her skin. But Natsumi moved on. She landed another punch on his face. Not allowing him one moment's worth of respite.

Kazuma had charged up Big Trunk to 95%. He fired. A large beam of cursed energy engulfed the area, shooting Sasorijin point blank, as sending him flying across the landscape, through trees, and into a boulder far away. Natsumi had escaped the cannon's range in the meantime.

As Yuji and Todo approached, Hanami conjured a field of flowers around them. From below them, large wood formations emerged, clearly meant to work as makeshift stakes and impale them both. Yes. Right now, she was having fun.

Todo : Are you all right, brother?

Yuji : I'm fine.

Todo : Good good. Well then, get ready. I'm about to release my technique.

Chapter Text

(Flashback)

As a third grader, Todo had beaten up and older guy with a bad attitude. Even if he was older, a bad attitude was a bad attitude. And Todo couldn't tolerate bad attitude. So, he beat him up.

But, beating up a boring guy was, as expected, boring. He sighed. Not much amused him in the world, nowadays.

He noticed someone waving at him from across the river. A tall motorist woman. Blonde. With a weird thing floating around her.

Yuki : Way to go, kiddo! What is your type in women?!

Todo was intrigued. Perhaps he wouldn't be bored for long.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Present)

Sasorijin shot a beam of cursed energy at Kazuma, who blocked it with a shield he had conjured. Natsumi charged at him, with a shard from her cursed energy in hand, and stabbed him in the head. He conjured some poison and shot it at her, with Kazuma taking the hit upon himself, resulting in second degree burns on his back, besides the damage to his shirt. Nevertheless, they charged at him again, ready to fight for their school and juniors.

Todo : I'm about to release my technique.

Yuji : Didn't you use it earlier?

Todo : There's no time for details! Just don't stop and believe in me!

Yuji : Got it!

Todo had to analyse their opponent first. There were roots that emerged from the ground. When their numbers decreased, an exchange took place for speed and power. Wooden balls, from which one or two branches emerge and stab, before disintegrating. Careful about the time lag. Cursed bud. Derives sustenance from cursed energy of host. Likely what hit Fushiguro. Flower field. Makesone lose their will to fight. And the exposed left arm. But then again, they could all just be bluffs.

It was just a matter of not letting it use its technique. As his bran CPU of 530000 IQ dictated, the most likely result for them would be victory. Because he wasn't alone. He had his brother by his side.

Just then, a wooden vine grabbed Todo's leg, having sneaked up on him from underground.

Todo : Oops.

It flung him around wildly, before throwing him far away. Hanami took advantage and charged at Yuji, who blocked with his cursed energy. Then, he coated his fist with cursed energy and landed a punch on her face. The wooden spikes were ready behind him. Hanami pushed him towards them with a strong punch to his face.

Hanami : ~'∆'§ (One down.)

Just then a clap was heard. A second later, Hanami was impaled by her own makeshift stakes, her blood splattering around the area. A simple but troublesome technique.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Kazuma : Open.

Another giftbox. From there, emerged a suit. Well, a quasi-suit. Two large gauntlets, with tubes extending to a large container on his back. As Sasorijin's poison arrows flew towards them, Kazuma held out his hands, which activated suction cups. These suction cups pulled the poison in, and sent it to the container where it would decay into cursed energy for him to use.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Todo : That's right. Boogie Woogie. My technique allows me to switch places with anything else that has cursed energy above the Shonjin threshold.

Yuji : What's that?

Todo : The threshold above which applicants can identify as 'sensitive to jujutsu'. It is 80 for humans. Basically the threshold that separates grade 4 and windows from non sorcerers.

Yuji : I see.

Todo : Let's finish this before it gets used to my technique. By the way, clapping my hands is the trigger.

The two charged towards Hanami, Todo clapping his hands again and again and changing positions with Yuji, in order to demonstrate his technique.

The two surrounded her and kept on landing hits on her. And whenever she tried to retaliate, Todo would switch places, stopping her while facilitating himself and Yuji.  One punch. Followed by a clap. Then another punch. Then another punch. It was maddening. Hanami couldn't escape this conundrum, no matter how much she tried to. At all moments, that damn clap replayed in her mind.

All this while, Yuji had been concentrating again, ready for another Black Flash. Hanami braced for impact.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

As was once told by Kento Nanami, the record holder for the most Black Flashes in an interview by Ino.

Nanami : Using Black Flash consecutively isn't amazing. Using it more than twice, it would become more difficult to use consecutively or on the same day.

Nanami (cotd.) : And it doesn't matter if the first one was a demonstration of one's skill or a happy stroke of luck. Consecutive Black Flashes allow jujutsu sorcerers to enter a zone, similar to what athletes experience. The experience of manipulation of cursed energy becomes second nature, like breathing.

Nanami (cotd.) : How do I put it? It's like you're the centre of everything, as if everything else revolves around you. My record? Four. I was lucky.

Ino was, as expected, thrilled to be conducting this interview. He listened enthusiastically, a complete opposite of Nanami, who was stoic, calm and composed.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Yuji landed another Black Flash on Hanami. Todo looked at him, proudly. He always had this feeling about Yuji, the feeling of a proud mentor.

Yuji jumped into the air and landed a kick to Hanami's head, generating another Black Flash. Then an elbow to her side, resulting in another Black Flash. Three. One more to go.

As Yuji readied himself for another punch, Hanami prepared one of her own. She couldn't get cocky, and she couldn't let him get cocky either.

Todo moved in at the same time as Yuji and Hanami, ready to strike with his technique. They were going to switch places. She had to be careful. Especially with Sukuna's vessel.

The clap sounded. Hanami turned to intercept what should have been a punch from Yuji. But why was Todo still there? They hadn't switched places?!

Todo : A clap doesn't necessarily mean I'm using my cursed technique. It's simple but effective, isn't it?

Yuji punch connected with the left side of her torso. And another Black Flash. Todo watched with glee. He was having the same feeling now as when he thought his boredom would end. He had watched Yuji match the world record of Black Flashes on the very day he had learnt of their existence.

Hanami didn't waste anytime, sending a wooden ball, that Todo immediately crushed as Yuji advanced on her position. As Yuji went for a kick, Hanami quickly escaped from he scene, landing on a root growth a bit far away from the two, leaving Todo to dea with Yuji's kick. Todo clapped to switch places with her, only to see sharp branches headed his way.

He blocked the branching growths and repelled them. Yuji and Hanami landed two punches on each other at the same time.

Hanami was getting used to Todo's technique, and was anticipating and planning her attacks in that way. However, Yuji's Black Flash barrage did damage. Together, Todo and Yuji could exorcise her. This was also the first time that Hanami had been hurt so much. Even so, the thrill of the fight remained strong.

Hanami conjured a giant fungi full of her cursed buds from before. This, she aimed at Todo and Yuji.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Kazuma landed another punch at Sasorijin, fuelled by the curse's own poison, which was decaying into cursed energy. Natsumi, who had turned her arms into rock appendages, struck another blow towards the curse's head. They had to agree, Sasorijin was annoyingly tough.

Sasorijin used his tail to swipe at the two, landing a cut on Kazuma's right shoulder. These two were begrudgingly strong, he had to admit that. He blocked another punch from Natsumi.

Sasorijin : Incubation.

He shot a cursed energy shard into Kazuma's upper arm. It embedded itself there, and eventually dissolved into his upper arm. In a second, his arm was filled with tiny scorpion eggs, all of which hatched at the same time, releasing numerous mini scorpions. This completely destroyed any skin or muscle on Kazuma's arm, leaving only the bone structure and little bits of flesh exposed.

Taking advantage of the distraction, Sasorijin decided to strike again.

Sasorijin : Poison darts.

A number of poison darts formed in the air, and charged at the two. Natsumi changed her palm into a small trampoline, sending the poison back at Sasorijin. Kazuma's suit was destroyed, and it slowly disintegrated into dust, like a curse.

Natsumi : Are you all right?

Kazuma : I'm fine. I'll be able to fight for a bit longer. Let's give it our best.

Natsumi : Well, if you say so.

Kazuma stood up, ready to fight again.

Kazuma : Open.

Another giftbox appeared. From there emerged a metal bludgeon, with spikes on the body. Kazuma and Natsumi honed themselves for combat.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

The buds flew at Todo at full speed. Todo, for his part, quickly switched the places of Yuji and Hanami. But then the buds began to be released in all directions. The buds that hit Hanami fell off into the ground. Yuji fashioned his cursed energy into small daggers, with which he sliced the buds into two. Every single one of them.

Yuji : Todo!!

Todo had no worries. He would be able to protect himself with his cursed energy.

Takada : Are you sure about that?

Todo opened his eyes. He was no longer on the battlefield. Now, he was in a classroom, and Takada was there too.

Takada : Do you remember Fushiguro's wounds?

Todo : Of course. These are the same buds as the ones that hit him.

Takada : But in his case, the buds grew a bit.

Correct. How had it grown? What had it fed on? Blood? No, given the fact that they were the result of the cursed energy of a cursed spirit, it would likely have to be cursed energy.

Within 0.1 seconds, Todo rid his body of the protective coating of cursed energy. The buds hit his body and bounced right off. He had disengaged his cursed energy at the correct moment.

Todo : I'll have to thank her at the next national fan meet and greet.

Yuji landed a kick to Hanami's shoulder. Todo followed up with one to her side.

They were back at where they had started. Where something lay in wait, sleeping for its turn.

Todo clapped again. This time, Yuji was switched for a weapon. Special grade cursed tool, Playful Cloud. Yuji found himself in the middle of the river. Todo had remembered what Megumi had told him as he was taken away.

Megumi : Maki's special grade cursed tool is in the riverbed. Use it to attack the branches in the curse's eyes. They're its weak point.

And Todo did exactly that. He gripped Playful Cloud tightly, and landed a powerful blow on Hanami's branches. Just then, a sharp wooden growth targetted his head, forcing him to suck and use Playful Cloud to block it. Even with the power of a special grade cursed tool, it wasn't enough to fully diffuse the power of the move.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Natsumi landed a critical blow on Sasorijin's neck. A weak point. This was followed by the curse using his pincers to swipe at her. Kazuma swooped in and landed a blow of the bludgeon on his abdomen, leaving several gashes.

Before Sasorijin could move, Natsumi moved in to protect Kazuma from another of Sasorijin's moves. This time, however, he had correctly deduced their movements. As Natsumi moved in to intercept a poison arrow from him, Sasorijin sped to the side, and landed a punch at Kazuma's neck.

Sasorijin : Ghost Pincer - Sixfold.

A multiplier spell. Six of these attacks landed on the two, resulting in injuries all over their bodies. All three of them were tired, but this was the best they had shown.

Kazuma : Guess, we'll have to take a risk. Plan B.

Natsumi : Got it.

Kazuma : Open.

This time Big Trunk appeared again. Kazuma held it and honed its opening at Sasorijin. Natsumi moved in, avoiding a poison dart from him and landed a punch to his guts. Then, she turned her arm into a stake and impaled Sasorijin in the abdomen. Followed by another stab at his foot. Then another at his other foot. Then one pincer. Finally, the other pincer. He was immobilized. And vulnerable to attack.

Kazuma charged Big Trunk to 100%. He was ready. The cannon fired. A giant wave of cursed energy hit the curse, Natsumi escaped quickly by turning her feet into wheels. The wave burned away at his exoskeleton, and also charring the exposed body. This was bad, it would take a long time to recover. He had to go for his last gamble.

Meanwhile, Hanami touched the ground with her left arm. Plants don't use cursed energy. Her left arm collected their life force and chanelled it into the giant rose on her left shoulder, which converted it all to cursed energy.

Todo : Stay away, brother! There will be an incredible blast of cursed energy!!

That would be futile. With Todo's technique, they'd easily avoid that. That left Hanami with only one option. The same as Sasorijin's, in fact.

Sasorijin : Domain Expan-

Hanami : Domain Ex-

The curtain came off. Everyone looked at it with wonder, amazement, curiosity and shock. This was an unexpected turn.

Yuji : The curtain?!

A figure floated in the sky. His blindfold had come off. It was, obviously, Satoru Gojo.

Chapter Text

Gakuganji struck his guitar again, sending amplified sound waves at Jūzo. Jūzo used his axe to slash away at the waves, as more came his way. He swatted all of them away, one by one.

He moved in, using his axe to swing at Gakuganji, who dodged his strike. He sent waves at Jūzo again, and the latter erected a simple barrier to fend them off. He swung again, aiming for the old man's head, but Gakuganji summoned a fly head in time to take the blow for him. He retaliated by sending out two more waves to counter an axe strike from Jūzo.

It was only now that Jūzo was realising what was going on. There was no amp. No, this old geezer himself is the amplifier, his cursed technique was responsible for amplifying the melodies he played and launching them as attacks of cursed energy. A predictable mid-range fighter who wouldn't want people closing in on him.

Jūzo : I'll make a wallet out of you. One filled with the essence of old man stink.

Utahime and some teachers had been going around checking the campus of Jujutsu High, surveying damages and looking for anyone who might have been left behind. Thankfully, most of the students had been evacuated already. So, the teachers didn't have to be extra cautious.

She felt a small spike in cursed energy. She quickly ducked to avoid a hit, and skid a few feet away.

Haruta : Aw shucks. I thought I had you there. There I go again....

A human? Medium height, with blonde hair in a ponytail. Wearing a vest whose right arm and shoulder had been sliced off. And trousers. He was skimpy. And he was holding a sword, whose hilt resembled a human hand. A disgusting, purple and maroon hand.

Haruta : It's nice, isn't it? Jūzo made it for me. I think you met him earlier. He said that I'm unreliable, so even my katana should hold my hand. So, what will you give me?

Suddenly, the curtain was gone. Daylight reached in the area again.

Haruta : Seriously? Has it even been 30 minutes? Well, I'm outta here.

He fled. Elsewhere, Jūzo got excited.

Jūzo : Hey hey hey hey. I spot a pretty good looking coat rack.

Gojo was still in the air, surveying the area. There were multiple points that he could go to. But where should he go first?

His eyes fell on the place where the special grades and the four students were. Yuji had gotten way stronger. Then again, he was with Aoi. Makes sense. The two would work well together. They should be okay even against a special grade. As for Kazuma and Natsumi, they were injured. But they were grade 1 sorcerers. They should be fine too. At least for a while more.

Gojo : In that case, let's start here.

In a moment, he was behind Jūzo. The bald man got excited and swung his axe towards him.

Jūzo : Coat rack! Coat rack!

Gojo raised his head and looked at Jūzo. What others couldn't see was how he was manipulating space.  Everyone watched as Jūzo's limbs got shredded, like grated cheese.

Gakuganji : Don't kill him!

Gojo : Right. We need this one alive for questioning.

Well, things seemed to be sorting themselves out. The guy around Iori was gone, and the only ones still present were the special grades. The students were somewhat away, so that would be helpful. But was there something he wasn't counting? Perhaps another variable? Oh well, it could be checked later.

Gojo : In that case, let's get a little crazy.

Gojo brought his hands together. He had decided to take out two birds with one stone.

Gojo : Cursed Technique Reversal - Red. Cursed Technique Lapse - Blue.

The orbs revolved around each other.

Hanami and Sasorijin knew that their time was up. Wooden growths emerged from the growths and began to move around Hanami, and a similar thing happened to Sasorijin, but with scorpions. Neither were proud enough to go up against Satoru Gojo, especially after what happened to Jogo.

Todo : Stand back! Or else you would just be collateral damage!

The anticipated attack finally came.

Gojo : Imaginary Technique - Hollow Purple.

A huge purple orb of pure imaginary mass and energy flew abound, taking out the forest on its trajectory towards the special grades. Entire trees were uprooted, burned, and simply deleted from existence. And not just trees, but the entire forest, along with the earth. A small earthquake, measuring about 3 on the Richter scale, was also occuring. The ball turned into a beam, advancing fast. Eventually, Hanami and Sasorijin were caught up in the beam, just as their cursed techniques managed to cover themselves.

Todo : As expected. He's beyond any standards.

When the wave passed, Yuji looked forward, flaggerbasted. The forest, over which the wave of energy had passed, was gone. Entirely. Everything was gone, even the air above it. It was as if someone had selected the entire area and pressed the 'delete' option. Nothing remained, save for a desolate and barren landscape. And earth, that had been split into two.

Natsumi : It's hard to even tell if they were exorcised.

Elsewhere, Gojo was relieved of the fact that everything was fine. Or at least, it was fine here. But that might not be the case somewhere else.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1330 hours

Yaga : Well, thank goodness, nothing was wrong with Tengen.

Leo : Were you expecting it?

Yaga : No, but caution is evidentiary. As we all saw today.

Leo : True. Now, we need to check the storeroom.

Yaga : Yes, let's go there.

The storeroom wasn't far from where they had been. Yaga and Leo were accompanied by a few sorcerers.

Elsewhere, Mahito exited the storeroom. His bag was full of the things that they were supposed to steal from Tokyo High.

Mahito : Mission accomplished.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Flashback)

Unknown date, Dagon's Domain, unknown time

Kaori : Jujutsu High only puts up a facade of a Buddhist temple. Thanks to Tengen's barrier, the storeroom changes location everyday. Out of about 1000 doors, only one connects to the storeroom, where Sukuna's fingers and other cursed objects are kept. And only Tengen knows which door leads to the storeroom, so there shouldn't be too many obstacles.

Jogo : Who is this Tengen anyway?

Kaori : A jujutsu sorcerer whose cursed technique is immortality.

Jogo : Immortality? Who's stronger, Gojo or Tengen?

Kaori : Immortality. Not anti-aging. Kinda like a tree. Other than barriers, Tengen doesn't interfere with the world. No need to worry. The finger we used at Junpei Yoshino's house was marked with an advanced seal that shouldn't come done from the inside. It was made with Mahito's cursed energy, so he should be able to find it easily.

Mahito : Any guards?

Kaori : Only two of Tengen's small fry guards. That's it. Though a few windows and assistant managers may also show up.

Mahito : Easy.

Kaori : But most importantly, Mahito, thin out as many sorcerers as possible in the curtain. Take pressure off Hanami and Sasorijin.

Sasorijin : You think we can't handle some smll fries?

Kaori : It is absolutely crucial for you to save as much power as you can for our big event on Halloween. I could have even sent all of you together at once at Tokyo High, but then more of you would have been exorcised. Even in case all of us went, Satoru Gojo would be enough to hold you all back. And SOS signals to other special grades, like Yuta Okkutsu and Yuki Tsukumo, wouldn't have taken give minutes to dispatch. Neither would have their arrival. So, we need to be judicious.

Hanami : §'∆'∆••∆'∆'∆|§'∆~'∆\|•\√∆ (Why don't we keep Satoru Gojo inside the domain?)

Kaori : We don't want to bring any attention to Mahito or our true objectives. We must test the curtain, for which, we'll have to try our hardest. Trapping the students is the most effective.

Sasorijin : So we can kill anyone who isn't Sukuna's vessel?

Kaori : Sure. But I wouldn't recommend it. There is something unexpected and unaligned about Sukuna. It is possible he might have a landmine among the students. If we trigger it, our plan might be over.

Jogo : Let's just kidnap Itadori and use him as a pawn.

Kaori : Now, Itadori and Sukuna are the bomb. To us and to Jujutsu High. We'll set it off when we need the most chaos. We need to prepare everything we got to seal Satoru Gojo on October 31st. We'll have a few curse users, like Jūzo Kumiya, who's disposable. He'll maintain the curtain, so try to get along.

Jogo : Well it's not like I'm a part of it.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present)

The group arrived at the storeroom. There was blood, and signs of struggle, but no corpses. At least not immediately.

Upon turning the corner, the group encountered some transfigured humans. No doubt, the curse that Nanami, Haibara and Yuji had faced, had been here. Who knows which poor souls were put in this misery by that dratted curse.

Yaga : Stand back. Save your strength. We'll need it in case he's still around. I'll put these guys out of their agony.

Yaga set down the bag on his back onto he ground and opened it. Three cursed corpses emerged from inside. Yaga silently did the incantation to invite the connection and brought them to life, all while maintaining a steady flow of cursed energy from himself to these three.

The transfigured humans advanced towards the group, as the cursed corpses did. The two clashed, the cursed corpses jumped onto the heads and shoulders of the transfigured humans. They bit at them, they clawed at them, and finally they tore them apart. Pretty easy for Yaga, since the transfigured humans didn't provide much resistance to dying. Yaga had single handedly taken down almost 6 or 7 transfigured humans.

But the situation has gone too awry. Not good at all. At least the dangers had been controlled for now. But what was the extent of the damages?

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Undisclosed location, unknown time

Haruta : I ended up not doing anything. I wonder if I'll get scolded. Compared to me, though, you two worked too hard.

Hanami and Sasorijin fell onto the ground. Both were missing their left half. On top of that, Sasorijin was missing his exoskeleton. Severe damage had left them withered and exhausted.

Haruta : Poor things. Let me put you at ease.

Haruta grabbed his katana. But before he could do anything, he was stopped by Mahito.

Mahito : Good work. But learn your place, human, or I'll kill you.

Haruta : Aww come on, I'm just being compassionate. Guess curses can't grasp the sublteties of human nature. Anyways, did you get them?

Mahito : Absolutely. Special grade cursed object. Ryomen Sukuna. All eight fingers that were stored at Jujutsu High. As well as special grade cursed objects, Death Womb Paintings, numbers one through three. Now, it's up to Kaori to retrieve the finger that she was talking about.

He lifted Hanami onto his shoulder. Kegire and Reishiki picked up Sasorijin. None of them trusted Haruta enough to let him escort their injured.

Mahito : Let's go home, Hanami, Sasorijin.

Hanami : Mahito. It is so difficult to restrain your killing instinct, isn't it?

Mahito : You're speaking like a curse. That's more like it.

Chapter Text

September 20, 2018, Tokyo High, 1500 hours

Ijichi : Damage estimates reveal that about 10% of the school infrastructure was destroyed by the invasion. Casualties stand at two bodyguards, two assistant managers and three windows. No sorcerers harmed. Waiting for injury report from Ieiri.

Utahime : Should we share the information with the students?

Gakuganji : No, we must keep it a secret. Under no circumstances should we let curse users know that special grade cursed objects were stolen from right under our noses.

Gojo : What about the curse user we got?

Ijichi : He's not just stubborn. He's also blabbering incoherent nonsense.

Mei : About what?

Ijichi : Apparently he wanted to make a coat rack. And he was lured in by a monk kid with white hair, whose gender he isn't aware of.

Mei : Does that description ring any bells?

Gojo : Nope. It's just nonsense.

Utahime : But how were they able to invade Tengen's barrier anyway?

Gakuganji : Well, consider the fact that Tengen's barrier is meant to hide, not protect. That is our job. So, it's not very easy to invade. Finding it is much more difficult.

Leo : Well how did they find it then?

Ijichi : Could be that the plant based special grade was tracking through plants?

Gojo : Wouldn't make sense. Something else is going on.

Utahime : A traitor?

Gojo : Not really. Maybe a lapse?

Gakuganji : In Tengen's barrier? Unlikely. Come to think of it, where is Yaga?

Gojo : Principal Yaga and Yuji are out with the Jujutsu Kansatsuin team headed by Inspector Renzou Takashima in the forest, in order to find some clues.

Gakuganji : Oh the Kansatsuin are here already? Good good.

Leo : What about the Exchange Event? Is it over?

Gojo : I think it should be best left up to the students. Isn't it?

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Yuji brushed some leaves aside and peeked behind the bushes. Two squirrels. In a very compromising position. In a very compromising act. He quickly put the bushes back and walked away.

Since his uniform had been torn in his battle against the curse, he had been given an unusual outfit by Yaga. A black, sleeveless, leather biker jacket and jeans, boots and gloves that were missing fingers. Yuji looked like a biker, save for the fact that he actually didn't ride a bike.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback)

Yuji : Well, my uniform has been damaged.

Yaga : You don't have anything else to wear now?

Yuji : No, my other clothes are at the laundry.

Yaga : Alright. Come with me.

They entered the personal storeroom of the principal's office. Yaga had, evidently, stored some very personal and special items here.

From a drawer, he produced the outfit. A sleek, sleeveless black jacket. Dyed black denim jeans with belt. Combat boots. Fingerless gloves. A small choker with the initial S.

Yuji : Um, what the fuck?

Yaga : Language.

Yuji : Sorry. But like, what's this?

Yaga : This belonged to one of my students. His name was Suguru Geto.

Yuji : Oh. You sure you want me to have this?

Yaga : No. But I have nothing else to offer you. If you don't take this, you're free to roam around naked.

Yuji : No, I'll take it, I guess. I mean, it's the best I can afford, given the situation. It will make me look like some sort of a punk, though.

Yaga : You weren't one?

Yuji : Ouch.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Present)

Yaga : Anything over there?

Yuji : If you have a thing for watching squirrels fuck, you're most welcome to visit that bush. Other than that, nothing else.

Takashima : No unusual cursed energy trails?

Renzou Takashima. Semi grade 1 sorcerer. Captain of the Endor squad for the Jujutsu Kansatsuin.

Yuji : No. Nothing.

The area had been sealed off. The Kansatsuin team had reduced their own output of cursed energy. Currently, the immediate spots around the river, where the fights had taken place, were being photographed and recorded. Samples were being taken to analyse later. Yuji was doubtful how effective that would be.

The trio kept walking. Yuji had picked up on Mahito's residuals, and was following them. He was sure of it.

Takashima : Are we doing the correct thing by following him?

Yaga : I have full faith in him.

Eventually, they came to the edge of the forest, near the hills. There was a tunnel near the base of one of them. And it was emanating lots of residuals.

Yuji : There. That one.

Yaga : Now it makes sense. Tengen's barrier protects everything in the Earth covered by its range. But there was no mention of under the earth.

Takashima : It also seems that whoever was here clearly knew how to manipulate their cursed energy and create a seal in order to bypass Tengen's barrier.

Yuji : That would mean that this entity has a great deal of familiarity with Tengen's jujutsu. Maybe an insider?

Yaga : No. Most people these days have lost track of Tengen's jujutsu. Since the Edo era at least, we have no records.

Yuji : I see. Well, this is the most we can get from here.

Takashima : Are you sure that these are the curses you have encountered in your time here?

Yuji : Yes, the residuals are same. Though there are some extra trails, that I assume were made by curse users, since their density is a lot less.

Yaga : Excellent. We'll hand it over to the Kansatsuin now.

Takashima : Got it. I'll tell them to seal this place off. Just one last thing, where do you think it leads to?

Yuji : The other side of the hill. Based on the width, the depth and the possible shape, it shouldn't be coming from very far off.

Takashima : But how did they come there? There should be traces, right?

Yuji : You can try, but I doubt you'll find anything like that. Even if there were supposed to be traces, they will have covered their tracks. To make it seem like they appeared out of and disappeared into thin air.

Takashima : Okay. I'll take it over now. Thank you for the information.

Yaga : You're welcome. Let's go, Itadori.

Before long, the two were walking towards the school. There was commotion all around. Officers were buzzing here and there, trying to seal the area. Some were studying the cursed energy residuals. Others were calling for reinforcements. Some more were going towards where Takashima was supposed to be.

Yuji : Sensei, your technique has something to do with souls, right?

Yaga : Yes, somewhat.

Yuji : Can you teach me about souls? All that you know.

Yaga : Sure. But I'm curious about this request.

Yuji : Let's just say that it will help contain Sukuna.

Yaga : In that case, I'll be more than willing to.

Yuji : Alright. Let's sit sometime. When are you free?

Yaga : How about we start from this weekend?

Yuji : Sure.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High, Infirmary, 1600 hours

Junpei sat on the bed, looking outside. The place was serene, completely opposite of what had transpired today. Only in the morning it seems like everything was lost. Now, everything was calm again. In the bed next to him, Megumi was reading some old book.

Junpei : So, do these type of things happen frequently?

Megumi : No. It's a once in a lifetime occurence for us too.

Junpei : Huh. Are you doing better now?

Megumi : Much better. Though you were injured worse.

Junpei : I'm fine.

Megumi : And so am I.

Kamo was on a bed in the opposite row, his head completely covered in bandages, save for his eyes, nose and mouth. He was looking hilarious.

Kamo : We should be glad that no student was harmed. Has any information been released about casualties?

Megumi : No official news.

Junpei : Casualties?

Megumi : Of course. People died.

Kamo : Yes, a tragic outcome. Even though it happens to us all the time.

It wasn't long before the first year girls entered.

Nobara : Jee, why the long faces?

Nanako : This is why people don't talk to you.

Megumi : Then why are you talking to me?

Nanako : Compulsion. How are you doing?

Megumi : Better. I'll heal by today. By the next three days, everyone will.

Mimiko : Good. We've ordered pizza, so let's eat it. Where's Itadori?

Megumi : With principal Yaga.

Nobara : Since when does he involve himself in official work?

Megumi : Don't forget that he was involved in a case involving another special grade before he returned.

Nanako : Oh yeah, right. Anyways, what pizza do you want?

Nobara : The prevailing consensus is pepperoni.

Mimiko : Alright.

The infirmary was buzzing with life, with students all around. All except for Yuji.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Utahime : What's the matter, Satoru? Why did you call me here?

They were in the corridor leading to the canteen. Utahime was hungry, and not pleased with the fact that Gojo had stopped her on her way to snacks.

Gojo : Don't mention a traitor in front of Gakuganji. Or anyone else for that matter.

Utahime : Do you suspect any of them?

Gojo : Isn't that the most usual course of action? I don't want to suspect students.

Utahime : Got it. I won't mention it in front of others. I'll search for him myself.

Gojo : Thanks for understanding.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Yuji finally arrived in the infirmary, with a pizza in hand. Well, he had been handed that by Nanri, who had taken the pizza at the gate. Now, Yuji had brought it to his friends.

Nobara : Whoa! What's with that outfit?

Yuji : The only spare Principal Yaga had.

Nanako : No way! You look like a punk!

Yuji : Yeah I get that.

Mimiko : Oh, the pizza is here.

Yuji : Here you go.

He pulled a chair and sat down between Nobara and Nanako. The pizza was opened. Six slices. One for each. They took bites out of their slice, the warm food soothing their throats after a long day.

They hadn't noticed that most of the girls had been staring at Yuji, who was someone they hadn't properly seen before. And he was gorgeous. No one could deny. Specially in this outfit, he looked like the bad boy of one's dreams. But Yuji paid them no mind, prioritising time with his friends over such matters.

Megumi : Since when were you buddies with the gorilla?

Yuji : I didn't exactly say we were buddies or something. I know what you're talking about, but I wasn't myself.

Nobara : What do you mean? Were you drunk?

Yuji : You think? Anyways, were glad you two are okay.

Megumi : Thankfully I ran out of cursed energy. The roots were taken out, and Ieiri sensei was able to heal me.

Junpei : Well, my injuries were a bit more severe, but I'm stable as well, so that's a good thing, I guess.

Yuji : I guess things like this happen too.

Nanako : You fought it, right? Was it crazy strong?

Yuji : More than strong, it was crazy tough.

Most people hadn't noticed, Megumi was deep in thought. His view towards the world had once again been changed as Yuji had returned.

Megumi : Itadori. You've grown stronger. We talked about our truths. Maybe we're both right and wrong.

Nobara : There are questions that we still don't have an answer to, you know? Don't overthink it. You'll go bald.

Megumi : Yeah, there's no answer. All that matters is whether you can come to terms with them or not. And it is impossible to do that as a weak sorcerer without a sense of self. Itadori. I'll also get stronger and surpass you!

Yuji : Now that's more like it.

Nobara : Don't forget about any of us. We're all in this race.

Todo : As expected of my brother's friends.

What? Everyone's heads whipped towards the new entree. When had this guy joined their place? Al while Todo was nodding affirmatively about their conversation.

Yuji wasted no time in sprinting the distance towards the window and jumping out of it.

Todo : Come back, brother!!

Yuji : Thank you for everything!!! But I wasn't myself!!

Todo : What're you talking about?! You've been like that since junior high?!!

Yuji : I didn't go to junior high with you!!! Ever!!!!

Chapter Text

Gojo : So a lot happened and some people died. Do you guys still want to continue with the Event?

The girls were looking admiringly at the man who had decided to grace them with his presence in the infirmary. So were the guys. His own students weren't bothered and were wondering when their next pizzas would arrive. And Shoko was cautious. If he knocked anything over, she would chase him out of her infirmary. Meanwhile, Yuji and Todo had returned to the infirmary, both tired after having completed three laps around the school.

Todo : Obviously. For three important reasons.

Gojo : Go on.

Todo : First, mourning should be reserved for those who have lost their near ones. If we barge in, it would appear disrespectful to them. Second, if there were fatalities, the only thing expected of us is to get stronger. Strength exists as a result of accumulation of results. The experience of defeat or the sweet taste of victory, all of it exists as a result of that strength. Results are important because they exist. Third, the unsettling feeling of unfinished business will stick with us till the day we die.

Gojo : How old are you again?

Miwa : Todo senpai actually seems reliable.

Mai : Yup. Reliably crazy.

Silence fell upon the room. The students were deep in thought, weighing their options. Gojo waited patiently for the students to conclude.

Sosuke : I don't mind if it goes on.

Megumi : Yeah, me neither.

Nobara : We'll win.

Kamo : He's crazy, but he has a point.

Nishimiya : Why don't you rest, Kamo?

Yuzuki : I agree. The Event should go on.

Panda : No objections.

Opiyo : None here.

A chorus of agreement rang out through the room.

Maki : So, the individual pairings are random, right?

Gojo : What? That ain't happening. I don't like routines. Yuji, come here please.

Yuji came forward. He had a feeling that Gojo was trying to put him in the spotlight. And creating another persona for the girls to chase, so as to soothe his wife's apprehensions. Well, it was fine. He took a box that Gojo handed to him and looked it over.

Gojo : Every year we put recommendations in this box and pick them out on the day of the Event.

Yuji dipped his hand into the box, and pulled out a chit. He put the box down on a chair.

Yuji : Formula race?

Gakuganji : Formula race?

Yaga : Formula race?

Huh? When had these two arrived?

Gakuganji : What is the meaning of this?

Yaga : No, I am pretty sure I.... Satoru, come back here!!!

And of course, he was gone. Details could be sorted out later. Immediate avoidance was the priority.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo High, Common Lounge, 2000 hours

Maki : What the hell? Formula race?

Natsumi : Like the Grand Prix? Cool! When? Where? How?

Yuji : None of that is decided yet. Gojo sensei and Yaga sensei are meeting for that very purpose.

Kazuma : More like Yaga sensei chiding the hell out of Gojo sensei while secretly agreeing with him. What a tsundere.

Yuji : Um, what?

Kazuma : Nothing. Why are you still in those biker clothes?

Yuji : Oh I went to return them but Yaga sensei said that they suit me and that I can have them.

Panda : All you need now is a bike. And a helmet.

Yuji : I'm only 15.

Panda : No problem. Jujutsu High students are granted with provisional licenses even below 18 in case of missions. You can very well drive a car or ride a bike.

Yuji : How do you apply for it?

Panda : Just a few documents. Nothing too difficult or substantial.

Megumi : Are you thinking of riding a bike?

Yuji : Maybe.

Mimiko : Are you seriously trying to build an image of an edgy punk overlord, who is 'seriously done with teenage drama and wants to work on himself' or some shit?

Yuji : No. It just seems cool.

Maki : Coming back to the previous discussion, who will go for the race? Because I'm bad at driving. I can't hold my patience for that long.

Yuji : It won't be a traffic jam.

Maki : Even so.

Tsumiki : Whosoever can hold their calm he best will go. Unless races are held in rounds.

Nobara : How would that play out?

Yuji : Perhaps two people racing against each other.

Yuji's phone buzzed. He took it out and looked at it. Gojo's message.

Yuji : Gojo sensei has asked us to nominate someone who will represent our school. So my hypothesis is coming true.

Junpei : How come you always form hyptheses without us getting to know about them?

Yuji : I didn't tell you guys?

Nanako : No.

Yuji : So basically, they want one student to represent each school. Eight students in total. Two students will compete in a race. The winner qualifies for the next round. That's it.

Megumi : Has he confirmed it?

Yuji : Not yet. But based on the trajectory we're headed, that seems to be the most likely outcome.

Kazuma : When will he confirm?

Panda : Tomorrow. Let's wait and watch.

Yuji : Yeah.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

September 21, 2018, Tokyo Jujutsu High, Grand Auditorium, Administrative Section, 0930 hours

The students had all gathered and sat down in their places. Yuji took his seat. Thankfully, his uniform had been repaired and made anew for him to wear today. Everyone watched with rapt attention as the principals of the schools came upon the stage.

Yaga : So, as you all know, we will be holding the Jujutsu High Grand Prix from tomorrow onwards. The details will be discussed now. First, the race itself will be held on the training grounds of the Jujutsu Kansatsuin, that they have lent to us for the purpose of this event. The cars have all been brought in, and the uniforms are ready. That is the second matter, all schools must elect three representatives. Three students who will represent the school in the race. I hand the mic to Principal Leo Sato, for further clarification.

Yaga moved away from the podium to give space to Leo, who thanked him silently but courteously. He walked back to his seat as Leo checked the mic.

Leo : Alright, so here are some rules for the event. First, there will be a preliminary round. In this round, eight races will be held. Each school will be paired up with another one. Then, the semi finals, between four schools. The two winning teams will herald on to the finals. You know that already. Now, some internal rules of the races, which are as follows :-

1. Driving in a way to push opponents off track is forbidden and results in disqualification of the school and personal blacklisting of the student involved for future Exchange Events.

2. Abnormal changes of direction or crowding cars off track are forbidden and will also result in strict disciplinary action by corresponding school authorities.

3. A speed limit of 65 km/h will be enforced when approaching the finishing line or when completing a lap. If this is not adhered to, the driver will be forbidden from driving beyond a certain speed limit for a limited amount of time. This rule will not apply in the final.

4. The driver who finishes the fastest lap will be awarded an extra point.

5. No sledging or slandering of opponents. Complaints will be investigated, and if found true, will invite strict disciplinary action.

6. Each representative will represent the school in one round. No representative will be repeated twice consecutively.

7. Due to a shortage of participants, Odoul team and Nevada High have been merged and recognised as one sovereign team, namely, Team 8.

Leo (cotd) : That's it from my side. I hand the mic over to Principal Gakuganji.

Leo slowly backed away from the podium, moving towards his seat. Gakuganji got up from his seat and walked towards the podium. He checked the mic before speaking.

Gakuganji : Just a minor addition, the in-match enforcement will be ensured by assistant managers and constables. So please co-operate with them. That is all. Thank you, you may now disperse.

There was a stir among students. Everyone was getting up and walking out of the auditorium. This was exciting, everyone wanted to see where this would lead.

Yuji walked out of the auditorium and was met with Gojo, who had been waiting for him.

Gojo : How was the idea?

Yuji : It was fine. I have something else to ask. When are you free? I want to apply for a provisional sorcerer license.

Gojo : A provisional license? Lemme look into it.

Yuji : Alright.

Gojo : I'm kinda curious as to why you would want a provisional license.

Yuji : Let's just say that Yaga sensei has kind of introduced me to bikes. With that outfit yesterday.

Gojo : Why? Anybody said anything?

Yuji : Everyone was saying I looked like a biker.

Gojo : Well, you have a general ambience like that. But sure, I'll get you a provisional license. It's good to acquire skills. You'll have to give driving tests, though.

Yuji : That's fine.

Gojo : Alright then. Consider it done.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo High, Common Student Lounge, 1015 hours

The day had been declared as off for students so as to plan out for the race. The Tokyo students had gathered in the lounge.

Tsumiki : So, have we decided on whom to send?

Maki : Not really. Come on guys, give us suggestions.

Panda : Tsumiki? Do you want to go?

Tsumiki : Oh no, I'm fine right here. High speeds make me dizzy. How about Inumaki?

Toge : Okaka.

Panda : Maki?

Maki : I'll get charged with sledging.

Panda : I won't even fit in the cars. So no second years. Let's see from the first years. Mimiko?

Mimiko : No, my heart condition might get aggravated.

Yuji : You have a heart condition?

Mimiko : Yeah, my adrenal glands are very sensitive. A little exhortion and they can secrete too much. Combined with a weak heart, it's a recipe for fatal disaster.

Yuji : Oh I'm sorry to hear that. Take care.

Mimiko : I do.

Panda : Nanako?

Nanako : You want sledging allegations?

Panda : I guess Kugisaki would have the same thing to say?

Nobara : Yeah.

Panda : Megumi?

Megumi : I mean, sure, I could go.

Panda : Finally, one candidate. Who else? Yoshino?

Junpei : Um, sure.

Panda : It will be fine. You'll be perfectly safe. Gojo wouldn't have suggested this if he wasn't sure in himself. Be more confident. Itadori, you'll have to be the last candidate.

Yuji : Alright. I'll be the last candidate then.

Maki : There's no training for it, is there?

Yuji : Not really. Just stay at the top of your fitness game. That's all we can afford to do.

Maki : Alright.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo High Administrative Section, Teacher's Staff Room, 1100 hours

Yuji : So, why did you call me here?

Gojo : A little bit of a discussion. How are you doing?

Yuji : I'm fine. Why?

Gojo : Yuji, I have two things to tell you. No, three things, I guess. First, regarding your investigation of the Kanagawa killings. I have received the reports from Nanami and Haibara. I need a report with your version of the events. The High Society needs it for corroborative verification. Give it to me by tomorrow, or Sunday, if possible.

Yuji : Alright.

Gojo : Second, your notebook submissions are irregular. I still haven't received your notebook. And Ijichi has asked me to remind you to submit the economics and maths notebooks too.

Yuji : Oh right. I'll give them soon.

Gojo : How's the history timeline chart coming along?

Yuji : Almost done. I'll give it on Monday, you can tell Nanri sensei.

Gojo : Alright. That assurance was what I needed. Now, third. I'll need your birth certificate, some academic document, and your student ID card for the registration form of the provisional license.

Yuji : When do you want them?

Gojo : Tomorrow? Yeah, tomorrow will be fine. You have them, right?

Yuji : Yeah, I do. I'll give them tomorrow.

Gojo : Alright. Now, a personal request. Though it's to all of your fellow first years, not just you.

Yuji : What?

Gojo : So, both me and Iori are going out this weekend for a short getaway, and we need someone to watch over Satoshi. Do you think you can do it?

Yuji : Haven't I already?

Gojo : Thanks. I'm relieved.

Yuji : Not at all. Please, ask away.

Gojo : You just want an excuse to steal my boy, don't you?

Yuji : Does it seem so?

Gojo : Nah, I'm just kidding. Alright, run along. I'll see you later.

Yuji : Alright. See ya.

Yuji got up and walked out of the staff room, leaving Gojo buried under paperwork. Kusakabe sat down at the other table with a coffee in hand, and paperwork till his head. Damn legal compliance.

Chapter Text

September 22, 2018, Training Grounds, Jujutsu Kansatsuin Headquarters, Tokyo, 0840 hours

Yuji : Sensei?

Yaga turned around. He was busy, but he always listened to what his students had to say.

Yuji : Will next weekend be okay for you?

Yaga : How about a weekend after the Event?

Yuji : Goes with me.

Yaga : Alright then.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

0853 hours

Yuji took a spot on the bleachers. They were full. He was beside Nobara. Hundreds of people had turned up to see the races, including students, teachers, constables, inspectors and legal advisors.

Nobara : Where have you been until now?

Yuji : Just sorting some things out with Yaga sensei.

Nobara : Anything to worry about?

Yuji : Nah.

The race was beginning. Apparently, the Kansatsuin had shed tears and sweat to build the entire thing in a week. Not only that, Gojo had already been planning for this for almost a fortnight. He had only informed it to others on the day of the group event. The cars had been bought a little over a week ago, imported from the best manufacturers in the world. A giant screen had been put up on one side to show the racers when they were far from the bleachers.

Some additional rules had been out into place. Each day, two races would be held. Pit stops weren't needed. The speed limit for the rest of the track was between 80 and 100 km/h, except for a 100 metre long stretch, with the finish line at its mid point, where the limit was 65km/h. The entire track covered a distance of almost 6 kilometres. Two schools would compete in each race. And players were to complete 4 laps of the track. Whoever did it the fastest won the race. Mechamaru had been removed from the competition, owing to the fact that the cars could get unknowingly compromised. In case a racer received penalties, their car would stop on its own due to a Binding Vow.

The first race was between Tokyo and Kyoto High, represented by Megumi Fushiguro and Noritoshi Kamo, respectively. They were standing by their cars, in their uniforms. Tokyo had gone with a sleek, blue jumpsuit, Kyoto with red, Hokkaido with yellow, Odoul and Nevada with orange, Hida with purple, Kitakami with magenta, Osaka with green and Himalayan team went with brown.

Kamo : The offer of camaraderie is still open.

Megumi : And still rejected.

Kamo : One day, when you'll be the head of the Zenin clan, you'll realise the importance of my help.

Megumi : Not happening.

Referee : Ready!!

The two sat in their cars and put on their helmets. The visor was their only source of vision. But it was clear. Neither would lose to the other.

Referee : Set!!!

The engines blared to life. The red flag went up. It was time to race. Everyone held their breath.

Referee : Go!!!!!

Exactly 0900 hours. The red flag went down, making way for waving the green flag, signalling the start of the race. The cars sped along. They started off at 65 km/h. The wind fluttered by, but they didn't pay attention to the world around them.

Once they were out of the Slow Zone, as it had been nicknamed, they sped up even further. Before long, both of their cars were at 80 km/h. The screen was clearly showing them drive forward. No one paid any attention to the crows that were flying above, allowing Mei Mei to do her job with ease.

Upon the first turn, Megumi swerved right, cutting off Kamo's car, and swiftly moving along the track. The audience cheered. Even if the racers were amateurs, they were doing good. Kamo sped along, overtaking Megumi for a brief moment and eliciting more cheers, before being put on the backfoot again.

At the second right turn, Megumi put on the handbrake, put the gear into the fifth, and swerved right. The resultant Tokyo drift turned his car towards the track. He immediately fired up the engine and sped along, having fallen behind Kamo while doing the trick.

Nobara : Why doesn't he just drive instead of doing tricks? It's not even his strong suit.

Yuji : Would you guys complain of a boring race if he did that?

Nobara introspected. Yuji was right. Thrill was a sizable aspect of a teenager's interest.

Kamo slowed down his car to 65 km/h upon entering the Slow Zone, and completed his first lap. Megumi followed soon after, completing his own first lap only 3 seconds after Kamo. Before long, the two were out of the Slow Zone, once again, speeding away into the distance.

Megumi swerved around Kamo, and overtook him. Then, he sped along, taking another right turn. He wouldn't let Tokyo lose so soon. Kamo kept up a brave pursui, determined not to let Tokyo have the win.

The next turn was approaching. Kamo drifted around Megumi in order to get ahead, but Megumi hit back, metaphorically, by drifting with him, spinning around and landing out ahead. And this time with a more significant lead, in fact. Even with a turn, he managed to maintain the status quo. Loud cheers erupted from the audience.

Megumi sped up to 93 km/h, leaving Kamo behind. He was taking the risk of injury. Kamo didn't waste time, immediately speeding up as well. To 90 km/h. He was a bit more cautious.

The third turn came, and Megumi maintained his lead. Very soon, he began to slow down, for the Slow Zone. Kamo followed up, slowing down his own car. It was tiresome and tense, but by the time they crossed the line, they had brought it down to 65 km/h. They drove slowly, right beside each other. Once out of the Slow Zone, their cars sped up for the final lap, with Kamo taking the lead this time.

This was it. The last lap. Megumi raised his speed all the way up to 100 km/h, as against Kamo's 95. He wasn't letting this down. He wasn't letting his friends down.

Form the bleachers, the Tokyo students watched with bated breath. Nanako had her fingers crossed, Tsumiki was praying for Megumi's safety. Yuji watched with tense eyes, as the fate of their school rested on Megumi's performance.

Megumi swerved past Kamo, racing ahead to finish the race. Kamo sped as well, bringing his own speed to 100 km/h. The two drove side by side. They were fast approaching the Slow Zone.

The two began to slow down. Little by little, like they weren't keen on letting the other have the lead. 90. 89. 87. 84. 81. 79. Step by step. They entered the Slow Zone, while still at 70 km/h. They only had five seconds to slow down or they would get penalties.

Suddenly, Megumi pulled on the handbrake, and then restarted his car at just 35. Kamo cursed his luck. He had received a penalty already. His car had stopped. Megumi drove towards the finishing line, and crossed it at just 40 km/h.

He had done it. He had won. Cheers erupted from the bleachers. Yuji sighed with relief. Tokyo had qualified for the semis. Kyoto was out.

Kamo got out of his car, took off his helmet and sighed. It was a good fight. He watched as the Tokyo students came down onto the track and gathered around Megumi to congratulate him.

Yuji : Is your search for relatability over?

Hmm? Yuji Itadori? When had he snuck up on Kamo? He was leaning against Kamo's car.

Yuji : Does the fear of being alone trouble you that much?

Kamo : What would you know?

Yuji : Perhaps more than you think. You hold on to Fushiguro as an attempt to make sense of a world that refuses to be made sense of. To find an anchor in an unknown sea.

Kamo : You're making me uncomfortable.

Yuji : With the truth, yes. With what you need to confront.

Kamo : How can you be so sure of it?

Yuji : Consider it as an observation from someone who's lived alone since the age of 9.

Kamo : So what's your advice?

Yuji : Don't look here and there. The one who matters most is the one you view in your mirror. What that person does is important. Listen to him, and calm down. No one has seen the future, and we're never sure of it. So enjoy the present while you still can.

He patted Kamo on the shoulder and walked away towards his friends. Kamo was surrounded by his own group, soon enough.

Momo : You did well. Don't be demoralised.

Todo : The only regret I would have is not being able to race against brother in the final.

Mai : Todo senpai! Not now!

The first race was over. Tokyo had won. The next was to happen after lunch. And they'd be here for it.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

1400 hours

The second race of the day. This time it was between Hokkaido and Hida teams. The bleachers were full again, with students who were full after a hearty lunch.

Yuji sat down between Nanako and Panda. He had no personal stakes in this match. But he had come just for the fun of it. And to support whoever was competing.

Yuzuki was sitting in the car, waiting for the race to start. Up against her was Rikuya Aoyama, a grade 3 sorcerer student from Hida Jujutsu High.

Referee : Ready!!!

Rikuya : Don't be nervous. You'll be able to watch the final.

Referee : Set!!!!

Yuzuki : Yeah, as a participant.

Rikuya : Wow, you're confident.

Yuzuki : Characteristic.

Referee : Go!!!!!

The red flag went down, making way for waving the green flag up, signalling the start of the race. The cars sped away from the starting line, but still pretty slow. The Slow Zone had become notorious, just after one race.

It was an excruciatingly frustrating wait, but it was finally over. The cars sped up, driving away into the distance while being unknowingly pursued by Mei Mei's crows.

The teachers had been set up in a special viewer's box higher up than others. They watched the races keenly, as the students participated with such zeal.

Leo : Kyoko will be thrilled to see this.

Utahime : Ah yes, your wife. How is she?

Leo : She's coming here tonight in our helicopter.

Utahime : Will it be safe?

Leo : Foolproof.

By now, the racers had completed their first lap, and were already driving away from the Slow Zone in pursuit of their second. Rikuya held the lead, but not by a very wide margin. And Yuzuki was determined to overturn the status quo.

At the second turn, Yuzuki swerved right, cutting across the lane, and overtaking her opponent. She was in the lead. She immediately sped up, the initial gap boosting the distance between them. Rikuya accelerated as well, but he couldn't quite bridge the gap.

As they approached the Slow Zone, their cars slowed, but at different rates. Rikuya was slow in decelerating, he was at 68 km/h, when he was charged and received a 15 second penalty. His car stopped by itself mid-track, and he watched as Yuzuki drove on. Yuzuki drove through the Slow Zone, and sped up once she exited, as Rikuya's car started to function again.

They drove now, at a high speed, but still unable to bridge the gap. Rikuya would be mindful of the Slow Zone from next time, though it may be too late. Yuzuki drove ahead confidently, as if she had won already.

They drove at high speeds, the wind fluttering about them. The students watched with excitement, as the two racers turned around another turn, moving towards the final distance of the second lap. Yuzuki slowed down her car at the nick of time, allowing Rikuya to close some distance, before he had to slow down as well. The two completed their second lap, and continued on throught the Slow Zone. Once they were out, they sped up.

This time, Rikuya sped up to 100 km/h, as against Yuzuki's 98 km/h. He was closing the distance little by little. But it was almost negligible. Still, he shouldn't give up hope. They had one more lap to cover.

Two turns later, the gap between the racers had closed down to almost half of what it had been before. Now, Yuzuki's certain victory seemed a lot less certain. She still kept her calm and drove steady, not willing to go down without a fight. At the Slow Zone, both slowed down their cars, but Rikuya had slowed his down more than Yuzuki did.

Rikuya slowly increased his speed, keeping the limit in mind. He was not giving up on the race as long as he could help it.

This was it. The final lap had begun. As soon as the two got out of the Slow Zone, their cars sped up, all the way to 100 km/h. Rikuya was determined to close the gap that Yuzuki would do her best to defend. And indeed, the gap had started to widen again. Yuzuki swerved right, taking the first turn, followed by Rikuya.

The cars sped along, almost flying against the wind, their tyres already feeling the wrath of the environment. Rikuya swerved left, trying to find an open lane to pass through. Yuzuki did the same, and managed to block his advance any further. Rikuya swerved right, trying the same stunt again, only to be foiled as Yuzuki swerved to the right as well. Then, she took a sharp right turn, the second turn of the lap, and was on the final stretch of the race. Rikuya followed suit soon.

The final stretch. Yuzuki had already begun to slow down her car. The gap between her and her opponent began to close. Rikuya made less efforts to slow down, seemingly having forgotten about the Slow Zone. That was fine, the Slow Zone was still about a kilometre away. Right?

Wrong. The cars had already covered the distance, and the Slow Zone was only about 400 metres. Rikuya hurried to slow down, leading to a jerking stop of his car. Yuzuki capitalised on the opportunity, and kept her car steady at 64 km/h. Rikuya started off instantly, wishing to salvage the situation.

Ultimately, it was a shallow expectation. Yuzuki crossed the finish line soon. Rikuya was still behind, driving, much slower now, having realised the situation was out of his hand. Well, the competition had been fierce, and he had given it his all. He would be satisfied with just that. He took off his helmet and let the breeze greet his face.

In the bleachers, the Hokkaido Jujutsu High students erupted in cheers. Yuzuki had won the race. They would qualify to the semi finals. All of them, including Leo Sato, went down to the race track to gather around Yuzuki, who had gotten off her car and was standing with her helmet off, and congratulate her. There was applause all around.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Main Gate, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1700 hours

Natsumi watched the cars pass by. Her expression was solemn. Her so-called big sis, Leo's wife, was arriving today evening. Leo had gone to pick her up at the airport. She was waiting by the gate to receive them.

A few minutes later, their car pulled up to the gate. Leo got off and opened the door for his wife, who deboarded as well. Kyoko Sato was a woman of short stature, gentle features and sweet temperament, but she could be stern if needed. Typical black hair and brown eyes like other Japanese people. In her hands was a small baby boy with black hair and blue eyes, a trait he had inherited from Leo. This was  Haruki Sato. Natsumi was thrilled and immediately hugged both Kyoko and Haruki. Leo got the suitcase off the car.

Natsumi : Welcome! I'm so glad you guys are here.

Kyoko : Same. It's good to see you after a long time too.

Natsumi : Come on in. You gotta meet everyone else.

The three walked inside the campus, as the driver drove the car away to the parking lot.

Chapter Text

September 23, 2018, Yuji's Dorm, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1000 hours

Yuji pressed a few buttons. The machine whirred to life and emanated light.

Over the past few days, he had built this machine, with Junpei's help. It looked like an MRI machine, but with a glass pane covering it. Inside was the special grade 1 curse from the mission he had gone on alone. He had wanted to study curses for quite some time. So, he had asked Ijichi to deliver him with all sorts of metal junk, from which he built this machine. From scratch.

The curse was already inside the machine. Yuji's anti-disintegration seal had worked perfectly, preserving the curse for further study.

The scanners in the machine buzzed and roamed over the curse's corpse. Its cursed energy was read, and Yuji analysed the waves. He noted everything down in a notebook.

Junpei : This is kinda creepy, you know?

Yuji : Who said jujutsu was going to be a bed of roses? You need to get your hands dirty to be equipped.

Junpei : Got it.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Jujutsu Kansatsuin, Training Grounds, Grand Prix Venue, 1000 hours

The contestants were already in their cars. Kitakami against Osaka. Souta Nishimura against Emi Nakamura. The audience watched with bated breath.

Referee : Ready!!!

The red flag went up. The engines came to life. The racers had their hands on the steering wheel. The visor of their helmets filtered out the rest of the world.

Referee : Set!!!!!

The bleachers were full of students, teachers and constables and other officers of the Jujutsu Kansatsuin. Nobara sat between Megumi and Nanako, taking popcorn from the other girl.

Referee : Go!!!!

The red flag was replaced with a green one. The cars sped off, not above 65 km/h, as they were still in the infamous Slow Zone. This time, the direction of the race had been inverted, hence, they were going towards west instead of east.

Souta drove past the Slow Zone, and immediately sped up, in order to put as much distance between himself and his competitor as possible. Emi followed suit, trying to catch up.

The wind fluttered about them, as they drove past. Their speeds had reached 99 and 96 km/h. Of course the track was fitted with safety charms to ensure only thrills, no accidents. The cars roared as they drove, reflecting the zeal of both participants and audiences.

On the bleachers, Nanako noticed someone's absence.

Nanako : Where are Itadori and Yoshino?

Megumi : They're at Tokyo High, in his dorm. Said they were busy doing something important.

Nobara : Any idea on what that could be?

Megumi : Nope.

Nanako : Well let's go check up on them after this race.

Nobara : Alright. Mimiko will go too, right?

Mimiko : Of course.

Their attention went back towards the race.

The racers took the first turn. Emi swerved left, cutting Souta off, and taking the lead. Souta hit back, by cutting through lanes and overtaking his opponent. He was back in the lead. The students cheered from the bleachers.

In the teacher's box, everyone watched with rapt attention. But that didn't mean that they agreed to it.

Yaga : Do you still hate Itadori?

Gakuganji : It's not a matter whether I hate him or not. Going by the current jujutsu laws, he's not even supposed to exist. The only reason he does is because of Gojo's ego. Bending the rules made for many just to benefit one individual is never a good sign. It is only a matter of time before Yuji Itadori's presence results in a massacre.

Yaga : However he has saved lives as well. With Todo, he managed to hold his own against a special grade. Regret will catch up to him one day. "I wish I did that." "I wish someone told me that." "I wish I spent more time with them." So, for now, why don't we just support him?

Gakuganji : I will think about that.

Meanwhile, the racers took another turn. This time, Emi managed to cut off Souta for long enough to take the lead. As they approached the Slow Zone again, they began to slow down their cars.

The cars drove by, much slower that what they had been just a few moments ago. Now, they were driving by like normal cars. Eventually they were out of the Slow Zone, and their cars were back to top speeds. Emi still held the lead. The students cheered. The second lap was over. Two more to go.

Souta drove to the other lane, prompting Emi to do the same. He went to the other lane, but she cut him off there too. He couldn't get a single way out of the blockade.

When the first turn came, Souta accelerated to 100 km/h and drove his car right past Emi, finally able to escape the torturous sentence. Emi wasn't letting this slide, so she kept him at a close distance. She would overtake him at the next turn. Till then, the cars sped away, one right in front of the other.

At the next turn, Emi tried the same trick that Souta did, but she was unsuccessful as he correctly seduced her plan and cut her off. They turned again, and soon, they were headed towards the Slow Zone, their cars slowing little by little.

Before long, they were driving through the Slow Zone, their cars going at a low speed to not break the limit. Emi decided this was her chance. She sped up slowly, keeping the speed limit in mind. Souta realised what she was trying and immediately responded in kind. They were out of the Slow Zone soon enough, and the cars sped away, with the status quo maintained.

This was it. The final lap. Neither was going to give up. Emi swerved right, closing the gap between herself and her opponent down to almost half. The cars were still speeding through the track. Souta swerved right as well, to stop her from closing the gap further. Emi quickly swerved left, sped up, and brought her car directly beside Souta's. Now he couldn't cut her off.

The two drove this way, side by side, neither letting the other cut them off, while being mindful of the gap between the cars. When turns came, Emi had to speed up a little to stay on track, but she adjusted her speed properly to keep Souta in check.

The Slow Zone was approaching. Neither was going to slow down. Souta took the risk, stopping his car in the nick of time to let Emi move on ahead, beyond the speed limit. His plan had worked.

Emi's car stopped. The penalty was in effect. Since she had not violated it for long, she was only stopped for 10 seconds. She cursed her luck and hot the steering wheel. Souta drove on slowly, creating a respectable distance between himself and her. She watched as he inched towards victory.

Once her penalty was lifted, she sped up to 65 km/h, against his 50. She wasn't letting him have this. Her car fast approached his, prompting him to raise his speed as well. The gap was almost gone now. In a thrilling moment, Souta crossed the finishing line first, just 0.1 second before Emi. He had won. Kitakami had won.

Cheers erupted in the bleachers. Osaka students were left a bit disappointed, but they stood up and clapped for Emi, who had shown exceptional determination. She got off her car and took off her helmet, sighing at the fact that it was all for nothing.

Souta walked over to her and shook her hand.

Souta : Don't be demoralised. You were great.

Emi : Was it of any use?

Souta : Someday, it will be.

Megumi, Nobara, Nanako and Mimiko got up and walked out of the place. They were heading for Tokyo High.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Yuji's Dorm, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1300 hours

Yuji : Move it to the right a little.

He pulled up the black vest he was wearing and wiped some sweat off his forehead. This was tedious, but worth every single second. He had decided to also wear tan brown cargo pants.

Junpei held the stretcher bars and moved it to the right. Yuji pulled up the camera and took photos of the curse.

Megumi : What the actual fuck?

The two turned around. Megumi, Nobara, Nanako and Mimiko were standing in the doorway, with snacks in hand. Seeing the curse, Nanako retched.

Yuji : Don't mind us. We're just studying jujutsu.

Nobara : Do you have any idea how little that explains things?

Yuji : Alright. Sit down. It's going to take a while.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Jujutsu Kansatsuin, Training Grounds, Grand Prix Venue, 1500 hours

Time for the final prelim race. Theo Coulson against Tenzin Dorje. Team 8 against the Himalayan team.

Referee : Ready!!!!

The racers put on their helmets. The bleachers were brimming with excitement. Only the first year students of Tokyo High were absent.

Referee : Set!!!!

The engines blared to life. The red flag was still in the air. It went down and was replaced by a green flag instantly.

Referee : Go!!!!

And so it began. The final race, meant to decide those who would advance. The cars sped off, but not above 65 km/h. After all, they were still in the Slow Zone.

Once out of the Slow Zone, their speeds increased twofold. The cars sped across the landscape, passing by the stadium and tracks, and the numerous people who had turned up to spectate. Tenzin took the lead for a while, being the first to turn. Theo followed suit, only 30 metres behind his opponent.

From the teacher's box, Kyoko Sato was amazed. She had always been a fan of F1. Now she was thrilled to see this. Leo was holding Haruki to let her enjoy herself to the fullest.

Leo : Is this good enough?

Kyoko : It's more than enough! The kids are amazing!

Haruki giggled and clapped his little hands in sheer excitement.

At the second turn, Theo sped up and overtook Tenzin, speeding away to create distance. Tenzin kept up, not letting go. The cars roared as they drove past the crowd, both determined to lead their school to glory. Or at least, some semblance of it.

Tenzin kept up the competition, speeding up in the nick of time to overtake Theo at the third turn. They were approaching the Slow Zone, so their cars began to slow down. Before long, they were under the speed limit, and driving through the Slow Zone amicably. It was a silent agreement between the two to not engage in petty competition with each other while in the Slow Zone. Neither wanted to suffer any penalty. Mature students, indeed.

Once out of the Slow Zone, their cars sped off, the competition resumed again. The second lap. Tenzin still held the lead till the first turn, when Theo overtook him and created a little distance, taking the lead. The cars sped away, the status quo mostly maintained, except for the fact that Tenzin was constantly trying to close the gap inch by inch.

At the second turn, Theo sped up even more, to not allow Tenzin to snatch the lead from him. And it worked. Tenzin drove quietly, knowing his time was to come in the next turn. For now, the status quo was maintained.

At the final turn, Tenzin sped up faster than Theo, overtaking him to take the lead. The two were fast approaching the Slow Zone, hence, they slowed down their cars. The competition was paused for now, the focus was on getting out of the Slow Zone.

Once the second lap was over, and the two were out of the Slow Zone, their speeds increased. The cars accelerated, the focus once again on how to take or maintain the lead. Theo sped up, slowly catching up to Tenzin. Tenzin, for his part, kept his game up to ensure he wasn't overtaken. The first turn came, but Tenzin had pushed Theo to the outer lane, prompting him to cover more distance, which would keep the gap between them. Meanwhile, he took the inner lane, in order to go further, faster. And it worked.

The situation continued. Theo tried to come back to the inner lane, but he still had to stay second as Tenzin wasn't letting him through. He drove, frustrated, and plotting his next move. The second turn came, and Theo accelerated his car to 100 km/h, and finally overtook Tenzin, taking the lead. Tenzin, too, accelerated to 100 km/h. It wasn't long until the third turn arrived, where the status quo was maintained.

As the Slow Zone approached once again, the cars slowed down. They were still in the same status quo, with Theo still holding the lead. The cars completed their third lap, and exited the Slow Zone, heading towards the final lap of the race.

The final lap had begun. The racers sped through the track, their engines roaring like tigers as they drove towards victory. Cheers continuously erupted from the bleachers. The students were cheering for their classmates. Meanwhile, the officers were just thrilled to see an exciting match and have a good time.

At the first turn, Tenzin sped up and overtook Theo, taking the lead again. This race had seen the maximum number of times the lead had changed. In other words, it was a highly unpredictable race. The cars roared as they drove past the track, the status quo maintained.

Once the second turn came, Theo tried to swerve left, only to have Tenzin do the same and prevent him from taking the lead. With the trick failed, the racers continued through the track, their race almost at its culmination.

Theo quickly swerved right and moved to the outer lane. Then, he sped up to 100 km/h, and matched Tenzin's pace, driving right beside him. Tenzin slowed down to let Theo go ahead in the outer lane, intending to let him go ahead and overtake him at the turn, but Theo had realised his trick and slowed down as well. Both the racers crossed the third turn side by side.

Now, they were approaching the Slow Zone once again, this time for the final time. The red finishing line had been put up. Their cars were slowing down, little by little, not to give the other racer the edge. Eventually, they came below 50 km/h, both hellbent on slowing down even further, in order to trick the other. It was a tense scenario. They crossed 45, then 40, and finally 35. Their cars drove ridiculously slow.

At the next second, Tenzin sped up to 55 km/h and drove past his opponent, prompting Theo to speed up to 63. Just as Tenzin was going to touch the finishing line, Theo's car overtook him at the last second, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat.

Cheers erupted from the bleachers. Th cars stopped, and the racers deboarded. They shook hands and walked back towards their respective pavillions, after a hard day's work.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Yuji's Dorm, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1700 hours

Yuji : And that's the entire thing.

Nobara : Seriously, what the fuck?

His story had been incredibly bizzare. The four sat in the room, completely flaggerbasted at what he told them.

Yuji : Consider it as experimentation.

Nobara : No. I will not consider it as anything other than creepy. Infact, I will leave right now.

With that, she got up, and walked out of the room briskly. Nanako and Mimiko got up as well.

Nanako : Honestly, respect the hustle, but get a life.

She walked out.

Mimiko : And get Yoshino a life too, while you're at it.

She walked out too. Only Megumi remained.

Yuji : You get it, don't you?

Megumi : Kinda. But they're right, this is very creepy. By the way, what all did you get from your experiments?

Yuji : I'll tell you all once I'm done.

Megumi : And when will that be?

Yuji : Today, perhaps?

Megumi : Alright. See you around.

Megumi got up and walked out as well. Junpei let out the breath he didn't know he had been holding.

Yuji : What's the matter?

Junpei : Nothing. Just that I'm going to be racing tomorrow.

Yuji : It'll be fine.

Junpei : Will you be there?

Yuji : Probably.

They heard footsteps coming to the room. The door opened, to reveal Nanri standing there.

Nanri : Itadori-kun. Mission for you.

Yuji sighed and turned to Junpei.

Yuji : No more, I guess.

Chapter Text

September 24, 2018, Grand Prix Venue, Training Grounds, Jujutsu Kansatsuin, 0900 hours

The racers were out on the track. A large audience had gathered on the bleachers. The direction of the race had been reversed again, this time facing east.

Today were the semi-finals, the first of them being between Tokyo and Kitakami. The participants were Junpei Yoshino and Minoru Uehara. The racers were in their cars already. The red flag was already up in the air.

Referee : Ready!!!!

The engines whirred to life. The tension was palpable. Junpei focused on ahead. All his life, he had been a fish in a tank. Now, he was being offered the ocean. Life was too short anyway. He would spend the rest of his days swimming around the ocean and doing as it benefitted him.

Referee : Set!!!!

And this race was his chance. To take the leap. From the restrictive tank to the ocean. All he had to do was to gather the courage and take the leap. So why was he getting cold feet now, all of a sudden?

Referee : Go!!!!

The red flag was replaced with the green flag. Minoru sped off, maintaining the speed limit of the Slow Zone. It had been an annoying conjecture of the Prix, but thankfully it would be removed for the final. He drove with the determination to enter the final as a contestant, not a spectator.

Meanwhile, Junpei was rooted to his spot. He didn't have any idea what to do. No, he knew exactly what to do. But he was afraid. What if he got hurt? What if he got embarassed?

Nanako : What the hell is he doing?

Nobara : Oi Yoshino!!! Go after him!!!

The audience was confused. They couldn't comprehend the fear he was feeling. He swallowed his nervousness down. Two familiar faces flashed in front of his eyes. First, his mother's.

Nagi : Junpei, don't let yourself be a fish of a tank. You'll miss the bigger picture, even if it is daunting.

The second was his saviour and friend, Yuji's.

Yuji : You only got one shot at this. So shoot away. Aim for the Moon. Even if you miss, you'll land among the stars. Because if you don't even start, there will be one day, you'll look back with nothing but regret, and wish that you'd just been a little bit braver.

The words were true. The last thing Junpei wanted to do was regret. No, he already regretted his actions before. He wouldn't do that again.

With renewed determination, amid covert apprehension, he gripped the steering wheel. Minoru was ahead, but his speed wasn't very fast. Even beyond the Slow Zone, he had kept about 75 km/h. That would be enough. He drove with purpose, at 65 km/h, through the Slow Zone, heading towards the exit.

Once out of there, he sped up abruptly, reaching 100 km/h. Before long, he fast approached Minoru's position. The gap was closing. Cheered erupted from the audience in the bleachers.

It wasn't long before the first turn came around. And here, Junpei swerved right, just as Minoru was turning, and cut him off, driving ahead. He had done it. He had taken the lead.

Soon enough, Minoru sped up as well. The cars roared across the track, sending steam and vapour flying into the air from the friction. Minoru tried cutting through lanes to overtake Junpei, but he was thwarted when Junpei did the same. Clearly, neither was letting the other up.

At the second turn, Minoru sped past Junpei by switching through the outer lane, taking the lead. The cars continued on their trajectory, the status quo having been maintained.

At the final turn, Junpei swerved left, trying to overtake his opponent through the inner lane, but Minoru drove into the inner lane as well. But the sudden change forced him to drift his car in order to prevent it from upsizing, which resulted in its halting. Junpei seized the opportunity and turned and drove away, towards the Slow Zone. He was, once again, in the lead.

By the time Minoru picked up steam, Junpei was already halfway through the Slow Zone, his car steadily completing the first lap. He continued driving, as Minoru completed his own first lap a few moments later. Both drove silently through the Slow Zone, the silent agreement that had governed the previous race was, evidently, still in place in this one. And hopefully it would for the rest of the Prix.

Once out of the Slow Zone, their cars sped up. They were driving through the track, towards the first turn of the second lap. Minoru switched to the outer lane, accelerating to 97 km/h, as against Junpei's 96. At the turn, he overtook Junpei, and then switched back to he inner lane, in order to prevent his opponent from getting the lead again.

The two drove this way across the track, towards the second turn. Junpei had realised one thing. If he wanted to take the lead, he would have to be both patient and quick, in strategic ways. So, he drove amiably, like a known friend. And he waited patiently for just one opportunity.

At the turn, Junpei wasted no time, swerving right and switching to the outer lane, speeding up, and overtaking Minoru, then switching back to the inner lane. He had cleverly taken the lead again. Cheers erupted from the bleachers.

Mimiko : That's more like it!!!

Panda : You go, Yoshino!!!

Unfortunately, Yuji wasn't there to witness this that day. He was attending to a mission that was classified at semi grade 1.

Junpei wasn't letting Minoru through. Every time he switched lanes, Junpei followed suit, blocking off his moves. He maintained this stance even in the third turn, ensuring no open ways for his opponent to overtake him, even as they drove towards the Slow Zone.

The cars slowed down to a fraction of their original speed, as they drove through the infamous area. The audience watched with bated breath and rapt attention, as the racers made their way out of the Slow Zone.

In the third lap, Junpei maintained the status quo. At the first turn, he didn't let Minoru through, keeping the lead. This continued till the second turn, when Minoru sped up and instantaneously swerved past Junpei, landing up right beside him. This went on till third turn, when Junpei, who was in the inner lane, overtook Minoru for a little while, before the two were once again driving side by side, towards the Slow Zone.

Through the Slow Zone, the two drove amicably. Both were anxious to not break the speed limit, it had been a factor of intimidation for all the racers in the tournament. The drive was painstakingly slow and frustrating, but they couldn't do anything about it.

Once out of the Slow Zone, the two drove across the track at high speeds, matching each other while staying side by side. The final lap was tense. The first turn came and went by in a flurry, but nothing substantial changed. So was the case for the second turn. The status quo was maintained.

In the third turn, Minoru sped up, and overtook Junpei, who silently trailed behind. It seemed like a mistake. It really wouldn't turn out to be. Minoru drove into the Slow Zone, his car slowing down to 58 km/h. Junpei followed suit, slowing down his own car to 65 km/h, and driving past Minoru at the last second to secure the victory.

Cheers erupted across the stadium. Everyone applauded. This had been a terrifyingly close race. But it had been worth it. Every second of it.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

1330 hours

The second semi-final was ready. Hokkaido against Team 8. Kaito Arisawa against Muwanga Odoul. The two shook hands and boarded their cars. Then, they put on their helmets and gripped the steering wheels.

Referee : Ready!!!!

The engines whirred to life. The exhaust switched on. The racers were ready. The crowd was anticipant. The red flag went up.

Referee : Set!!!!

Their feet was still pressed on clutch. But the other one was placed on accelerator. Ready to push. They slowly let go of the clutch.

Referee : Go!!!!

The red flag was replaced by a green one. The feet on the clutches were removed, and the ones on the accelerators gave powerful pushes. The cars sped off, not above the speed limit of the Slow Zone. Indeed, they had also agreed to maintain amiable ties while in this area. The real competition was to happen outside the Slow Zone.

Once out of the Slow Zone, their cars sped up. The wheels let off steam and vapour into the atmosphere. Kaito had taken the lead from Muwanga, almost gliding away into the distance, with Muwanga following close behind. At the first turn, Kaito maintained his lead, and Muwanga was still on the backfoot. For now, at least.

The cars sped through the length of the track, the wind passing by at almost breakneck speeds. They were fast approaching the second turn. Muwanga swerved right, onto the outer lane, and sped up, overtaking Kaito and driving away, towards the next turn. Kaito accelerated and gave chase to his competitor.

The third turn didn't see any changes. Muwanga still held the lead, and Kaito still followed on, though the gap between them had closed a great deal.

Once in the Slow Zone, their speeds had been reduced. The two drove amicably, with no tensions. It's almost as if the rivalry didn't exist.

Out of the Slow Zone, their cars sped off into the distance, roaring with zeal. The same zeal that had gotten them in the competition in the first place. And the same zeal that was now guiding them.

At the first turn, Kaito maintained his lane, as Muwanga swerved right and moved to the outer lane in anticipation of a trick, instead falling right into it. Kaito seized the opportunity to speed up and overtake Muwanga beforehe could move back into the inner lane, finally taking the lead for himself. This status quo was maintained for a while, even past the second turn.

Around the third turn, Muwanga swerved right, prompting Kaito to do the same, before immediately switching back to the inner lane. Muwanga sped up and turned, overtaking Kaito and establishing his lead. The rivalry stopped once they entered the Slow Zone. The cars drove slow and quiet, not wanting to jeopardize the other, and inviting any repercussions.

Once out of the Slow Zone, their cars sped up once again. They were in the third lap. Kaito sped up, slowly closing the gap between himself and Muwanga. At the first turn, neither did anything, expecting the other to do something. But that was not the case. The status quo was maintained. The race went on as usual.

The same scenario was repeated in the second turn. Neither of them made any moves to counter the other. And in the third turn too. It seemed as if Kaito had given up on trying to win. Or he was following Muwanga, who was clearly poised to win because of his lead. Something was clearly amiss. But what worried everyone was when Kaito began to let out bursts of acceleration while in the Slow Zone. At a time when both racers were supposed to be going quietly, Kaito was threatening to speed up, even though he ultimately didn't. But the behaviour had been nerve-wracking for everyone.

In the final lap, Kaito swerved right onto the outer lane. Muwanga followed suit, switching to the outer lane at once to prevent Kaito from taking the lead. Kaito switched back to the inner lane ; Muwanga did too. Then back to the outer lane with these two. Then the inner lane once again. This continued throughout the first and second turns, just petty distractions, but no real effort to overtake. A meagre attempt at fear mongering.

At the third turn, when Kaito switched to the outer lane, Muwanga didn't. Instead, he continued driving through the inner lane, still maintaining his lead. They were approaching the Slow Zone, on different lanes.

Once inside the Slow Zone, Kaito slowed himself down to 30 km/h. Muwanga, feeling reassured, slowed down to 40 km/h. They continued to drive for a few seconds like this. Seizing the opportunity, Kaito sped up to 65 km/h and rapidly closed the gap. Muwanga tried the same, but he wasn't as agile, and ended up getting overtaken at the last second. Kaito crossed the finishing line ahead of his opponent, snatching the victory for his school.

They had done it. Hokkaido had won. That would mean that the final was going to be between Tokyo and Hokkaido. Now that would be a sight to see.

Chapter Text

September 24, 2018, Ujina Lighthouse, Moutoujina Park, North Kanto, 1100 hours

The car stopped at the base of the lighthouse. Nanri and Yuji got off and looked at the lighthouse.

Nanri : This is the site of your mission. We have talked with civic administration and they have gotten you a permit to stay one night, in return for you exercising a semi grade 1 cursed spirit. No conclusive details about the curse itself were confirmed, and the recon mission claimed the life of a window. Will that be enough information about the mission?

Yuji : Yeah, where will I be staying?

Nanri : In the top floor, there's a repurposed bedroom made for you. You have one night for the mission. If you're tired of the journey, I would suggest that you take a nap now.

Yuji : Where will you be?

Nanri : I will be staying at Hiroshima Auxiliary Outpost 322 for the night.

Yuji : I see.

Nanri : I have saved my number in your contacts. In case you feel endangered, do not hesitate to call me. One last thing. There is a possibility that there might be two cursed spirits.

Yuji : What?

Nanri : You have heard the legends, I presume? Of the female ghost who haunts public restrooms in this area? Well, apart from her, windows also confirmed the presence of another curse, the one that killed the window, in fact. So, be careful.

Yuji : Alright. When will we go back?

Nanri : We're supposed to return by 7 AM tomorrow. So we'll start by 4 AM.

Yuji : Got it.

Yuji picked up his duffel bags and went inside, followed by Nanri. The two went up the winding staircase, to the top, where the long-unused lamp was situated. Beside the chamber was another door, leading to a modest, repurposed bedroom for one person. A third door, to the opposite of the bedroom, led to the balcony.

It was a magnificent view. The sea was right in front, the brilliant blue waves crashing against the shore, as if to snatch it away from the Earth. The coop sea breeze soothed something deep in Yuji, something that he wasn't even sure of, himself.

Once Nanri was gone, Yuji put his duffel bags on two chairs and sat on the bed. The room gave off an archaic feeling that the repurposing couldn't hide. Honestly, it was better that way.

Soon after, he changed into his pyjamas, and laid down on the bed. Nanri was right. He needed to be awake at night, so he would have to sleep now. That would maintain the balance. He dozed off, his eyes slowly closing and his breath becoming even.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

1530 hours

Yuji's eyes slowly parted. The world came into focus. He yawned and stretched, then sat up on the bed. He put on his glasses and looked around.

His surroundings were dyed in a golden light. Yuji got up and walked out to the balcony. It was beautiful. The sun was setting, providing a warm glow to the surrounding. Birds were flying about. The wind blew across the landscape, making the foliage swing. The sleep had been much needed for Yuji. He looked at his watch. He had dinner with Nanri at 7. Oh well. He had a lot of time.

He put on a black shirt with tan trousers and some formal shoes and a watch, and went out to sightsee. He walked around and saw people here and there. All walking. All enjoying their lives.

His phone buzzed. He picked it up and looked at the screen. Nobara. He responded to the call and put the phone against his ear.

Yuji : What's the matter?

Nobara : WE'RE GOING TO THE FINALS!!!!

From behind, he could hear cheering and screaming. So they had won. Which meant he would have something to do tomorrow.

Yuji : Who's the competition?

Nobara : Huh? Oh, it's Hokkaido.

Yuji : I see. Well, tell Junpei congratulations from me. I'll get back as soon as I can.

Nobara : Sure. Quickly, though, we need your presence here.

Yuji : I'll remember that. Hopefully.

Nobara : Fuck you.

The call hung up. Yuji sighed. He walked back towards the lighthouse. He had decided to observe the area and look around for any signs of unusual activity of cursed energy.

Once in the area, Yuji carefully looked at his surroundings. He could feel slightly high emissions of cursed energy from a few people, however, he had no problem realising that they were all windows. Nothing unusual in this part. He ventured deeper, specially in the forests nearby.

Yuji walked under the canopy, disappearing from view of the outside world. He walked among the foliage. Yes, there was an unusually high and unusually dense set of remnants. One of the curses was around here. There was no doubt about that. Probably grade 2. Troublesome for the average sorcerer, who's usually grade 3. But not for Yuji.

At a further distance, he picked up a twig from the ground and examined it carefully. Traces of human blood. Decomposed. The curse was habituated in eating people, though it occasionally also muched on branches. He could classify this curse as Simnogore. Danger level Canra.

Yuji's experiments with the cursed spirit at his dorm had been very useful in disseminating a lot of information about curses. All curses had a core of cursed energy, which formed by action of gravity, akin to formation of a star. They also didn't flow cursed energy the same way. Based on type of flow and efficiency, he had classified curses into six categories, namely :

1. Kida, which was the worst in terms of efficiency and had a stream flow

2. Veraceka, which had medium-low efficiency and had a combination of stream and radial flow of cursed energy

3. Noiyon, which had medium efficiency and had a combination of radial and dendritic flow

4. Simnogore, which had high efficiency and had a combination of dendritic and trellis flow

5. Yononayas, which had extremely high efficiency and a dendritic flow

6. Gorosinaushi, which had basically achieved Free State in cursed energy, and did not have any particular flow, and easily switched between various types of flow

In terms of core placement too, curses were of many types, viz. :

1. Torovi, whose core was in the head

2. Nielcikt, whose core was in the chest area

3. Soronoto, whose core was in the abdomen

4. Lielmen, whose core was in either shoulder or arm

5. Dianilvis, whose core was in the legs

6. Yojiruko, who could operate completely physically detached from their cores but maintain a link of cursed energy.

Accordingly, each cursed spirit was also classified on basis of a danger level. There were four such levels, namely :

1. Tiuru, with an area of effect upto one building or less

2. Canra, with an area of effect between an apartment complex and a locality

3. Sogorv, with an area of effect between a district and a country

4. Apollyon, with an area of effect beyond a country

Thankfully, he had not had to encounter curses of the last categories of most classifications. That was good.

Yuji walked back. His steps were moving towards the lighthouse. The trail had turned around and had gone towards the lighthouse he had been staying in. Moreover, the sun had already set, and it was dusk. Darkness was approaching fast, and he didn't want to be left vulnerable here in such a situation. No, that would be a death sentence.

Once out of the forest, he walked towards the lighthouse. He got in and climbed up. It had been closed off to visitors for the day, apparently due to 'technical reasons', as explained by civic administration. He got to the top and looked around. Nothing had changed. Everything was fine.

He quickly got down again and looked around. People were around. Windows were out and about. Nothing unusual here.

He quickly headed to the back of the lighthouse. There it was. A dense amount of cursed energy, marked by certain trails. From the prints in the mud, Yuji could make out the fact that the curse was quadraped, i.e., it walked on four legs. It had marked its territory. For him.

He was certain that it was on his trail. Good. That would make things easier. He walked back out into the open. Nothing unusual here, as usual. Darkness had fallen on the sky, and the city's lights were up. He checked the time again. 6:30. He still had time till dinner. He decided to take a walk by the sea side.

The breeze helped cool his nerves. Of course, it was land breeze, but it was soothing, nonetheless. Most importantly, it helped prepare himself mentally for what lay ahead.

Dinner with Nanri was a somewhat solemn affair. The two ate silently, and only discussed return plans. Nanri had already gone and bought return tickets. Once they were done, Nanri bid him farewell for the night and headed in the opposite direction, towards Auxiliary Outpost 322. Yuji walked towards the lighthouse.

Hours passed. Nothing happened. That was to be expected. The place wasn't nearly empty enough. It was now 1 AM. Everything was quiet. There were no people in the immediate vicinity of the lighthouse. Yuji put down the book he had been reading and decided it was time. He changed into his sorcerer uniform and walked out.

The area was empty. Decoud of people. His first destination, a public restroom. He entered and looked around. No one. Just a flouroscent yellow light going on and off. He stood in front of the wash basin and quietly washed his hands.

The next time the light went off and came back on, Yuji stopped washing his hands and looked up into the mirror. The ghost was standing behind him. Pale. Her face hidden by her hair. And she was in a drab white gown that matched the shade of her being.

The curse charged at him, but Yuji ducked and condensed his cursed energy into a dagger, which he stabbed into the curse's neck. Right around what should have been its jugular vein. Then one slash across the eyes. The curse hissed and howled in pain and tried to grab him. He sliced off its arms. Where was the core?

Oh, there it was. In the abdomen. So it was Soronoto. Yuji stabbed the core with all his might. It was done. The curse had been exorcised. One down. One more to go. He walked out of the restroom.

Soon enough, Yuji was walking towards the forest. His steps were quick and light, speedy but careful not to rouse others. His stead was purposeful, his stance was predatory. For curses, at least.

Yuji walked into the thicket, once again. His speed had slowed down, his eyes and senses focussed on the trails of cursed energy leading deeper. It had come his way just a few minutes ago. The tracks were still fresh. It had to be around somewhere here.

After walking for almost half an hour, Yuji reached a small pond shrouded in mist. It was surrounded by some big and several small rocks. He sat down on a small rock and looked into the water. His own reflection. Nothing unusual. But the curse's presence was strong.

The mist in front of him cleared a bit. Yuji could see something. From between the trees, a face was looking at him. Human. Or at least it looked like a human. But his gut was telling him otherwise.

He slowly got up and creeped towards the entity. It disappeared among the foliage. He sped up and entered an even darker area of the thicket, unable to see much. He was, effectively, blinded.

Yuji had to rely on his senses of remnants to navigate. He stepped forward, one step at a time. Just then, he felt an exhale in front of him. He quickly brought some cursed energy onto his palm and lit it. The cursed energy flashed brilliantly, illuminating the entire area. And in this light, Yuji could see it clearly.

Yuji : What the-

It was tall. And long. Quadraped, as he had deduced. Covered in black fur, with sharp claws at its toes. Even a tail covered in fur. As for the face, there were so many things wrong with it. It looked vaguely like a human. But the gap between the eyes was too big, resulting in an abnormally large glabella. The eyes themselves were oriented in opposite directions. It had no eyebrows . The mouth opened all the way to the ears to reveal rows of sharp teeth. The face was too pale. Lastly, there was no nose. Almost as if it was mocking humans. The curse hissed when the orb of cursed energy shown. So this was a mimic.

While it was still recovering, Yuji had already deduced so much more. It was a Noiyon-Torovi-Tiuru class. So its core was in its head. More specifically, behind its face. No problem.

The curse charged at Yuji, swiping its paw at him. The sharp claws struck his arm, leaving marks. Yuji struck back, but his attack had no effect. It was tough, that meant that its only weakness was its face.

Before he could respond, the mimic created a orb of cursed energy and fired it at him. Yuji condensed his own cursed energy into a baseball bat and deflected it away. Then another. And another. He quickly headed to the curse's head, changed his bat into a spear and struck right between the curse's eyes. It howled in pain and tried to push him away, flinging him around wildly. Yuji climbed onto the curse's back and pulled out the spear, turned it into a machete and quickly drove it back into the curse's head. Damn it. He had missed the core by a few centimetres.

The curse wasted no time, bringing out spikes from its back, all of which impaled Yuji at various parts of his body. His own blood fell onto the curse's body. It sent out an inhumanly long tongue to lick some of his bood off its back. The wounds on its head closed a little bit.

Yuji didn't waste time. He drove the machete into the core of the curse. Then pulled it out. The curse turned around and looked at him, a grin on its face. Oh no. Had he misjudged it? The core dissipated into cursed energy and travelled to the rest of its body. So it wasn't a Soronoto, but rather a Yojiruko. He quickly got off its back before it's claws could strike him, but in doing so, he fell onto the ground and hurt his left elbow.

He grunted as he got up, and ran deeper into the foliage. The core had to be around somewhere. The curse was chasing him at incredible speed. Yuji's own speed was affected. He was bleeding from several parts of his body, and he had a fractured elbow. He ran towards a cave, having picked up on the curse's cursed energy from there. In other words, that was where the core was.

Once he entered the cave, he condensed his cursed energy into a sledge hammer and struck the roof of the cave. The rocks fell and blocked off the entrance, trapping him inside, but giving him a respite from the curse outside. He could still hear its growls and roars, he could just afford to not pay attention to it.

He turned around and created an orb to give him light. Then he stumbled deeper into the cave. The darkness was so thick, it was almost tangible. He turned left and walked into a narrow space. There it was. The core. An eerie blue orb floating in air.

Yuji turned his cursed energy into an axe and walked forward. Once he reached it, he struck. Again. And again. And again. Until it broke. The core was destroyed. From the outside, the curse's howls and screams were heard for a moment, then they stopped. The world was silent again.

Yuji walked back to the entrance of the cave. He raised his palm and shot another orb of cursed energy at the rocks. They blasted away, letting him through. Smoke and dust filled the air, Yuji walked out from in between them. The sky was slowly lighting up. He checked his watch. 3:30 AM. Shit! He had to hurry, otherwise he'd miss his train. He hurried back to the lighthouse ; Nanri was already waiting for him there.

Before long, the two were on the train, heading back to Tokyo. Today was the final race. The one that would determine who would win this year's Exchange Event. Yuji closed his eyes, for a brief nap. He would need all the energy in the world, for all that lay ahead.

Chapter Text

September 25, 2018, Tokyo High, 0700 hours

The car stopped. Yuji got off, his duffel bags still on his shoulders. It was a hectic journey, but he had to make it. After all, his school had reached the final. He quickly headed inside, as Nanri drove the car away,back to the Auxiliary Outpost they took it from.

He was escorted by Gojo to the infirmary, where Shoko patched him up. It was rough, but it was what he needed. A quick rundown dressing that would address his wouns for now. After all, he didn't have much time.

Yuji entered his dorm, put his duffel bags down on the bed and quickly changed into his racing uniform for the day. This one was to begin in an hour. He had made a very narrow and risky return to school from the mission. If any train had been late, his chances would have been blown. Thankfully, that was not the case.

He quickly headed to the main gate, where Ijichi was waiting for him with a car. He got in, and the two set off for the Jujutsu Kansatsuin Training Grounds.

The car drove through the traffic, and reached by 7:40. Yuji rushed inside, where constables guided him onto the track. He walked out with his helmet in hand, and bandages on his face. The wind blew across his face, his hair fluttering due to the impact.

For the final, several rules had been changed. First, the number of laps had been brought down from four to three. Secondly, there were no speed limits. At all. Not even the Slow Zone, which had tormented racers throughout the Prix. Thirdly, the racers would be marked not on he basis of who crossed the finish line first, but rather who crossed it within time. That's right, this race had a time crunch. The racers would have to finish three laps within 90 minutes. The one who would be able to do it would be declared the winner.

Yuji stood by his car, watching as his opponent, Sosuke Kanzo, walked towards his own car. This guy was apparently a first year from Hokkaido. That was fine, Yuji had no qualms about who he was competing against. All he cared about was winning.

The two racers shook hands and sat in their cars. The referee had started to wave the red flag.

Referee : Ready!!!

The two put on their helmets. One of the three giant screens had been converted to a timer, with 90 minutes written. Moreover, the cars themselves had been modified to show how much time was left.

Referee : Set!!!

The engines turned on. The racers had their left foot on the clutch, slowly withdrawing, while their right foot was on the accelerator, ready to push anytime. The red flag went down and was replaced by a green one.

Referee : Go!!!!

The cars sped off into the distance, the race having finally started. The bleachers were filled with everyone. Students. Teachers. Constables. Officials. Everyone was excited to see the final race of the Jujutsu High Grand Prix. The final clash of this year's Exchange Event. The direction of the race had been inverted again, going towards west instead of east.

87 minutes and 21 seconds. Yuji's car was travelling at a mammoth speed of 225 km/h, ahead of Sosuke's 210 km/h. The gap between them was also substantial. It would be difficult for Sosuke to close it. Gathering some courage, he accelerated to 227 km/h. Soon, his car began to catch up to Yuji's car, slowly, bit by bit. The first turn went by, with no change in the lead for now.

The bleachers erupted in cheers. Tokyo students were cheering for Yuji, who was already dominating the race from the get go. Hokkaido students were cheering to encourage Sosuke to overtake Yuji and take the lead.

Sosuke finally caught up to Yuji, and began to overtake him. Yuji accelerated to 240 km/h, prompting Sosuke to move up to 245 km/h. This tussle continued, until both racers settled on 260 km/h. They fortified their bodies with cursed energy, in case of any untoward incidents.

73 minutes and 16 seconds. At the second turn, Sosuke switched to the outer lane and sped up to 270. He drove across the turn, overtaking Yuji and taking the lead. Yuji wasted no time, swerving left onto the inner lane, and speeding up to 285. The cars almost flew by in a flash for the audience, as they watched Yuji once again overtake Sosuke to take the lead. The status quo was maintained for the third turn as well. The first lap was over.

As they advanced on, to the second lap, the air was thick with tension. Yuji held the undeniable lead, but Sosuke wasn't far behind. Both were driving at 290 km/h, and Sosuke was just behind Yuji's position. The first turn went by, with no change in the lead. Same for the second turn as well.

52 minutes and 39 seconds. In the third turn, Sosuke sped up to 315, and swerved left, trying to overtake Yuji by moving through the inner lane. He took the lead, quickly accelerating to 336 in order to consolidate his lead. Yuji sped up as well, up to 340, quickly closing in on his opponent.

This was it. The final lap. Both racers were at the top of their game. Sparks flew as a result of friction between the tires and the track, along with smoke and dust and vapour.

41 minutes and 27 seconds. In the first turn, Sosuke moved to the outer lane, as Yuji moved to the inner lane. Both of them had caught up to each other, and were driving side by side. This continued throughout the second turn, and even till the third turn.

23 minutes and 44 seconds. In the last stretch, both of them were still equal, one occasionally moving a little bit ahead of the other. It seemed like both would cross together. Suddenly, Yuji accelerated to 390 km/h, speeding ahead of Sosuke. He crossed the finish line in an instant. He had done it. He had won. Tokyo had won. Sosuke finished his race just three seconds later.

The bleachers erupted in cheers. Tokyo had won the Exchange Event. Yuji got off the car and walked towards where Sosuke had parked, and patted on his shoulder in solidarity. The race had been worthwhile.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High, Grand Auditorium, Administrative Section, 1100 hours

Everyone had gathered in Tokyo High's auditorium. It was the closing ceremony. Over the last hour, students had been evaluated by the authorities, and some had been promoted. They were to be felicitated now.

Gojo came on to the podium. He checked the mic and began the ceremony.

Gojo : Good day to one and all present here. This has been a wonderful Exchange Event, where we have seen so many talents. Tokyo High has won this Event. Every single one of you was wonderful, and we wish all of you best of luck. That being said, we have certain sorcerers, who will be promoted.

He unfolded a list and read carefully.

Gojo :  Please come up on stage to receive your new cards and certificates as I call out your names. You will be felicitated by your respective principal. First, the students who were promoted from grade 3 to grade 2. We have, Yuzuki Hoshino, Tenzin Dorje, and Muwanga Odoul.

The students got up and walked on to the stage. Ijichi was holding a tray on which the certificates were. Leo Sato handed Yuzuki her certificate. Ananda Gunaratna, principal of Himalaya Jujutsu High, semi grade 1 sorcerer. Tall, well built, but not bulky. Shaven head. Dresses in monk robes, with a rosary in hand. He handed Tenzin his certificate. Lastly, O'banna Odoul, the principal of Uganda Jujutsu High handed Muwanga his certificate. The students bowed respectfully and walked off the stage.

Gojo : Alright, now for the ones who went from grade 2 or semi grade 1 to grade 1. We have Sosuke Kanzo, Megumi Fushiguro and Toge Inumaki.

The students walked into the stage. Masamichi Yaga and Leo Sato got up and handed the respective certificates to the students. A round of applause was heard as the students bowed and walked off the stage, back to their seats.

Gojo : And finally, we have those who being promoted to special grade 1. Aoi Todo, Kazuma Koron, Natsumi Sato and Yuji Itadori. Yeah, I know. Two of them weren't even actual participants, but their performance was impressive enough to warrant a promotion.

The students got up and walked onto the stage. Yaga and Gakuganji stood up. As the students walked on to the stage, the principals handed their certificates and cards to them. They bowed and walked off the stage, back to their seats.

Gojo : Thank you all for participating in this year's Exchange Event. We wish you all the best for your future. Thank you and have a good day.

Gojo walked off the stage. The closing ceremony was over. The students got up and walked out of the auditorium. The students of the other schools were about to go back. The Event was over. Life would start back up.

Todo came up and shook Yuji's hand.

Todo : Brother.

Yuji : Todo.

Todo : Thank you for changing my life. I shall remember you till the end of days.

Yuji : Um, thanks?

Todo : You may not know but I recommended your promotion. Now we will go on missions together. Especially your first mission after promotion.

Kamo : The one who recommends promotion can't go on the first mission.

An awkward silence descended on the scene. Todo turned to look at Kamo, indignated.

Todo : Can you please fuck off?

Kamo : I have to speak with Itadori-kun.

Kamo shook Yuji's hand.

Kamo : I'm grateful to you, Yuji Itadori. Let's hope we see each other on the field as comrades from now on.

Yuji : Sure.

The two walked away to their classmates. Yuji's own classmates approached him.

Megumi : What was that about?

Yuji : Nothing much. Are you guys okay?

Nobara : We should be the ones to ask you that!

Junpei : Seriously, are you alright?

Yuji : Yeah, I'll be.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

September 29, 2018, Urawa Ward, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture, 2100 hours

Man : Like I said, the autolock door was wide open!! I told you last week too!! Why ask for such a high management fee?!! Crap!! Are you kidding me?!!! Inspect it today!!! I don't care if it's the weekend!!!

The man couldn't see the curse emerging from the ground behind him. It was grotesque with small, spindly arms and a worm's body. Ready to kill this man.

Man : Or I'll kill you!!!

Chapter Text

September 30, 2018, En Route to Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture, 1000 hours

Nitta : June. Morioka. Taichi Kanada. August. Yokohama. Osamu Shimada. September. Nagoya. Hiroshi Yamato. They died under similar circumstances. Stabbed at their door. Also, they had all complained to their management that the autolock on their door had been malfunctioning for a while.

Akari Nitta. Assistant manager for Jujutsu High. Currently guiding the first years to the destination of their new mission. Ever since the Eishu Detention Center, Gojo had been careful to assign missions to first years so that they could all go together.

Megumi : But the locations are all different. Were they really killed by the same curse?

Junpei : It could be different curses stemming back to one source.

Nanako : Like a one night curse?

Junpei : Maybe?

Mimiko : Is the door important here, somehow?

Nitta : Eh, not entirely. The curse influenced the operators and they went crazy. Now they're admitted in a rehabilitation centre.

Yuji : It would be difficult to infer anything from he scenes themselves. Quite some time has elapsed since the killings, and the scenes have been tampered with, even if unintentionally. So they will be contaminated.

Nitta : We did a background check and found out that they all went to the same junior high.

Nobara : So they might have contracted the curse back then and are manifesting it now.

Nitta : Maybe. We're going to talk to a classmate who can give us some details.

Yuji : No. Take us to the house of the latest victim.

Nitta : Are you sure?

Yuji : Yeah.

Nitta : Alright.

When they reached the classmate's house, it was a solemn affair. Everyone had turned up wearing black. Evidently it was a funeral.

Yuji walked to the entrance and looked inside. It was quiet. Everyone was grieving. His eyes darted around the door.

Nitta : Oh no, was the classmate killed as well?

Yuji : Yes. He lived with his parents, didn't he? His door didn't have an autolock but he was killed at the entrance nonetheless.

He walked inside. There, among several people, he spotted the picture of the guy. Then, after paying his respects, he searched around for the deceased person's parents.

Yuji : Excuse me, where are his parents?

Woman : They're upstairs.

Yuji : Thank you.

He went upstairs. By now, Megumi and Nanako had come inside.

Upstairs, Yuji found the dead man's parents, Mayuri and Hiroki Yamato. He greeted them respectfully, and expressed his intentions.

Yuji : I just have a few questions, that's all.

Hiroki : Alright. What do you want to ask?

Yuji : When your son came home last night, was the autolock malfunctioning?

Mayuri : We don't have an autolock. But yes, the door was unlocked, and yet he was having trouble opening it.

Yuji : Trouble like-?

Hiroki : He couldn't open it no matter what.

Yuji : Ah, I see. When did he return home?

Hiroki : 9? 9, I guess-

Mayuri : 9 o'clock.

Yuji : Hmm. And did he go to Saitama Urami East Junior High?

Hiroki : Why yes, he went to that school. Why, is something the matter there?

Yuji : No, it's fine. Thank you for your information.

Yuji walked downstairs. Megumi was snooping around, analysing any abnormalities in cursed energy. He shook his head. None. The two walked out.

Nobara : And? What did you guys find?

Megumi : Nothing on my end. Itadori?

Yuji : Did all murders happen at exactly 9 PM?

Nitta : Yes.

Yuji : Same for this one. Same pattern. Same school. Same curse.

Mimiko : There goes our only lead on this case.

Junpei : How about we try the school?

Yuji : Is the post mortem of the body done?

Nitta : No, it will be done today.

Yuji : I would like to go there. You guys to the school and try to find out some information.

Mimiko : You want to go to the morgue?

Yuji : Yes.

Megumi : Alright, meet us here by evening.

Yuji : No. We're staying the night here, right?

Nitta : Yes.

Yuji : Alright. You guys get to the hotel. I'll come when I'm done. I may need the entire night to work, if needed.

Nitta : But will that be alright?

Yuji : I'll be fine. Don't worry.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Saitama City Hospital, 1200 hours

Yuji put on the hospital gown, the cap, gloves and mask. He was ready for the autopsy. He entered the morgue, where the specialists were waiting. Issei Kanzaki and Asahi Ikusaba.

Issei : Are you sure you will be able to do it?

Yuji : Have you heard of Bandura?

Asahi : Yeah?

Yuji : Then yes.

The two specialists looked at each other and shrugged. They had been instructed by their superiors to allow this boy to do as he asked.

The autopsy began. The body had been mauled into a mangled mess when it had come in. Issei made a vertical cut, down the middle of the body. The three got to work, dissecting the cadaver.

The cursed energy residuals had already been clear to Yuji. It was Tiuru-Simnogore combo, at semi grade 1 level. The inside of the body radiated even more cursed energy. And a second cursed energy signature. In other words, two different curses were involved. This one was a Canra-Yononayas, but his estimates were telling him it was special grade. That would be troublesome.

The autopsy continued for the next few hours, but there was nothing substantial from it, other than occasional emissions of cursed energy that only Yuji could pick up. No more important information. He hoped that the others had better luck than him.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Saitama Urami East Junior High, 1300 hours

Nanako : I'm full after that lavish lunch.

Mimiko : Same. It was delicious.

Nobara : We're here.

Nanako : What do we do?

Nobara : Let's ask those punks.

The group approached said 'punks'. Two guys under a staircase who were smoking cigarettes. With weird hairstyles.

Nobara : We'll beat them up and teach them some discipline.

The two boys looked up, full of contempt and disdain. They were ready to strike. However, as soon as their eyes fell on the group, their faces went pale and they quickly bowed their heads.

Guy 1 : We're so sorry!! For not greeting you properly!!

The group stopped in their track. This was unexpected, to say the least. Nobara and Nanako were pleased with this turn of events.

Nobara : I knew it. It's hard to hide our aura.

Nanako : True.

Guy 2 : We haven't seen you since graduation, Fushiguro-kun!!

What? The girls had their delusions gone. They turned to look at Megumi, who was bashfully facing away from them.

Megumi : I went here.... for my... middle school...

Nobara gripped his face from one side, Nanako from the other. They forcibly turned his head towards them. Mimiko hadn't participated in the shenanigans until now, but she could never pass up a chance to bother Megumi, so she gripped the back of his head and helped the girls turn it. Junpei watched their antics, clearly weirded out.

Nobara : What's going on? Wait, let's ask them. Idiot A and Idiot B. What did he do to you?

Guy 1 : Fushiguro-kun has beaten every punk in this area to a pulp.

Megumi turned away again. The girls pulled on his head again. The commotion was drawing a lot of attention. A worker ran towards them.

Man : Hey, who are you guys?! You're from a different school, you can't enter here!

Junpei immediately showed him the permit. The man fixed his glasses and calmed down. The look on his face had changed.

Man : Oh, you should've said that earlier. Though you look very young.

Mimiko : Is he a long time worker?

Megumi : Takeda-san? Yeah, probably.

Junpei : All yours then.

Takeda : Fushiguro-kun, is that you?

Megumi : Yes, it's me.

Takeda : Kanada, Shimada, Yamato, and now Morishita, I'm surprised to know that they all died. It has been almost 2 years since they graduated, but I remember it as if it was yesterday. They weren't as bad as you but they were troublemakers, nonetheless. Tell me, what do you need to know? I'll help you to the best of my ability.

Megumi : Any strange or dark rumors about them?

Takeda : Nothing out of the ordinary for high school students.

Idiot B : What about the Yasohachi bridge?

Nobara : You two still here?

Junpei : Yasohachi bridge?

Megumi : Known for suicides. And paranormal activity.

Takeda : That's right. Bungee jumping off the bridge was a popular test of courage among the punks back then.

Megumi : What did they use for cord?

Idiot A : It was the generation before us. Once, four students were absent from school. Their homes were called, but they weren't there either. Ultimately they were found unconscious under the bridge. They were reprimanded bu they couldn't remember anything of the previous night.

A little while later, the group had huddled around their van. Nitta had arrived with their room keys.

Junpei : A lead.

Mimiko : We gotta work with it.

Yuji also arrived, seemingly in thought. He noticed the group huddled around the van and approached them curiously.

Yuji : What's the matter? Find anything?

Nanako : A lead to Yasohachi bridge.

Megumi : I've been there before.

Yuji : To bungee?

Megumi punched Yuji in the head. But then his eyes snapped towards him.

Megumi : How did you know about it?

Yuji : Went to the town records. All four had gone bungee jumping off the bridge at least once in their school life.

Nobara : How did the autopsy go?

Yuji : Not particularly interesting. But I got an idea about what kind of cursed we're dealing with.

Mimiko : Which is?

Yuji : Two of them. One semi grade 1. Another probably special grade.

Nobara : Oh shit.

Just then, Takeda approached the group once again.

Takeda : Fushiguro-kun, is Tsumiki alright?

Megumi : Yes, she's fine.

Takeda : Alright. Take care. Hopefully we'll meet again.

The old man walked away. The group got into the van, as it drove towards the hotel where they would stay.

Yuji : Why did he ask about your sister?

Megumi : Concern, I guess.

Yuji knew that was not the case. Megumi was strangely quiet. This was a quiet which he put up to avoid answering a question. But he decided not to press further. He would get his answers, eventually.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Undisclosed location, unknown time

Mahito : I don't get it. Why don't they just destroy cursed objects like these?

Kaori : They just can't. When its special grade, they simply keep it dormant to prevent damage.

Mahito : But Sukuna is doing damage.

Kaori : Sukuna is different. Even after being split into 20 fingers, he can still wreak havoc and choose his vessel.

Mahito : So, the death painting can be anyone.

In front of them, a guy was hung up on the wall, his hands nailed into the wall, blood dropping from them.

Man : Hey! If you want money, take as much as you want! But please, just let me go!

Mahito grabbed his chin and pulled his face up. His other hand had one Death Womb Painting.

Mahito : Are you sure? He can't see me even now. He's got no potential.

Kaori : Just do it.

Mahito : Alright. Open wide.

He pushed the Death Womb Painting into the man's mouth. Blood began to drip from his eyes. His body transformed into a grotesque creature, a deformed humanoid, with a rotting smell, a bluish skin, a hunched posture, no hair, a false face consisting of empty eye sockets, a nose and a false mouth on the top, all stained with dried blood, while a larger, real mouth opened up further down. He had arms that were long for his body, and short legs, all of which ended in sharp nails.

Mahito : Sorry to bother you, but you think you can run some errands for us?

Chapter Text

Megumi's Room, 1940 hours

Yuji : And that's all we fund from our experiments. That concluded our notes. So what do you guys think?

Nobara : Who's responsible for naming all this shit?

Junpei : Me. Why?

Nobara : Don't ever name a kid. Not even your own.

Nanako : Especially not your own. They'd be bullied so hard.

Mimiko: Yeah, don't worry. We'll bully them if needed.

Junpei : What the hell?

There was a knock on the door. Megumi went to open it. It was one of the guys from earlier.

Megumi : Fujinama?

Fujinama : Fushiguro, I'm glad I found you. Weren't you talking about the Yasohachi bridge? Here's my older sister, Kagura, who might be able to shed some light on this.

Kagura : He told me that you guys were investigating the Morishita family and the Yasohachi bridge. Seeing as they had a funeral, I thought it was more than a coincidence.

Megumi : What are you trying to say?

Kagura : Well, it's just...

Megumi : Yeah?

Kagura : During my second year, I went to the Yasohachi bridge at night.

Megumi : Anything odd at home that only you find?

Kagura : Our home is the local neighborhood store. For some reason, whenever I come home, the automatic door is wide open. And it only happens to me. Even though mom and dad say that it's nothing, I know something's definitely there. I was terrified, but then I heard about you guys and remembered the bridge.

Nitta : When did this begin?

Kagura : Last week. It happens every other day.

Well, other victims died about two weeks after reporting the incidents. So, they still had time.

Nobara : Did you go with anyone else?

Nitta : Don't worry, it's not related to Morishita's death. Just the door. Actually, we're writing a super boring report on electronic devices and the radiation they emit at paranormal hotspots.

Kagura : Well, I went with two seniors. Oh, Tsumiki was with me that night.

What? Tsumiki had gone to the bridge as well? That complicated things. Yuji's head snapped at Megumi, who appeared to quickly compose himself after an initial shock.

Megumi : Ok. I'll ask her about it.

The siblings got up, bowed, thanks the group and went out. A strange silence descended on the room. Yuji looked at Megumi. The boy was visibly shaken and was sweating.

Yuji : I'll be back in a moment.

He got up and went out. He turned right, walked the length of the corridor and out on a terrace. There, he called Ijichi.

Ijichi : Yes?

Yuji : What are the second years doing?

Ijichi : I'm assuming you called me to inquire about a specific-

Yuji : Tsumiki senpai. Is she fine?

Ijichi : Yes. She's fine. Why?

Yuji : Keep her in sight for the next week. At least until we return. This is urgent. There may be a threat to her life.

Ijichi : But I have other duties-

Yuji : And a student's life isn't important to you? Is that what you're saying?

Ijichi : I'll assign two bodyguards to her.

Yuji : Secretly. No one should know of this conversation between us today.

Ijichi : As you wish. I'll talk to you later.

Yuji : Yes.

The call hung up. Yuji was a little relieved. He walked back to Megumi's room.

When he arrived, he saw Megumi standing outside, phone in his hand, which was shaking. He was afraid.

Yuji : I've talked with Ijichi. She's fine. Two bodyguards will be assigned to her. Don't inform others just yet.

Megumi was looking at Yuji in bewilderment and astonishment. How he had managed to not only understand Megumi's despair, but also act upon it and tackle it was beyond the raven haired boy.

Megumi : What's the plan?

Yuji : Let's go inside and discuss it with others too.

The two walked inside. The atmosphere was noticably tense. Everyone had been troubled by what had been said.

Mimiko : Should we wait for Gojo sensei to return?

Nanako : That will be another week. The timer will run out.

Junpei : Where has he gone anyways?

Yuji : He's been called to Aiboporo, Suruma on HBD-1209007-b. An interplanetary mission.

Megumi : What's the plan?

Yuji : How about we try it? Bungee jumping off the bridge? And waiting one night?

Nobara : Let's go right now then.

Nitta : Absolutely not. I can't allow it.

Yuji : We'll lock you up here.

Nitta : Curse you.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Koinukuchi Canyon, Yasohachi Bridge, 2330 hours

Nobara : Well, we're here.

Yuji : Alright, give me one end of the cord. Tie the other to the railing.

Mimiko tied one end to the railing as tightly as she could. Yuji came and tightened it further, bending the railing grotesquely.

Mimiko : Weirdo.

Yuji : Shut up.

He tied the other end to his leg. Then, he climbed onto the railing.

Yuji : Here goes nothing.

He jumped. He was in free fall. For quite sometime. It was like there was no end. The wind blew about his face. Finally, he approached the ground. And just as he touched it with his palm, the cord was pulled taut. It pulled him back upward, and he ended up right where he had started.

Nobara  : How was it?

Yuji : Nothing interesting. But it wasn't what I found, rather what I recorded which was interesting.

He unwrapped the cord around his foot and the railings. Then, he collected it in his palm.

Nanako : What?

Yuji : It was a dormant curse, until it was awakened recently. That's how the murders are happening now. So it is still young in theory.

Nobara : So what do we do now?

Megumi : We wait. If nothing out of the ordinary happens to Itadori by tomorrow, we go down to the ground to figure it out. What are the strength levels of the curses?

Yuji : Grade 1 and special grade.

Junpei : Damn. That's gonna be tough.

Mimiko : Why worry? Itadori is a special grade 1 sorcerer. He's the backbone. We just gotta assist him.

Yuji : Right. But I'm not sure of other details as if now. We'll need to see the curse to verify anything.

Megumi : That's alright, I guess. Our job is done tonight. Let's go back.

The group got into the van one by one. The last one was Yuji, who looked back towards the bridge. Something felt off. Like he was missing something.

He hadn't told others, but there was a third stream of cursed energy as well. An unfamiliar stream that he had felt the night the unregistered special grades had attacked Gojo. The user has remained in the shadows, but their trace was inevitable, even if it was suppressed. It was evident, not only was this a human, whoever it was was a very proficient sorcerer. In other words, Yuji would have to get even stronger, than ever before, if he were to go up against this person.

Suddenly, Yuji remembered something that Wasuke had told him long ago.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Flashback)

Wasuke : Yuji. Remember this. If you ever meet a woman who makes you feel something that you shouldn't feel, ask her about your parents. She might be able to tell you something.

Yuji : How will be able to tell who it will be?

Wasuke : You'll feel a wavy trail emanating from her.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Present)

Of course, he had been just ten years old when Wasuke had told him that, so he hadn't clearly understood anything about it. But that night, as well as tonight, he had felt it. A wavy trail of cursed energy. Was this the woman his grandfather had been talking about all this while? And what did he mean by this woman would be able to tell him about his parents? What was going on?

Yuji : Grandpa, you died on a hill of secrets.

Mimiko peeked out from inside the van.

Mimiko : You coming?

Yuji : No, you guys go ahead. I need to walk a little to clear my head.

The door closed and the van drove off. Yuji was still standing on the spot. He walked to the edge and looked down. The wavy trail was faint from all the way up here, but present nonetheless.

Yuji sighed. Too many questions. Too many secrets. He had to do something. For now, he decided to just let things go as per plan. Before long, he started his return journey towards the hotel, cursing his impulsive decision to let go of the van.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

October 1, 2018, Megumi's Room, 1800 hours

The day had passed without any incidents. Mostly. No untoward incidents. No cursed occurences. It was an otherwise normal day.

Megumi : That confirms it. We set out tonight. Can't afford more delay.

Yuji : Agreed. Tonight, we exorcise this cursed spirit once and for all.

Chapter Text

October 2, 2018, Koinukuchi Canyon, Yasohachi Bridge, 0023 hours

Yuji : You sure you're not coming?

Mimiko : I'm not a combat type sorcerer anyway.  I'll only drag you guys back. Don't worry, I'll wait by the van.

Yuji : Alright. We'll be back soon.

The five sorcerers walked ahead. Mimiko sat in the van with Nitta.

In no time, they had reached the bottom. In front of them was a barrier. An incomplete domain. Good. A curtain won't be necessary.

There were numerous small curses abound. Junpei and Nanako stayed behind to take care of these, not being strong enough to face off against a grade 1 cursed spirit. Yuji, Megumi and Nobara travelled inside.

Once inside the barrier, the three came across a weird environment. It was a dark space, whereby a fungal growth had taken root. And it was huge. With several outlets across the area, forming a ceiling like structure. It was shaped like a tree, with a trunk giving rise to several branches. From one of the outlets, the curse showed itself, long and with an egg like head.

Yuji : There it is.

Nobara : This could be fun.

Suddenly, another entity emerged from behind them. Bluish, hunched back, hairless, with two empty eye sockets, a flat nose and a false mouth, along with a larger real mouth just a few inches below. All having trails of dried blood. It's short appendages ended in sharp claws.

Kechizu : Huh, what's this? Someone's here already?

Yuji : Focus on that one. I'll take care of this one.

Kechizu : You'll play with me?

This was weird. When Yuji had felt the cursed energy patterns, this one wasn't there. In fact, it didn't even feel dense enough to be called a curse. Moreover , how had this one managed to get inside? What happened to Junpei and Nanako? Were they alright?

Kechizu's mouth blew in size. Yuji jumped out of the way as Kechizu spat out a huge volume of blood, which embedded itself on the wall. Was it poisonous? Yuji had not time to think as Kechizu swiped at him with his claws. Yuji quickly condensed his cursed energy into a crystal shard and shot it at Kechizu. When he entity tried to defend itself by blocking, Yuji sped behind it and kicked it in the back, exposing it to the shard. It detonated like a grenade, in a huge blast, that injured Kechizu and threw him away.

Kechizu : Aw, you're too strong, this isn't fun!

Elsewhere, Nobara struck one of the holes with her cursed energy infused nail.

Nobara : Strawdoll - Resonance.

All the mini curses emerged from different outlets. Megumi went around, decapitating a few heads before they all went back inside.

Nobara : So we just treat it as a whack-a-mole?

Megumi : Basically.

Nobara : So in exchange for a wide range of attack on targets, its main body can't attack?

Megumi : Most likely.

Nobara struck another nail. Megumi and Divine Dog Totality went around, destroying as many curses as they could.

Just then, a pair of hands emerged from the wall of the barrier and grabbed Nobara's arm. They pulled on her and pulled her out of the domain.

Megumi : Kugisaki!

Nobara : Keep on the whack-a-mole!

Just then, Kechizu began acting up.

Kechizu : Yay, big brother's here! Me too! Me too!

He bounced into the gap in the barrier, followed by Yuji. Megumi was left in it alone.

Outside, Nobara charged at whoever had grabbed her.

Nobara : What the- Don't touch me!!

Her assailant came into view. It was a groos bald man, with a little scruff of hair on the front of his scalp. He was wearing piercings on his eyebrows and lips, and a lingerie set that barely covered his body. The sclera of his eyes were black. Nobara couldn't believe her eyes.

Eso : A female? Apologies. The errands entrusted to us brothers doesn't involve killing sorcerers. Retreat now and I'll let things be.

Nobara : Errand?

Eso : Oh? I thought we were chasing the same thing.

To a distance , Junpei, who was beaten up, was carrying an injured Nanako out of there. He had to get to the van, drop Nanako there and then rush back here to help his friends.

Inside the domain, Megumi and Totality finished off the last of the heads. Tsumiki would be fine now. His tension was over. Just then, one of the outlets pulsated. The curse was still alive.

From the outlet, emerged another curse. Megumi now realised why the killings were happening now. The first murder was all the way back in June. What else had happened in June? That's right, it was in June that Ryomen Sukuna had reincarnated inside Yuji Itadori. Because in front of him stood a finger barrier, its fangs bared and ready to devour prey. Inevitably, it was powered by Sukuna's finger. The faint traces of a restraining seal were detected by Megumi.

Eso : Our mission is to retrieve Sukuna's finger.

In other words, all of Sukuna's fingers had been awakened when Yuji ate one of them in June. But a seal had prevented this one from acting up. Now, that seal had been removed and it was active since then. This finger bearer looked like the one at the Eishu Detention Center, but compared to that, it was stronger.

The finger bearer collected some cursed energy and shot a beam of it at Megumi, who blocked it with his blade, which broke on impact. The finger bearer sped to behind Megumi and charged up cursed energy into its fist to hit the boy. Megumi summoned Totality to move out of the way.

Megumi : Nue.

Before the bird could emerge, the finger bearer closed in on him. Megumi felt that this situation was familiar.

----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Flashback)

Gojo punched Megumi away. He fell on his back, on the floor. He staggered and sat up.

Gojo : I win. Again. I was, honestly, a bit surprised when you asked me to train you. Are you feeling pressured by Yuji's growth?

Megumi : Beggars can't be choosers.

Gojo : Is is that annoying to ask me? Your potential and skill are higher than Yuji. All that is left is your mental aspect. You don't know how to bring out your best, do you?

Megumi : Huh?! Are you saying that I'm not trying my best?!

Gojo : No no. You are. You just don't know how to. You easily sacrifice yourself in order to help others. However, people like Yuji will always swing for the fences. Baseball is a team sport where everyone is expected to co-operate in order to achieve victory, but being a sorcerer is an individual sport.

Megumi : But isn't coordinating with other sorcerers important?

Gojo : Yes. But no matter how many allies you have, when you die, you'll be all alone. You're underestimating yourself and others instead of envisioning yourself as stronger in the future. All because of that ace up your sleeve you believe that sacrificing yourself would help everything end well. Keep that up and forget about becoming as strong as me. You won't be matching up to even Nanami.

He flicked his fingers on Megumi's forehead.

Gojo : Dying to win and risking death to win are two entirely different things, Megumi. Go for it. It's okay to be selfish.

Later on, Megumi had to go to Shoko for taking care of his bleeding forehead, from Gojo's flick.

----------------------------×××-------------------------

(Present )

Megumi lay against a rock, his head bleeding. He had been out for some time. Totality wasn't present ; thankfully, his technique had just ended, not destroyed. This was the end of the road for him. He brought his fists in front of him.

Megumi : With this treasure, I summon-

Sukuna's words flashed across his mind. A wasted treasure. Megumi smirked. Maybe he had a different way out, after all. He put his hands up in the air, as if surrendering.

Megumi : Nevermind!

A jujutsu sorcerer's growth never comes easy. Megumi had to picture it.

Megumi : Bring forth the deepest shadows and don't worry about the extraction form for now. Just push it forward through your cursed energy. Here we go!

Having a firm base, skill and imagination could change a sorcerer forever. Megumi brought and joined his hands together, pushing his thumbs into the space formed by his intertwined fingers.

Megumi : Domain Expansion.

The entire area was flooded with a shadowy black liquid, in which the finger bearer found its feet submerged. Hundreds of black toads emerged from the shadow and grabbed onto its leg. The finger bearer loaded up another shot of cursed energy, but was detailed as Megumi landed a kick on its face and then landed away from immediate range of attack. He could move freely. He had to think bigger. A beam of cursed energy shot through his palm and head, before he turned into a shadow and disappeared into his own pool. Just then, two Nue birds hit the finger bearer with powerful jolts of electricity. This was Megumi's interpretation of his technique.

The curse covered itself with its own cursed energy and blew it away, blowing the domain away as well. Nothing other than the light of th cursed energy remained. It dissipated, seemingly leaving nothing behind. The curse revelled, thinking it had won. Just then, it felt a pain sear up through itself. Megumi appeared from its shadow, along with Totality, whose claw had stabbed through the finger bearer's chest.

Megumi : Even Totality can hurt you. Stabbing you when you're not paying attention is not trouble.

The finger bearer's skin turned black. Soon, it disinterested into dust. Megumi cancelled Totality's summoning and sunk down onto his knees. He sighed. He was tired. He looked at the finger in his hand.

Megumi : Where is everyone?

He puked some saliva and plunked down onto the ground. His eyes closed and his world went blank.

----------------------------×××-------------------------

Undisclosed location, unknown time

Sukuna cackled. From his seat on the heap of skeletal remains, he felt his finger perfectly.

Sukuna : Good good. That's good.

Chapter Text

(Flashback)

Megumi : Do you know what the basic minimum requirement for human interaction is?

He was sitting atop a heap of punks he had beaten up. One was still conscious, barely.

Punk : No.

Megumi : "Please don't kill me. In return, I won't kill you." Replace 'kill' with anything else and it still works. Basically, don't cross a line that would violate someone's dignity. But you ignored it and fed it to your stupid ego. Did that do you any good? If this happens again, I'll kill you.

He walked down the heap, deliberately stepping on top of people to remind them of their place beneah him. The second year student at Urami East Junior High had a haughty air as he walked.

Punk : Did we do something to you?

Megumi : Figure it out yourself. Or just die. I don't care.

He walked away from the scene. On his trajectory, he walked past some nerds who were arguing about confronting bullies.

Tsumiki : Megumi.

He turned around. Behind him was his older sister, a third year student at Urami East Junior High.

Tsumiki : I told you not to get into fights.

Megumi : You're not my mom.

Megumi hated bad guys. They had no brains and zero emotional capacity, but they acted like they were amounting to anything. It was disgusting. But he didn't like good guys either. They acted like forgiving everyone - even bad people - is a divine right. They made him want to puke. Worst part? Tsumiki was the perfect example of a good person.

Megumi : Disgusting. 

He turned away. Just then, a milk packet crashed against his head, spilling strawberry milk all over him.

Tsumiki : Oh, sorry. I didn't think it would spill over.

In first grade, Megumi's dad and Tsumiki's mom got married and then vanished. Sometime later, a weirdo with white hair had shown up.

Gojo : So, your dad was actually from a reputable family of sorcerers, the Zenin. I believe he's a loser. He left his family and had you. You were your dad's trump card against the Zenin clan. Sucks, doesn't it?

Yes, his attitude was annoying. But he took care of the matter with the Zenin clan. In exchange for an assurance that we would work as sorcerers, he managed to secure a financial stipend for the two from Jujutsu High. How stupid. Who would he save?

Neither Megumi nor Tsumiki paid heed to the girls who emerged from some corner and chided her for throwing strawberry milk on him. Both siblings turned away from each other, not wanting to talk.

Kagura : So, are you coming to the bridge?

Tsumiki : I'm not really interested, but I am worried about you, so I'll go.

Then, it happened. Tsumiki was cursed. Identity unknown. Cause unknown. Multiple cases nationwide. She didn't wake up for almost an entire month. A seal had formed on her head. And it had refused to go away for the entire year. But then, one fine morning, it was gone. The night of a full moon, nothing less. Exactly two years after that, Ryomen Sukuna reincarnated.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Present)

The combatants stopped in their tracks. An overwhelming presence trumped them all. It was out of the barrier, brought out by someone formidable. However, a battle with a special grade must have left this person injured.

Eso : Apologies. I'll take my leave.

He was going for the finger. Nobara couldn't allow it.

Nobara : Hey!!

This guy wasn't running. He was hopping backwards. How amusing.

Nobara : You and your weird way of running, what's the deal with that?

Eso : I'm conscious about my back. Seriously, if you see my back, I'll kill you.

Form between the rocks, Kechizu and Yuji emerged out.

Yuji : Kugisaki!

Kechizu : Big bro!

But they were behind Eso. And they had seen his back. And it was hideous. A monstrous face with black eyes, glowing red pupils and a giant mouth. All dripping with blood.

Eso : You saw my back!!!!

Yuji : Sorry, I didn't mean to!

Kechizu : It was unintentional, big bro! Unintentional, I tell you!

Nobara struck her hammer onto Eso's head and dealt a strong blow. Thankfully, he was weirdly tough, so it was fine.

Nobara : Why are you dressed like that?

Eso : It gets stuffy. Supreme Rot Technique - Wing King. Death by wasp!!

Two transparent wings of blood emerged from the eyes on Eso's back.

Yuji : Don't touch that blood!

Nobara : I know!

Eso : Run.

They didn't need to be told twice. Their legs were working as soon as they got an opportunity. Before long, they were sprinting away from the creature, as Eso's wings grew like tentacles and attacked the two.

Yuji : Can you run faster?!

Nobara : No way!

Before she could trip and fall on a rock, Yuji picked her up in his arms.

Nobara : I got your back.

Yuji : I know.

He planted his step firmly into the ground. Nobara felt the breath leave her body as Yuji sped up. He ran at an incredible speed, through jungles and thorny pathways. While carrying another person too! Even Eso was impressed. But it wouldn't matter.

After running for some time, Yuji emerged from the bushes, landing on a road a little distance below. He put Nobara down on the ground. They must have run to the opposite direction of where their van was parked.

Nobara : Thanks.

Yuji : Don't mention it.

SPLAT! A torrent of blood hit Yuji, who turned around to see Kechizu. So they had taken a direct route there. Before she could react, Nobara was pierced by blood tentacles, as Eso landed on the ground.

Eso : No need to worry. My younger brother's blood isn't quite as potent as mine, but that's the thing. You won't die unless you're drenched in my blood. But it'll hurt like hell. Our technique starts now.

Supreme Rot Technique - Decay. Patterns of black, wild roses appeared on Yuji's and Nobara's body, exactly where the blood had touched them.

Eso : Membranes. Wounds. If you take in our blood the moment a brother activates the technique, decay will start spreading from the point of entry. I'd say fifteen minutes for the pink guy there. Ten for you, miss. By morning, only your bones will be left.

Yuji : So essentially, it's poison?

Eso : Essentially, yes. Decay. Now, what will you do?

Jujutsu sorcerers weren't special. In the Meiji era, there was a woman with an unusual genetic makeup, who bore a cursed spirit child. She was ostracized, by friends and family, to an extent that she ran to take refuge in the temple run by jujutsu sorcerers. But at that time, the temple was manned by none other than Noritoshi Kamo, a man of medium height, with clearly combed hair, sharp eye like a fox and a thin moustache, who was an ancestral head of the Kamo clan, a stain on the Big Three families, who would go down to be the most evil sorcerer in the history of jujutsu. This child, of a curse and a human, would become a prisoner of Kamo's intellectual curiosity. Nine pregnancies. Nine abortions. All records on what happened to the woman, as well as how these processes were done, horrified the higher ups, and were destroyed. Noritoshi Kamo disappeared in the last few years of his life, however, sightings of him continued as late as into the early 2000s. The results of his experiments were the nine Death Womb Paintings.

Numbers one through three. Choso, Eso and Kechizutso. Were they made special grade by their mother's hatred? No, they didn't even have memories of her. For 150 years, the only motion of existence for them was each other. Which is why when they were reincarnated, it was a big deal for them.

Choso : We'll side with those curses. The future they paint is more suitable for us.

Eso : But is that okay? They look shady.

Choso : Their vision will let us suffer less. But that's it. Forget about owing them your freedom. Kechizu, live for Eso. Eso, live for me. And I will live for Kechizu. We three are one.

And so, whatever was willed by his brothers, and was good for them, Eso would gladly do that. He looked at the two sorcerers in front of him, still marked with his technique.

Eso : If it's too painful, I'll kill you now.

In front of him, Nobara cackld with laughter. Eso was confused. What was her deal?

Nobara : A technique where you win if it hits? Strong, but you're unlucky. Because you met me!

Nobara had an unhinged grin on her face and a nail in her hand. She embedded the nail into her own hand. Resonance came into effect, and struck Eso and Kechizu simultaneously. Blood dripped from her arm, where the nail was, butshe paid no mind to it. Her maniacal laughter rang out across the scene.

Nobara : Let's play a game of chicken, how about it? If you don't like the pain, then deactivate your technique.

Strawdoll - Resonance applies cursed energy to a target's body by creating a connection through an effigy. The strike deals damage to the body part. The range of the technique is broad, and its effectiveness depends on difference between skill levels of user and target, and value of the body part targeted. Blood isn't exactly necessary, a connection to the target is. In Nobara's case, the connection formed though the Rot Technique, because the blood of the brothers was on her.

Nobara had been pleasantly surprised to see that her technique was working on the younger brother as well. If she was going down, she'd take them down as well.

However, Eso wasn't too worried. Her strikes wouldn't kill them. In fact, the pain should be enough to immobilise them. However, no one noticed Yuji loading up his fist with cursed energy.

Another Resonance. Eso and Kechizu were immobilised. Just then, Yuji struck a punch right in the middle of Kechizu's face.

Yuji Itadori was the vessel of Ryomen Sukuna, the one who was resistant to all poisons. This resistance had built up inside Yuji as well. The pain from Rot remained, but not the poison itself. And if it was just pain, Yuji would not stop moving. Of course he didn't, he landed a barrage of punches on Kechizu.

Eso : Kechizu!!!

Another Resonance. The two switched places. Nobara was going to attack Kechizu, whereas Yuji would attack Eso. Possibly she couldn't kill him, right? Not in this condition. But perhaps that was their plan. Keeping him frozen as they would kill his little brother.

Eso : You brats!!!

Should he deactivate the technique? Because he would neither be able to use Wing King, nor help Kechizu unless he did it. But no, he wouldn't deactivate the technique. He wouldn't, wouldn't, wouldn't.

Kechizu : Big bro....

Choso's words rang through his head. "We three are one." He blocked a punch from Yuji, having unintentionally deactivated the technique. Oh well. He activated Wing King, targeting Nobara and intending to stop her.

She was so focused on her target, she didn't even notice the approaching danger. However, the pain from the technique helped sharpen her focus. A one in a millionth of a spark ignited.

Yuji was the enemy who needed to be dealt with. His demeanor had changed as compared to before. His eyes had darkened, and a force was rising from within him. A force that he had desperately tried to leave behind, to forget, but it was back. And at a time that he needed, too. The man chosen by the sparks of black. Black Flash!

Eso's right arm, from the shoulder, and Kechizu's head were blown off. Their blood spattered around, red in colour. Eso's heart pained for his little brother. Kechizu rose again, intending to devour Nobara whole.

Nobara : Oh right. I haven't shown you these yet. Hairpin.

The nail lodged in Kechizu's head blasted, finally killing him.

Nobara : Don't worry, I'll send your big brother your way soon.

Eso : Kechizu.

He was sorry to his big brother, for not being able to save Kechizu. Despite his tears of affection, Yuji moved in.

Suddenly, a truck passed by. The two stepped aside. One of the drivers shouted at them. Eso climbed onto the vehicle and grabbed the other passenger.

Eso : Step on the brakes and you're dead. You and your friend.

The frightened driver nodded vigorously and continued on. Eso's arm had regrown, not the way it was previously, but it was useful enough. He couldn't even mourn Kechizu properly.

Eso : Don't come after me, jujutsu sorcerers.

No problem. He would heal and avenge Kechizu's death.

Yuji : Kugisaki!

Nobara had placed a voodoo doll on Eso's severed arm. She struck it with a nail.

Nobara : Resonance.

Nails emerged from Eso's side, throwing him off the truck, as it drove off.

Yuji : Sorry.

Yuji's fist went right through Eso's chest, piercing his heart. Eso's life was over. He apologized to his big brother once more. His lifeless body fell on the ground with a thud.

Yuji : Damn, that hurt.

Chapter Text

Undisclosed location, unknown time

The roulette on the board spun with abandon. Choso held the piece on his hand, waiting for his chance.

Mahito : Geto, give me a stocks card.

Kaori : Wait, Mahito. What's the matter, Choso?

Choso : My younger brothers are dead.

The anger flowing through him overwhelmed all logic and reason, as he snapped the piece he held in his hand. His cold body was warming up, his greyish skin becoming a light shade lively peach.

Mahito : Hey! Don't break pieces!

Kaori : So you can sense those kind of things, huh?

Mahito : Sheesh. Do we have more pieces?

Kaori : I wonder what happened. It's one thing to be defeated by a curse, but it seems unlikely they'd be killed by curses.

Her expression changed. From calm to inquisitive, and then to cool and confident. A smirk graced her face.

Kaori : Guess who killed your brothers?

Choso : Who?

Kaori : The first years at Tokyo High. Yuji Itadori and his classmates.

Mahito perked up at the name. Yuji Itadori. The thought of meeting his nemesis again excited him.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

October 2, 2018, Koinukuchi Canyon, Yasohachi Bridge, 0130 hours

Nobara : Itadori, let's go. Everyone will be waiting for us.

Yuji : Are you all right?

Nobara : Probably. Dunno about the poison....

Yuji : They're dead. Cursed techniques cease to be once user dies. You'll live.

Nobara : Huh. That's good.

The bushes behind them shook. Nobara was on guard.

Yuji : Relax.

From the bushes, Mimiko peeked out. After scanning her surroundings, she walked towards the two.

Mimiko : Well, you guys are beaten up! Let's go to Nitta, she's worried sick!

Yuji : What about Junpei and Nanako?

Mimiko : Well, they were beaten up by the hairy guy. They're in the van, receiving first aid.

Yuji : I see.

Nobara : Itadori, are you all right?

Yuji : Have you ever had that feeling that you've desperately tries to suppress? Because unleashing it might wreak havoc? Is there an idea in your mind that you wish to leave behind, yet life forces you to conront it anyway?

Nobara : What are you blabbering on about? Itado-

Yuji turned to look at the two. His face was bloody. But most dangerously, his eyes were empty. Not in the literal sense, but the light in them was gone. They were dead, not a trace of life in them.

Yuji : Have you killed someone before?

His hair fluttered in the light breeze. Yet, a heavy silence was in the air.

Nobara : Have you?

Yuji : I'm not privy to answering that. It is directed to you.

Nobara : No. You're the one who's having a problem.

Yuji : I know. But what do you think?

Nobara : Well, honestly, I don't. Have a problem, that is. These things are inevitable when you're a sorcerer. Even if they were flesh and blood, think of the damage that would have been done if they had gotten Sukuna's finger.

Mimiko : Eh? Sukuna's finger?

Nobara : Yeah there was one here. It should be with Fushiguro now.

Mimiko : Lemme call Yoshino and see where he is.

Mimiko walked aside in order to make her call, leaving Yuji and Nobara alone.

Nobara : Not to quote him, but, there's only so many people we can save. I have a stubborn mind, and unless I find something worth endangering my life for, I won't veer off course from my planned trajectory. Does that make me cold?

Yuji : No. You're valid in your ideas. Perhaps that is the tragedy of adolescent sorcerers. You're right in not thinking too deeply because you're still a teenager. I'm right for thinking so deeply because I'm a sorcerer. Yet the opposites also apply to both of us.

Nobara : Do you want to do something for them?

Yuji : Yes. I don't know why but when I killed this guy, as well as when the younger one died, I felt a weird sensation in my being. One that said I lost someone. I want to at least make sure that they are sent off properly.

Nobara : For them?

Yuji : Believe me, if I could, I would hand them over to their older brother. Since we can't do that, I wish to cremate them on my own. If you don't want to do this, you're free to go.

Nobara : Alright. I'll go back to the bridge and see how the others are, try to find Fushiguro, you know? But I can stay back if you want.

Yuji : No. The decision is yours.

Nobara stood and pondered for a while, as Yuji picked up Kechizu's corpse. She watched him go over and pick up Eso's corpse as well. Finally, she decided to stay behind. Mimiko, done with her phone call, came over.

Mimiko : Yoshino has gotten to Fushiguro.

Nobara sighed with relief. She wouldn't have to be torn between staying to guard Itadori or finding a potentially vulnerable Fushiguro.

Nobara : I'll stay. Help you if and how I can.

Yuji : No need to. Just be there.

He walked into the forest. The girls followed him. The corpses were slung over his shoulders, the limp arms bouncing as Yuji walked. Blood drops dripped from them.

Yuji set them down by the river. Then, he grabbed a tree and uprooted it off the ground. He set about getting rid of the branches and foliage. Then, he condensed his cursed energy into a hacksaw and cut the trunk into uniform, rectangular pieces. He created about 100 pieces, taking the rest of the tree's remains and burying it under the ground and covering it up with soil in order to ensure that another tree would grow in its place.

He set the pieces up into two funeral pyres. On one, he laid down Kechizu. On the other, he laid down Eso. It want a proper funeral, but it would have to do for now. Yuji condensed his cursed energy again, into two tiny orbs, which he used to light the pyres on fire. The wood burned up in flames, releasing light and smoke, as the bodies burned with the fire raging around them. The three watched solemnly, not uttering a word.

Nobara : Be honest with me. Do you think of me as an escapist?

Yuji : I told you, no. Everyone is entitled to their own beliefs. It's fine you think that way. If anything, I'm glad you and I are alive.

That eased some of Nobara's tension. She looked at the burning pyres again.

Yuji : That said, I won't forget that lives were lost because of me, tonight.

Nobara : That makes us accomplices, I guess.

Once the pyres had burned to ashes, Yuji rummaged throught the heap and fished out the Death Womb Painting cores, which hadn't been burnt. They were lifeless. As expected. He put the two in his pocket and condensed his cursed energy into a shovel. Then, he dug a big hole in the ground, where he buried the ashes. Then, the three walked back to the Yasohachi Bridge.

Upon arriving, they saw Junpei helping Megumi sit up. The raven haired boy was groggy, after a concussion-induced sleep, and was disoeriented regarding his surroundings. He looked here and there, before his eyes landed on the group emerging out of the forest.

Yuji : You're awake.

Junpei : And you guys are okay!

Nobara : Not entirely. This is going to leave a scar.

She was pointing to her left arm.

Mimiko : Does it hurt?

Nobara : It's sensitive for now. I wonder if Ieiri sensei is sober at this hour.

Junpei : He was lying here for a while.

Yuji : Just like that? With Sukuna's finger? That's dangerous.

Megumi : How do you know about it?

Yuji : Why do you think I won't know about it? Whose body does Sukuna inhabit?

Megumi : Fair point.

Yuji : Should I just eat it?

Nobara : It's not leftovers.

Megumi : We're not sure how many fingers you can tolerate. But since you're not very run down, I'll let you hold it. Just don't eat it.

Yuji : Yeah yeah, heard ya the first time.

As Yuji brought his han closer to Megumi's to take the finger, Sukuna's mouth emerged on his palm and gulped down the talisman. In a moment, his cursed energy flared, but Yuji pushed it back down.

Megumi and Nobara : We told you not to eat it!!

Yuji : It wasn't my fault!!

He looked at his hand, annoyed and angry.

Yuji : This fucker didn't even help this time!!

Mimiko : Well, it's over I guess. Let's go home.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

October 3, 2018, Tokyo High Staff Room, 1010 hours

Gojo : And so, Yuji watched Sukuna gulo down that finger. At least that's what he wrote in the report. And he also returned Death Womb Paintings numbers 2 and 3, though they were dead. But I got them stored in their previous capsules again.

The voice from the other side of the phone was listening.

Gojo : Man, I gotta hand it to this year's first years. They're something else entirely, handling multiple special grades over a single night. Then again, I'm their teacher, after all.

Utahime :  Cut the bullshit. It's my day off, so I wanna enjoy a game of baseball in peace. What about the party? No one's responding, so should we just ask students at this point?

Gojo : Sure. Non-alcoholic beverages are fine. Keep asking around, and I'll leave it to you.

The call hung up. Gojo retreated into his thoughts. He couldn't be sure there wasn't someone listening into his conversations with his wife. But he also didn't want to believe that the mole was a student.

Gojo : Well then, I'll be counting on you, Mei.

Elsewhere, Mei Mei received a large sum of 10 million yen from Gojo's account. She cackled like a madwoman. The job would be done.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Garden, Tokyo High, 1100 hours

Megumi : Don't tell Itadori about the fingers resonating.

Nobara : Are you sure?

Megumi : Yeah. All this began in June, when Itadori consumed the first finger, to help me. Yasohachi Bridge was going to happen sooner or later. Don't tell him.

Nobara : Of course not. I'm a lady, after all.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Yuji's Dorm, 1110 hours

Sukuna : It's your fault, brat! You ate my finger and roused my spirit! To help people, eh?! Because of you many people will die!

Yuji : It's fine. I'll die with you. That thought alone gives me comfort. Don't tell Fushiguro. And shut up. I need to go Yaga sensei for a lesson. Don't you dare spit your nonsense there, bitch!

Chapter Text

Principal's Quarters, Administrative Wing, Tokyo High,
1120 hours

Yaga : So, what do you want to know?

The two were in a spacious and well furnished apartment, although it only had a few rooms. A small living room, a bedroom, a kitchen, a washroom and a library. That's it. That was Yaga's modest little residence. The two were currently in the living room, sitting in front of each other, on comfortable sofas.

Yuji : About souls. Since your technique deals with entrusting souls in inanimate objects, you may have some knowledge about it. I want that knowledge.

Yaga : Hmm. Very well. Ask away.

Yuji : How do you create souls?

Yaga : There is a process. First, have you been reading the Book of Seals that Satoru gave you?

Yuji : Yes. What about it?

Yaga : Then you must have read about the depersonalisation seal.

Yuji : Yes. It helps you get rid of the worldly distractions and puts you in a little bubble of your own.

Yaga : Good. Draw a depersonalisation seal on the floor and sit on it. You should gather some wood and a small needle. That's what I use, anyway.

Yuji : Uh huh.

Yaga : You need to understand a little about souls before you make one. Every soul is composed of two parts. The physical existence of the soul, the moro, and the informational aspect od the soul, the kachi. The moro guarantees your physical existence in this world. The kachi determines who you are.

Yuji : So, moro will be made with wood?

Yaga : Eh, kind of. The wood will act as a moro. Shape it in a broadly resemblant shape of the entity you want to craft. And then write down whatever you want the entity to be on the moro. This will act as your kachi. Finally, create a personalized seal that deals in your cursed energy. Then engrave this seal into the moro to form the connection. You're done. Forming a soul.

Yuji : How does it work?

Yaga : The mechanics of the soul are unknown even to me. Perhaps, this will be of interest to you.

Yaga got up and went over to the library. From there, he pulled out a file filled with papers. He brought it back with him and gave it to Yuji.

Yaga : This is the research that was done on souls by Yuki Tsukumo, before she went off radar. It will be able to help you in your endeavour.

Yuji : Oh thanks. What happened to her?

Yaga : Nothing. I bet she's out there, enjoying on some tropical beach, or skiing in some mountainous country. She does that from time to time, going off radar, and coming back with stories of adventure sports.

Yuji : I see.

Yaga : Also, one last thing. I regret to tell you this, but this is an endeavour you must do on your own. The mechanics of creating a soul are just what I do to create a proxy soul. How souls are actually formed, what is their constitution, how does consciousness emerge, all these are unknown to even me. Therefore, I could only be of limited help.

Yuji : Sometimes the basics help to build on further. Thanks for your time and information. I'll see what I can do with it.

Yaga : Good. But don't neglect your studies because of that.

Yuji : I won't.

He walked out of the apartment, down the staircase and into the open. The building for recuperating sorcerers was lit, some were resting for being recommissioned later. He sighed and walked away. He would need to work in his dorm.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Yuji's Dorm, 1150 hours

He opened the door and was met with a horrid sight. His dorm was a mess. The machine that he had created was now in a half dismantled stage. The corpse of the curse was still lying to a side in an odd angle, and giving off a weird smell. His bed wasn't done properly and his desk was strewn with notebooks. Yuji set the file down on the desk and walked over to his bed. He dusted it and changed the sheets, then he picked up his clothes and threw them into the laundry bucket outside his door.

Then, he got to work. He carefully unscrewed every nook and corner of the device, dismantling his own creation with his own hands. He had a better understanding of cursed energy and curses. The parts could be used later. Once every part was dismantled, he picked up heaps of the scrap and walked to the storeroom to keep them. He had to make this trip multiple times.

Finally, he picked up the curse's corpse and dragged it out of his dorm. Once at the edge of the forest, he removed the anti-disintegration seal he had put on it, and threw it down a crevice. It didn't take the corpse a minute to disintegate into dust.

He walked back to his dorm, dusting himself off. His dorm was clean. He sat down at his desk and opened the file to read, while playing with a strand of his hair.

Mimiko : Reading even on a day off?

Yuji's eyes snapped towards his open door. She was standing there, waiting for an answer.

Yuji : How we spend our day off is very different. What's with that bun?

Mimiko : Nanako did it for me. It's inconvenient to have your hair open all the time.

Yuji : Hmm. That's why it seemed familiar.

Mimiko : You got any plans for today?

Yuji : None. What about you guys?

Mimiko : We're going shopping. I suggested to Fushiguro that you guys should go shopping too. Helps in team building.

Yuji : No thanks, I'll skip. Tell him that.

Mimiko : Wow, you're plenty fun to be around, huh?

Yuji : Is that sarcasm I hear?

Mimiko : Oh my gosh, your hearing actually works.

Yuji : Oh shut it.

Mimiko : Anyways, I gotta go. Enjoy wallowing in your own world, and don't cry when you feel scared being all alone in the dark.

Yuji : I won't.

She left. Silence fell on the room again. Yuji got up and closed his door. He wanted to travel to his hometown again, even if he didn't have clear memories of it. To go there, and clear his head. He felt it to be necessary. For his sanity.

He walked over to the window and looked out. It was peaceful, as it always was at the school. It had been rebuilt after the invasion during the Exchange Event. Next year, it would happen again at this venue.

Next year. It seemed like an elusive, surreal concept. Would he be here by this time, a year later? Maybe. Maybe not. He might be able to compete in the next Exchange Event. He might be executed by then. It was a matter of chance.

A knock on the door brought him out of his reverie. He walked over and opened it. It was Gojo, ever so cheerful.

Gojo : Yo, Yuji. Were you busy?

Yuji : Not really. Come in.

The two sat down, Gojo on the chair, Yuji on the bed. His room wasn't very decorative, but it was reflective of him. Somewhat empty, somewhat filled.

Gojo : I need a favour.

Yuji : Date. That's all.

Gojo : You know what I'm gonna ask of you?

Yuji : Babysitting Satoshi. I haven't forgotten.

Gojo : Oh thanks. It's this evening, by the way.

Yuji : No problem. But I thought you were going on the weekend.

Gojo : No, we preponed it, seeing as our schedules are busy.

Yuji : All right. When should I come?

Gojo : 7? Yeah, 7 will be all right.

Yuji : Alright, 7 it is then.

Gojo : Oh, and also, here's your provisional license. It's here.

Yuji took the card. A provisional license. He could now drive, even though he was underage.

Yuji : I thought driving tests were necessary.

Gojo : I just sent them the footage of your Grand Prix races. They agreed instantly.

Yuji : I see. Thanks.

Gojo : No problem. See you later.

Gojo got up, ruffled Yuji's hair and walked out. He was left alone again. Not lonely, just alone. Yuji wouldn't tell anyone, but it was comforting.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Gojo's Apartment, 1900 hours

Yuji rung the doorbell. He had been here quite a number of times, so he more or less knew where stuff was.

A few seconds later, Gojo opened the door.

Gojo : Ah, just on time. Come on in. Satoshi is in his playroom. We'll take your leave then.

Yuji : Alright, have fun.

Gojo and Utahime bid him farewell and set out. Yuji closed the door and went inside, where the little boy was.

Upon seeing Yuji, the little boy got up and ran towards him. Then, he put up his arms.

Yuji : You want ups? Alright.

He picked him up and walked to the living room. There, he switched on the TV and gave the remote to Satoshi.

Yuji : Go on. Put on your favourite show.

The two spent the next few hours, watching Satoshi's favourite shows, like Adventure Time. It was entertaining. After about an hour and a half, they went and played with LEGO blocks in the playroom, for another hour.

Before long, Yuji was cooking dinner for the two. Satoshi sat as watched him manoeuvre through the kitchen like an expert.

Satoshi : Will you teach me too?

Yuji : What? Cooking?

Satoshi : Yeah?

Yuji : Sure. I'll teach you one day.

Satoshi : When?

Yuji : When you're a bit older.

Satoshi : Okay.

Dinner was a comfortably quiet affair. The two ate in relative silence, occassionally broken by quaint little questions that Satoshi asked the older boy, mainly about high school. Yuji was amused, but tried to answer to his best and utmost honesty.

The doorbell rang, and Yuji got up to answer it. It was his friends.

Yuji : What are you guys doing here?

Megumi : We called up Gojo sensei to ask where you were, and he told us to come here.

Nobara : No way! That's his apartment?!

Mimiko : Yeah. We know already, don't we?

Nanako : We do.

Nobara and Junpei couldn't believe their eyes as they walked inside with the others. This was a rich, furnished, duplex apartment. There was no way this was real.

Nobara : Where's the kid?

Yuji : Here.

In his hands, Satoshi was nested like a little bird. He watched the new arrivals with curious eyes.

Mimiko : Oh my gosh!!! He's adorable!!

Nanako : Hey there, little guy!!

Nobara : Am I pretty?!

Satoshi : You're mid.

Silence. Then the rest of the group, except for Nobara and Yuji, burst out in laughter. Even Megumi was laughing behind his covered mouth. Yuji was trying to suppress his giggles.

Nobara : Say I'm pretty. Say it.

Yuji : Stop it. He's just a kid. You'll scare him.

Nobara had to back off. Satoshi curled up in Yuji's arms, feeling safe in his big brother's embrace.

Before long, he was put to bed. The boy fell fast asleep, snuggling a teedy bear, that Gojo had given him for his first birthday.

Gojo and Utahime finally returned around 11 o'clock.

Gojo : Thanks for taking care of him. I hope he didn't bore you.

Yuji : Not really. Feel free to call me in these cases whenever you want.

Gojo : Sure. I'll remember that. Thanks for today.

Yuji : Don't mention it.

The group bid the family farewell and set out to their school. The girls had spent the entire day shopping. Junpei had gone to watch a movie, while Megumi had visited the city library. The group talked as they returned to Tokyo High, a place that they had no hesitation in calling their home.

Chapter Text

(Flashback)

December 7, 1989, Kyoto University Hospital, 1127 hours

The baby lay in the cot. White hair. Its eyes opened. Glowing blue orbs. Satoru Gojo had burst into the scene.

The first individual in the Gojo clan to inherit both the Six Eyes and the Limitless. This was a matter of celebration for the clan, and specially for his parents, whose standing in the clan would, no doubt, rise exponentially.

The balance of the world was going to change. And all because of a boy, who had been born just about an hour ago.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

21 February 1996, Gojo Clan Ancestral Home, Kyoto, 1200 hours

Satoru : Can I go out to play with the other kids?

Elder : No. You are far more important than they are. We can't have you risk your life until you're ready.

The boy scoffed. Always the same answer. Always the same excuse. He was special. He was different. They were protecting him. Until he was strong enough.

How long until he would be strong? How long until he would be so terribly alone?

--------------------------×××----------------------------

0000 hours

Finally, nighttime. A time of quiet, peace and calm. A time when the noise of the day died down. A time when he could be himself.

Satoru opened the door of his room by a crack and slipped out. He was never allowed to go by himself, yet his curiosity was getting the better of him.

He walked across the path from his compound to the pond nearby. It felt so weird, walking by himself in the dark, but it was calming. He was free. He was himself.

Once near the pond, he went down and looked into it. His own eyes were glowing back at him. His reflection was so pretty! He could stare at it all night. He touched the water surface. So cold! Winter was only leaving now, but it was still pretty cold. The tension in the water was gone soon enough, and his clear reflection returned to his eyes.

Guard : Who's there?!

Satoru turned around, his heart beating in his chest rapidly. He wasn't sure what would happen. The guard came over, grabbed him by the arm and took him to he house of the clan head.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Head's Living Room, 0019 hours

Head : So, what do you have to say for yourself?

Satoru sat in front of him with his head bowed, not out of respect, but out of fear. An old man with an imposing structure and white hair. His very appearance invoked fear in small children.

Head : Are you deaf??!!!

He slammed his fist on the table. Satoru shook. This was his usual environment, so why was he still so scared of it?

Satoru : I just....wanted to... take a walk....I...it won't happen again.....

Head : You're damn right! And if it does, your parents will pay for it! Take him back.

The guard picked him up and carried him back to his quarters. He could hear the elders of the clan murmuring about him as he exited the room.

The way back was quiet. His head was still bowed in shame.

Guard : Why do you always stir up trouble? Everyone here is trying to protect you. Why don't you make it easier for us?

Satoru : I don't want to be protected! I want to be heard! Not ignored!

Guard : Can't help on that. A little bit of solitude is part of the deal of being strong.

The rest of the way back was quiet, again. Satoru was put in the room he had been. He didn't even look up at the guard, who clearly pitied him, but couldn't help it as he closed the door. The boy heard it being locked. He moved to a corner of the room and hugged his knees close to his chest. Quiet sobs racked through his body, as the weight of his truth fell upon him.

He was alone. So terrifyingly and terribly alone in this big, wide world. He was taken away from his mother within the first month after his birth, and was being raised by the elders. He didn't even know who his parents were. Apparently, his mother had died sometime after his birth, from post-partum depression. His father enjoyed a higher status than before, but he had never inquired about his son. What an asshole of a father. Satoru hated him now.

How long? How long until his life would be hell? Why did he have to be born as Satoru Gojo, and not just as Satoru? Not a day went by when he wished he could be normal, he could be like everyone else, and he didn't have to be so special or so 'lucky', as they called him now.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

17 April, 1999, Satoru's Quarters, 1000 hours

Satoru was sitting on the balcony outside his room. His legs were dangling off the edge. He was looking at the trees, watching birds chirp. His room was being cleaned by the servants.

Guard : Hey!! Come down here!!

Satoru peeked over the edge. It was that same guard who had caught him sneaking out that night. It had been years since that incident, but he hadn't forgotten that guy's face. Tall, sharp eyes, sharp jaw, brown hair, brown eyes and a ceremonial axe tied to his waist.

He got up and walked down to where the guy was standing.

Satoru : What's the matter?

Guard : The head's orders. You're to go on a mission with me.

Satoru : And practice?

Guard : That'll come later.

Satoru : Alright.

He quickly followed the older man, as the two made their way out of the compound, to where the car was waiting for them.

It was a short drive, about fifteen minutes. The two got off, and the car drove a bit ahead, before coming to a rest. The pair of sorcerers walked inside the dark alley.

It was a narrow space for two people, so they walked in a vertical formation. Satoru walked behind this older guy, who had been appointed his bodyguard, with no idea how these missions go.

After walking for some time, they came upon the target. A weak curse, looking like a cat, twisted, hairless and with purple eyes. The bodyguard walked up to it and sliced it in half with an axe that Satoru had forgotten about until now. The job was done. They walked back in silence, neither wanting to speak to the other.

Once in the car, Satoru decided to break the ice.

Satoru : So that was it?

Guard : Depends on the curse itself.

Satoru : Which branch of the family do you belong to?

Guard : None. I'm simply repaying an old debt to the head of your clan.

Satoru : What's your name?

Guard : Hayato Utahime.

Satoru : I'm Satoru Gojo. Nice to meet you.

Hayato : Everyone knows who you are. You're famous.

Satoru : What's the deal about you protecting me?

Hayato : I'm not supposed to tell you.

Satoru : Oh come on, you can trust me.

Hayato : It's not about trust. I will be privy to telling you once I leave service.

Satoru : When will that be?

Hayato : I don't know. Whenever the old man decides I've outlived my utility.

Those words stung the young boy somewhere deep. That was how the higher ups viewed everyone. Useful tools to advance their goals. And Satoru was one of them.

--------------------------×××----------------------------

Satoru's Room, 1600 hours

Satoru : Bring me a manual on the Limitless. Any old manual you can find in the library.

The servant bowed and left. Satoru was alone in the room. If he couldn't be with anyone else, he'd at least read some books to increase his knowledge and skills in sorcery. So that he could become stronger, and release Hayato from being used as a tool.

The servant brought him the manual that he had asked for, bowed promptly, and left. Satoru sat down at his chair and began to read. It was an instruction manual left by a previous used of the Six Eyes and Limitless, from 400 years ago.

Limitless, as a technique, was descended from a certain type of nature manipulation technique that was possessed by the ancestral clan of the sorcerers, the one Michizane-no-Sugiwara had traced his lineage back to. The Six Eyes had a more mysterious origin, no one quite knew where they had come from. Some believed it was a divine gift, some thought it was a genetic mutation caused by chance, yet others believed it to be the result of an experiment. Nevertheless, Michizane-no-Sugiwara was the first recorded user of the Six Eyes.

The Limitless technique was incredibly taxing, which is why it was accompanied by large amounts of cursed energy. It could manipulate space on a sub-atomic level. It had three main applications :-

1. The neutral application, Infinity, which created a shield around the user by constantly shifting the fabric of space around, pulling it in different directions, specially into clumps, and forming new matter to fill in the vacuum. It was placed right form birth, and had the potential to block everything, even beneficial items. Thankfully, the Six Eyes prevented this by not letting the technique awaken until later.

2. Infinity could be used to remove space from existence, by amplifying the pulling power of Limitless. This created a blue singularity, made of negative mass. However, negative mass could not exist in reality, hence something was needed to fill the gap, resulting in a force which could pull things in like a mini black hole. This was Cursed Technique Lapse : Blue.

3. The process of creation of space could be halted and the power of Infinity could be reversed to repel things away. This was done by creating positive mass to push things outward at a great force, potentially ripping opponents apart. This was Cursed Technique Reversal : Red.

4. There was a secret technique that very few members of the Gojo clan knew about. When Red and Blue were combined, the two types of masses cancelled out each other, creating imaginary mass made of anti-matter. This orb of imaginary mass could literally delete anything in its path from existence. However, it required impressive skill for a sorcerer to perform. This was Imaginary Technique : Hollow Purple.

5. The domain that was associated with the Limitless technique was the Infinite Void. This domain directly brought opponents inside the world of the Limitless, where their brains were flooded with infinite information for infinite number of times, paralysing them and giving them severe brain aneurysms. It was a lethal domain.

Satoru read through the information, lapping it up like a parched man who had found an oasis. It was enthralling. The rest of the book had practical instructions on how to actually perform these techniques, along with some trivia scattered here and there.

Nevertheless, this was important. Satoru finally had a manual to follow, to use, to train with. He could finally and firmly set on his path to becoming strong. All for the man who had helped him wake up from his slumber, Hayato Utahime.

Chapter Text

18 June, 2002, Tokyo City, 1330 hours

Over the years, Satoru had turned into a rebellious troublemaker. He had gotten much stronger than before, having achieved mastery over techniques like Blue. He was basically in the top of the clan now, having nothing and no one to fear.

He had inculcated a habit of frequently running away from the ancestral home to go and visit Tokyo. Hehad found the metropolitan fascinating. How the city was so crowded, the buildings could rise so tall, and there was just so much life brimming everywhere. The very thought of it all excited him.

He was walking through the crowd, having no track of time in particular. He had learnt that he was a unique specimen in the world of jujutsu. That his birth had changed the balance of the world, making curses stronger, which in turn forced sorcerers to get stronger as well. He was very valuable, and so, people were out to get him. A bounty had been placed on his head, which only increased with time. Of course, he was strong enough to fend them off, but it was annoying to have to deal with these idiots all the time. When would they learn?

He was walking aimlessly, without any particular destination. Honestly, he'd do anything that interested him. After all, he had even brought some money along with him. His feet stopped before a movie hall. He had never watched a movie in a hall. Well, he found his first activity for the day. His steps proceeded inside, intending to indulge for the next two hours or so.

Once it was done, he came outside. The film wasn't anything impressive, but it had allowed him to pass time. He walked again, not knowing what exactly he had set out to do, but knowing he wasn't going back until his heart was content.

Then, through the crowd, he saw him. His bodyguard. The same guy he had become used to seeing all this while.

Hayato : I take my eyes off you for one moment, and you bolt off.

Satoru : You knew what would happen. The risks were a known part of the job.

Hayato : Don't teach me how to do my job. We're going back.

Satoru : No. I'm not going anywhere until I'm done.

Hayato : I'm not asking you. It's an order.

Satoru : Same here.

The silence was tense. The crowd went on with their lives, not minding the two. Hayato gripped the handle of his axe. Satoru brought his hands together, already forming a mini Blue.

Hayato let go of the axe. Satoru was taken aback. He let go of his cursed energy. What was Hayato doing, not engaging him in combat?

Hayato : Come with me. I wish to show you something.

Satoru wasn't keen on following this guy ; nevertheless, he went along, curious to see what the older guy had to say. The two walked through the city, eventually hailing a cab to go to the other side of Tokyo. The drive was silent and solemn, neither side exchanging any words with the other. Eventually, though, Satoru decided to break the silence.

Satoru : Where are we going?

Hayato : School.

Satoru : But it's the weekend.

Hayato : Not yours, you idiot.

The cab dropped them off at a girls' school. It was time for dispersal. Satoru watched as groups of girls exited the school, while not knowing who they were waiting for.

Hayato : What do you see?

Satoru : Girls going home.

Hayato : Then you're not seeing deep enough. Try once again.

Satoru : What are you trying to say?

Hayato : Look in front of you. The scene is so full of life. This is what we sorcerers fight to protect. We encounter a hundred dangers every day just so that these kids could have a bright future.

Satoru looked again. This time, the meaning was clear. He wouldn't fight for the Gojo clan. He wouldn't fight for his selfish desires. No, he'd fight for this scenario. To protect these children, and millions of others like them.

Satoru : How do we end their suffering?

Hayato : We can't. To live is to suffer, to find meaning in hat suffering is life. Although, I shouldn't say this, but a change in leadership might help.

Satoru : So I can just replace the leaders at the top?

Hayato : And what if you become like them? It's not that simple. If you want real, meaningful change, try to change the way people think. And to do that, try to raise a better generation than ours.

From the crowd, one girl was waving at them and walking towards them. She had dark, black hair, and bright eyes that shone with the light of a thousand suns. Satoru was left breathless. She was older than him, but she was beautiful.

Hayato : Who are you looking at like that, little punk? That's my younger sister, Iori.

Iori : Hey. How was your day? Who's this?

Hayato : Satoru Gojo. My charge.

Satoru : Nice... Nice to meet you.

Iori : Nice to meet you too.

Hayato : Let's go home. I'll drop you off, then I'll take Satoru home.

The three walked towards their home, with Iori excitedly recounting her day. Satoru could hear her voice forever, it was sweet like honey, and flowery.

Iori : What about this young man here? What all techniques has big brother taught you?

Satoru : Huh?

Hayato : She's a sorcerer too. Just in middle school, but next year she's enrolling in Kyoto Jujutsu High. So you can tell her about it.

Satoru : Oh. Not much really. Just some combat techniques.

Iori : Really. Nothing in the field of jujutsu?

Satoru : No. I have other teachers for that.

Iori : Well, what all do you know?

Satoru : Limitless. Falling Blossom Emotion. Simple Domain. Just to name a few.

Iori : That's impressive! That's more than what some sorcerers learn for years.

Hayato : He's an unparalleled genius by standards of jujutsu. That's a fact.

Iori : How about you teach him New Shadow Style as well? Just in case.

Hayato : I'll have to take permission. Well, we're here.

They had reached. It was a modest two-storeyed house. Nothing fancy. Iori bid the two farewell and went inside. Satoru waved awkwardly, prompting Hayato to cough loudly to bring him back to reality. The two set forth again, towards the railway station to take their train to Kyoto.

On the train, Satoru was still unable to stop thinking about her. The world outside rushed past his view, his eyes seemingly focused there. But his mind was elsewhere, on the girl he had met today. Yes, he'd fight. He'd fight against the conservative order. If it meant that he could create a better future for people like her.

Hayato : By the way, don't you go off in your little fancy world and get any funny ideas from what happened today.

Satoru : You know I'm not that kind of a guy.

Hayato : I hope so.

Chapter Text

14 June, 2003, Gojo Ancestral Home, Kyoto, 1000 hours

Hayato : Here.

He handed the popsicle to Satoru. It was blue. The boy took it, looked it over and then ate it.

Hayato : What was that for? Did you think I'd poison you or something?

Satoru : No. I was just wondering if a blue popsicle was worth it.

Hayato : Is it?

Satoru : Yeah.

The two ate silently. The garden was serene. Not calm or quiet, but it was peaceful. The same pathways, that had once stifled his breath, were now looking tolerable with Hayato by his side.

Satoru : What do you want to do, in life?

Hayato : I have to serve this clan till our debt is repaid. Then, I have to send Iori to a good college.

Satoru : No, but what do you want to do? Not what you have to do.

Hayato : Hmm. Lemme think.

Hayato's brain was at work, thinking of a response. Satoru sat there, waiting, while gulping down the popsicle.

Hayato : I want to travel the world. With everyone I love and care for. I don't want to remain confined to a small space.

Satoru : Who do you want to take with you?

Hayato : Right now, I only have Iori. Ma and Pa died when we were very young, she was a toddler. Car accident. Pa was a good friend of the Head, so he looked after us. But I guess it was only out of pity, not genuine interest.

Satoru : I see. But you seem plenty willing to leave as soon as possible from here.

Hayato : That's for a different reason.

Satoru : What's the reason?

Hayato hesitated.

Satoru : Come on, you can tell me.

Hayato : I don't want to be around people whose intentions aren't good.

Satoru : What do you mean?

Hayato : They think I don't notice, but I do. Whenever Iori comes around, I see the way boys leer at her. How lecherous they are. And it's not just boys. Many adult men in the clan are just as bad. Including the Head's son. Yamio. That's why I feel like she won't be safe here.

Satoru : And so you want to take her somewhere else, where she will be safe?

Hayato : Yes. You're correct.

Satoru : I get it.

Hayato : Enough chit chat. It's time to continue our training. Come on.

The two walked a little bit out. They gripped their wooden swords tightly.

Hayato : Remember what I told you about Batto Sword Drawing. Infuse your blade with cursed energy while in the sheath and draw with full force. Try it. Hold your blade as you would if it was in a sheath.

Satoru did. The blade went to his waist, and he gripped the hilt as if he were unsheathing it. His cursed energy poured into the blade, ready to strike. Hayato raised his own sword.

Hayato : Draw!!

He lunged forward with his katana. Satoru dodged and pulled his own katana with all his might. The blade struck the older guy's hands, disarming him and leaving a slight cut.

Hayato : Good job. You've become better.

Satoru : Am I stronger?

Hayato : You're always stronger. But strength without empathy is cruelty. Remember that.

Just then, a messenger arrived and whispered something into Hayato's ear, before he bowed and walked away. Hayato turned to Satoru.

Satoru : The Head's son has called for some reason.

Satoru : Let's go then.

The Head's son. Satoru hadn't even known his name until today, but he was rumored to be older. Around 16 or 17. He was an insufferable brat, who took pleasure in seeing others pained. Although, he was a coward and was deathly afraid of Satoru, for how strong he was. And also resentful. According to the customs of the Gojo clan, the strongest sorcerer would be given the post of head, whosoever it was. Which meant that Satoru was the next head. And this infuriated the current Head's son.

Well, the current head had fallen ill for quite some months, and so had retired from his duties. His son was the de facto head, having temporarily taken the clan for himself.

Before long, they arrived at his chambers. He was sitting there, with an air of superiority around him. Average looking, with brown hair like his father, sharp jaw, but dull eyes. His complex was too high. Hayato bowed before him, but Satoru didn't. Custom dictated that the Head and the heir bowed to no other clan members.

Hayato : Hayato Utahime reporting to duty, sir.

His lips twitched upon hearing the surname. Utahime. It roused a deep, primal reaction in him that he tried his best to suppress. Satoru noticed it all, nothing was hidden from his Six Eyes.

Head's Son : Still. You two have a mission. Fortnight long, and you'll be off to the northern countryside. Are you sure you'll take it up?

Hayato : I have no problems.

Satoru : Neither do I.

Satoru had learnt to never give up a mission. Each one of them was an opportunity to grow stronger.

Head's Son : Good. Then you two can set off by today. Bon voyage.

The two walked out of the room. Satoru didn't feel right. A news of the head's condition having gotten worse, and immediately the two are sent off on a fortnight long mission. According to Gojo customs, the heir must ascend to the throne within 15 days of the previous head's passing. Was something sinister going on?

He had no time to think, before he was packing his bags. Hayato was waiting for him. The two set off on their journey, Satoru turning back to look at the guy one last time, as the older boy stood on the balcony, watching them leave. All despite the pit forming in his stomach.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Head's Private Chamber, 2000 hours

Yamio : Is she here?

Attendant : No, my Lord. Not yet.

Yamio : Damn it. When will she be here? Get the dinner ready.

The attendant bowed and left. Yamio was left in the room, alone with his thoughts. And they were certainly not pretty.

Before long, Iori Utahime arrived at the house. She was the guest he had been waiting for. Well, she didn't exactly know why she had been invited, but knowing that this was her brother's employer, she wasn't going to let them down. She had gone for a simple attire, consisting of a black shirt with a skirt, stockings and heels. Apparently, this guy liked black, for some reason.

She entered the compound, and was guided by an attendant to his private chamber. Yamio was waiting for her, trying to make himself look sophisticated by reading a book.

Iori : Good evening, sir.

Yamio looked at her. Yes, she was every bit as delicious and delectable as he had thought of her to be. Young. Bright. Lovely . Fresh. His eyes raked over her. The way her dark hair fell down to her waist like a waterfall. The way her eyes had a spark in them. Her  lips. Her hands. Every bit of her.

Yamio : Welcome, Ms. Utahime. It's an honor to have you here. Please leave us alone.

The attendant left the two in the room. The door closed. An ominous foreboding.

Yamio : Let's talk over dinner, shall we?

Iori : Yes please.

The two walked to he dining area, and sat down opposite to each other. Then, they began to eat. It was a solemn affair, their discussions mostly revolving around the debt her family owed to the Gojo clan.

Yamio : And that is why it is absolutely essential for you to pay this month's installment.

Iori : Truth to be told, sir, we're in a bit of a tight spot. Everything has become more expensive, so it is really difficult for us to work through.

Yamio : That's going to be difficult, you know? But there might be a way.

Iori : What's that?

Yamio : Marriage. You marry me, and I'll forgive the entire debt. How does that sound?

Iori : Oh no no no. That couldn't be.

Yamio : I see. Sad. But alright.

The dinner went on. The rest of it encompassed her interests and aspirations. Nothing much.

After an hour or so, she walked out of the house. He had offered to drop her off. The two talked amicably and walked side by side, although his eyes were roaming over her constantly.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Undisclosed location, 2000 hours

The Blue hit the curse. Satoru huffed. This was tiresome. They'd been sent to deal with an abandoned base that was used during World War II to exercise a colony of curses, that had formed within this time. There were too many of them. But they weren't too strong. So why was the mission of a fortnight? Something was wrong.

Hayato hacked at the curse with his axe. It was a small one. The corridor of this house was free for now. This would act as ground zero for them.

Hayato : What's the matter?

Satoru : I can't help but think Yamio is up to something.

Hayato : Gut instinct?

Satoru : Yeah.

Hayato : To tell you the truth, I've been feeling the same too. So many curses, but an entire two weeks? Seems bogus. He has something else in mind.

Satoru : Let's go back. I'll blow all these away, and we return to stop Yamio from doing whatever he's trying.

Hayato : No can do. When sorcerers leave on long term missions, they take in bugs to help with their bathroom duties, but they also act as trackers to ensure that the sorcerers don't run away. We can't go back before two weeks are over.

Satoru : Damn it. Let's go to the next floor then. 

Hayato : Yeah, that's all that we can do anyway.

The two walked to the staircase, alert for any signs of danger. Each step was ascended silently, carefully.

Hayato kicked down the door and hacked a smaller curse. Satoru followed suit, conjuring a Blue and destroying a horde of curses in the room. They were all grotesque creatures of negativity, and they were getting purged.

Soon, the house was cleared off cursed spirits. Hayato put up a barrier around it to shield it off.

Hayato : This is our ground zero for now. Be careful.

Satoru : I know.

A stray little curse emerged from a corner and hissed at them. Satoru shot a mini Blue at it and shut that little shit up for good.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

15 June, 2003, Iori's Bedroom, 0700 hours

Iori's eyes slowly parted. She was in a bed. Her own bed.

She noticed her clothes were wrinkled. She walked to the bathroom and washed her face. She saw a note and read it. It was from Yamio.

Yamio : Last night was fun. Hope you'll visit some more. Your repayments for this month are forgiven. Enjoy.

She sighed. She hadn't expected to be noticed by the head of the Gojo clan. But she resolved that this wouldn't impact her daily life. She put the note away, and took out her brush, to start for the day.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

19 June, 2003, undisclosed location, 1300 hours

The curses were in overwhelming numbers. And too many of them. Satoru conjured bigger Blue orbs each time to crush them, but he was growing tired.

At a distance, Hayato was surrounded by curses, each almost grade 2 or semi grade 1, all ready to end him. He bravely swung his trusted axe around, slicing curses left, right and centre. It had only been four days, but it had become exponentially more dangerous. His hands worked like a machine, trying to repel cursed spirits.

Eventually, one got to him. A grade 1 cursed spirit finally sliced across his chest and bit down on his neck. He screamed before hacking the curse to death with his axe. He fell to the ground, part of his neck gone. Blood flowed freely from the spot.

Satoru ran over and held Hayato.

Satoru : Get up!! We need to get out of here!

Hayato : It's not use. Do one thing. Go back, and take care of Iori for me. She's going to join Kyoto Jujutsu High, so help her pack. That's all. She can manage the rest.

Satoru : No! No! Hold on!

Hayato : Satoru.

He gripped the boy's hand. This was the first time someone had called him by that name. Satoru looked at the dying man, his eyes wide and terrified.

Hayato : You'll be... the strongest sorcerer.... one day.... I know you will.

His breath left, and the light in his eyes was extinguished. Satoru screamed in agony, feeling his cursed energy flared up. The curses were gaining upon him. He condensed his cursed energy into his palm, concentrating it all into one final attack.

Satoru : Blue Maximum.

A giant orb of blue singularity engulfed the house. Satoru waved his hands around like a madman, as the Blue gulped up other houses too. House after house, curse after curse, nothing was spared. Everything was pulled into he singularity. It was his most powerful attack till date, and he was determined to make it count. Eventually, he stationed it at one position and applied more force. The Blue collapsed on itself, getting erased from existence, along with everything in it.

Satoru was panting. He was left on an empty, desolate land, with the body of a friend.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Head's Private Chamber, 1000 hours

Yamio : Oh what can I say? She was gorgeous.

Iharu, his best friend and right hand man, was sitting on the couch, listening to his friend.

Iharu : She rejected you though?

Yamio : Not for long. Once father is gone, she will have to accept. Her brother will also die in this mission, I made sure to assign one such to him. And if Satoru Gojo also gets taken out, well, that's a bonus.

Iharu : Your really thought this over, huh?

Yamio : You bet.

Chapter Text

20 June, 2003, On Train, En Route to Gojo Ancestral Home, Kyoto, 0730 hours

Satoru looked out the window. Beside him was the corpse of Hayato Utahime. He was done with everything. Done with maintaining peace. Done with being afraid. Now, it was time he did something about it.

No one sat near him. In fact, everyone else on the train was freaked out of the dead body beside him, and the bloodied appearance of both. The crazed and rageful expression on his face didn't help either.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback 1)

Satoru : I don't know what I want to do.

Hayato : About what?

Satoru : Which high school should I go to?

Hayato : Aim for the best. Go for Tokyo High.

Satoru : Really?

Hayato : Yeah. Don't compromise on the quality of your jujutsu. Ever. You hear me?

Satoru : Yeah.

The two continued walking, with Hayato ruffling Satoru's hair. The younger boy found that he didn't dislike it so much when Hayato was the one doing it.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback 2)

Satoru : How old are you?

Hayato : What kind of a question is that?

Satoru : Just answer it.

Hayato : 21.

Satoru : Wow, you're practically a kid like me.

Hayato : I'll kick you, you little piece of shit.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback 3)

Satoru was sitting in his room, hugging his knees to his chest and pouting. He had wanted to have some ice-cream, but he had been denied. Assholes. All of them.

Hayato : Psst.

Satoru looked towards his window. Hayato was there, having climbed up to see him.

Hayato : Here's your ice-cream.

He handed the boy a packet. From there, Satoru pulled out an ice-cream stick. Another blue popsicle. In the little time that he had had been introduced to that flavour by Hayato, it had become his favourite. Not that he would ever tell him or anything.

Satoru : Thanks.

Hayato : Don't mention it. See ya later.

Hayato jumped down and dashed across the lawn, towards where he was supposed to be going. Satoru sat in his room, eating ice-cream to his heart's content.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback 4)

Satoru : Don't you have any expectations from others?

Hayato : Not particularly. Why?

Satoru : Do you want me to do something?

Hayato : Live your life. Properly. Not just surviving somehow.

Satoru : That's not enough. Gimme something else.

Hayato : You'll find out just how much I'm asking of you once you grow up and start your own journey away from all these people.

Satoru : No. Gimme something tangible.

Hayato : Alright. How about you become the Head of the Gojo clan?

Satoru : Deal.

The two bumped fists. Then they went back to watching the sunset.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Present)

News had reached him that the previous Head of the Gojo clan had passed away unexpectedly, from illness. And since Satoru hadn't come of age, Yamio was to be made Head with immediate effect after a meeting by the Elder Council. And Satoru would not let that happen. No matter what.

The train stopped. Satoru got off, Hayato's body on his shoulders. He knew that Yamio would have the idea that he was returning. And that didn't bother him in the slightest. He was ready to take whatever they threw at him, if it meant that he could get his throne.

As the crowd thinned out, Satoru spotted Iharu. Standing there. Waiting. For him. The same fiery red hair and yellowish brown eyes that he was used to being sneered by.

Iharu : Satoru. You're back. What a surprise.

Satoru : Is it? I think it's less of a surprise than what you guys are doing.

Iharu : Look at the little boy. He's grown a sharp tongue, huh?

Satoru : What do you know about it?

Iharu : You won't go anywhere from here.

Satoru : No. I'll go wherever I want to. And you're not going to be the one to stop me.

Iharu had honed his skills in combat for years. He had had his eyes set on being one of the higher ups for a long time. And being the right hand man of the next Head of the Gojo clan was a sure shot way of getting that. He pulled out his katana and readied himself to strike. Satoru put down Hayato's body on the platform nearby and took stance as well.

Iharu lunged forward with his katana, aiming a strike to Satoru's head. Satoru infused his fists with Blue and landed a punch to Iharu's guts, who shielded them with cursed energy. He swung his katana once more, as Satoru jumped away to avoid the blow. Iharu appeared behind him as he was about to land, and hits him with an orb of cursed energy, blasting him away a few feet.

Satoru landed on his feet ready to take the next hit. Iharu's blade advanced towards his head, stopping right in front of it because of Infinity. Iharu tried his hardest to push it further, but Satoru infused another punch with Blue and landed it on Iharu's face. However, his cursed energy lagged, hitting within 0.000001 seconds of his physical hit, causing it to flash black. Iharu was thrown several feet away, his blade broken, ad his neck sprained. He coughed and propped himself up on his elbow, a trickle of blood flowing from his mouth.

Iharu : When the hell did you get so strong?

Satoru : I was always supposed to be strong. Didn't you know?

Iharu : Leave it. You won here. Do you think you'll win everywhere?

Satoru looked around. The clan police, Kairoru, were around them, dispersing the crowd and surrounding the two.

Satoru : Take me to him. To Yamio.

Iharu : Why?

Satoru : Because then I'll pardon you and remove your name from the conspiracy.

Iharu : You're sure that you'll win against him?

Satoru : Yeah. He's about as strong as you. It should be no problem at all.

Iharu : I can sense that you want something from me.

Satoru : Carry Hayato's body. He's heavy, and my shoulders are sore from carrying him from so long.

Iharu chuckled. Despite all his bravado and the facade that he was putting up, Satoru was still a 13-year-old boy. His more vulnerable aspects were going to come out eventually.

Iharu : We have a deal. Can I trust your word?

Satoru : More than you trust Yamio's words. Mine are more concrete and assured.

Iharu got up and walked over to the boy. He extended his hand in an invitation. Neither fully trusted each other, but they were willing to take a risk to get a common enemy.

Iharu : Deal?

Satoru shook his hand.

Satoru : Deal. Let's go now.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Gojo Clan Ancestral Home, Main Ceremonial Hall, 0830 hours

Yamio was in his ceremonial coronation attire. He walked the aisle, towards where the elder was standing and waiting for him. His face was neutral, hiding a pride that he felt at having poisoned his father and orchestrated events in a way that would lead to this moment of him walking towards the elder, with a scroll and a ceremonial liquid in her hands, as he would ascend the throne of the clan.

Yamio had reached the podium. All that was left was to touch the scroll to his head, make a mark on his forehead with the liquid, put on the headgear and let him sit on the throne. All of it would take hardly 10 minutes. The biggest dream of his life was about to come true. And everyone was here to watch it. He couldn't contain his excitement. He kneeled down in front of the elder.

Just then, the doors to the hall opened. Yamio watched with annoyance as Satoru entered, looking disheveled and bloody. His eyes were bright as ever, but a certain light in them had been extinguished. They were deadpan.

Satoru : Yamio.

Yamio : How did you- Nevermind. You weren't supposed to return yet.

Satoru : Really? You're still going to do this?

The situation was beyond what Yamio had imagined. Iharu and the clan police, Kairoru, should have taken care of him at the station. What was he doing here? And what had happened to Iharu?

Satoru : Don't worry. They're fine.

Iharu : Oh we're more than fine.

Iharu appeared at the door. A thin stream of dried blood graced his lips. He had visibly changes sides.

Yamio : What the- what's he-?

Satoru : Doing here? Don't worry. You have far more pressing matters at hand right now.

He walked to the podium, climbing the stairs until he was finally standing in front of the older boy.

Satoru : You murdered your father, didn't you?

Yamio : What outrageous claims! Why would I murder him?! And what proof do you have?!

Satoru : His lips were bluish purple. A classic sign of poison. As for why, you wanted to secure the throne by removing me.

Yamio : No, I-

Satoru : Give it up, Yamio. You're finished. If you come in quietly, I'll try to maintain dignity from my side for you.

Yamio : I-... I -.... You were mistaken! I just... I wanted to keep the throne secure for you! Uh... Er.... Iharu mislead you! Yes, he fed you misinformation. That's.... That's it.

Satoru : Kairoru First Infantry Division. Take him in.

Yamio : Wait wait wait!!

The soldiers surrounded him and grabbed his arms. The led him away, to be taken to the cellars.

Yamio : Wait! I swear I wasn't in the wrong! You were mistaken, Satoru!!

The words had no effect on the boy. He was far too hardened to care. At that moment, something snapped inside of Yamio.

Yamio : YOU LITTLE BASTARD!! YOU ALWAYS RUIN THINGS FOR EVERYONE!! NO WONDER YOUR MOTHER DIED AFTER GIVING BIRTH TO YOU!! YOU TOOK AWAY ALL HER STRENGTH!! YOU KILLED YOUR MOTHER!!! GLAD YOUR FATHER WAS BANISHED SOON AFTER AS WELL!!! YOU FUCKTARD!!

He was gone. It was silent. Satoru didn't let it show, but the words had stung. Iharu walked up to him and put a hand on his shoulder.

Satoru : Was it true?

Iharu : Unfortunately.

Satoru : Why was my father banished?

To their surprise, the elder spoke up.

Elder : You mother was the one who belonged to the clan. Your father was an outsider who married into here. Which is why he was the thorn in many people's ego. That's why after your mother's death, when he had no more standing in the clan, he was banished.

Satoru : Where is he now?

Elder : He's dead. Died of blood cancer a few years back.

Satoru didn't show any reaction. Whatever was done was done. Iharu walked off the podium, leaving the boy alone with the elder.

Satoru : Let's get done with this.

He kneeled down. The elder touched the scroll on his head. Then, she applied the liquid on his forehead to make a triangle, inside a circle, with an X the middle of it all. Satoru got up and put on the headgear. Then, he walked over and sat down on the throne. He had done it. He was now the Head of the Gojo clan. He had fulfilled one of his promises to Hayato.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

21 June, 2003, Sorcerer Graveyard, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 0900 hours

Hayato was finally put to rest. The people in attendance watched as the remains were covered up with soil, then the tombstone was erected. Eventually, they all dispersed into groups, talking to each other.

Satoru approached Iori.

Satoru : Just a reminder that if you need any help, I'm available.

Iori : Thanks. But I'm fine. I'm finally in Kyoto Jujutsu High, so I'll be able to walk on my own. That said, he really was fond of you. He looked after you like his own sibling.

Satoru : I know.

Iori : What do you intend to do from here?

Satoru : Fulfill what I promised to him. Get into Tokyo High. Become a strong sorcerer. Build a better future for the next generation.

Iori : Those are lofty goals. Best of luck. I'll be here if you need help.

Satoru : And I'll be there too.

Iori : Alright, you win. Take care.

Satoru : You too.

Iori walked away. Of course, the death of her brother was a devastating blow to her. Nonetheless, she would continue persevering, becoming a strong, righteous sorcerer at Kyoto Jujutsu High.

Satoru was still standing by Hayato's grave. Iharu approached him, and stood beside him in silence.

Satoru : What happened to Yamio?

Iharu : The trial went smoothly. He was sentenced to life imprisonment.

Satoru : I see.

Some more moments of silence. Then, Satoru finally asked a question that had been bugging him.

Satoru : Why did you switch sides so easily? I honestly thought you were going to fight a little more.

Iharu : When the tide turns against you, it is foolish to swim in the erstwhile direction. You must adapt as per the changes. I simply sensed an opportunity to get a better deal, so I switched.

Satoru : So your brawl against me was just a minor test? To see if I would be able to hold up?

Iharu : Exactly. And you did. You can negotiate well, but you're not a politician.

Satoru : Are you offering that service?

Iharu : Would you take it if I did?

Satoru : Sure. I have no other suitable candidate for now.

Iharu : I'm honoured. What are your plans now?

Satoru : The same. Get into Tokyo High. And become strong. So that the next generation of sorcerers can grow up in a world that is a lot better than this one.

Iharu nodded in acknowledgement. A noble goal, if a lofty one. The two stood silently, in reminiscence of the man lost, as well as anticipation for what the future would bring.

Chapter Text

4 April, 2005, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 0800 hours

Satoru stood in front of the building. This was it. Another promise to Hayato fulfilled. He had reached Tokyo Jujutsu High. The best school for sorcery in the world. He paid the fare for the cab and went inside with his suitcase, guided by a window.

The place was big. Today would be the first class of the session for this batch. He kept his belongings in his newly assigned dorm, changed into his uniform and walked to the classroom. Once he opened the door, he found two people already sitting there. A tall guy with long black hair and weird bangs, and a short girl with short brown hair and a mole under her right eye. Satoru silently entered and took his seat. He wasn't particularly excited to meet anyone or make friends, but it was better to know that he wouldn't be alone again.

The two were somewhat taken aback. Here was this punk, with cropped white hair which stuck out weirdly and made him look like a porcupine, who was trying to show them attitude. Not only that, he was wearing sunglasses too. Rebellious!

A few moments later, the teacher entered. A huge, buff man with a buzz cut, small eyes and a French cut around his beard. He looked tired. This was their teacher, Masamichi Yaga, grade 1 sorcerer.

Yaga : Good morning. Welcome to Tokyo High. I am your teacher for jujutsu, Masamichi Yaga, and I will be the one supervising your missions this year. I will take attendance now. Suguru Geto.

The guy with bangs raised his hand and nodded. Yaga noted it down.

Yaga : Shoko Ieiri.

The girl with brown hair raised her hand. She was looking unimpressed. Yaga noted.

Yaga : Satoru Gojo.

The heads of the other two students whipped towards him. Satoru raised his hand. Yaga noted it down.

Yaga : Alright. Now that attendance is taken, I will explain your schedule. You will have normal classes till 2 o'clock. After that, you will have your lunch, followed by your missions. They will be put up on the notice board, so make sure to check that. After that, you're free in the evening. Your first class will begin from 8:30, so I will have to go now. Good day.

Yaga walked out of the classroom. An assistant manager came in. Satoru sighed. Classes had begun.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Suguru's Dorm, 1830 hours

Suguru stared at the mess his room was in. Having come from a non-sorcerer background, he had little idea about what to bring, although his sister had given him a headstart. Still, it would be difficult to do this all by himself.

He got to unpacking. It was a laborious endeavour. And it took hours to get everything done. There was much commotion in the room, boxes being moved, things being placed, appliances set up. Suguru hadn't just come to school. He had come to a new home. At least that's what Kaori had told him it was going to be like.

He brought out his phone and dialled up the number of his mother. A few minutes later, the call connected.

Suguru : Hello, Ma... Yeah, I'm in... Yeah, I've settled in... I'll be alright. Don't worry.... Yeah, I'll search for her... I'll be fine.... I'll call you later. Yeah, bye.

As he put down the phone, he heard a knock on the door. He got up and answered it. It was his other classmate.

Shoko :  Yeah, let's take that other white-haired classmate of ours and go out, you room-loving caterpillar!

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Satoru's Dorm, 1900 hours

Satoru was laying in bed. And looking at his phone. He didn't have too many numbers on it. Just Iori, Iharu. And Yaga. That's it.

He had nothing to do. Just then, he heard a knock on the door, so he went to answer. It was Shoko.

Shoko : Since you're a loner with nothing better to do, how about you come with us?

Satoru : Who said that I'm a loner?

Suguru : Just come on.

Satoru : Where are we going?

Suguru : We'll figure it out as we go.

Satoru : Gimme a second.

He walked back into the room and dialled up a number.

Iharu : What?

Satoru : Anything weird happened?

Iharu : Na. I've handled things here. The elders are making a fuss, though.

Satoru : Then how about we abolish them?

Iharu : I like that. Though, I want you to be around for that.

Satoru : Alright. Talk to you later.

The call hung up. Satoru turned and walked out. The three left soon after.

The trio was walking aimlessly through the city. The lights were lit all around them, the city moving backwards as they advanced.

Shoko : How about we go shopping?

Suguru : Yeah, I need some suits.

Satoru : Let's go, then. Where to?

Shoko : What are your recommendations?

Suguru : Aoyama or Akio are good enough.

Satoru : Brioni anyone?

A silence fell on the group.

Shoko : What?

Satoru : Brioni. It's an Italian brand.

Suguru : Never heard of it. What's their price range?

Satoru : About ¥935000 to ¥1127000.

Suguru : For a damn suit?

Satoru : Yeah.

Shoko : Aoyama it is then.

Satoru : What is their price range?

Suguru : Starting from ¥20000.

Satoru : Suits exist for that low?

Shoko : (sarcastically) Surprising, right?

Sure enough, they were in an Aoyama store browsing through men's suits. Shoko made a mental note to go and shop for her clothes right after this. She wouldn't let these two bastards get away with forgetting about her shopping as well.

Suguru was browsing through some nice, black suits. He was searching for a correct size. His height often made finding clothes if his size difficult. He saw a store attendant standing nearby and decided to take her help.

Suguru : Excuse me, where can I find suits of my size?

Attendant : This way, sir.

He followed the girl to where some larger suits were kept. Then, he took one and went to the trial room to change.

Satoru had been walking around the store by himself, looking here and there. Shoko nudged him in the arm.

Shoko : Go on, check one out for yourself.

Satoru : Who, me?

Shoko : No me. Obviously you, idiot.

Satoru blinked once. Then, he walked to the suits and looked through them. They were of many colours. A deep blue suit caught his eye. He took it, looked unsurely at Shoko once, and when she nodded, he went to the trial room.

A few moments later, both of them emerged from their respective trial rooms.

Suguru : Oh you went too?

Satoru : So did you.

Suguru : Yeah. That suits you.

Satoru : Same. And the pun wasn't needed.

Suguru : I didn't give a pun.

Satoru : Oh.

Shoko : Yup. We're done. Let's quickly pay and head to where I will shop.

And they did just that. The payments were done, and the trip walked towards their next destination.

Or rather, destinations. Because Shoko hopped from store to store, buying as many clothes, make up items and sunglasses as she could. It looked like she was hoarding for an apocalypse. The boys shared a laugh about this, and earned a look of distaste from their third partner.

Once they were done with their shopping, they went to the food court.

Shoko : I'm beat. What will you guys order?

Suguru : Well, what do you guys want?

Satoru : I'm fine with anything.

Shoko produced a voucher from her purse and laid it down in front of him. Satoru looked at her, unimpressed.

Satoru : Seriously?

Shoko : You said you're finished with anything, right? Bon appetit.

Suguru laughed. These two were vastly entertaining.

Ultimately, the three settled for some fast food. Satoru had bought almost 10 burgers for himself, whereas the tigers had bought only two or three. Yes, this guy was a foodie. And he wasn't shy about it in the slightest.

The three walked back to their school in chatter. Satoru felt comfortable among them. He felt like he belonged here. Perhaps his high school life would be better than he had expected, after all.

Chapter Text

11 May, 2005, Canteen, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1430 hours

Shoko : Where's Gojo? Call him up.

Suguru : Way ahead of you.

Elsewhere, Satoru's phone rang. It was Suguru. The list of contacts in his phone had expanded. That alone gave him a sense of contentment that he had not felt before.

He picked up the call, not willing to hear frantic wailing from the other side just because he was late in picking up.

Satoru : What?

Suguru : Where exactly are you? We're already here for lunch.

Satoru : Give me 5 minutes. I'll be there soon.

The call hung up. Satoru sighed. He had friends. Real, actual friends. Not allies supporting him on a mission. Not supporters listening to his ideals. Friends. With whom he could connect and have fun. He wondered how this had come to be.

He kept his bag down on the table and quickly made his way out, to the canteen, where his friends were.  Upon arriving, he quickly took a tray of food and sat down at the table that they had taken. The lunch quickly developed into mindless chatter about the day.

Soon, Shoko excused herself and left from the scene. The two boys got suspicious. So they silently followed her.

She was walking towards the back of the building. Why? The two were hiding behind a wall. They looked at each other once, and continued following her. They watched her disappear behind a turn. No sooner, they were peeking out from behind the wall.

There she was. With a cigarette in mouth. She was smoking!

Shoko : Come out, you two. I already know you two are there.

Well that was it. They came out of hiding and put their hands on their mouths in a dramatic gesture, as if utterly perplexed and scandalized by a particular situation. Even their expressions reflected as such.

Satoru : Suguru, this girly smokes!!

Suguru : Yeah, she's having a cigarette!

Shoko sighed. She was done with these two being silly all the time. Sometimes it was hard to believe that these two were the strongest sorcerers that Tokyo Jujutsu High had to offer.

Just then a window arrived and informed Satoru and Suguru that Yaga had called for them. The two left hastily, not wanting to anger their teacher, who seemed like an angry person by his face.

Once they arrived in his office, they stood silently.

Yaga : Got a mission for you two.

Satoru : Both of us? That enemy must be hella strong if both of us are needed.

Yaga : No, it's actually just Suguru's mission. I want you to go along so that you two can learn to work together.

Suguru : What, like a team building excercise?

Yaga : Consider it so. Now, off you go, both of you. I'll take the report of the mission tomorrow.

The two set off. Yaga watched them leave. Once they were gone, his eyes drifted to a framed photo on his table. He rubbed his forehead and got back to work.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Undisclosed location, 1530 hours

Suguru : Never really understood why we go for missions in the afternoon.

Satoru : Most curses form during this time, and twilight. Which is why sorcerers are extra active at this time of the day, in order to purge curses right at their inception.

Suguru : Uh huh.

Satoru : You said that you have a relative senior here at Tokyo High?

Suguru : Yeah, my sister. We both turned out to be sorcerers. Though, she's been missing for almost 2 years by now. I'm here to search for her..

Satoru : Whoa.

The two had been walking in a poorly lit alleyway, but their company had prevented them from feeling any unease. The sun was still high up in the sky, and had only started showing signs of setting, the sky slowly acquiring a yellowish-orange tint on an otherwise blue body. The light fell on specific parts of the alleyway, creating intermittently lit areas in between an otherwise dark path. The buildings guarded the two from most of the heat, and whatever little filtered through, gave them a sense of the constancy of the phenomenon one called as life. As if everyone was busy living, two of which were these two.

Deeper in the alleyway, they encountered the curse. Ugly, like all other curses. Quadraped, with blades for legs. A dog skull with glowing eyes and saliva appearing despite no apparent source. A tail fitted with spikes. And a body resembling starved person, with a thin layer of skin sticking to a sturdy skeletal structure. This was the curse, the target of their mission.

Satoru : Alright, I'll take care of it.

The curse shrieked shrilly and pierced a dustbin with one of its blades, then with another, and eventually tore it down. Then, it threw the shrapnel at the two. Some debris stopped as they approached Satoru, caught in his Infinity. A few more ventured on, cutting Suguru's skin on his face and neck, which drew blood.

Just then, a bigger curse emerged out of a black void on the ground. This one was long, likely huge, considering the fact that it only raised its head, and most of its body remained hidden in the void, worm-like, with rows of sharp teeth, and too many eyes adorning its brown body. It grabbed the smaller curse in its mouth and pulled it into the void despite the unbearable shrieks and cries of the dog-like curse. The area went silent for a few moments, before a glowing blue orb came out of the void. Satoru watched flaggerbasted as the void closed, and Suguru walked towards the orb and picked it up.

Satoru : Careful! It might be-

In front of his own two eyes, Suguru brought the orb to his mouth and swallowed it whole, in one go. He could see the orb glow down his throat. Suguru's purple eyes went blue for a moment as well, as he retched violently. He clamped his hands on his mouth to stop anything from happening. The cuts on his neck spewed out some more blood. Eventually, his condition improved somewhat later. Even his eyes had returned to purple.

Satoru watched the entire sequence, spooked a little. He had so many questions in his mind. What the hell had happened here just now? Suguru turned to look towards his friend.

Satoru : What the hell was that?

Suguru : Cursed Spirit Manipulation.

Satoru : Oh... Well come on. We need to get you treated. Let's go back quickly.

The two walked back through the alleyway, towards the entry point, where the assistant manager was waiting.

Cursed Spirit Manipulation. A cursed technique by which a person had to defeat a curse in order to tame it. This taming was done through ingestion. If the grade difference between the sorcerer and curse is more than two levels, the user can tame the curse with no strings attached, including no need to defeat it in combat. There is virtually no limit to the number of cursed spirits that can be tamed, and once tamed, they are fully in control of the user.

-----------------------------×××-------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High, First Year Students' Lounge, 1800 hours

Satoru : When's the doctor going to arrive?

Suguru : Dunno. Apparently in a few moments.

A few moments later, Shoko entered the lounge, lollipop in mouth. She still had her usual carefree look on her face.

Shoko : Oh it's you guys. Evening, I guess?

Satoru : You?! You're the doctor?!

Shoko : Yeah. Turns out I can use Reverse Cursed Energy pretty well. Who would have thought? So I'm an apprentice. Come here.

Suguru bent down to reach Shoko's height. She put her hand around his head and neck, transferring the positive energy onto his body. The wounds closed themselves one by one, eventually becoming completely healed, as if they never existed in the first place.

Satoru was amazed. He knew what Reverse Cursed Energy was, but this was the first time he was seeing it on action.

Reverse Cursed Energy. Normal cursed techniques happened as a result of application of cursed energy to required areas. This was negative energy, which was capable of enforcing and reinforcing the body, but it was unable to heal energy. By combining cursed energy with itself, one could produce Reverse Cursed Energy, which was positive energy. This could heal injuries, and was even capable of regrowing entire limbs. Satoru knew how it all happened, at least in theory. But he had no idea how to do it in practice. He had tried, but he had failed to do it every time he attempted to. Not only was it difficult, Shoko was outputting it to others, which was even more difficult. Showcasing just how much difference there was in the skill levels between the two.

Shoko : There. All patched up now.

And he was, indeed. Almost as if the cuts never existed. Suguru ran his hand over his face, satisfied with the outcome.

Suguru : Well, let me go and write up the report real quick. Won't take more than half an hour. See ya guys later.

Satoru and Shoko : Alright.

Their thumbs went up. Suguru went off towards his dorm room. The two were left in the lounge.

Shoko : I sense you have something to tell me.

Satoru : Do you think you can teach me to do that?

Shoko : Eh, not really. I mostly do it on instinct, so you probably won't understand it.

Chapter Text

20 December, 2005, Tokyo City, 1700 hours

Satoru let out a long exhale. It materialized into white smoke, and then dissipated. The year had gone by smoothly, with two new friends.

Now, Christmas was around the corner. And he was walking through the city. The decorations were up and about. People were going around, parents with jolly kids holding their hands, youngsters going on dates. The city had suddenly come to life, bustling in merry cheer. Now, Satoru was walking back towards Tokyo High. He had just ventured out on a walk.

That year, Tokyo had won the Exchange Event, and he had seen Iori after a long time. He had found her new hairstyle of braiding her hair into two separate plaits really cute. But if course, he had hesitated to tell her. Instead, when she met Shoko, he went behind their backs with Suguru, took their outfits, and ran off laughing like madmen, while the two chased them down with sticks in their hands.

He had taken to a habit of being silly and somewhat of a funny nuisance to those close to him. After all, he had never quite gotten that chance when he was a kid. Even Iharu had been surprised to see how carefree Satoru had become, when the two had met two months ago, when he pulled a prank on the other guy with a fake rat. Nevertheless, Satoru was trying to rein in this persona, and balance it out with a more serious side.

Once he arrived back, and was walking up the stairs to the school, he saw the third years going out.

He quickly came inside his dorm and turned on the heater. Darkness would fall soon, and he had completely forgotten to warm his room. If he didn't do it quickly, he would have to bear through with this room for many hours. The heaters were not very good here. He would definitely ask for better ones this weekend.

Right now, everyone was prepping for returning home for Christmas. Well, Satoru himself had no such incentive. He would stay over at Tokyo High, and practice his Limitless, in hopes of improving further, a thought that made Shoko sigh amusedly, her deadpan expression never leaving her face.

Shoko : Hopefully it will be as fulfilling for you as drinking hot chocolate is for me. If not, you have my sympathies.

Satoru had simply picked her up and places her on the top of a cupboard, from where she had spent hours whining about the unfairness of being tall. Eventually, Suguru brought her down and she landed a punch to Satoru's head, one that Infinity had surprisingly not blocked. Perhaps she wasn't threatening enough for him to worry.

In just two days, all of this would be gone. Suguru would be picked up by his parents, jovial and laughing at how their son had grown his hair further, although with an undercurrent of sadness at the apparent loss of their daughter. Of course, Suguru would introduce Satoru to them, but that would be it. Shoko would also leave for her hometown, her deadpan eyes hiding a sense of separation that Satoru wouldn't be able to pick up on. He would watch the train roll out of the station and disappear into the distance, after which he would walk back to his high school.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

24 December, 2003, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1100 hours

The trees stood bare, covered by snow instead of the green leaves they were supposed to have. Satoru watched the birds fleet about, tweeting and chirping, as if they were having the time of their lives.

Life without Suguru or Shoko was boring as hell. Yaga was often busy with paperwork, so he was unable to spend much time with his student. But not today. Without Satoru paying any attention, Yaga sat down beside his student on the same bench and looked at the birds as well.

Satoru's eyes flickered towards his teacher once, before they went right back to bird watching.

Satoru : So, you live in the school?

Yaga : Yes, I have my own quarters. Though I also have other apartments.

Satoru : Then why do you live here?

Yaga : Because I can be immediately present to assist my students in case of any trouble.

Satoru : You live alone?

Yaga : Yes.

Satoru : No family?

Yaga : Used to. We had divorced. Daughter died a few years ago, in an accident, coupled with increasing workload from headquarters, all that broke my family apart. Son was diagnosed with blood cancer, and died last year. Wife died in a car crash seven months ago. Basically no one left.

Oh. That was..... not what he had expected. Yaga had seemed like an authoritarian figure ; the idea of him having a family was somehow foreign to the young man.

Satoru : The funerals must have been hard.

Yaga : Dunno. Wife's family asked not to attend. Didn't, cause I still loved her too much. I don't think I would've managed to hold myself back if I tried.

Satoru : Do you miss them?

Yaga : Every single waking moment of my life. That is why, you should spend your time with those you love and care about. You never know when time runs out.

Satoru was looking at his teacher in a new light. This wasn't just a strong sorcerer, this was a man, thoroughly broken and vulnerable. Satoru grew a newfound respect for him. Yaga got up to leave, presumably to drown himself in work again.

Yaga : Remember, the most precious thing in this world is time.

The man walked away. He still had the demeanor of a confident sorcerer guiding the next generation. Only Satoru had seen his other side, the side that he had kept under lock and key.

Satoru decided not to waste this day. In fact, he had found his objective. He wanted to do something special for Yaga. He knew that lavish things like a five-star restaurant dinner had little value for the man. So, he decided to get a cake and spend time with the man. He got up from the bench and walked towards the exit, his strides having a purpose in them.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo City, 1200 hours

Satoru's stroll through the city had not been very fruitful. In fact, he hadn't quite found a cake quite to his liking. His search continued.

Iori : Gojo?

Satoru froze in his tracks. Was he hearing correctly? He turned around to verify, and right enough, there she was. In a beige sweater and tan leggings, and a scarf wrapped around her neck, and a bag slung on her right shoulder. And cute snow boots. Iori was here. In Tokyo. Satoru's mischievous persona came back up, and a smirk graced his face.

Satoru : What are you doing here in Tokyo? Did you miss me, Utahime?

Iori : Of course not, you dimwit. I'm here to see Yaga sensei.

What? That answer threw him off track.

Satoru : Why would you need to see Yaga sensei?

Iori : That poor man spends every Christmas alone. So I thought why not cheer him up this year. After all, I was alone in Kyoto as well, with nothing better to do. So I came.

Satoru : Oh. Well, you're in luck, that's what I was planning.

Iori : And you need help. I get it.

Oh. His arrogance back at him. Satoru was intrigued. Two could play this game.

Before long, the two were walking through the city, looking for a nice cake to present to the lonely man. Satoru's height drew looks from a few onlookers here and there, but they were paid no mind.

Iori : Just so you know, he likes strawberry jam cake.

Satoru : Heh? Oh, alright. That would be pertinent.

Soon enough, they bought a strawberry jam cake, and were quite satisfied with the purchase. It was big, so the three could share it. They were walking back towards the school, when another visitor popped in.

Iharu : Satoru.

They turned around. Sure enough, it was the red headed fiend, who had once gone against Satoru, but had joined his side as a valuable ally. His yellow eyes shone with a mischievous twinkle upon seeing the two together.

Satoru : What are you doing here?

Iharu : Thought you might be alone, so I came to give you company. After all, I don't have a family of my own, now do I? But I see that may not be necessary.

Satoru : Shut it. You know very well that it's nothing like that.

Iori : What are you guys talking about?

Satoru : Nothing.

Iharu : Also got some info about the clan, if you're interested.

Satoru handed the package to Iori and walked over to Iharu. This needed to be dealt with privately.

Iharu : They're planning an insurrection, those elders. They're dissatisfied with how things have been.

Satoru : Didn't you say that you'd handle them?

Iharu : I did, for as long as conditions were conducive. They no longer are. It's wartime now.

Satoru : What do we do?

Iharu : Think hard, Mr. Head.

Satoru : Find any inconspicuous clue and arrest them. Then, expose them as traitors.

Iharu : And discredit them while we're at it. That ensures that no sympathy will go to their side. Debate and discredit their ideas as well.

Satoru : Um, yeah. All that. Anything else?

Iharu : Nope. That was all, I guess. I'll leave then. See ya later.

Iharu turned and began to walk away. Satoru looked back at Iori once, them at the retreating figure of Iharu. He hesitated for a moment, but ultimately gave in.

Satoru : Say, Iharu! Would you like to spend Christmas Eve with us?

The red haired guy turned back and looked in astonishment. He hadn't expected such an offer, and was trying to ascertain whether it was a joke. But the look on Satoru's face cleared it for him, it wasn't a joke.

Iharu : Alright. Since you're requesting, I'll entertain your request this time.

Satoru was ticked off. Request? But it was fine, he cracked such jokes as well, so he had no right to tell Iharu off for such jokes.

The three walked into the school, with the cake in hand, to Yaga's office. Yaga was surprised to see them.

Yaga : What's the big deal?

Satoru : We saw how lonely you seemed, so we brought you a surprise.

Iori set the cake down. Yaga opened the box and his eyes went wide. It was strawberry jam cake, his favourite. His eyes became a little moist, so he closed them with his fingers, as if he was facepalming.

Satoru : Merry Christmas, you lonely old man.

Yaga chuckled. He was grateful to have these kids as his students. His eyes flickered once to the picture on his table, the memorial of a family he had lost. But he had gained another one, right here.

Yaga : Alright, sit down all of you. None of you are leaving without having cake.

The rest of the day was spent in merry making. They played board games, decorated the Christmas tree and played silly pranks on each other. They also had dinner at a fancy restaurant, courtesy of the filthy rich white-haired teenager by their side, and it was all the more meaningful.

At night, the teacher-student duo dropped off their guests at the railway station, from where they took their trains back to their respective cities. The two waved to the departing figures, as the train moved away. Then, they walked back to the school. Perhaps, both Satoru and Yaga had received an important lesson on what family could mean, that day.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

26 December, 2003, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1000 hours

Suguru took off the helmet. His hair fell around his shoulders haphazardly. His face had a thin layer of sweat. And he was looking mighty proud of himself.

He was sitting on a new bike. GSX R750. A popular model. He was wearing a sleeveless black biker jacket, black denim jeans, combat boots, finger-less gloves and a choker with the letter S.

Suguru : Bought it this Christmas. So, what do you think of it?

Satoru : Neat. Aren't you cold though?

Suguru : Yeah I am. Gimme one of your jackets.

Satoru : No way!

Suguru : Hey, I just want one!

Satoru : Alright, just this one.

He took off the outermost jacket and handed it to Suguru, who wrapped it around his body. It was brown leather, and matched well with the aesthetic.

Satoru : When did you get your provisional license?

Suguru : A month back. I'd prepared in advance.

Satoru : Slick bastard.

Chapter Text

Undisclosed location, unknown time

Iori : How long does this hallway go?

They were in a grand mansion, in a particular hallway. It was opulently decorated, but devoid of human life, other than Iori, semi grade 1, and her senior Mei Mei, grade 1.

Mei : I'd say that we moved 15k steps in 30 minutes.

Iori : The markers we left in the hallway seemed to have died as well.

Mei : In that case, this curse cannot be said to be using a barrier to trao the targets in a loop. Rather, it must be overlapping space on itself.

Iori : Or, it's a ridiculously huge barrier.

Mei : Yes, but unlikely. The walls are impenetrable too. Let's split up.

Iori : Yeah, the overlapping theory seems the most believable one. Let's split up and move unpredictably. If we move ahead of the curse's barrier, we might be able to get out of it. If even one of us can get out, we can attack from the outside or call for help.

Mei : Sounds good. Let's try it.

But before they could, the house around them blew up. Every bit of it was torn apart by a great force. Within moments, Iori found herself seated and stumbling among rubble. In front of her, a tall man with white hair and wearing a Jujutsu High uniform was standing, one leg on a protruding beam, the other firmly planted in the rubble. His dark tinted sunglasses were hiding his bright eyes, glowing with a familiar mischievous glow.

Satoru : I'm here to save you, Utahime! Are you crying?

Iori : I'm not crying!! Learn to respect your elders, Gojo!!

Mei : If I cried, would you console me? I certainly wouldn't mind that.

Satoru : Come on. You wouldn't cry. You're strong.

Iori was done. She had to take a stand for herself. She stood up among the debris.

Iori : Listen here, Gojo!! I never asked for your-

Before she could complete her sentence, a giant curse emerged from behind her, ready to devour her. However, another curse emerged from beneath the former, bigger and stronger, and it gripped it powerfully in its jaws.

Suguru : Don't eat it. We will take it in later. Satoru, it's not nice to pick on th weak.

Satoru : Huh? It's not fun to pick on he strong, is it? Besides, you're doing the same thing inadvertently.

Suguru : Gah!

Iori was livid. She was ready to strike them all down. However, a familiar voice calmed her down and brought her out of her reverie.

Shoko : Utahime senpai. Are you alright? We were worried, not having heard from you in almost two days, so we came to rescue you.

Iori rushed to hug her friend, embracing her tightly, rushing up a flight of stairs that were wobbling worryingly.

Iori : Shoko! Don't ever become like those two!

Shoko : Ha ha. Don't worry. I'll never become trash like those two.

Suguru was going up the same flight of stairs, albeit much more relaxed than his predecessor.

Satoru : The stairs Utahime was climbing on are about to collapse.

Suguru : Shut up.

Iori : Wait, did you just say two days?

Shoko : Yeah, it was a barrier that messed with time. Rare, but happens, although surprising with Mei here.

Mei : That is all fine, but I don't see it anywhere. Where's your curtain?

The three were staring at her, as if they couldn't understand what she was saying, the same goofy expression on everyone's faces. Curtain? They had forgotten.

-------------------------×××-----------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1300 hours

Reporter on TV : And next up, and accident in Hamamatsu City of Shizouka Prefecture results in an explosion. Was old and worm piping to be blamed? We now move to Fushi, our reporter on the scene...

The TV was switched off. Yaga sighed and rubbed his forehead.

Yaga : One of you was supposed to put up the curtain. But not only did you forget, but you left the assistant manager behind.

The three miscreants were sitting in front of him, posing as model students of obedience. It couldn't be further from the truth.

Yaga : Fess up.

Shoko and Suguru pointed their fingers at the boy in the middle.

Satoru : Sensei, we're better than pointing fingers at each other!

Yaga : So it was you, Satoru.

A punch to the head. Of course Infinity didn't act up.

-------------------------×××-----------------------------

Basketball Court, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1430 hours

Satoru : Are curtains really even necessary?

The ball was in his hands, his eyes roving over it. For no particular reason. Shoko was there, to the side, trying on his sunglasses and finding out that they were completely dark.

Satoru : Is it really so important that people can see us? It's not like they can see jujutsu anyway.

Suguru : Of course it is important. It preserves their peace of mind. For that, it must be kept confidential. Not only that-

Satoru : Yeah yeah, gotcha. It's such a pain looking out for the weak.

Suguru had been dribbling the ball till now. Satoru ran up to him, seized the ball, ran towards the basket and performed a perfect slam dunk. The ball bounced back to Suguru.

Suguru : Society exists to keep the strong in check and protect the weak. That's why, jujutsu sorcerers exist to protect non-sorcerers from curses.

He forwarded the ball to Satoru, who looked it over and threw it back towards him. He sat down on the ground.

Satoru : Being righteous? I hate that.

Shoko came and put his sunglasses back on his face. Then she walked away calling him 'stupid'.

Suguru : What?

Satoru : Applying reasoning and responsibility to jujutsu is what weak people do. The strong don't mind such barriers. Don't get proud of spouting all that moral nonsense. Blegh!

Shoko dashed away quickly, not wanting to be in the middle of the squabble. She was confident in her abilities, but not deluded enough to consider herself their equal. It would fare better to call for a senior here.

Suguru : Let's take this outside, shall we?

From behind him, a curse was peeling through. Suguru was visibly pissed off. And Satoru was having fun pissing him off.

Satoru : Why? You feeling lonely? Go by yourself.

The door to the court opened and Yaga walked in. The giant man's presence seemed to dissipate the tension between the two boys. Immediately, they began to do stretches, as if they hadn't just been on the brink of throwing hands a moment earlier.

Yaga : Where's Shoko?

Suguru : Dunno.

Satoru : The bathroom maybe?

Yaga : Nevermind. You two will do.

Immediately their faces contorted into grimaces.

Yaga : What's with those faces?

Satoru : Nothing.

Yaga : Good. It better not be anything. Come to your classroom in 5 minutes. I shouldn't have to repeat myself.

The two walked through the corridor, towards their classroom, side by side, with a little begrudge. But, intrigue was what was more prominent at the moment.

Suguru : Both of us are being sent together. Do you know what it means?

Satoru : Utahime is in trouble again?

Suguru : No, idiot, it means that this might be a high priority mission.

Satoru : Hopefully not becoming bodyguards to some minister's kid. They're annoying and obnoxious.

Suguru : Why did that thought cross your mind first?

Satoru : Dunno. For no actual reason, really.

Upon reaching, they pulled out two chairs and sat down. Yaga arrived and stood at the teacher's table, like he always did.

Yaga : Listen up. It's a big responsibility, since this mission comes directly from Master Tengen.

That name was enough to make these two perk up. Their postures suddenly straightened out, becoming more socially proper. Tengen was the one who was giving them this mission? The big guy managing all the barriers? That could only mean that this was important. And by important, it meant that the very existence of the jujutsu world depended on it.

Yaga : Two objectives. Master Tengen has gotten a perfect match. The new Star Plasma Vessel in almost a decade. Escort the girl. And being her to Tengen. To erase her.

Silence. One could hear crickets chirping among the grass outside.

Satoru : He's finally lost it.

Suguru : It's spring after all, and with him becoming the next principal, he's getting carried away.

The whispers and the snickers between the two did make Yaga mad. But, owing to his years of experience in teaching brats like them, he could keep his calm.

Suguru : Jokes aside, are we going to reset Master Tengen's cursed technique?

Yaga : I'll be the judge of what will be a joke here.

Satoru : What's that?

Silence. Again. Both other occupants of the room had their eyes on him. Satoru felt uncomfortable being in this room, with its 'you should know about it' vibes.

Satoru : What?

Yaga : Master Tengen has the cursed technique of Immortality. However, it doesn't stop aging. Most of the time, there's no problem. However if a certain age is reached, the technique tries to change bodies.

Satoru : Huh?

Yaga : Evolution. Master Tengen will ascend to a higher state and cease to be a human.

Satoru : So what's the problem?

Suguru : According to Master Tengen, the will also ceases to exist at that level. Master Tengen will no longer be Master Tengen. All the barriers that conceal the world of jujutsu are strengthened by Master Tengen. Without those barriers, even routine missions will become more difficult.

Suguru (cotd.) : Worst case scenario, Master Tengen could become an enemy to humanity. That's why, Master Tengen must merge with the Star Plasma Vessel every 500 years to rewrite the body's information. This time, it could have been Yuki Tsukumo, but she refused. And without her consent, Master Tengen could not have initiated the merger. But once the merger is done, the body is refreshed and the cursed technique follows suit. So evolution doesn't occur.

Satoru : Got it. So, it's like becoming Metalgreymon is fine, but it would be a problem if he became Skullgreymon, so we reset back to Koromon. Right?

Suguru : Uh... Right....

Never in his entire life had Suguru envisoned that such a delicate matter would be understood through Digimon analogies. But life had its twists and turns.

Yaga : We tracked the location of the girl, and stumbled upon some troubling information. She is being targeted by two groups. One is the curse user group Q, intent on destroying our Jujutsu High Society. And the other is the Star Religious Association, the group that worships Master Tengen as their deity.

Yaga (cotd.) : The merger will happen in two days, during the full moon. Escort the girl and bring her to Master Tengen. Remember, if you fail, the repercussions will be deadly for all of society. So, don't screw it up!! Now, off you go!!

And that was it. With a new burden on their shoulders, the two friends set off, not knowing what they had signed up for.

Chapter Text

19 July, 2006, 0830 hours

Satoru : But like, for real though, I get why the group Q is after her, but why the Star Religious Association?

He popped the coin into the vending machine. Out came a can, that Satoru picked up. He drunk it and walked while bent backwards, while Suguru walked bent forwards. One walked like a 5 year old, the other like a 95 year old.

Q. A group of curse users that functions as an antithesis to Jujutsu High Society. It was formed around the Meiji Era, by a talented group of sorcerers when the government wanted to recognise one organization as the legitimate authority on jujutsu, as part of a millennial tradition. Unable to receive that recognition, Q vowed revenge. Since then, they have lived on as a group intent on foiling the missions of Jujutsu High and painting them as incompetent. They were designated as a terrorist organisation in 1983. It mainly involves low ranking curse users and is housed somewhere in the south of Japan, on one of the remote islands far south of the main archipelago. They have their own barrier system, which makes them difficult to trace. They are the only group currently in an active state of war against Jujutsu High.

Suguru : The Star Religious Association worships a so called 'pure' version of Tengen, and a Star Plasma Vessel allegedly tarnishes that purity.

They were in front of the building. Suguru nodded to him and went inside. Satoru stayed to watch from the outside. The two called up once Suguru had already boarded the elevator.

Suguru : Anyways, they're not curse users, so we don't need to worry about them. The ones we need to watch out for are the Q.

Satoru : Anyway, it should be fine. We're the strongest, after all. That's why Tengen entrusted us with this.

Suguru's weird silence threw him off.

Satoru : What?

Suguru : I've been meaning to tell you. You should speak about elders with respect. Otherwise, it comes off as rude.

Satoru : Huh?!

Suguru got off the elevator and walked to the door of the room, where the girl was supposed to be. He rung the doorbell, and felt something off.

Satoru watched as an explosion tore through that floor, destroying it. Suguru had the girl in his arms, as they flew away on one of his curses. Inside the flat stood Q soldier Kokun. In a khaki uniform, of a much lighter colour and a mask covering his face.

Kokun : That uniform. You're with Jujutsu High, aren't you?!

Suguru : So what if I am?!

Kokun : Had over the girl or die!

Suguru : Sorry, can't hear you. Come closer, why don't you?

On the ground, Satoru cut the call. The can in his hand had already shrivelled up, as he tossed it aside. Just then, a volume of knives and blades ambushed him, but were frozen in air by Infinity. It was Vayer, a top Q soldier. Same uniform, same mask, long hair.

Satoru : Just in time.

Vayer : Amazing. You're Satoru Gojo! You're famous. I've heard you're strong. Show me if the rumours are true.

Satoru : Sure, but let's put a rule in place. If you cry, beg and apologise to me now, I'll let you off the hook.

Vayer : Brat!

Satoru : You called it.

Vayer swayed his hands, pulling the blades away. Then, he charged them towards Satoru from two sides. Said guy stopped them mid air and lunged to land a punch at his opponent's guts, sending him flying away.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Star Religious Association Regional Office

Sumiyoshi : And so it begins.

The two men watched the feud from a building at a distance. One was wearing a sharp suit, with pointy black hairs, sharp eyes, a thin moustache and a cigarette in his mouth. He took a smoke and took off the cigarette from his mouth. His exhale releases a flurry of smoke around him. Sumiyoshi Kanzaki, a senior mediator at Star Religious Association.

Sumiyoshi : The Star Religious Association doesn't have the firepower to fight them directly. But we have plenty of money, I assure you that. So, what do you say, Zenin? Is a Star Plasma Vessel assassination a thing to you?

The other man was huge, over 6 feet 2 inches tall. With mopped down hair. A scar on his lips. He was wearing a plain black shirt, black trousers and slippers. Like the ones that were worn at homes. Toji Zenin Fushiguro. The dreaded sorcerer killer.

Toji : I don't go by Zenin anymore. Ever since I married, I've taken my wife's name. So, it's Fushiguro now. But sure, it sounds good. I'll accept your offer.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Riko's Apartment,

Kokun : Sorry!! I'll leave Q and being a curse user and go farm rice in the countryside!!! Just let me go!!!

He was currently in the jaws of a curse who was trying to smooch him. Disgusting.

Suguru poured some tea for himself into a cup and sat on the sofa, drinking it peacefully. He looked at Kokun once, only to act as if he couldn't hear what the other guy was talking about.

Kokun : I know you can hear me!!!

No response. Suguru took another sip of his tea. This was getting frustrating.

Kokun : Fine! Be arrogant, you slimy bastards!! We still have Vayer!!

Suguru shoved his phone into Kokun's face.

Suguru : Is that Vayer?

Kokun : Y-yes...

Vayer was against a tree. Bruised and beaten up. With Gojo posing in front of him. He couldn't utter any more words.

Suguru : Of course, I have to turn you two in too.

It wasn't a second before Suguru was calling up the Jujutsu Kansatsuin. They would arrive in 5 minutes. Perks of being close to an Auxiliary Outpost.

And they did. Two teams had been dispatched. One team picked up Vayer from where he was fainted. This freed Satoru, who walked towards the apartment, now that this guy was no longer his responsibility.

The other team went with Satoru, to the apartment. They took Kokun away. Of course, the apartment was still blown up, but the miscreants had been taken away. All was well.

Once the apartment was empty, the two looked at their assignment. It was a young girl, no older than a 14 year old. A cute face, like a child. With braided black hair. Wearing her school uniform. And a hairband. Riko Amanai. The Star Plasma Vessel.

Satoru : Should we take her to a doctor?

Suguru : If only Shoko were here...

Her eyes shot open. They were blue. She looked at the person holding her. Tall, weird, white haired. She decided that she didn't like what she was seeing.

Satoru : Oh, you're awake.

She jumped off his arms and slapped him across the face, twisting his head to the other side.

Riko : Jerks!!! If you want to kill me so badly, why don't you go first?!

Satoru was rubbing the part of his face where she had slapped him. It stung. And stupid Infinity thought she wasn't a danger, so it didn't stop it either. His mood was off. But before he could take a drastic step, Suguru stepped in, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.

Suguru : Calm down, Riko. We're not here to hurt you. We'll be escorting you.

Riko : Liar! You look like a liar! And what's with those bangs?! They're weird!

Well that was it. Suguru's patience had already been wearing thin, but this was the last straw. The smile on his face betrayed his real intentions. A skill he had learnt from Kaori.

The elevator dinged and opened to reveal a brunette in a maid uniform on a curse. Riko's caretaker, Misato Kuroi. She was perplexed to see the scene in front of her. Riko was being held by the boys and twisted like a towel.

Riko : Aaaahhh!!! Let go of me!!! Kuroi, help!!

Kuroi : Please stop!

The two dropped her. Riko fell onto the ground with a thud.

Kuroi : My lady, no need to worry. They're our friends.

Riko : What are you riding?

Kuroi : Oh this? It's the bangs guy's cursed technique.

Suguru : Stop calling me that!! Call me Suguru or Geto!! And it's Cursed Spirit Manipulation, which is exactly as it sounds!!

Satoru : She's spunkier than I thought. And here I was worried that you'd get all sad once you received news of the merger and all.

Riko : A worthless comment from a commoner.

Satoru : Wha-

A look of pride graced her face. As if she was ready to deliver a life changing sermon, or a groundbreaking theory of reality.

Riko : Listen up. Master Tengen is me and I am Master Tengen. You're mistaken if you think merger and death are the same. If I become Master Tengen after the merger, Master Tengen will also become me. My heart and spirit will live on, regardless.

Suguru : Did you change your wallpaper?

Satoru : Yup. Waka Inoue. She's pretty cute, isn't she?

Riko : Are you listening to me?!!!

Satoru : She probably has no friends with how she speaks.

Suguru : I'd say that it'll be a cinch to send her packing.

Riko : I talk fine at school, you know!!!

A thought flashed across her mind and she froze.

Riko : School?! Kuroi, what's the time?!

Kuroi : It's still before noon. But perhaps school can-

Riko : Nonsense! I'm going!

Chapter Text

Horse Racing Stadium, 0940 hours

Sumiyoshi : I was wondering where you went off. What are you doing here?

Toji : Trying to earn a quick buck.

Sumiyoshi : Neverr seen you win before. What about work?

Toji : You're damn annoying, bosssing me around like I'm a jobless bum!

Sumiyoshi : That you are. But I have to give a progress report to the client.

Toji : We're talking about the Gojo clan's boy. Can't just walk in whenever you want. I'll use those idiots to wear him down first. Though, I can't help but notice that you're not working. .

Sumiyoshi : I did, ya idiot. What do you think you're doing, giving up the money we gave you?

Toji : That's what I mean by wearing down. Don't worry, we'll get a return on that money. Just like this race here.

Just then, the speaker blared to life.

Announer : Number 6, Hatano, comes in first, followed by number 1, Doguchi.

Toji let out a grunt and gripped the ticket in his hand. Sumiyoshi realised that he had lost the bet. He got up, leaving a sulking Toji on the chair.

Sumiyoshi : Going for a quick buck doesn't suit you. Anyways, I'll be counting on you, sorcerer killer.

He turned to leave, but then changed his mind.

Sumiyoshi : Oh right. How's Megumi?

Toji : Who's that?

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Renchoku Girls' Junior High, 0950 hours

Satoru : What?! Isn't it safer to take her back to Jujutsu High now?!

Yaga : Yes. But this is what Master Tengen ordered. Oblige Riko Amanai's requests. All of them.

The call hung up. This was ridiculous. All of them could get in danger because of the whining of a little girl.

Satoru : Tch! Being soft on her!

Suguru : Don't be like that, Satoru. She might have shown bravado then, but after the merger, she'll be down at Jujutsu High with Tengen to form the barrier. Friends, family, everything and everyone she holds dear - she'll never see them again.

That didn't do anything to thaw Satoru's heart. He had a difficult childhood too. He was separated from the world, isolated, raised as cattle. How come she was getting a last wish in, yet he had to fight for basic respect? This was unfair.

Suguru : Let her enjoy herself one last time. That's our mission.

Kuroi : Lady Riko does not have any family, ever since they died in a car accident during her childhood. Please let her spend time with her friends.

Suguru : Sure. And that makes you her family.

Kuroi's eyes grew moist. This was the most sentimental she had ever gotten, the most heartwarming thing she had ever heard. She already thought of Riko as her daughter, but to hear it from someone else, to be called that little girl's family, it evoked an emotion in her that she couldn't quite comprehend. Was this how women felt when they were first called "mom"?

Kuroi : Yes. Yes I am. I'm her family...

Satoru : Suguru. How're the surveillance spirits?

Suguru : Right. I wish I could share vision like Mei, but if anything is wrong, they'd let us kn-

He quickly sensed something and strode past Satoru, patting his shoulder.

Suguru : We have to get to Riko now.

Satoru : Huh?

Suguru : Two of them have already been exorcised.

Elsewhere, Suguru's curse was stepped over by the one who had killed it. It was a big, burly guy with a paper bag on his face. He was accompanied by an old man in sap green clothes and a bandanna on his head.

Paper Bag : Thrity million for a kid. What a great deal! She ain't a sorcerer, plus we know where she is! Easy money.

His cronie would have to agree. Everyone who saw the bounty would agree.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

JujutsuNews.Onion. The website on the dark web that was used by the International Framework for Jujutsu Sorcery. This website was established in 1997, with the opening of the dark web to the public.

The site had two levels. Level Varson. This was the level that was open to all sorcerers. And by all sorcerers, it meant all sorcerers. Even curse users wanted by Jujutsu High. Well, all sorcerers who knew of it and could access it, anyway. Since most spent their lives without ever knowing about the existence of the very website.

The second level was Fardos. This level was even deeper, and more.... troubling, to say the least. Here, everyone's identity was anonymous. This was the level where posts related to bounties and assassinations were posted. This was where Riko Amanai's bounty was posted. ¥3000000. To be exhausted in 59 hours, 40 minutes and 56 seconds.

Toji licked his lips. His trap was perfectly set out. All that was left was for the Gojo boy to fall into it.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Renchoku Girls' Junior High, 1000 hours

The three dashed across the corridor, hurrying to save the girl.

Satoru : Where would she be now?!

Kuroi : It's time for the music class, so either the music room, or the chapel.

Satoru : Chapel?

Kuroi : Yeah, this is a missionary school. But it depends on the teacher.

Suguru : Satoru, you nd Kuroi go to the locations. I'll deal with the intruders.

The group split up. Suguru ran to where he had picked up on the signals. Satoru and Kuroi continued on to their own targeted location, to the opposite direction.

Satoru : Damn it! I told her to let us stay close!

Kuroi : I'm sorry, even I told her to keep us updated through texts.

A different stream of thought was running through Suguru's head. Could these be more assaisins sent by Q? Or were they hired muscle of the Star Religious Association? The latter could spell trouble.

In the corridor, he encountered an old guy with a shikigami beside him, resembling a mushroom.

Old Man : Well well. That uniform.

Suguru pulled out his own cursed spirits. His opponent assumed multiple opponents and covered himself from both sides with his shikigamis. He knew what he was doing.

The old man saw no intermediary. Even his cursed energy signatures were different than normal sorcerers.

Old Man : Cursed Spirit Manipulation?

Suguru : Correct. You're as wise as they get.

Old Man : Old age isn't what it's cracked up to be. It costs money to live this long, you know?

The difference in technique was obvious. However, as shikigami users, it shouldn't matter much. After all, this boy was young and predictable. Neither was he comfortable, getting close, nor would be expect his opponent to close the distance. Too easy.

Suguru : Looks like you've got quite a lot on your mind. Don't waste your time.

A giant worm curse with many rows of teeth emerged and advanced towards the old man. He was stunned. The attack filled the hallway. So those two were just decoys. Very soon, he appeared to have been engulfed by the worm.

Suguru : One down. One more to go.

Just then, the old man broke through a window nearby, with two daggers in his hands. He had gone from outside the hallway. Almost as if this boy had created an opening against himself.

Old Man : You're mine!!

Woof! It was a corgi. The old man laughed and pettes the dog.

Old Man : Tasuke! Is that you, Tasuke?!

The old man's parents spent all their time and money on his blessed you get brother. Not on him, who could see things. Back then, the corgi was his only friend.

Old Man : Haha. How long has it been? 50 years since you died- oh.

The old man was pulled out of his reverie by a hand grasping his and landing a strong karate chop to the side of his head. He was flipped over, and slammed into the ground. Then brought up again, only to get an upper cut to his chin. Then, he slid down the wall, onto the ground.

Old Man : It was... all just a ruse.... right?

Suguru : Yeah. You were itching to get close, weren't you? Those who focus on a single way to win are easily manipulated when given an opportunity. Anyways, are you with Q, or the Star Religious Association?

Elsewhere, Satoru and Kuroi rushed towards the chapel to defend Riko, who was in her music class, singing away without a thought.

Paper Bag : Thirty million.... Maybe I'll get eel tonight. Everything tasted better when paid with money earned by bloodshed.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

[REDACTED] Restaurant, 1030 hours

Toji : They didn't return to Jujutsu High? Lucky for us, more idiots going after the bounty.

He split the chopsticks. The ramen in this restaurant was apparently quite good. The phone was held between his head and his shoulder.

Sumiyoshi : You sure about this?

He couldn't smoke nearly enough, compared to the tension this guy was putting him through.

Toji : Why do you ask?

Sumiyoshi : The 30 million given to you was the service fee of the Star Religious Association. If the Star Plasma Vessel dies, the money is gone. You might end up with nothing. Why even hire you, when we could've given the money as bounty from the start?

Toji gulped down on the noddles, chewing thoughtfully.

Toji : They have Satoru Gojo on their side. The first to inherit the Six Eyes and Limitless in 4 centuries. As long as he's there, we won't be able to take out the Star Plasma Vessel.

Sumiyoshi : Even you?

Toji : Good question. We'll use those idiots to wear down Gojo and his companions. Plus, it'll be free labor.

Sumiyoshi : The time limit was in our favour. Made it easier to gather sorcerers.

Toji : That's not all. Things are moving faster than I expected. I might have to head over there myself, soon. Better keep that 30 million ready.

Sumiyoshi : What's wrong with you? I'm not a bulletin board with 'Help Wanted' posters. There's a handling fee and-

Toji : Yada yada. You're getting boring.

He hung up. His ramen was over. He got up and collided with another guy on his way out, whose ramen crashed to the ground, spilling everywhere.

Guy : Hey! Watch it-

Toji : Yes?

He knelt down to his level. And spoke with a growling voice. The other guy was clearly intimidated and quickly apologised.

Toji walked out of the restaurant. The small incident had ruined his mood. Now, where could he go gambling at this hour?

Chapter Text

Chapel, Renchoku Girls' Junior High, 1035 hours

Satoru flung open the doors.

Satoru : Amanai!!!

Everyone's attention was on him. Including Riko's. Who was flustered to see him there.

Girls : WHATT??!!!

Random Girl 1 : Riko, is he your boyfriend?!!!

Random Girl 2 : He's so tall for a teenager!!!

Riko : No! No! You're mistaken!! He's my cousin!!!

Random Girl 3 : Hey mister!!! Take off your glasses!!! Show is your face!!!

Satoru took off his glasses in the most cinematic fashion and posed in front of them. The girls went into a frenzy, unable to control themselves. It wasn't everyday they saw such a handsome guy.

Riko : DON'T GET AHEAD OF YOURSELVES!!

The teacher clapped her hands to try and break up the entire situation.

Teacher : Hey, everyone! Settle down! How shameful.

Random Girl 1 : You're interested in him too.

Teacher : This is extremely inappropriate. Even if you're a family member, you can't just barge into here.

Satoru : Oh sorry. My bad. It was a family emergency, so I had to take drastic measures.

She quickly handed him a piece of paper.

Teacher : This is my number.

Girls : HEY, THAT'S AGAINST THE RULES!!

Teacher : Shut up!!! Do you know how hard it is to meet someone when you're in this job?!!!

Girls : Same for us!!! And he's too young for you anyway!!

Teacher : Are you disrespecting Hikari Genji?!!!!

In the midst of this commotion, Satoru went and picked up Riko like a sack of rice. The two bolted outward with very different takeaways from the scene.

Satoru : What a fun school.

Riko : You idiot! I thought I told you not to show up!

Satoru : Curse users are here. Figure out the rest. We're heading for Tokyo High. Don't want to get your friends involved, do you?

That shut Riko up. Of course she didn't want to get her friends involved. Even if it was her last few days, she still cared for them immensely.

From the ground, Paper Bag saw Satoru leap onto the roof, carrying Riko. So there was his 30 million bounty, with another guy. Perhaps a bodyguard.

Kuroi : Are you with the Star Religious Association? Those with Q usually wear pretty weird clothing.

A maid. With a broom in her hand. And a furious expression on her face.

Paper Bag : A civilian? If you wanna kill me, hurry up.

Kuroi ran towards him, broom raised high.

Paper Bag : Too slow.

He swung a punch at her, that she dodged. Then, she used the broom to lock his hand, which surprised him. He hadn't expected a maid to know combat techniques. She brought the other end of the broom up, hitting his genitals. The guy slumped to the ground, his hands holding his groin painfully.

Kuroi : Don't you dare do anything to My Lady. Or I'll kill you.

Suguru had arrived by now, at the scene, and the entire exchange had been eye opening to him.

Suguru : Wow, you're strong and scary. Where's Riko?

Kuroi : She left the school with Master Gojo.

Paper Bag : So she was the 30 million bounty...

The guy in front of them dissolved into a puddle, which evaporated away. The two were left stunned. Suguru dialled up his best friend.

Kuroi : What the-?! A shikigami?!

Suguru : No, not quite. Satoru...

Satoru : There's a 30 million bounty on Amanai's head?

Suguru : Yeah, on Level Fardos of JujutsuNews.Onion. The time limit is until 11 AM, day after tomorrow.

Satoru : I see.

The call hung up. The two were standing atop a rooftop. Satoru put the phone back into his pocket.

Satoru : And to think that we're always short-staffed. We'd happily accept you, old man.

Riko : There's almost four of them. Are they shikigami?

Around them was Paper Bag. Or at least four people exactly identical to him. A fifth one arose out of a puddle.

Paper Bag  : Nah, your profession seems risky. Just hand over the girl and we'll be outta here.

Riko : There's five now!

Satoru : Why are you interested in a brat like this?

He put his hand out, his other hand grasping Riko's arm firmly. Two of the entities were pulled in and collided against each other. They fell down on the rooftop, spilling some blood. Paper Bag was astonished as to how this had happened.

Riko : Why aren't they disappearing?

Satoru : They aren't shikigamis. They're clones. And all of them are the real one.

Two of the clones closed in on them and punched in Satoru's direction. They found their hands stopped on their trajectory towards their target.

Paper Bag : What the hell?!

Satoru : Infinity. Like Achilles and the Tortoise.

Paper Bag : What?!

Satoru : Didn't you know that studying is important?

One punch to the middle of a clone's face. Another to the side. Satoru found his general environment clear enough to proceed.

Satoru : Your technique allows you to create clones to a maximum count of five, including the original. But you can change the original as per will. A formidable technique. Then why are you so weak?

Paper Bag : How do you know my technique?

Satoru : Sorry. I've got good eyes. My technique involves convergence of an infinite series. Things that move towards me slow down and never reach me. And by amplifying Limitless, I can create impossible situations like -1. This creates a magnetic effect like before, since negative concepts cannot exist in reality, hence the space must be filled up. But it's quite difficult to use. I can't create a huge field of attraction close to myself. Manipulation of cursed energy drains me a lot. But this is all standard for my technique. What I'm about to show is the divergence of Limitless. Cursed Technique Reversal : Red.

Satoru had brought his fingers in front of his opponent's face. Paper Bag brought his hands together to defend himself. But nothing happened. It didn't work. Satoru simply landed a Blue-enhanced upper cut, knocking him out. Even so, he couldn't hide his disappointment.

Satoru : I thought it would work this time.

Riko couldn't get this guy. What was his deal? Her phone buzzed. A message from Kuroi. She opened the file and her blood ran cold. An image of her caretaker boundary and gagged. Riko was distraught.

Riko : They got Kuroi!! What will we do?!

In a while, Suguru caught up to them. The Jujutsu Kansatsuin had been called to apprehend these two as well. The trio regrouped on the rooftop.

Suguru : It was my fault. I was faster, so I went on ahead. I underestimated Kuroi's importance for the enemy.

Satoru : It's fine. Not a big deal. The enemy will use this to either trade Amanai for Kuroi, or for us to kill Amanai or they'll kill Kuroi. Something along the lines of that.

That line of thought was distressing for Riko. She didn't want either to happen.

Satoru : We have the upper hand here, with Amanai. We'll coordinate with them to decide the meeting place. For now, let's take her to Jujutsu High. Maybe Shoko could act as a double.

Riko : Wait!!

The two turned towards her.

Riko : I'm going too! I can't trust you two with this!

Satoru : What? Brat, do you realise what you're-

Riko : What if Kuroi isn't back before the merger?! I won't get to say goodbye to her!

She grabbed the front of her skirt. Her tears were threatening to spill. The boys softened up.

Satoru : We'll be getting a call from the kidnappers. If they're smarter, and taking you decreases Kuroi's chances of survival, we'll leave you behind.

Riko's determination was renewed. She wiped her eyes.

Riko : Understood.

Satoru : And don't back down halfway. We don't care if you get scared. Got it?

And they did get a call. They were supposed to go to Okinawa. So their plan for next day was sorted out. Tonight, they'd take refuge in an Auxiliary Outpost, for Riko's safety.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

20 July, 2006, Kidnapper's Location, Okinawa, 0800 hours

They did go to the place where the kidnappers had called them. Only, Satoru had broken the door and stomped on them all humiliatingly. Suguru had joined him in stepping on those bastards, just for the sheer fun of it. The Jujutsu Kansatsuin had also been called. They came and arrested the kidnappers. And Riko had gotten Kuroi back. The two shared a tearful hug.

Now, they were at a beach. Riko, in her cyan swimsuit, and Satoru, in an orange beach shirt and dark purple shorts, were enjoying themselves in the ocean. Meanwhile, Suguru, in a blue and yellow floral shirt and same shorts, and Kuroi, in a dark full body swimsuit, were sitting in the sand, watching the two play.

Kuroi : I can't believe that I was defeated by a member of the Star Religious Association, and a non curse user. I'm so embarassed.

Suguru : No worries. It was a surprise attack. It was also kinda my fault.

Kuroi : Really? Was it a surprise attack? I was on guard after the Q incident, but I can't remember being kidnapped. Moreover, you came by plane, right? What if you were attacked?

Suguru : Satoru has sharp eyes. Before take off, he checked out passengers, crew and the plane. I was escorting the plane using my curses. It was actually safer than navigating an unfamiliar land route. I'm more concerned about why they chose Okinawa.

Kuroi : Buy time, perhaps? Maybe they want to delay the merger till after tomorrow afternoon. Maybe they'll attack the airport!

Suguru : Maybe. But it's fine. We're not the only ones here.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Naha Airport, 0930 hours

Haibara : Alright, we're here, everyone!

Yuu Haibara. First year student at Tokyo High. A guy with a nice temperament. Grade 2.

Nanami : I don't think this is appropriate for first years.

Kento Nanami. First year student at Tokyo High. Cold and not bothered by anyone's bullshit. Grade 2.

Fuyumi : You're too stuck up for your own good.

Fuyumi Irura. First year student at Tokyo High. Calm and level headed, the brains of this trio. Grade 3. Tall, medium length dark hair, with a pretty face and an approachable tenperament. Completely opposite to her blonde classmate. Nanami had feelings for her, but everyone other than him was not knowledgeable about that fact. Honestly, coming from a non sorcerer background made her somewhat sensitive to cursed energy fluctuations, not emotions.

Haibara : I'm fired up! I wanna show Geto all I got! Besides our senpais are putting their lives on the line for a young girl! Let's not fall behind, guys!

Fuyumi : Right.

Nanami : What if a hurricane struck down the airport?

Fuyumi (sarcastically) : My goodness, such optimism. I hope I don't catch any of it.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Beach, Okinawa

Satoru : Bwa ha ha!!! Sea cucumber!!

Yes. This was the senpai putting his life on the line. Riko watched the sea cucumber in Satoru's hands, as it ejected some slimy substance.

Riko : Gross!! It's so gross!!

Satoru picked up two of these and chased Riko around int the water, eliciting laughs from both of them. Riko slipped and fell into the water. Satoru cackled like a gremlin.

Kuroi : Is it really okay for us to go sightseeing?

Suguru : Yeah, Satoru suggested it. I guess it's his way of showing compassion to Riko. But it's time, we need to go. Satoru!

The two snapped their heads towards their companions.

Satoru : Oh it's time already?

Riko's expression deflated. Satoru watched her carefully.

Satoru : Suguru, how about we go back tomorrow morning?

Her face instantly brightened up. One day of fun. She stood up as Kuroi came over with a towel.

Suguru : Are you sure?

Satoru : Yeah, the weather's great. Besides, we'll have to deal with less curse users in Okinawa than Tokyo. Better if the bounty gets lifted on the way too.

Suguru : Satoru. You have been using your technique since yesterday. And you didn't sleep last night either. And you probably won't sleep tonight either. Are you sure you'll be able to continue?

Satoru's eyes drifted back to Riko and Kuroi, then they drifted back to Suguru. He let out a sigh of assurance and put his fist on his best friend's chest, right above his heart.

Satoru : It'll be fine. You're here with me. Together, we're the strongest.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Naha Airport

Haibara : Nanami! Irura! We're staying for one more day here!

The two came over. Nanami was clearly displeased.

Fuyumi : I wonder what happened.

Haibara : Dunno. But that means we will have to put up at an Auxiliary Outpost for tonight. Will that be alright?

Nanami : We don't really have any other choice, do we?

Chapter Text

Satoru's Party, Okinawa

The rest of their time in Okinawa was spent having fun. After all, it was Riko's last day. She at least deserved a proper send off.

The group first went rafting. Then they had lunch, where Satoru tried to annoy Riko by pouring ketchup on her pudding, but she was able to remove it quickly. Then, a trip to a museum.

Finally, they visited an aquarium. Riko walked across the giant enclosure, watching whales and stingrays swim past her. At a distance, small fish were swimming in schools. The waer shone with a brilliant turquoise glow. It was beautiful.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

21 July, 2006, Tokyo Jujutsu High, 1500 hours

Four hours since the bounty on Riko's head was lifted. It was over. They were safe inside Tokyo High.

Suguru : Everyone, we can take it a little easier now. We're inside Tokyo High's barrier.

Riko : Whew! Thank God.

Kuroi : What a relief!

Satoru : What about the first years?

Suguru : They've already been sent to a different mission.

Satoru : Hmm.

His face wasn't exactly happy. He was angry. And his body was overloaded. He was in a bad mood.

Suguru : Satoru, thanks for your hardwork.

Satoru : I'm never baysitting again!

Riko : Huh?

She looked at him with a smirk, as if challenging him. Just then, a blade pierced through Satoru's chest. Everyone was taken aback. That should've been impossible. They were inside Tokyo High's barrier. Was Tengen experiencing a lapse?

Satoru : Do I remember you from somewhere?

Toji : Don't worry. I'm not good with names either.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Flashback)

(Toji's POV)

I had once gone to see the Gojo kid with the Six Eyes. Just to see what all th fuss was about. It was a snowy morning, and I was in a simple kimono and haori, virtually invisible to everyone else.

The kid was walking beside an attendant, who was holding an umbrella over his head. What luxury! But then, he turned around and looked at me. His eyes were bright and blue. That was the first and last time someone had noticed me standing behind them. And that's why I knew, I had to wear him down.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Present)

Satoru moved aside as Suguru sent his giant worm curse to gobble Toji up. Then he ran to his friend.

Suguru : Satoru, are you alright?!

Satoru : I'm fine. Infinity didn't pick it up, but he missed vital organs. And before he could increase damage, I had reinforced myself with cursed energy. Like a safety pin through a sweater.

Satoru was standing up by now. His chest was bleeding, but otherwise he was fine.

Satoru : Amanai is the priority. Get her to Master Tengen's quarters. I'll handle things here.

Suguru : Alright, don't let your guard down!

The trio ran inside. Satoru took off and tossed away his sunglassess.

Satoru : Who do you think you're talking to?

The stomach of the curse ruptured open, Toji emerging from within. His black compression shirt and white baggy pants were drenched in purple blood. His hand had a different sword than before, and a curse was wrapped around his body. It looked like a bloated worm. Satoru noted it all.

Toji : Huh? Where'd the Star Plasma Vessel go? I thought I finished you off with that strike. Guess I'm getting rusty.

Satoru : The bounty on Amanai's head has already been lifted, you idiot.

Toji : Yup. And it was me who did that. For guys like you, I created an illusion of achieving goals with that bounty. It's regrettable that none of your companions died, but without the time limit, you wouldn't have stopped your technique.

Satoru : Is that right?!

His hand had already conjured the Blue, throwing Toji onto the gate. The man immediately appeared on the roof of one of the buildings to the side.

He wasn't just fast, Satoru knew something else was weird. This guy had zero cursed energy. It was all innate physical prowess.

Toji substituted the precious sword for a smaller, more ceremonially decorated blade. He jumped across the area, approaching Satoru's position with each move. Just as he was ready to go for Satoru's head, a great force pulled him back and threw him into a building. Satoru's Blue had finally struck him.

He knew about Satoru's technique. That's why he had laid low until now. He must have a plan, especially with that cursed tool of his.

Satoru : Is that your treasure? Too bad you need to get close to use it.

But where was he? The man had disappeared from where he had crashed. He was moving all around, at such an incredible speed that it was difficult to keep up with him. Satoru was on guard. He couldn't be tracked with cursed energy. Should he try to go with his instict? Or track the cursed energy of that cursed spirit around him?

Satoru : No choice. Cursed Technique Lapse - Blue - Maximum Output.

The Blue singularity formed in front of him, with a force so great that it tore apart a building close to it. Satoru moved it around the campus, destroying everything in the orb's path. It was all reduced to rubble, with nothing remaining. Satoru was on even more guard, especially because he couldn't see this guy anymore. But that was okay, nothing would block his vision anymore.

From the forest, he could see a horde of curses flying towards him. Fly heads! They all gathered around him and encircled him. They must have been inside that curse around the man's shoulder. They made it difficult to track him because of their cursed energy emissions and his view was blocked again. Should he use another Blue? No, the target was Amanai-

Toji appeared behind Satoru, his blade brandished and furnished for the hit. Satoru's eyes moved to his direction, and his body turned towards him. The Six Eyes had tracked him even when unarmed. He could track the foreign cursed energy from the tool and didn't want it to get close. So, he was finally on the defensive. As he should be.

The blade lodged itself in Satoru's neck. He was flaggerbasted. He didn't know that it was Special Grade Cursed Tool - Inverted Spear of Heaven. Its effect was forced stoppage of all cursed techniques.

Satoru coughed and weakly touched the blade. He couldn't believe it. Something threatening had pierced through his Infinity and cancelled it. Toji didn't waste time, pulling he spear down Satoru's body, diagonally across his torso and stabbed his legs three times. Then, he punched him and let the boy fall backwards. Satoru fell onto a pool of his own blood, his breath thinned out.

Toji : I'm starting to remember how to do this.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tomb of the Star Corridor, At the bottom of the school

The lift stopped at the bottom. Suguru opened the doors and the three walked out. Kuroi hesitated to go any further.

Kuroi : Lady Riko, this is as far as I can go. For generations, my family has attended to the Star Plasma Vessel. Now, you'll free me. Please take-

Riko hugged Kuroi tightly, not wanting to let go. In all these years, she had been her only companion. Her only semblance of a family. Her tears flowed freely.

Riko : Kuroi, I love you!! Now and forever!! I'll miss you!!

Kuroi returned the embrace.

Kuroi : I love you too, Riko!! I'll miss you too!!

The scene was endearing to Suguru. Eventually, they had to go. Kuroi watched with tears as Suguru and Riko departed for their final destination.

Riko : Is this...?

Suguru : Yes. The base of the country's primary barriers. The main halls of the Tomb of the Star. The residence of Master Tengen.

They were in a huge hall. In the middle was a giant tree like growth, wrapped with ceremonial ropes and marked with seals. Around it were corridors built in a circular pattern, built like the Colosseum.

Suguru : Go down the stairs and pass the gate. Then move towards the base of the tree. It's protected by a different barrier than the one around Jujutsu High. Only invited ones may enter. You'll be protected by Master Tengen until the merger.

He could clearly see the hesitation and solemn expression on the girl's face.

Suguru : Or you could turn back and go home with Kuroi.

Her face perked up in surprise.

Riko : What?

Suguru : When we were assigned this mission by our teacher, he referred to it as an "erasure". As if it was something wrong. For an intelligent guy, he loved to beat around the bush. Satoru and I had already come to an agreement before meeting you.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Flashback)

Satoru : If that Star Plasma Vessel kid refuses the merger, we'll call it off.

Suguru : You sure? We'll be directly declaring war on Master Tengen then.

Satoru : You scared?

Suguru : No, we should be fine. We're the strongest, after all.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

(Present)

Suguru : No matter what you choose, we promise to protect your future.

Riko : Ever since I was born, I was told that I was special and different. It was not al for me. I was protected from all dangers and survived until now. My parents died in a car accident. I'm not sad or lonely. That's why I thought that with the merger, I would finally leave everyone behind, and I wouldn't have a problem with it. No matter how painful it became, it would all disappear one day.

Riko (cotd.) : But now.... But now, I want to be with everyone!! I want to be with everyone more, I want to see more things.... I want to live more...

Her tears were flowing freely. All her fears, anxieties, her insecurities. Years of apprehension. All of it. It was being released now. And Suguru was there to listen to it all. She wiped her eyes. He extended his hand.

Suguru : Let's go home, Riko.

Riko : Yeah.

She was smiling again. Her life would be better. It would be fun. She extended her hand to accept his invitation. And then....

BANG! A shot ringed out through the hall. Riko's head was hit by a bullet, the force of which pushed her body to the side, making her fall sideways. Her hairband had come undone. Her eyes were open. And her blood was flowing from her head, marking the area where she had fallen. Suguru was left from in shock. His head cautiously and slowly moved towards the body in front of him, his eyes still wide from shock.

Suguru : Riko?

Chapter Text

Toji : Alright, good show. Time to wrap things up now.

He brought the gun near his mouth and flicked his tongue over the hole to get rid of the smoke rising from it. Two bullets. That's all it took him. One for the maid there. And one for the girl. Of course it was jujutsu enhanced bullets, he didn't want them to come back as vengeful spirits. He knew when and how to take precautions.

Suguru was unable to understand what just went down. One moment he was talking to Riko about securing her future. The next moment, she was dead. Shot in cold blood. And this guy was here. Why? Where was Satoru? Where was Kuroi? His breath hitched and thinned out, devoid of substance. The words in his throat died out, his brain a muddle, a mess unable to comprehend properly.

Suguru : Why.... Why are you here?

Toji : Huh? Why am I here? Oh. Right. I killed Satoru Gojo.

Suguru : And Kuroi?

Toji : Who, the maid? Easy shot. As if I was practicing.

His manic grin only worked to irk Suguru even further. He summoned two of his strongest curses, Rainbow Dragon and Kuchisake Onna.

Suguru : Fine then. You die.

Toji : The Tomb of the Star and the jujutsu warehouse are barriers for hiding. You can't leave guards here. So as long as you know where the entrance is, there should be no problem finding it. Sorcerers are busy this time of the year. Plus fly heads have infested the school and things are hectic outside. For someone like me, I'm practically invisible.

Toji held up his gun, pointing it at Suguru's general direction.

Toji : There's just one problem. As long as I hold a curses tool, its cursed energy makes me visible.

Rainbow Dragon roared at him and charged. Toji shot at it once and jumped out of the way. He landed on the roof of a corridor, as Rainbow Dragon crashed into the wall.

Toji : Slow down, lemme countinue.

He fired a few bullets at Suguru, who pulled out a random curse to block the hits.

Toji : I've got this cursed spirit that can store. I use it to carry my cursed tools. Now, I know what you're thinking. "Shouldn't the cursed energy from said curse make him visible?"

He brought out his tongue. On it rested a tiny purple orb, the curse in question.

Toji : It shrinks by storing itself within its own body. Then, I ingest it and store it in my stomach.

The curse reformed itself into its original shape and wrapped around Toji's torso again.

Toji : An invisible man should have guts, right? That's why I can move through barriers while carrying curses tools. And that's why I used a normal weapon at first. I need to be invisible if I'm to land a surprise attack on the Six Eyes. Could've started with the Star Plasma Vessel, but that would be risky because I might expose myself to the Six Eyes.

Suguru : Shut up!!!!!!! It's Heavenly Restriction!! Just like us, revealing you hand gives you an advantage, I get that. But that's not what I want to know. How did you know the entrance to the Tomb?! We made sure not leave behind residuals!

Toji : There's more to humans than just cursed energy. Remember odour and footprints? I've got sharp senses in exchange for zero cursed energy.

Suguru : That settles it. Die!!

Rainbow Dragon charged at Toji once again, only this time, the man leaped off into the depths to charge back at it. He had exchanged his gun for a sword, and he used it to slice Rainbow Dragon longitudinally. Suguru was stunned. His most durable curse had just been split open.

Toji landed on his feet. Cursed Spirit Manipulation was just a bunch of rabble.

Kuchisake Onna : Hey!! Am... Am I... Pretty?

Toji knew he was in a simple domain. Generated by this curse. Even so, he didn't fear it much.

Toji : Let's see. You're not really my type.

The curse shrieked, revealing several eyes and a face that was sliced to the ears. Her hands acquired a pair of scissors. Toji felt a cut across his ear. So that's how it was. The simple domain triggered this curse's attack, several giant scissors. Toji used the sword to repel them all away, parrying each attack with inhuman accuracy.

Suguru crept up behind him and put his hand out. Toji scoffed. Getting in close like an idiot.

Toji : This is the end.

Suguru : Yeah! For you!

To his surprise, Toji found his worm curse being pulled away from him. Cursed Spirit Manipulation, evidently.

Toji ducked to avoid Suguru's technique. The curse quickly regurgitated another blade for him. Inverted Spear of Heaven. Toji used him to land two slashes on Suguru's body, creating a deep x-shaped wound that would leave a scar. Then, he jumped up, spun around and landed a 540° kick on the boy, sending him flying away. His skull was fractured and was bleeding, along with the slashes on his chest. Toji kicked his limp head once again, creating another crack in the skull and drawing more blood.

Toji : You'll be fine, sorcerer. I'd have killed you if you just used shikigami, but because of your technique, I don't know what will happen to the curses you've taken in once you die. Which is something I don't wanna deal with right now. Thank your parents for that. But remember, you guys, with all your god-like jujutsu prowess, lost to a monkey like me with no powers whatsoever. Remember that if you want to live a long life.

His face went quiet for a moment. Then it suddenly struck him.

Toji : Oh right! Megumi. I was the one who named him.

Toji had done it. His mission was completed. Suguru lay in his blood. Riko laid in hers. Kuroi laid in hers. And Satoru laid in his. All taken down by a man, who shouldn't even have been a partof the jujutsu world in the first place. Toji picked up Riko's body, slumg her over his shoulders and walked away calmly.

Somewhere, in a pool of blood, a hand twitched.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Home of the Star Children, 1700 hours

The curse regurgitated Riko's body onto the floor. Toji looked on, proud of himself and his accomplishment.

Toji : Riko Amanai. The Star Plasma Vessel. With all limbs intact.

The man, their client, kneeled down to inspect the body. He was an old man, wrinkles on his face, his dark hair slicked back. He let out a satisfied smile. This was the head of the Star Religious Association, Sonoda Shigeru.

Sonoda : Indeed. I have confirmed it. The transfer will be as per agreement. I'll even add a little extra.

Toji : Generous. As expected, mister guru.

Sumiyoshi : Really? You covered all our expenses and provided extra? I honestly thought you'd complain a bit more.

Sonoda : That assassination was our last resort. The Star Religious Association began in the Nara Era, when Master Tengen preached a system of morality, which involved taking care of minorities. That is why, we relegate ourselves to the position of non sorcerers, who aren't even allowed a voice where sorcerers have a lot of authority.

Sonoda (cotd.) : But now, the time has come! The taboo engraved in our scriptures. Our organization is monotheistic, our goal is merging Master Tengen with the impurities. We would lose our religious standing if the merger happened with the Star Plasma Vessel. But sorcerers would have crushed us if we acted against them. Basically, we shouldn't have cared anymore. But now, all that we should've lost is in our hands. We can afford to be generous now.

The head wrapped Riko's body in white cloth and picked her up. Then, he carried her away.

Sumiyoshi : But if Tengen went berserk, humanity as a whole would lose, isn't it?

Sonoda : We have no regret falling among the stars.

Once the man was gone, Sumiyoshi lit a cigarette. Toji signalled to him that the man was crazy.

Sumiyoshi : You said the cult provided support. Was that in Okinawa?

Toji : Yeah.

Sumiyoshi : Why didn't you kill the maid then?

Toji : I'm pretty sure I told you as such.

Sumiyoshi : I more or less understood your plan. Giving in and letting them save the maid would distract them more.

Toji : You're used to disrupting the chain of command for obscuring goals, aren't you?

Sumiyoshi : And it ended well.

Toji : Yeah, but fucking Okinawa? Of all places?

Sumiyoshi : That made me laugh too. Normally, hostages would be transported via car. Ports and airports are risky, after all. But turns out their president has a private jet. Rich people think in weird ways.

Toji : It was still dumb. Hey, you know what? Let's get some grub with the money. Take me somewhere good, with a grand reception.

Sumiyoshi : Hell no. I know you don't pay the bill, you bastard. From now on, I'll only get involved with you in work or in hell. Nowhere else.

And so, Toji left alone. He was walking by himself. Loaded with money. It was a golden sunset. He was wondering what he would do with the money, when his eyes picked up on something weird. He used his hand to block out the sunlight and focused intently.

There he was. Bloody, but the blood had dried. Most of the wounds had closed. His clothes were disheveled, and his face still had dirt on it. As if he had just woken up and walked over. The man Toji had just ended with his own hands. Satoru Gojo was standing before him. In flesh and blood, alive and whole once again.

Chapter Text

Satoru : Yo. Long time no see.

Toji : For real?

Satoru : For real real. I feel anew.

It was Satoru Gojo. Only, it was a mad Satoru Gojo, who had a wide smile on his face, as if he had done something outstanding. And he had, for he had cheated death. He removed some hair on his forehead to reveal a small scar over there. Toji knew what that scar meant.

Toji : Reverse Cursed Energy?!

Satoru : Corect! Once you stabbed my neck, I gave up on resisting. Instead, I poured all of my energy into perfecting this technique. Cursed energy is inherently negative in nature, it can fortify the body, but can't regenerate it. So, you multiply it with more cursed energy to form positive energy, which is Reverse Cursed Energy. The theory is easy, but I couldn't do it in practicality until now. The only person who could can't explain even if her life depended on it! Shoko, you horrible teacher!! Hope you never have a student!!

Toji was distressed. The guy's expression was off. A wide smile across his face, despite the situation they were in. And so talkative. Was he high?

Satoru : But I finally realised it!! On my deathbed!! The core of cursed energy!! You lost because you dint go for my head!!

Toji : Lost?

He pulled out the Inverted Spear of Heaven from his trusty curse.

Toji : The fight has only begun.

Satoru : Is that right?! Maybe you're right!!! YOU'RE SO RIGHT!!!

Toji lunged forward and swung at Gojo, who avoided the blow. He swung again, this time in a different direction. His eyes followed Gojo, who flew away and was hanging upside down in air now.

As of now, Satoru was channelling the positive energy of Reverse Cursed Energy into the Limitless technique carved into him.

Satoru : Cursed Technique Reversal - Red.

A red orb of energy flew towards Toji, who tried to block it with the Inverted Spear of Heaven. Ultimately, his tribulations were in vain, as he crashed into the building far behind him. His head was bleeding, but nonetheless, he looked up at the man who was now floating upside down with a euphoric expression.

Toji : Damn monster.

He stood up and stretched his arms towards his back. Limitless had three powers :-

1. The power to stop, Infinity

2. The power to attract, Blue

3. The power to repel, Red

His strategy was to use the Inverted Spear of Heaven for all three situations. Infinity could be pierced. Blue and Red could be negated by the Spear, provided the timing is right. To that end, Toji immediately attached the Spear to another cursed tool, Chain of a Thousand Miles, which was coming out of his curse's mouth. None of Satoru Gojo's powers would stop him.

So why did he feel uneasy? When Satoru was still floating, when his eyes landed on Toji.... Why did Toji feel uneasy?

Toji : No. It'll work. I'll kill you.

He spun the Chain around, throwing the Spear along as well. The Spear approached Satoru from the side, but he ducked in time to let it pass by over him by a hair's breadth. Then another dodge from he side.

Satoru : Sorry, Amanai. I'm not angry at you, nor am I vengeful. It's just, the world feels so perfect right now. It feels just right.

Satoru's right hand pointed up to the sky, while his left hand pointed to the earth below.

Satoru : THROUGHOUT HEAVEN AND EARTH, I ALONE AM THE HONOURED ONE!!

The statement had no effect, as Toji continued his assault. Satoru avoided another hit from the Spear by flying to a side.

The good thing about inherited techniques is that a user instructions manual was readily available. The bad thing was that its information was leaked much more easily. This guy was from one of the Big Three families, most likely the Zenin clan, so he knew about Blue, Red and Infinity. All about them, actually. But his next move was something that was known, even among the Gojo clan, by only a select few. And by select few, it included Satoru and his immediate close associates, which actually only included Iharu. So only two people knew about its existence.

When attraction and repulsion combine, imaginary mass expulsion takes place. In other words, when the Infinity of Red collided against Infinity of Blue, the two forces cancel each other out. What remains is imaginary mass.

Satoru : Imaginary Technique - Hollow Purple.

A giant purple orb of energy hurled towards Toji at full speed. It broke through the Chain of a Thousand Miles and hit him on his left side. The left side of his torso, his left arm, and the parts of his organs on the left side of his body were all incinerated. No, they were deleted from existence. There was a clearly defined circular hole where his body should've been. Blood dripped from the area. The rest of his organs were also peeking out.

That unease. He would usually refuse to work for free and run away. That's how Toji always has been. But this time, the person he had faced off was a user of a cursed technique that had made him the strongest sorcerer in this generation. Toji wanted to defy that. To go against it. Against the Zenin clan that had denied him. Against the apex of the jujutsu world, that had shunned him and made him and outcast. In order to reaffirm his identity, he had warped his usual self. And at that point, he had already lost.

As the remnants of the Chain fell from hands, he lamented. Not for his actions. But for his situation. That dratted curse had also left him. He was all alone. Just like he had always been.

Toji : I thought I had discarded that pride....

He had decided to not respect anyone else, or even himself, for that matter. That's how he had chosen to live. But that one woman had changed him. That one baby had changed him. His blessings in life. That's why he named his son Megumi.

Satoru descended onto the ground. He walked closer to the dying man.

Satoru : Any last words?

Toji : Nah....

His son's face flashed in his mind. The memory was becoming blurred.

Toji : In about two or three years, my kid will be sold to the Zenin clan. And my other kid will be left all alone. Do what you want with that.

Satoru watched the man's last breath leave his body. The light in Toji's eyes was extinguished. His body was still frozen in the same standing posture, bearing witness to the battle that had just taken place now.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback)

Naobito : Do you know what you're talking about?

Toji : I know. That boy has inherited the Ten Shadows Technique. You can get him when he turns six.

Naobito : Very well. I'll buy him when he's six.

Toji walked away from the bus stop. One of his headaches had been relieved. Megumi had inherited the Ten Shadows Technique, the sacred technique of the Zenin clan. He would be raised with care, unlike how Toji himself was raised. Megumi would have companions. He wouldn't have to suffer like Toji.

Right now, his other worry was about the girl, Tsumiki. What would he do about her? Naobito had refused to take her in. He would have to see somewhere else.

Oh well, that could wait. Right now, he went towards a restaurant. It was lunchtime and he was hungry.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Elsewhere, Toji's worm had slithered away from him. Suguru encountered it on his way there, looking at it with wide eyes. Something didn't feel right.

Worm : Mommy....

Inside the facility, Satoru had recovered Riko's body. It was still covered. Everyone had gathered around him, clapping happily at the death of the girl. This was the sight that Suguru was greeted with when he opened the doors and looked in.

Satoru : You're late, Suguru. Or maybe you're early. The Star Religious Association owns many buildings, after all.

What the hell had happened? Why was Satoru speaking in such a low voice? And why was it so devoid of emotion? Speaking of which why were his eyes so devoid of human life?

Suguru : You.... You're Satoru, right?

Satoru : You went to Shoko?

Suguru : Yeah, she fixed me up. I'm fine... No, it doesn't matter whether I'm fine.

His eyes had crinkled. Riko's arm was hanging off.

Satoru : It wasn't your fault. I was the one who messed up.

Suguru : Let's go back.

Satoru : Suguru,  should we kill all these people?

The question made him freeze. All around them, the applause continued. And Satoru was dangerously close to losing it. He was on the verge of losing it.

Satoru : If we do it now, I probably won't feel a thing.

Suguru : Nah, there's no use. The main offenders have gone into hiding. It's just non curse users here. Unlike the bounty, they can't escape now. They were a pretty problematic organisation to begin with, so they'll be dismantled soon enough, even if some of their members have fled. Moreover, I've already called a large force of the Jujutsu Kansatsuin, who'll arrived by the next 15 minutes. If you take any drastic step, you'll be the one implicated.

Satoru : Meaning, if it is really necessary.

Suguru : Very. Especially for sorcerers.

The force of the Jujutsu Kansatsuin arrived. Most members were arrested and were taken away in prisoner vans. Even so, about 180 members managed to escape,  of the 700 total strength of the organisation. An audit would begin to seize their properties as well. Their job was done. The two friends walked out in silence, Riko's body still in Satoru's arms.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

August 2007, Tokyo Jujutsu High

Shoko : Here we go!

She threw the pen in her hand. Suguru threw the eraser in his. Both flew towards Satoru. The pen froze mid air, whereas the eraser bounced off.

Shoko : What the hell?

Suguru : The targets for Infinity were automatically chosen.

Satoru : Exactly. What I was doing manually until now has become automatic.

He caught the pen and eraser from the air. He had become much better in this preceding year.

Satoru : I could sort the threat levels of incoming objects based on cursed energy. But now, I can do it based on mass, size and shape as well. I'd like to extend it to poison, but it's still too difficult. Nevertheless, with this, I can basically leave Infinity on all the time, while using minimal resources.

Shoko : You'll fry your brain if you do that.

Satoru : No, I'm simultaneously using Reverse Cursed Energy in my brain. So, it'll always stay fresh. I was already omitting seals, and now I've perfected it. Multiple activations of Red and Blue are also going well. Next is my Domain Expansion and close range teleportation, I guess. I think I'll be able to do that here without interference. Shoko, get me some lab rats, will you?

Shoko : Huh? Fine.

Chapter Text

(Suguru's POV)

Satoru has become the strongest.

Satoru : Suguru, did you lose weight? Are you alright?

He was going on missions alone. And Shoko wasn't sent on missions. So, I've been getting a lot of alone time.

Me : Yeah, just summer stress. I'm fine, really.

Satoru : Did you have too much soumen?

It's been a busy summer this year. The calamities of last year still had their influence. Curses were crawling around like bugs. I continued to exorcise and ingest curses, as usual. Exorcise. Ingest. Exorcise. Ingest. Over and over again. Only someone who has tasted curses knows how genuinely horrible they taste. Like a rag used to clean vomit. 

And I wondered for whom I was doing it. Ever since that day, I had convinced myself. This ugliness was a part of the job, the job of a sorcerer, that I had willingly chosen. Don't falter. As a strong person, I was supposed to fulfil my obligation to society. 

But I couldn't do it. Not wen I shared a metro with non sorcerers. Not when I ate at a restaurant, amongst their company. And not even in the shower. As the water dripped down my shoulders, that scene came back to haunt me. The clapping. The arm hanging. The blood on the sheets. Satoru covered in dried blood. I couldn't. The visions were etched into my memory, burnt and engraved into my vision. They took away my sleep. My appetite. My friends. My peace. Everything. The water drops were like my humanity, slipping away drop by drop.

And behind it all was that on man. Whom I had come to know as Toji Fushiguro. I couldn't forget that name even if I tried. Not even on the day of Riko and Kuroi's funerals. No, he haunted me like a spectre. Like a curse. The monkey that took down gods...

And all this began to influence how I viewed the world. Sorcerers were ,erely tools. Tools to use to save worthless and ungrateful non sorcerers. And then discarded and forgotten when they outlived their usefulness. Even Satoru and Shoko were no exceptions. That thought boiled my blood. The thought that my friends were used to help non sorcerers. Non sorcerers!

Suguru : Fucking monkeys...

But something else was happening behind the scenes. The questioning of the Q assassins had revealed the location of their bases. Five of them. They had also built an alliance with the remainders of the Star Religious Association. So, Jujutsu High had declared war on them. Five separate teams were to be forged to take out the five bases on different islands. Each team was put under the leadership of a specific sorcerer. 

1. Team Yaga consisted of 12 sorcerers between grades 2 and 1, under Masamichi Yaga, and would take on Base 1. 

2. Team Gojo would go with Satoru to Base 2. 

3. Team Gakuganji would move to Base 3, which was purpoted to be the weakest of the five

4. Team Tsukumo was to land an assault on Base 4 

5. And finally, Team Geto would go with me to Base 5

The entire Jujutsu High, all six schools in Japan, were under Emergency. The preparations for the war were being carried out. 

Right now, I didn't have a major role, so I sat on a bench beside a vending machine in Tokyo High. Kaori-nee had been assigned to Team Yaga. There was literally no one around me. And I was distraught. What was even the point of all this? Our people would die, for no recognition from anyone for their incredible service and bravery. 

Fuyumi : Geto senpai. 

I looked up. Irura and Haibara. My underclassmen.

Me : What's the matter?

Haibara : We're in your team! Let's give it all we got!

They sat down beside me. I felt some relief upon having familiar people around me. If only my sister or Satoru were here too. Then again, I couldn't blame them. They were preparing for this raid too.

Haibara : I hope we can bring back souvenirs. What would you like, senpai?

Me : I'll share with Satoru and Shoko, so get something sweet.

So naive. Then again, they were first years, I couldn't blame them. No, I was jealous of their naivety. I wanted it again, desperately. But that could never happen. 

Fuyumi : Do you have the plans ready?

Me : Eh... I'll call a meeting when the time is right. Don't worry.

Fuyumi : Oh alright then. Just don't forget it. 

Me : Guys, is being a sorcerer too rough on you?

Haibara : Let's see. I'm not a deep thinker, but I always try my best at whatever I do.

Fuyumi : It's rough, but at the end of the day, I get to sleep with the knowledge that someone could laugh today because of me.

Me : I see. That makes sense.

Just then, another person walked up to us. A tall blonde woman, holding a jacket behind her shoulder. A black, sleeveless top and light coloured jeans.

Woman : Are you Geto? What is your type in women?

Me : Who are you?

Haibara : I like those who eat sweets a lot.

Fuyumi : I guess I like my men with a sense of responsibility and a love for kids.

Me : Guys...

Haibara : It's fine, senpai. She's not a bad person. I'm sure of that. After all, I have a good eye for people.

I scoffed. He was saying that while sitting next to me.

Haibara : Yes!

Woman : Boy, he was being sarcastic.

The two juniors soon excused themselves and left. The woman sat down beside me.

Woman : Are they your juniors? They're cute and honest.

Me : Yeah, but they need to be more careful of people since they are sorcerers.

Woman : You haven't given me an answer yet.

Me : Ladies first.

Woman : Special Grade Sorcerer, Yuki Tsukumo. I guess you've heard of me.

Me : Oh, you're the one...

Tsukumo : Yeah? Yeah?

Me : The special grade who doesn't go on missions and just fucks around on overseas trips.

Tsukumo's expression deflated. She was sulking.

Tsukumo : Man, I hate the college. Kidding, but not entirely. The people here want to hush up the symptoms. I want to treat the cause. In that sense, our goals don't align.

Me : What?

Tsukumo : I don't want to hunt curses. I want a world devoid of them.

What? What was she talking about? A world without curses wasn't possible.

Tsukumo : Lemme explain. Excess cursed energy leaked from humans forms cursed spirits. As such, there are two ways to create a world devoid of curses.

1. Make all of humanity lose their cursed energy.

2. Make all of humanity able to control their cursed energy.

Tsukumo (cotd.) : The first option sounds like a pretty good route. There's even a model case!

Me : Oh?

Tsukumo : Someone you know. Toji Zenin. I've seen Heavenly Restrictions give sorcerers cursed energy like a regular civilian, but he was the only case whereby it became completely zero. Not only that, despite no cursed energy, he could sense curses with only five senses. By giving up cursed energy, his body reached a point whereby it naturally became resistant to curses. A true superhuman. Don't be sad if you lost to him. I wanted to research him, but he turned me down.

Tsukumo (cotd.) : Since there are very few options available, I'm going for the second route. Did you know that sorcerers don't leave behind cursed spirits, except for vengeful spirits of course? Compared to a regular person, sorcerers leak far less cursed energy. The difference in techniques is also there for some, but most importantly, the flow is restricted within the sorcerer's own bodies. To put it bluntly, if all of humanity were sorcerers, no curses would be born.

That piqued my interest. If all of humanity were sorcerers, no curses would be born? But there was a different way to do that as well. Right? Should I say it?

Me : We could just kill all non sorcerers.

Silence. Did I say too much?

Tsukumo : Geto.... That's actually a decent plan. In the sense that it is the easiest way. By thinning out population of non sorcerers, we could force them to develop jujutsu. Like evolution, with how birds haunted wings and all. Only, this would be through fear and a sense of danger. But I'm not that crazy.

So it is possible! Not only that, it is also the easiest and most reliable way! That's it! That's it!!!!

Tsukumo : Geto, do you hate non sorcerers?

Me : I don't know. I used to think that sorcerers were supposed to protect non sorcerers. But lately, I feel like they are of less worth to me. The ugliness of the weak. I've been trying to separate them, but.... I look down on non sorcerers and then reject those thoughts. My own version of becoming a sorcerer is becoming blurry. I can't tell what my true feelings are, anymore.

Tsukumo : It's neither. You're not at that stage yet. Both of what you described are just your possibilities. What you act on is what defines your true feelings.

What I wanted to act on.... What did I want to act on?

Tsukumo didn't sit for longer. Soon, I was seeing her off, as she revved up her motorcycle.

Tsukumo : I wanted to meet Gojo too, but I guess I will when we go to the Q bases. We're the special grades, so let's get along. I'll see you two at the final meeting before the raid.

Me : Yeah, we'll meet at the meeting.

Tsukumo : And one last thing. Don't worry about the Star Plasma Vessel. Either they already have another one ready, or the next one has already been born. Either way, Tengen is stable.

Me : Figures.

The woman rode off. I was left standing on the road. All around me, windows and assistant managers were preparing for the raid, moving in and about the place. I sighed. My head was reeling from this discussion. I decided to go and take a nap in my room. Perhaps that would help me in a while.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Main Conference Room, Tokyo Jujutsu High

Yaga : So, I believe we're ready, team captains?

All of us had gathered here. Yaga. Gakuganji. Satoru. Tsukumo. And me.

Gakuganji : What's the plan?

Yaga : It will be a five pronged approach. That way, we'll prevent those Q soldiers from escaping.

Satoru : Let's also put down curtains while we're at it.

Tsukumo : Then that will be the responsibility of the group captains.

Yaga : I agree. But remember. Minimum casualties. Kill only when you need to. We can't let the jujutsu world see us as bloodthirsty brutes. We're just there to apprehend and arrest them, not to conduct a massacre.

Gakuganji : I agree. It will also preserve the goodwill of the schools.

Satoru : Suguru, are you alright?

Me : Yeah, yeah I'm alright. I agree with the plans. When are we going?

Yaga : Tomorrow, we depart. Each team will surround the island and attack from all sides.

Me : Alright.

Gakuganji : That's it then, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for coming.

We dispersed. Satoru and Tsukumo walked off, talking to each other. I walked towards my room, having nothing much to do.

Once the door of my room was closed behind me, I was alone. All alone. Just like I had been for this past year. Kaori-nee had been missing for almost four years by now. Ma and Pa had almost given up searching for her, and they even advised me to get on with my life. But I couldn't. I just couldn't. Not until I found her. And Satoru was busy, preparing to lead his team. That gave me a lot of alone time. Perhaps that was needed.

I decided to shrug away these thoughts and go to sleep. Tomorrow could wait until, well, tomorrow.

Chapter Text

21 August, 2007, 0830 hours

The ships travelled out to the sea. Five of them. Each carrying a battalion of sorcerers. Today was the day of the raid on the revealed Q bases. Of course, it was a surprise raid. In fact the very location of prisoners had been hidden until now for that purpose.

A lot more sorcerers were going than the previously anticipated amount. The Jujutsu Kansatsuin had volunteered to go with the schools. That was a new development.

Jujutsu Kansatsuin. Established in the Taisho Era, during intense instability in the jujutsu world. Around this time, Q had hired outside muscle in order to launch a series of attacks on the high level officials of Jujutsu High Society. In order to curb the threat, the Jujutsu Kansatsuin was established in 1917, towards the end of World War I. Over time, it had gone from a special task force to a general law and order maachinery. It had its own intelligence branch, as well as the Jujutsu University. Most sorcerers, upon graduating from Jujutsu High, enter the university for further study in jujutsu, after which, they are inducted into service. They also used conventional weapons, which had been enhanced with jujutsu, such as guns and bazookas.

Suguru stood on the deck of his ship. He watched as the waves crashed against the hull. The wind blew past his face, blowing his hair backwards. In just a few more hours, they'd be fighting a tedious battle. Because he knew, Q wasn't going down without a fight.

Fuyumi : Are you nervous?

Huh? When had she managed to sneak up on him? Or rather, a better question would be why was he unable to sense people nowadays?

Suguru : Not really. I'm just.... overwhelmed. Kinda. With all that is happening.

Fuyumi : I know. It can really overwhelm anyone. But it will be alright. I know it will be.

Suguru : You're that sure?

Fuyumi : Of course. You're here.

Suguru : Alright. I'll hold on to your word for it.

Fuyumi : Sure.

She walked off. Suguru kept on watching the outside. The first base, Base 1, was coming into view. It was a big, dome shaped metal building. Like a cartoonish villain lair. Not his purview.

He witnessed Yaga's ship dock at the shore of the island. The sorcerers got down and advanced stealthily towards the base. The Q members had already seen the ships and opened fire. Chaos and screams broke out, with formations breaking, as sorcerers quickly advanced towards the building.

Satoru's forces got down on Base 2. He led them through the thicket, easily getting cover from the incoming bullet fire. The force surrounded the building's entrance, blasted it open, and the Kansatsuin officers forced their entry, guns raised.

Team Gakuganji launched their assault on Base 3. It wasn't staffed properly, so they shouldn't have much of a problem. Hopefully.

Tsukumo's ship docked at the shore of the island having Base 4. Sideways too. The cannons of the ship were loaded. As soon as Q began firing at the shop with their machine guns, Tsukumo gave the order. The cannons tore through the building, reducing it to rubble. Oh well, no killing be damned. Casualties were inevitable.

Finally, it was his turn. Suguru's ship docked at the shore of the island having Base 5. This time, Q were ready and began firing as soon as the ship halted. No killing rule be damned. Suguru summoned a giant lizard curse that gobbled up the initial waves of resistance.

Suguru : Let's go, everybody!!

The sorcerers in his team cheered and charged at the island, weapons raised. The Kansatsuin officers shot at the defending Q soldiers who were coming towards them, to injure them. Suguru continued running inward into the island, ahead of everyone else.

He was the first one to arrive at the entrance of the base. He summoned a boulder curse and kicked it to destroy the entrance to the base building. The Q operatives inside were taken by surprise. Suguru wasted no time, subduing those who came his way.

One lone Q soldier came with a raised machete. Suguru karate chopped his arm and then one to his neck. A kick to the head of another soldier, followed by his curse picking that guy up and throwing him to a distance. By now, the others in his team had also started pouring in.

The entrance at the other end burst open as well. From there entered another branch of Suguru's team, led by Haibara and Renzou Takashima, a young inspector who had newly joined the Kansatsuin. They began to chase the rest of the Q operatives, who had gone into self survival mode. Everyone had taken up arms, and were fighting off the forces of Jujutsu High fiercely.

Haibara had already subdued over a dozen operatives. Another guy managed to land a slash on his face, peeling off his skin on his left cheek. Haibara landed successive punches on the guy to knock him out.

Fuyumi kicked another Q guy in the abdomen. Then, she fended off another Q soldier with an elbow jab. But, she didn't notice an intern creeping towards her with a small pocket knife, that she lodged in Fuyumi's neck. And then split it open.

Suguru : Irura!!!

He quickly ran over and landed a decisive punch on the girl, sending her hurling away to a desk. He held Fuyumi, who was bleeding out.

Suguru : Damn it!! Hold on, Irura!! Someone!! Take her to Shoko!! Now!!

Two of the Kansatsuin officers came and carried her away on a stretcher. Suguru was shaken. How had he let this happen? This was a significant oversight on his part.

A bullet pierced through Suguru's side. He winced in pain and held where the bullet had hit. He looked back. It was the same intern. He quickly closed the distance between himself and this intern girl and landed a punch to her face. The girl was flown out of the building and landed on the ground outside. Suguru followed suit after her as she ran away to hide among the foliage.

That was it. That was the impetus Q needed. With the captain gone, the sorcerers of Jujutsu High and Kansatsuin were at a disadvantage. Haibara rallied the remaining forces and launched a final attack on the remaining enemies, but even so, almost 66 of them managed to escape the island through an underground tunnel. Then, they had taken the ship of the Jujutsu Kansatsuin, that Team Geto had arrived in, and were quickly sailing away.

In the forest, Suguru caught up to the intern.

Suguru : Ran out of land, did you?

Intern : You have linguistic wit.

Suguru : How did it feel? Now that they've abandoned you?

Intern : Did you fulfil your objective? That should be your question.

That was when it struck him. That was the plan all along. Get him away from the base, so that Q could inflict maximum damage and escape to see another day. And he had fallen right into their trap.

Intern : Go on. Kill me.

Suguru : No. I won't give you that last little victory.

He turned around and walked away.

Intern : What if I run away?!

Suguru : To where?! Below the sea?!

He disappeared into the thicket. The girl was left alone on the beach. Suguru was running back to the base.

When he arrived, the base was in shambles. Blood and gore were abound. Kansatsuin officers were lying on the ground, groaning in pain, bleeding from the injuries inflicted on them. Haibara was walking towards him, his pace slow and staggering.

Haibara : Some of them managed to get away.... We couldn't.... Not after you were....

Suguru clamped a hand on Haibara's mouth and hung his head in shame. He had been given one responsibility. And he had failed in that as well.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

1500 hours

The forces had regrouped. Suguru's ship had been taken by the escaping members of Q. Another sprinkle of salt on his wounds. He stood on the beach and looked out into the waters.

The sea was wavy. As it always was. As if it had no care for the sorcerers who had just fought tooth and nail to take care of a recurring deterrent in their missions, a group of lawless criminals, and still succeeded only partially. It especially didn't care for Suguru's mind, which was reeling with how he had failed. Out of all team captains, he had the worst performance. Not only had one of his juniors been fatally injured, potentially battling death. Who knows what the injury reports would yield?

Not only that, he had let his personal emotions get the best of him. He abandoned his team when it mattered the most, and had gone off dilly-dallying. Kinda. And that had put his entire team in danger. Damn, today was a bad day.

Right now, the other ships were headed towards their island. They stopped at the shore and opened the decks. Injured sorcerers and arrested individuals poured in all the ships. Suguru waited, he would board at last. This was the least he could do as captain.

The intern girl was being escorted by a lady officer. The girl looked at Suguru's sombre expression. She knew he was a ticking time bomb. And one day, he would eventually explode. The officer pulled on her handcuffs and dragged her away to the ship.

Finally, Suguru boarded Satoru's ship. As they all moved towards home, he still stood on the deck and watched the hustle and bustle around him. His wounds had closed hours ago, he was probably in no danger as of now. But what he wanted the most was to be able to say that about others as well.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

22 August, 2007, Jujutsu Kansatsuin Headquarters

The injury reports had come in. A total of 67 sorcerers had been slain in the raid, out of the 200 or so that had gone. Suguru's team had the maximum casualties, 34. Some sorcerers had been healed by Shoko, which included Suguru himself. But she had been experiencing burnout, so others had been put in hospitals and first aid for the time being.

Nanami : This wasn't supposed to turn out this way...

He was sitting in the morgue, beaten up and having a cloth over his eyes. Suguru and Haibara were also present. Haibara was sitting on a chair on he opposite end of the room. And Suguru was holding a cloth, that covered a body.

It was Fuyumi Irura. She hadn't survived her injuries. They hadn't been able to reach Shoko within time. Her corpse lay on the bed, colourless and lifeless, a reminder of what all they had lost.

Suguru couldn't handle it anymore. He felt personally responsible for her death. The eyebags under his eyes had widened. He was almost done with everything. He put the cloth back on her and pushed her body into the cupboard.

Suguru : Rest now, Irura.

A while later, he was walking along the garden of Tokyo High. He was about to turn around a building, when he heard some voices. He stopped. It was Ken Nanri, a new assistant manager, and Satoru.

Nanri : I found them. They had gone into hiding, after being chased by the Zenin.

Satoru : Good. I'll go over soon.

What were they talking about? Probably not his purview. His phone rang, and he took it out. Yaga. That could mean only one thing, report to his office. He went without hesitation. He needed to feel like normal, so he needed something to take his mind off everything that was happening here.

Yaga : You have a mission, Suguru. It's towards the countryside.

Suguru : No problem at all.

Chapter Text

September 2007, XX City, XX Province

Suguru scratched his head. He couldn't believe what he was seeing.

Suguru : What the hell is this?

In front of him were two little girls. One with blonde hair, the other with brown. They had been beaten up, and visibly abused, and locked up behind a wooden cage.

Villager 1 : What do you mean? They're the cause of this, right? They're using their freaky powers to attack the villagers.

Suguru : No. I've already determined the cause of these incidents.

Villager 2 : My grandson was killed by these two!

Blonde Girl : No, he's the one who-

Villager 2 : Shut up, you monsters!! Your parents were exactly the same! We should've killed you when you were babies!!

From the woman's raised finger, a small curse peeked out. Suguru remembered Yuki's words. The girls slid further away into the cage, scared of this woman. The one who hated non sorcerers and the one who rejected the same idea. What he decided to act on would determine his true feelings. And he had made that decision.

Suguru : Why don't you two step outside with me?

As soon as they did, they found a giant curse waiting for them. And before they could scream or call for help, they were gone. Mangled to death. Alongwith every single other villager. The village burned from his wrath, reduced to rubble and ash. Suguru left just one sign of himself at the scene, a button of his jujutsu uniform.

Five days after this, the corpses of all 112 residents of the village were found. Further examination revealed that they were all killed by Suguru Geto's Cursed Spirit Manipulation. As of now, Suguru Geto was on the run. According to Article 9 of the Jujutsu Charter, he was to be executed on sight.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High

Satoru's eyes were wide apart. His expression was one of horror and disbelief.

Satoru : Huh?

Yaga : Don't make me repeat myself. Suguru massacred an entire village and went on the run. On the way, he dropped by last night and left behind two girls.

Satoru : Where are the girls?

Yaga : They're with Shoko. Healing. In case you want to ask them anything, it's futile. They were asleep most of the time they were with Suguru, so they have no idea where he could go.

Yaga : There's nothing in his home either. Based on what we know, he likely killed his parents. His sister has been missing as well, almost four years now.

Satoru : No! There's no fucking way he did...!!

Yaga : Satoru. I don't get it either. But it's all true.

Satoru was distressed to say the least. He didn't believe anything anymore. The button he had found at the site was still in his hand. And he clutched it so hard, his hand began to bleed. All because he didn't want to let go of another friend.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo City

Shoko had put the cigarette in her mouth already. Now, she was looking for a lighter. There should be one in her own pocket. Had she misplaced it?

Suguru : Here.

He had a lighter. And he had lighted it for her. She saw him. Suguru Geto. Much different from what he had been in Tokyo High. His hair was let down, with a small bun on top.

Shoko : It's the criminal. You need something?

Suguru : No, just testing my luck.

She lit her cigarette from his lighter. The two stood side by side, watching the hustle and bustle in the city peacefully, as if a kill-on-sight order wasn't hanging by his head.

Shoko : Look, I just want to be sure. Are those charges against you false?

Suguru : Nah. They're true.

Shoko : Bummer. Why?

Suguru : I'll create a world without non sorcerers.

Shoko : That's hilarious.

Suguru : It's alright. I don't expect others to understand me. I'm not a kid.

Shoko : That expectation itself sounds pretty childish to me. What about those girls you left with us?

Suguru : They were being abused for being sorcerers. The brown haired girl, Mimiko, she has a heart condition. Take care of her. Both of them, in fact.

Shoko : Sure sure. Any other conditions I should know about?

Suguru : Not that I know of. Neither from Mimiko nor her sister Nanako.

Shoko : Alright. Wait here a second, will you?

Shoko dialled up a number on her phone.

Shoko : Gojo? Suguru's here in Shinjuku.... No way, I don't wanna die.

A while later, Suguru was just wandering through the crowd. That's when his eyes landed on Satoru. And he was livid.

Satoru : Explain yourself, Suguru.

Suguru : Didn't you hear from Shoko? There's not much else.

Satoru : So you'll just kill all non sorcerers? Even your own parents?!

Suguru : Can't go around making exceptions. They're like vices. Once you start making them, you can't stop. Every time you try to, another excuse will conveniently come up to defend another exception. And this will go on and on till the exception becomes the norm, and the norm becomes the exception. And at that point, my mission will have become pointless, and I will have already lost.

Satoru : They were your family!!

Suguru : Not my only one.

Satoru : So what happened to killing without meaning?! Why did you stop me on that day, at the headquarters of the Star Religious Association?! You're a hypocrite, Suguru!! Meaning exists only for you?! Not for me?! Have you forgotten?! We both went up against Toji Fushiguro!! I was the one who carried Riko's body!! And yet you can your flames while telling me to douse mine?!

Suguru : But that's where you're wrong, Satoru. On that day, the damage was already done. Riko was dead. Even if you killed everyone there, nothing would have changed. Riko wouldn't have come back to life. So, it had no meaning. But this mission of mine? It does. It has its own meaning, its own significance.

Satoru : Absolutely fucking not!! Trying to create a world without sorcerers?! Trying dumb stuff like that is as meaningless as it gets!!

Suguru : That's pretty arrogant.

Satoru : What?

Suguru : You could do it, Satoru. You have that capability. That strength. To see it through, to fruition. Do you really have the right to tell others that "it's impossible"? Are you the strongest because you're Satoru Gojo? Or are you Satoru Gojo because you're the strongest?

Satoru : The hell are you talking about?!

Suguru : If I were as strong as you, this foolish ideal would appear plausible, isn't it? I've decided what I'll do. So, I'll do just for the sake of it.

Satoru brought his hands up. He was ready to fire off a Blue or a Red.

Suguru : You can kill me if you want. There's a meaning to that too.

But he couldn't. Precisely because there was a meaning. Satoru remained on the spot, frozen, as Suguru disappeared into the crowd. Satoru's hands retracted back.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High

Satoru was sitting on the steps of Tokyo High. His head was in his hand, his posture defeated. Yaga walked up to him.

Yaga : Why didn't you chase him?

Satoru : Seriously?

Yaga : No, you're right. I'm sorry for asking that.

Satoru : Sensei, I'm strong right?

Yaga : Yes. And full of yourself.

Satoru : But me being strong by myself isn't enough. I can save those who are prepared to be saved.

Yaga : I'll tell you, go visit your colleagues. Utahime, Nanami.... they're all recovering. Go visit them in the hospital. I'll look after the girls for now.

Satoru : Yeah you're right.

The two walked to the infirmary, where the patients were. Both Utahime and Haibara had bandages on their face. But Haibara had been discharged the day before, with a scar on his face. Nanami was sleeping with his arm in a sling. Iori was sitting and looking out of the window. Satoru sat down in front of her.

Satoru : How are you doing?

Iori : Better. What about Geto?

Satoru : He's...let's not talk about that.

Iori : What about the kids?

Satoru : If, by 'kids' you mean the girls he left behind, then they're safe and sound, currently with Yaga sensei. But if 'kids' means those two, I'll be going over today. In the evening, when I can get both of them, hopefully.

Iori : Take care.

Satoru : You too. And don't worry, that injury will heal soon.

Iori : I know. But you shouldn't ignore your injury in there, like Geto did. Pay attention to it.

Satoru nodded. He sighed and got up. And walked out. He had another pair of lives to save. And he wasn't going to fail this time.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Star Religious Association, HQ

Suguru : I thought it was already dismantled?

Sumiyoshi : Rebranded. And we've tied up with Q commanders Manami Suda, Larue Korr and Toshihiso.

Suguru : Good. Is everyone present?

Sumiyoshi : Yes. Branch managers, cadre and richest customers, everyone is present. Are you going out wearing those gojo-kesa robes?

Suguru : Why, do they look bad?

He walked onto the stage, mic in hand. His face radiated an eerie sense of calm, a ridiculous juxtaposition of what they had gathered for.

Suguru : Sorry to keep you all waiting. Keeping it brief, this organisation now belongs to me. We'll operate under a different name. So, please obey me.

There was major discontent among the audience. They were unwilling to follow him.

Suguru : That's a pickle. Sonoda, please come up on stage.

Once he did, Suguru summoned a doll curse and crushed him to death. His blood even reached Suguru's own face, that he wiped off incessantly. The hall went quiet.

Suguru : I'll repeat this just once. You will all obey me, you monkeys.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Undisclosed location

Satoru : Megumi Fushiguro?

The little boy turned around. His sea urchin like hair stuck out weirdly. His eyes had a condescending look.

Megumi : Who are you? And what's with that look?

He was talking about the look Satoru had on his face. One of unwilling acceptance.

Satoru : Nothing. Just thought you looked similar to him. Where's your sibling?

Megumi : Follow me.

The two walked into a run down apartment. There was a girl, slightly taller than Megumi, with brown hair in a ponytail. This was Tsumiki, Megumi's older stepsister.

Tsumiki : You're back! And who's this?

Megumi : Dunno. He wanted to talk.

The three had sat down. Satoru felt the time was right.

Satoru : So, basically, your dad was from a reputable sorcerer family, the Zenin clan. Though he was a loser, and I agree. I mean he left you guys. You guys have powers and can see curses. I'll bet your cursed techniques have manifested as well.

Tsumiki : Yeah, they have.

Satoru : Good. The Zenin clan loves blessed cursed techniques and sorcerers who have them. These usually manifest between the ages of four to six. A ripe time to sell. You, Megumi, were what your dad kept from the Zenin clan, his trump card. Sucks, doesn't it? Your dad-

Megumi : So what? I don't care where he is or what he's doing. Haven't seen him in years, almost forgotten him. But I get what you're talking about. Tsumiki's mom ist coming back either, so that means they ran away and are living happily, not wanting to take care of us anymore.

Tsumiki : Megumi...

She put a hand on her brother's shoulder. Satoru looked at him in amazement.

Satoru : Are you really a first grader? Even so, if you ever want to know about your dad, just ask. Might find it interesting. Now, down to business. What do you want to do? Go to the Zenin family?

Megumi : What will happen to Tsumiki? Will she come as well?

Satoru : There's absolutely no way they'd take her.

His grimace gave Satoru the answer he needed. He patted the boy's head.

Satoru : Gotcha. I'll take care of things for you. But you'll have to work extra hard. Both of you. I'm counting on you. Become strong. Don't get left behind.

Satoru took out his phone and searched through his contacts, until he found Iharu's number.

Satoru : Tsumiki, pack up your belongings. You two are coming with me.

He dialled Iharu's number as the kids ran off inside. The call connected after a few seconds.

Satoru : Iharu. I need your help. We're going up against the Zenin clan this time.  Yeah, thanks.

Chapter Text

(Present)

October 3, 2018, Gojo's Apartment, 1400 hours

Nobara : Gojo sensei?

Gojo lifted his blindfold. He had fallen asleep? That explains the dream. Another instance of when he dreamed about his life. The fall of friends he couldn't save. But that was in the past. Right now, things were a lot better. He put his blindfold back on. 

Megumi : Please don't fall asleep after calling us. 

Mimiko : Hey, that's a super expensive reclining chair, right?

Gojo got up from said chair, making way for Nobara to occupy it immediately. Yuji groaned and tapped her shoulder. 

Yuji : No fair. I get it after you, got it?

Nobara paid no heed to him, making herself comfortable on the chair. Gojo chuckled. 

Megumi : What are you smiling about?

Gojo : Nothing. 

Junpei : So, what did you call us here for?

Gojo : Oh, right. Well, Yuji and Megumi, you two have a mission. An infiltration to catch two assassin curse users. The rest of you can tell me what you want to do. 

Girls : Shopping!!

Gojo : Whoa, chorus! That's the unanimous opinion then. Junpei, what about you?

Junpei : I don't really have particular plans as such...

Nobara : Once a shut in....

Nanako : ....always a shut in.

Mimiko : If you've got nothing better to do, then come along and help carry our bags. Make yourself useful.

Gojo : Girls, girls. Let's not bully a newcomer. It's fine if you don't wanna come, Junpei. I'll be there with them. 

Junpei : No, its fine. I'll go. I don't have anything else to do anyway. 

Yuji : Never been more glad for a mission before. 

The girls' heads immediately snapped towards him, their expressions contorted in anger at his statement. Yuji grabbed Megumi's shirt and bolted with him out of there, both running for their lives. Mission details could wait. They couldn't.

Gojo : Alright, girls! Time for shopping!

A chorus of cheers rang out. Nobara and Nanako were immediately creating the list of places they'd go to.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Tokyo Jujutsu High

Ijichi : And so, that's the mission.

Yuji : Are you kidding us?

Ijichi : Not really. That is your mission.

They had to infiltrate a high priority ball dance. All to save the son of a prominent donor of the school from being assassinated by curse users. And now, they had to go suit hunting.

Yuji : The girls are gone already.

Megumi : You wanted to carry their bags?

Yuji : Hell no! But where do we go?

Megumi : Brioni it is.

And they did. They went to Brioni and chose their outfits. Megumi got himself a three piece suit, consisting of a blue shirt, tan trousers and a tan blazer. Yuji got himself a three piece suit as well, comprising of a black shirt, black trousers and a maroon blazer. Once the two were done, they were walking back, Yuji still in shock.

Yuji : What the fuck were those prices?!!!

Megumi : Brioni is a very premium brand. That's, like, standard rates.

Yuji : A million yen for a suit is standard?!!!

Megumi : 1.1 million actually.

Yuji : Shut the fuck up!! Just shut the fuck up!! I'm never going shopping with you again! And I'll buy a different suit from Aoyama for this occasion!

Megumi : And you think the client will prefer that?

Yuji shut up. Megumi had a point.

Yuji : Fine. But I'm literally never wearing this again.

Megumi : Your choice.

The raven haired boy shrugged and walked ahead. Yuji looked at him in wonder. What kind of a spoiled childhood had he gotten to not react in any way, when he was literally carrying 1.1 million yen in his hands? Meanwhile Yuji was here, carrying it like it was the Ark of the Covenant.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, 1800 hours

Yuji and Megumi got down and opened the door for their client. The guy got down, followed by his parents.  All of them were obnoxious and dramatic, the exact type that Yuji didn't like. An overly strict father and a too emotional mother. Yuji felt kinda bad for the kid. And imagine his surprise when he finds out that said kid is a 17 year old teenager. His client was older than him! Yuji rubbed his temples, already feeling a slight headache, even without the mission having begun yet.

Once they entered, they were in an opulent setting, far removed from what they were familiar or comfortable with. There were rich people all around, flaunting their wealth in garments, jewellery, accessories, demeanor. Yuji and Megumi parted to move to different sides of the hall, keeping an eye wherever they went.

Yuji went to the bar and ordered a virgin mojito. He wasn't old enough, but mocktails were a different subject. His eyes roved over the people present, as his lips touched the glass in his hand. He straightened out his spectacles. There wasn't anyone suspicious. Yet. That could mean that the assassins hadn't arrived until now.

Megumi was walking through the place, on the other side of the hall. They had been introduced as the client's bodyguards, so there wouldn't be much problem. Yet, the fact that a lot of women were checking him, and Itadori, out was also a reality. He agreed with his teammate, this wasn't a clean business.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback)

Yuji : We're seriously having to, essentially, babysit someone? Just because he's the kid of a rich guy?

Megumi : Well we don't have a choice. The school runs on charities, and the government funding is very irregular. Despite the Edo Treaty of 1721 and the Kyoto Treaty of 1963, goverment is still not on good terms with the Jujutsu High Society. Especially in recent years, as the High Society gas picked fights with liberal factions like the Gojo and the Sato clans. So, we have to look after our donors the best we can, which also includes these kinds of missions.

Yuji : So you're saying that the government is suspicious of a fallout?

Megumi : Yeah. Because we didn't help them in World War II, they won't want to help us here.

Yuji : That's insane. Imagine being a government and having a grudge.

Megumi : It started to mellow out in the 90s, as we entered a new age, but our squabbles have weirded out the government.

Yuji : As if they don't have it themselves.

Megumi : Who'll explain this to them?

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Present)

Megumi sighed. Yuji was spot on about most things. Was it wrong of him to think of the others in their batch as somewhat shallow because he didn't know of their opinions on deep subjects? No, that would be immature. Perfect material for Tsumiki and Natsumi to tease him with. And he wouldn't let them. Ever.

Suddenly, his eyes fell on a particular guy, who was moving towards the client's son at a quick pace. And his posture definitely wasn't friendly, because there was a shikigami around the guy's shoulders. Megumi had an inkling that this was one of their targets. He walked towards their client's son, in a brisk pace. Thankfully, he reached before the assassin could. He patted the shoulder of the son and introduced himself as his bodyguard. Then, he leaned into his ear.

Megumi : They're here. Be careful and walk to the dining area. I'll drop you and then go to take care of the assailant.

The two walked over to where the dinner was being served. Megumi seated their client's son. By now, the guy had disappeared into the crowd. He tapped on the intercom on his ear.

Megumi : They're here.

Yuji, who had left the bar and was walking through the place, tapped on his own intercom.

Yuji : Sure?

Megumi : Yeah, I'm sure. Saw a guy with a shikigami.

Yuji : Be careful then. Tail him and tranquilise him. You got the tranquiliser from Ijichi, right?

Megumi : Yeah. One shot.

Yuji : I know.

Megumi : What will you do?

Yuji : Don't worry. I've left a button from my uniform on the counter of the bar. If they're here, by the time I go back to the bar, the button will be gone. And it is marked with a tracking seal, so I'll be able to track its trajectory.

Megumi : Won't you be able to do that anyway?

Yuji : No, it's a more covert seal. Currently, it is in its input stage, gathering data. Once I activate the processing stage, I'll be able to track it.

Megumi : Alright. Don't be reckless.

Yuji : What do you take me for?

The intercoms went off. Megumi had spotted the guy again, going out of the place, towards the back of the hotel. He followed him, silently.

Yuji walked back to the bar counter. Sure enough, his button was gone. He tapped once on the counter, and the seal activated. The cursed energy trail led to the washroom. He walked briskly towards it.

Megumi walked outside and looked around, looking for the guy. He felt a chord wrap around his neck and tighten. He struggled against it, as the assassin tried to strangle him.

Megumi : Why are you trying to kill this guy?

Assassin Guy : Dunno. We were just assigned this mission, now we're here to execute it.

Megumi : How many of you are here?

Assassin Guy : How does that matter?

Megumi : You're right. It doesn't.

He landed a jab on the guy, pushing him away. Then, he landed a kick on his gut. The shikigami launched towards him and tried to bite at his arm. It looked like a lice. Megumi created a simple domain to block its attack, then he summoned Divine Dog Totality to bite its abdomen and crush it to oblivion.

Meanwhile, Megumi blocked a punch from the assassin and landed one of his own on the other guy's abdomen. He took a kick to his side, but managed to dodge his next punch. He quickly took off his tie, a borrowed item from Gojo, and used it to trap his opponent's arm and stop his punch. He used the tie as a whip to land a hit on his opponent's torso, then used a railing on the door behind them as a support to raise himself and land a kick on he guy's chest. Then, he dodged a punch directed at his face, followed by one to his chest that connected. Megumi stumbled backwards.

He took off his blazer and set it aside, on a dumpster nonetheless, and honed his stance. This guy was tough. He would have to use cursed energy enhancement. And he did. He reinforced his fists with cursed energy and charged at his opponent's face, who blocked it. Megumi landed a kick to his chin, making him stuble backwards, at which point he grabbed the guy by the scruff of the back of his neck and summersaulted him forwards, spinning him 360° in air to slam him into the ground.

Assassin Guy : Oh you think you'll win? My accomplice is still out there.

Megumi : So there are two of you. Got it. And don't worry. You're not the only one with an accomplice.

He quickly injected the syringe into the guy's neck, as he resisted against it. The tranquiliser took effect a few minutes later, and the guy went limp.

Megumi tapped on his intercom in his ear, again.

Megumi : One more bird to fall.

Yuji : Got it.

Yuji was washing his hands at that moment. Even though he hadn't found the assassin, he had attended nature's call, and he was a clean freak. From....years of experience.

As he was washing his hand, he heard the door lock. A woman. With blonde hair too. In a red dress. Yuji scoffed.

Yuji : You're in the wrong washroom. The ladies washroom is to the door to the left of this one.

Without any words, the girl pulled out a blade from her waistband and aimed at Yuji, who blocked it with both hands. She tangled her leg around his, locked him in place and flipped them over, so that Yuji would land on his back. The air was knocked out of his lungs for a moment. He gripped the blade as the girl tried to drive it into his skull.

Yuji : Your friend has been taken down, you know? The Jujutsu Kansatsuin officers will be arriving in 15 minutes.

Assassin Girl : No problem. I'll finish you off by then. And then the target. After that, even if I'm caught, it would be fine.

Yuji : You talk too much for your own good.

Yuji landed one kick to the back of the girl's head, followed by one to her face, pushing her off him. Then, he was up and ready to fight more.

She swung at him with her blade. Yuji intercepted her swing and karate chopped her palms, disarming her. She landed one punch on him and tried to claw at his face, which he dodged by ducking. Then, he locked her hands behind her back and trapped her between the washbasin counter and himself. She flipped them again, crashing him against the mirror. He kicked her face, pushing her backwards, and slumped down onto the floor.

Yuji : Alright, listen up. I spent over a million yen for this suit, so you're not gonna damage it. So, gimme a second.

He quickly took off the spectacles, blazer and the tie and set them aside. He also opened the button near his neck, because it felt constrictive. Finally, he folded his sleeves till his elbows. Then, he was ready. The girl had picked up her fallen blade by now and charged at him. He dodged one strike, then blocked one, followed by another. He tried to land a kick on her, but she blocked it and stabbed his leg. Yuji only let out a grunt and finally landed a punch, making her stumble backwards.

As she swung another punch at him, he grabbed her arm, twisted it and turned her around, crashing her through the stalls. He caught her as she tried to stab him again, then he forcibly caught her blade and broke it. She was left stunned. And Yuji took advantage of that to grab the back of her neck, and he waist, and spin her in the air, 360°, and slamming her onto the floor.

Assassin Girl : How did you break the blade?! It was titanium.

Yuji : I'm strong.

She tried to poke his eye using her heels, but he moved away in time. Then, she managed to break free of his grasp and tried to kick him again. Just then, a knock sounded on the door.

Random Bloke : Hey, what's going on in there?

Yuji : Nothing. Coming out in a moment.

He quickly turned to avoid a hit to his head. He quickly reinforced his fists with cursed energy and landed two punches to her gut, then locked her against the wall. Finally, he took out the tranquiliser syringe.

Assassin Girl : No! No!

Yuji : Yes. Yes.

He pushed it into her neck, pushing the piston in. The tranquiliser entered her bloodstream. The knocking on the door got louder. She tried to struggle against his grasp, but he wasn't letting up either. Finally, she went limp in his arms. He quickly his her in the innermost stall and opened the door. It was a middle aged man, who was probably taken aback by Yuji's appearance. Disheveled. Dirty. Blood from nose, mouth and the head. His blazer and tie on the washbasin counter. The wall of the outermost stall broken. He probably thought of Yuji as an uncultured sans culottes, because he washed his hands with a sneer on his face and quietly went away, almost glad enough to do so.

Soon enough, Megumi came in. He was in his full outfit again. Behind him were two Kansatsuin officers. Yuji was unfolding his sleeves then.

Megumi : Where's the other one?

Yuji : Innermost stall.

The officers went as arrested the girl. They escorted her away. On the way out, she looked at Yuji once again.

Assassin Girl : I never caught your name.

Yuji : Wouldn't matter. But its Yuji Itadori.

Assassin Girl : Hmm. I'll remember that.

They took her away. Megumi looked over his friend, who was now putting on his tie, and visibly failing.

Yuji : Fushiguro, tie this for me, will ya?

Megumi tied the tie. Yuji put on his spectacles in the meanwhile.

Yuji : Are they leaving already?

Megumi : Yes, thankfully. They're ready to leave and waiting for us.

Yuji : Good. Let's not keep them waiting. I could do with getting out of here as fast as I can.

He put on his blazer and both of them walked out. They crossed the hall and walked out of the hotel. Their clients were guided into their car and they left. Yuji breathed a sigh of relief.

Megumi : You still never gonna wear this?

Yuji : Dunno. Maybe I will. Where's Ijichi?

Megumi : Traffic. Another 10 minutes.

Yuji : Let's go get ice cream. Or do you want that premium as well?

Megumi : Nah, I'm good with some popsicles.

About half an hour later, Ijichi arrived at a park (upon Megumi's messaging) to find the boys sitting on the swings, in disheveled outfits that clearly needed drycleaning, eating popsicles. Megumi had chocolate, while Yuji had strawberry. The two finished their ice creams quickly and went into the car, to be finally taken back their school.

By the time they arrived back at Tokyo High, every student had gathered in the first year's lounge, going through their shopping results. Poor Junpei had been drained out of their energy. Even Gojo was sitting there, showing off the new clothes he had gotten for Satoshi and Iori.

The boys entered the lounge. Megumi handed the mission ticket to Gojo. They had done it. Everyone else went silent upon seeing them enter.

Nobara : Whoa, what were you guys up to?

Megumi : Mission.

Maki : And you needed to dress like that?

Yuji : Yeah. I'm never babysitting a man-child again. That guy was such a crybaby.

Panda : I already feel sorry for you.

Kazuma : Yeah, even though we have no idea what your mission entailed.

Natsumi : Come on, guys. They're tired. Let them off. We can hear about it tomorrow.

Everyone agreed. The boys went off to their rooms. It was true. Jujutsu wasn't a clean business. It had dirty elements too.

Chapter Text

October 19, 2018, Yuji's Dorm, 0800 hours

Ijichi : So, why did you call me here?

Yuji : Two things. The first, we'll need the car.

Ijichi : Yes I know. Gojo-san told me already.

Yuji was currently putting on his biker suit. His gloves, to be exact. He had already put on his vest and denim jeans. Gojo was taking him to buy a new bike. The others were out for some outing.

Yuji : The second thing. I want you to investigate someone.

Ijichi : Investigate someone? Who?

Yuji put on his socks and walked towards Ijichi, a purpose in his stride.

Yuji : Wasuke Itadori. And don't tell anyone about it.

Ijichi : Your grandfather?! You want me to investigate your dead grandfather?!

Ijichi couldn't even fathom such a thought. What was this boy thinking?

Yuji : I know what I'm saying.

Ijichi : What?

Yuji : Have I ever told you that you think out loud?

Ijichi : Oh. Well, I might be trespassing, but could I ask you why you want me to investigate that man?

Yuji : That man.... He... What do I even say? He was an interesting man, to say the least. A man with a hundred secrets. Find any documents, any diary, anything that you can find, and bring it to me. I think I never realised who my grandfather actually was.

Ijichi : As in?

Yuji : As in, I never realised what kind of a man was Wasuke Itadori. What a man you were, grandpa. You're intriguing me from beyond the grave. Ijichi-san, go get the car. It's best not to be late.

Ijichi nodded and left. Yuji still was pacing through his room, his mind reeling from the weight of the thought. He didn't want to believe, but  the nature of the thought excited him simultaneously.

He was brought out of his reverie by a knock on the door. Upon answering it, he found Gojo.

Gojo : Let's go.

Yuji : Yeah, let's go. We'll be late.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

Tokyo City, 0930 hours

Yuji had gone with Gojo to buy a new bike. Megumi and Junpei had gone to see a movie. And the girls were out shopping.

Girl : Excuse me, do you know Itadori?

The three turned around and looked at the girl. She was tall, very tall. Unruly light brown hair ending near her shoulders.

Nobara : Huh?

Soon enough, they were in a cafè. She had introduced herself as Yuko Ozawa, an ex-classmate of Yuji from Sendai. She even forwarded a photo of hers, from her middle school, across the table. The girl in the photo absolutely did not look like the one sitting across from them. No, she was much shorter, chubby and had dark brown hair. The girls looked at the photo, then at her, then at the photo and then at her again.

Nobara : No way! This was just half a year ago, right?!

Nanako : What happened to you?!

Yuko was bashful and scratched her head.

Yuko : Well, I grew up 15 centimetres. And with the stress from moving to Tokyo and all... I just...

Mimiko : How did you know that we knew Itadori?

Yuko : Well, I saw you all there. One day. Walking through Tokyo.

Nobara : Must be one of our numerous shopping sprees.

Yuko : Last week, actually.

Nobara : Oh. Right. That one .

Their eyes moved around the photo, eventually landing on a familiar face. Same pink hair. Same multicolour eyes. Same tall and athletic build. But with an expression on his face that said that he wasn't particularly bothered by anything.

Mimiko : That's Itadori!

Yuko : Yeah, I gathered up some courage on graduation day to ask him for a photo. I also wanted to ask for his number and stuff, but I thought it wouldn't matter since I'd be moving to Tokyo anyway. When I saw him last week, I thought, maybe the me of today could....

Nobara : Yuko? It's like that?!

Yuko : Yes! It's like that!

Nobara was already dialling up the number they needed.

Nobara : Yeah, Yoshino? Bring Fushiguro to the address that I'm sending you. Yes, consider it urgent.

The call hung up. Their drinks arrived. The four drank silently.

Yuko : Do any of you also lik-?

Nobara : Nope. Even if Heaven and Earth danced a lambada, no! Ew!

Nanako : He seems like a perfect guy, but he's actually a prick. Not a huge one, but a prick nonetheless. No filter on his mouth.

Mimiko : And he's too cold. Too unfeeling. You know what I mean?

Nobara : Don't worry. I've called someone who knows Itadori even better than us. Someone who's known him since the first day here, in fact.

A few minutes later, Junpei and Megumi arrived.

Megumi : What's the meaning of this?

Nobara : Fushiguro. Does Itadori have a girlfriend?

Megumi : Huh?

Nanako : This is Yuko and, well, she blah blah blah...

Megumi : Oh, it's like that?!

Nobara : Yeah, it's like that!

The twins quickly moved over to the seat that Yuko was in, giving way for the boys to sit beside Nobara. Megumi had an almost conspiratorial tone in his voice.

Megumi : He most likely doesn't have a girlfriend.

Mimiko : What makes you think that?

Megumi : Well, he didn't seem all that bothered when he had to move to Tokyo all of a sudden. Plus, I have never seen in interested in getting a girlfriend, ever.

Nobara : Seriously? Black coffee, Fushiguro? Are you trying to impress someone even though you don't like it?

Megumi : Nonsense. I always drink black coffee.

Mimiko : Poor soul.

Yuko : Um.... Do you know what is his type in women?

Junpei : I think he said something about tall girls.

It clicked. The girls clinked their glasses in cheers.

Nobara : Nice!! I'll call Itadori here! Are you okay with that, Yuko?!

Yuko : Yes!!

Nobara texted him.

Nobara : Are you done?

Yuji : Yeah. Bought and taken. Gojo's sensei's gone home.

Nobara : I've sent you the location. Come quickly.

Yuji : Why?

Nobara : Come.

Yuji : Alright.

Now, it was just a matter of time. They waited anxiously.

Outside the cafè, a bike stopped. Ducati Panigale V4. On it was a man wearing a black biker's vest, black denim jeans, combat boots and finger-less gloves. He took off his helmet and tied it to the handle of his bike. Then, he went inside the cafè.

Yuji : What's the matter? Everyone's gathered here.

Nanako : So fast!

Megumi : Your new bike's here?

Yuji : Yeah, in the parking.

Uh oh. Nobara hadn't told Yuji about Yuko. With such a drastic change, he might not be able to recognise her. And being asked who one was, that was the worst possible thing one could hear from a guy they liked. Nobara sweated nervously.

Nobara : Itadori, this is-!!

Yuji : Huh? Ozawa? What a small world we live in. What's up?

He had a small smile of recognition on his face. Yuko, who had been looking at him spellbound, was almost moved to tears. Everyone else was giving him ten stars.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Flashback)

Random Student : Itadori, is there anyone in the class that you like?

Yuji : Not really.

Random Student : Come on, choose someone.

Yuji : Hmm. Ozawa, probably.

Yuko was standing right outside the classroom, eavesdropping on them.

Random Student : What? You're joking. I mean, she's so fat.

Yuji : So? The way she eats and her handwriting, it's all very elegant. It's super hard to eat fish properly.

Random Student : I thought you liked tall and warm girls, who also had big butts.

Yuji : True. But that's something else.

Yuko was going down the stairs.

----------------------------×××--------------------------

(Present)

Girls put on weight easily, but she was fat. She wouldn't like someone who didn't like her either. But Itadori saw something in her that she didn't see herself. She didn't like guys other than Itadori.

But today, she was doing exactly what those who she didn't like.

Yuji : See ya.

He rode away. Yuko walked into the railway station. She couldn't do it. Not today. Perhaps, someday she would be able to muster up her courage to tell him about her feelings.

The group was walking back. The boys had gone back to watch their movie. And now, they were all going back.

Megumi : Are you sure it's okay?

Nanako : Yeah, I exchanged contact info with her, so we'll be in touch with her.

Nobara : But seriously. The idea of Itadori getting a girlfriend before I get a boyfriend annoys me. He's supposed to be after me.

Megumi : Is that so?

The guy in question zoomed past the group, showing his middle finger to them in the meanwhile.

Nobara : What did you just show to me, you swine, you damn bastard?!!

Chapter Text

October 23, 2018, Driveway,  Kyoto Jujutsu High, 1100 hours

Utahime : This way.

It was raining in Kyoto. Raining cats and dogs. The van halted. The first years group of Tokyo High got off.

Utahime : Satoru has informed you all about the mole, I believe?

All : Yes.

Utahime : There is a possibility that there are at least two moles working with the enemy. One is ranked very high, even above principals, and that's not something I can do anything about. The other one is today's target. But they are under apprehension only.

Yuji : Alright. Once we arrest them, we'll interrogate them too.

Nobara : Well, it's someone from Kyoto, right? Since Tokyo ones are here.

Utahime : Well, the mole is....

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Second Year's Classroom

Miwa : Mechamaru! Notebooks are due today!

The robot was sitting on a sofa. His head was down and his arms were folded. He seemed to be thinking something.

Mechamaru : Sorry, I'll sleep for a bit. My notebook is on the table.

Miwa : Sleep? But it's still so early....

With this, the robot went limp. Miwa poked him twice, to see if he had actually gone to sleep. She wondered where the real Mechamaru was.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Stairwell to Basement

Utahime : The real Mechamaru, Kokichi Muta, is down here. Well, our suspicion on him is purely due to process of elimination, nothing else. Thanks to his Heavenly Restriction, his technique, Puppet Manipulation has a range that extends all over Japan. Using unregistered puppets to act as moles would be easy for him.

Yuji : But wouldn't that draw a lot of attention?

Utahime : Not if the puppet was as small as a fly or mosquito.

Megumi : Yeah, there has been a general increase in mosquito infestation in these areas.

Junpei : I thought that was due to increasing amounts of waste?

Nanako : Yes, but that would also breed real mosquitoes.

Yuji : Bingo! That would help him hide his puppets even better.

Nobara : So let's search for all those who've littered around the schools.

Megumi : It probably wasn't done by humans.

Yuji : Correct. Considering the patterns of cursed energy around the schools, curses have been roaming more frequently.

Mimiko : You're saying someone even more dangerous is involved?

Yuji : Possibly.

Mimiko : Is it related to that night at the Yasohachi Bridge when you walked back by yourself instead of coming into the van with us?

Yuji : There is a possibility. Although I'm not sure of it.

Nanako : What exactly happened to you that night? Did you find something?

Yuji : Nothing I'm sure of. Highly probable that it is connected to me, personally. Something I'm looking into currently.

Nanako : Didn't get anything.

Utahime : Alright, pipe down. We're here.

They had walked across a long hallway, and were standing in front of a door. The entire place was run down, not maintained for a long time. The walls had developed cracks, in which, moss and algae had taken roots. There was a general pungent odour in the air.

Yuji : Everyone step aside.

He condensed his cursed energy into his fists, one hand turning it into a dagger, and another one staying as a general coating. Yuji punched the door with the hand that had just a coating of cursed energy and pushed the door, denting it in the middle and sending it flying inward. His other hand, having the dagger was raised, ready to intercept any funny business from the other side.

Utahime : Damn it! He got us!

The room was empty. Just a wooden chair. Nothing else. Or rather, no one else. It was just as run down as the rest of the place.

---------------------------×××---------------------------

Undisclosed location

Muta : So you've come. Finally. You sure took your time. I thought you'd abandoned me.

Kaori Geto and Mahito entered the room, Kegire in their tows.

Kaori : We wouldn't dare.

Mahito : Damn. It stinks of mold.

Mahito and Kegire scrunched their noses.

Kegire : He's an enemy now. Why not just kill him?

Kaori : No, we made a Binding Vow with him to heal his body using Mahito's Idle Transfiguration in exchange for cooperation and information. The killing part comes after the healing. Could've been great if you would've been in Shibuya too, but oh well...

Muta : We had a deal. "Don't lay a finger on anyone from Kyoto Jujutsu High." You're the ones who broke your end.

Mahito : That was Hanami. Don't pin it on us.

Muta : I don't care about details. Hurry up and heal me, scum.

Mahito : What if I just turn you into a caterpillar?

Kaori : Don't be silly, Mahito. A Binding Vow with oneself is secure, the penalty of breaking which is just loos of whatever was gained. A Binding Vow with another? That's a whole other story! Who knows what retribution would come upon us if we break it. We can't take that risk.

Mahito : Yeah yeah, whatever.

Mahito walked forward and put a hand on Muta's head.

Mahito : You should be thankful. You're lower than scum. Idle Transfiguration.

The body of Kokichi Muta contorted. Eventually, his skin cleared, became smoother and healthier. His limbs were all fully formed. His bandages came off, revealing an otherwise good looking face with a scar, hair tied into a rigid ponytail upwards, and a good amount of meat on his body. He was lanky, but not unhealthy. At least, not anymore.

He moved his fingers and stepped out of his tub. These sensations were so new! Something foreign to him! He looked himself over, only a few scraps of bandage around his body.

Mahito : Boring! How about some more enthusiasm?

Muta : That comes after we settle our business.

Mahito : Alright then. Let's begin.

Mahito outstretched his hand in challenge. Muta summoned several Mechamaru puppets from behind him.

Kegire : Should we help?

Mahito : Hell nah, he's my toy.

The puppets advanced at Mahito, who enlarged his hand and tried to swat them away. Some of them did. The others kneeed down and brought out Ultra Cannon, from where, multiple beams of highly concentrated cursed energy was shot at him. Mahito swatted them again, tanking the beams and managing to destroy all the puppets. He looked at where Muta had been. The spot was empty.

Mahito : Damn it. He ran away. Well, I want to fight right now, not go to hunt.

The ground beneath his feet erupted and collapsed. The entire dam blew up in the middle. Mahito landed on the bridge. It was raining heavily, and the water in the river was coming upwards.

From the smoke and dust, emerged a gigantic robot. As tall as 20 metres, made in Muta's distinct style. This was Ultimate Mechamaru - Absolute Mode. Prototype 0. With silver plating and thick plastic coating on wires to diffuse power.

Mahito : Hell yeah!! I knew it!! You were keeping a secret, which is this monstrosity, isn't it?! You were a shit in for nothing!!

Muta must be inside, to avoid Mahito's touch. The most probable location for the cockpit must be the head.

In the cockpit, Muta sat on a seat suspended by wires from above. He had two wired controllers in his arms, and two controllers on the pedals near his legs. The screens blared to life, a flurry of information coming along with them.

System : All systems normal. Perception feedback blocked.

Geto must have put up a curtain. To not just prevent him from getting out, but also to block radio waves.

Muta : It's not as easy without Satoru Gojo.

Yes, he needed to contact Satoru Gojo. Somehow, by phone, e-mail or by physical presence. Then, he can get protection for himself by revealing the Shibuya plan. But first, he would have to get out of here, for which he would need to remove the curtain. But doing that with Mahito around would be too dangerous. So, he had to get rid of Mahito first.

Muta knew, he was at a disadvantage. But he could win. He had seen everything. All the combat he needed. He had all the needful information. And he had collected all his cursed energy from all these years that he was bound. He didn't have to be frugal today. Miwa's face flashed across his mind.

Muta : Charge - 1 Year!!!

An entire year's worth of cursed energy was deducted. The hand cannon was charging up.

Muta : Burn them to ashes!!!! Mechamaru!!! Ultra Cannon!!

The cannon fired off an intensely powerful beam that burned away the very air from the area of effect. The dam, the bridge, the river, the forest behind. All of it was burned away. Mahito was caught in the initial crossfire, but he managed to escape. In the process, he sustained severe burns on the left side of his body.

Mahito : I'll get you out of that cockpit.

Was Muta planning to fight until Mahito ran out of cursed energy? But Muta couldn't attack Mahito's should with his attacks.

Nevertheless, he landed a powerful punch on the bridge, destroying it and sending Mahito falling below. On the way down, he changed into a fish and escaped into he river, avoiding one of Muta's kicks.

Muta : Charged 2 years!! Miracle Cannon!!

Mechamaru placed both his cannons in the river and blasted it up. The stream of water, upto almost a 5 km radius, was flung upward, along with every life form in it. The riverbed was scorched. Mahito was flung up too, in his original form.

Muta : You wouldn't care about my attacks. You'd be on the offensive, won't you, Mahito? That's why I'll use this.

He grabbed a cannister in his right hand. Mahito enlarged his right hand and landed a punch on the giant robot, making it lose balance temporarily.

Muta : Fuck, what a level of power! He'll break the armour of I'm careless.

He had stabilised the mecha. Now came his trick. Only five chances. He had to get it right.

Mahito had turned his arms, and legs into talons, into wings and was flying around the mecha. Mechamaru's index finger on his right hand opened sideways, revealing another cannon. On his screen, the target was locked.

Muta : Fire, Mechamaru! 

A serrated cannister flew and lodged itself on Mahito's left shoulder. Followed by one to the right side of his torso. Other than a little stung, nothing else happened.

Mahito : This is meaningless. Weren't you watching?

The two serrated cannisters exploded, tearing Mahito's body apart from the inside. What? He had managed to attack Mahito's soul? Just then, Mechamaru's giant hand swatted Mahito away, into the forest, crashing through a bunch of trees and foliage.

Mahito : He destroyed my soul as well?

Before he could comprehend any further, the giant mecha landed a barrage of punches on the cliff, destroying the area, ad intending to take him out as well. Mahito reformed his wing and tried to fly out of there, but not before having another cannister lodged in his guts. And it exploded as well, blasting apart Mahito's insides, sending guts flying everywhere. Mahito quickly reformed it all, mid flight, before continuing his flight with his repaired body.

Muta knew, this wasn't healing. He had just kneaded his soul to make it look like regeneration.

Elsewhere, Kaori had a hand on her chin, deep in thought. Kegire was beside her, curious about what she was thinking.

Kegire : What're you thinking about?

Kaori : It's working. He's good. It might be temporary, but he's reaching the output levels of a special grade. Depending on the situation here, our fate might be decided.

The fight continued at a distance.

Muta : Charge - 5 Years - Pigeon Voila!!

A series of humongous cursed energy blasts charged at Mahito, who flew around them to evade their effects. Who knew, which attacks could target his soul? He had to make it clear.

However, before he could do anything, Mechamaru's giant hand held him down at one side of the bridge, ensuring eah of the blasts hit him with point precision. Mahito escaped and tried to move away, but faced a punch from the giant mecha and was slammed into the forest again.

Muta : I can do this!!

The technique was loaded, ready to be fired. Muta could do it! He could join everyone else! Unfortunately, his luck ran out at that moment.

Mahito : Domain Expansion.

The entire area was flooded with Mahito's cursed energy. The barriers enclosed the giant mecha, the arms pulling it in. It was dark. Mahito's domain was completed.

Mahito : Self Embodiment of Perfection. There. I win.

Muta wasn't done. If he had said that he would join everyone else, then he would join everyone else! Come what may!

Mahito : Idle Transfiguration.

The mecha was unable to stand up, and stumbled down. Other than that, there was no significant damage.

Mahito : I can't touch you, but that won't matter, now that you're in my domain.

He walked towards the kneeling mecha.

Mahito : You don't get it, do you? We're only 8 days away from Halloween. Did you think I wouldn't use my domain just to save cursed energy? Please, I would easily recover in these few days.

He turned around and walked away from the mecha, not noticing that it was showing signs of movement.