Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

December 2007, Gojo Clan Estate

“I don’t need to tell you all how important this is.”

Amanai-sensei is standing in front of the three of them, arms crossed and a dangerous look on her face. Her black hair is tied up firmly, in a way that Yuuji has only seen before fights. Clutching his fists, Yuuji looks straight ahead as the situation’s severity seems to finally settle. They’ve been formally requested by the higher ups to protect Gojo Satoru, a child who has both the Six Eyes and the Limitless technique. It became an urgent matter after Kenjaku revealed themselves and their long history with Six Eyes users. He can feel Nobara’s nervousness even if she’s out of sight, Megumi, as always, seems uncaring about the whole thing.

They’re standing outside the gate to the Gojo Clan estate. The cold breeze sweeps the air, and Yuuji, who always ran like a furnace, struggles to contain a shiver. It is autumn after all, and if the circumstances weren’t so grim, Yuuji would’ve enjoyed sightseeing a bit more. The nature is beautiful, leaves are rusted and there’s just the general ambience that seems calming. It is pretty isolated, the nearest human settlement being twenty kilometers away. 

“The principal has faith in you, and so do I.” Amanai-sensei pauses, the corner of her mouth twitches, “So do the higher-ups.”

Nobara scoffs and shifts her tense pose, “I just don’t understand why the old bastards couldn’t take care of this themselves. We’re third years, not bodyguards.” 

“Besides,” Megumi pipes up in that bored way of his, “Isn’t the Gojo Clan equipped to deal with these kinds of situations?”

Yuuji has similar questions, but he doesn’t bring them up in fear he’ll agitate Amanai-sensei even more. While subtle, Yuuji did notice how sensei’s leg kept bouncing on the bus ride here, and how her thumb nail is cracked with a drop of blood covering it. 

“Those hags can’t handle anything that’s above third grade.” Amanai-sensei rolls her eyes, and Yuuji chuckles before he can stop himself. “Anyone who might’ve stood a chance had been wiped out this summer. I’m surprised they waited this long to ask for help.”

“Why didn’t they ask for help from the Zen’in Clan? Or the Kamo?” Yuuji mutters to himself thoughtfully, but he catches a glimpse of Megumi’s scowl at the mention of the former. “Noritoshi-kun is the head now, right? I’m sure he would’ve helped out.”

Amanai-sensei tuts, “Your junior from Kyoto would’ve helped, I’m sure of it. But the Gojo Clan is no different from the Zen’in or the higher ups. When they saw how untraditional Kamo Noritoshi was, they immediately hated him.” Amanai-sensei grins, twirling a finger aimed at the side of her head, “In their small, simple minds, everyone acts the same and follows the ‘code’ they had for a thousand years. They just can’t comprehend how a clan head that doesn’t act like they do is powerful.”

“So they would rather risk the life of the Six Eyes than to put their prejudice aside?” Megumi grumbles, a dangerous look on his face. 

Amanai-sensei snaps her fingers, “Full points!”

“What about the Zen’in?” Yuuji asks again. He just can’t understand how they, a trio of third year students, are a better choice than the clans that are, you know, famous for being strong? Yes, he’s the vessel of Sukuna, and yes, Megumi is a Ten Shadows User, and yes, Nobara has recently been promoted to first grade. But, there have to be people that are better suited for this, right?

Nobara groans and leans back like a ragdoll, “Those guys are good for nothing anyway. I mean, come on. Choosing Megumi of all people as the next Clan Head? It’s clear they’re desperate.”

Megumi shoots her a glare, but sensei lets out a boisterous laugh. “Oh, you guys are making me proud! It seems I’ve actually taught you kiddos something.” She pats down Megumi’s hair, which makes his glare turn even more deadly. “But you’re right, Nobara. The Zen’in are desperate. And the Gojo know it too. If the Zen’in could get rid of the next Gojo heir, and one as powerful as Satoru, they would do so in a heart beat. Simply to stay more powerful.”

“...They’d kill a kid?” Yuuji slumps his shoulders, “I mean, I know jujutsu politics are complicated and all but…” Last year, the Kyoto students tried to kill him on Ui Ui’s orders. But even if Noritoshi-kun was fully convinced Yuuji was a curse, he still spared Yuuji. Todo is… another thing. Still, Yuuji is the vessel of the most powerful curse user in history, Gojo Satoru is a six year old with no idea what to even do with his power. They can not be on the same threat level.

Amanai-sensei moves her hand from Megumi and slides it on Yuuji’s shoulder. “They’ve done worse things in the past. But you don't have to worry about it. For now, your only job is to make sure the Six Eyes stays safe until things calm down.”

“And how long is that?” Nobara sneers. 

“However necessary.” Amanai-sensei answers simply.

After that ominous sentence, the four of them finally cross the gate. There’s definitely a barrier, because it’s as if the wind has stopped blowing when they go down the path. The walk to the main entrance is tense, probably because there is just nothing to fill the silence with. There are no birds, no voices, only their footsteps echoing through the hill. 

They’re greeted by a woman standing at the top of the stairs. She doesn’t say anything until they all climb up. Then, she bows at the waist, and Yuuji, who has been educated by his grandpa about how important manners are, fumbles to do the same. His friends and teacher don’t react at all, remaining straight. 

“Gojo-sama is waiting for you, please follow me.” The woman rights herself, and with her hands clasped in front of her, turns around and makes small steps forward. 

Yuuji asks under his breath, “Aren’t they all ‘Gojo-sama’?” 

Megumi clicks his tongue, “Would you rather she spend the next five minutes introducing the clan head fully?”

“I guess not.” Yuuji mumbles.

Their slow trek continues for a few minutes, plenty of time for Yuuji to analyse every building they come across. So traditional, it feels as if they’re visiting a museum.But there don’t seem to be many people around.  Amanai-sensei seems to be getting impatient though. She strides in front of the woman in big, confident steps. “I understand that you need to show manners, but you must know that the situation is time sensitive.”

The woman has an uncomfortable look on her face, “I apologise…” Just then Yuuji notices her hands trembling. The two of them accidentally make eye contact and the servant flinches. Yuuji is so taken aback by this that he stops in his tracks, which results in Nobara clashing right in his back. 

“Ow! You idiot, watch where you’re walking!” Nobara’s voice reaches a sharp pitch.

The woman fidgets with her hands, and her small steps seem to be getting quicker.

Is she… afraid of them?

Before Yuuji can fully articulate the thought, they’re in front of two men, both standing guard at a door. The woman bows again and makes herself scarce. 

Amanai-sensei doesn’t seem to dwell much on them. “We’re expected. Move aside.” 

One of the guards scowls, but the two of them open the doors in sync. Megumi, the last to walk in, enters and the closing slam seems a bit aggressive. But Yuuji doesn’t comment on it. He bends down to take his shoes off, but Amanai-sensei marches on. Leaving no choice but to follow. Yuuji swears he hears grandpa’s scolding in his ears.

On the mat, two people are kneeling. Right behind them, though, stand six men, all of them clutching weapons. 

“Is this the kid?” Amanai-sensei refers to one of the two people on the mat. A child with bright white hair and blue eyes that emit their own light. The boy in question pouts at this. The man next to him, also with white hair, says nothing.

After a silent stand off, sensei sighs and sits down. Yuuji and his classmates follow suit.

Only then does the older man start speaking, “I am Gojo Chikara, 48th head of the Gojo Clan. This is my son and heir, Gojo Satoru.” The boy gives a small nod.

Amanai-sensei snorts, “So your son would be the 49th head? Talk about unlucky.”

Gojo Chikara seems to bristle up at that, is that a vein popping Yuuji sees? “The elders told me that you were a competent sorcerer, even if you are a failed Star Plasma vessel. Do not prove them wrong.”

It’s quiet for a few seconds, Yuuji risks a glance at his teacher only to find her eyes fixated on the clan head. “It’s not me who’s taking care of your brat.” Amanai-sensei spits out. “My students are. And they follow my orders. So I suggest you think before you say anything else about me. Because it would be very easy to hand The Six Eyes over to the Zen’in.”

Both Yuuji and Nobara shoot alarmed looks at their teacher, from the corner of his eyes, even Megumi seems unnerved by the threat. Amanai-sensei is ruthless, but Yuuji knows that she is a very compassionate person under her hard exterior. What cruel person would save Sukuna’s vessel from execution? What cruel person would teach with such patience and care like Amanai-sensei? 

Yuuji stares ahead and notices that the kid- Satoru- has his mouth agape. The child wrings his hands together, small fingers tapping without rhythm as he curls into himself. Gojo Chikara doesn’t acknowledge this, only staring at Amanai-sensei coldly.

“Kosuke,” Gojo Chikara addresses one of the men behind him, even if the clan head doesn’t turn around to face them. “How long did the elders say this arrangement would last?” 

Kosuke, a man with black hair, responds swiftly: “About three months, master. Or until Kenjaku will be dealt with.”

“After this, I want no further contact with you or your students.” The head announces, addressing the people in front of him again. “But, know this. If something happens to my son, all of you will pay dearly.”

Amanai-sensei seems like she is about to retort with an insult, but visibly reins herself in. “I would be a happier woman if I never have to interact with your clan ever again.” She says instead, which isn’t better. 

“Satoru,” The Gojo head turns to look at his son, “Go to Shizue and prepare for your departure. Tell her to meet them at the gate in a few minutes.”

Satoru frowns at being dismissed, “I want to–”

“Now, Satoru.” Gojo Chikara interrupts with a sharp tone. His son groans and storms off, small feet thumping hard against the mat. After a few seconds, one of the doors is slammed shut, and something sounds like it just broke. Yuuji grimaces at the display. Chikara doesn’t seem to pay any mind to it, as if it is a normal occurrence. 

“While you have The Six Eyes in custody, you will give us daily updates about his condition. Shizue will give you the necessary contact information.” 

Amanai-sensei opens her mouth, only to be cut off. 

“Secondly, you will be given a set of instructions that you must follow closely. The Six Eyes will continue his training and any academic shortcomings will have you held accountable.”

“‘Academic shortcomings’? He’s like six years old!” Yuuji blurts out before he can think. Nobara and Megumi both narrow their eyes at him, but besides his interruption, they don’t look like they disagree.

“Satoru has The Six Eyes and the Limitless, he is on the path to become the most powerful sorcerer of this century. He will be trained accordingly.” Chikara elaborates, though the disdain in his voice makes it hard to believe that the explanation is for Yuuji’s sake.

“Lastly, you will provide Satoru with anything he might need.” With a nod, one of the six men steps forward and hands Amanai-sensei a black card. She seems just as surprised as Yuuji feels. A muffled sound comes from Nobara, who is definitely thinking about what she is going to buy for ‘Satoru’. 

“Any questions?” Two seconds, “Then this is where we part ways. You shall go to the main gate where you will meet with Satoru.” The man doesn’t move from his position, only regarding them with an icy stare.

That is all Amanai-sensei needs, because she gets up and ushers them outside. “What an asshole.” Nobara says before the door even fully closes. The two guards glower at that, but remain silent.

Chuckling as they walk away, Amanai proclaims: “After this mission is over, we should hopefully never see him or his clan again.”

“Is it true that they are already training Gojo Satoru?” Megumi asks with a thoughtful expression.

Amanai shrugs, “Could be. Most sorcerers awaken their techniques at around 7 years old. It’s better to teach them how to use it before things get dangerous.”

“My grandma didn’t teach me until I was ten.” Nobara huffs,  “Made me run around and got all fussy when I used cursed energy.”

“Isn’t that… good?” Yuuji ponders outloud, he’s the most inexperienced in the group, having only been introduced to the jujutsu world at fifteen. He is very strong, inhumanely so, but his grandpa only taught him not to use it against other people. 

“In comparison to Six Eyes over there, I guess it is. But limiting myself was really frustrating, sometimes I trained in secret, but my old hag saw the residuals anyway.” Nobara cracks her fingers, extending her arms above her head. “Ugh, I’m so glad I don’t have to see her again.”

“I never got proper training.” Megumi confesses, kicking a loose stone into the grass. “I summoned my dogs at around five years old, I don’t remember how I even managed it. After that, I just had… Instincts I guess. On how to use them.”

“And then I came by!” Amanai announces, puffing her chest. 

“And then you came by.” Megumi breathes out.

In the distance, a woman with brown hair tied neatly into a bun is fussing over someone, and when they get closer, it’s clear that the white haired child could only be Satoru. There are two suitcases surrounding them, both of them taller than Satoru. They’re closer but the woman doesn’t seem to notice. Should Yuuji clear his throat? Make their presence obvious? 

“ —toru, please listen to your mother.”

Satoru frowns at that, “Just leave me alone already!” he stomps.

“Is everything alright?” Amanai-sensei calls out. The woman pauses, and the glare she shoots makes Yuuji and Amanai stop short. Nobara and Megumi continue to march forward, the former scowling just as venomously as the woman. This is presumably the ‘Shizue’ Chikara mentioned earlier. 

“Don’t insert yourself into clan matters.” Shizue hisses. “Is it not already enough that you’re kidnapping my son? What more could you want?”

“Your cooperation.” Amanai says in a short tone. “Your husband should have already told you that we only wish to protect Satoru.”

“Don’t speak of him so casually!” Shizue barks out. “He is the Six Eyes! The Chosen One, the strongest! You should be kneeling at his mere presence.” She grabs Satoru’s shoulders. “You weaklings are not even worthy of looking him in the eye!”

“Watch who you’re calling ‘weakling’, bitch!” Nobara snaps, seemingly at her wit’s end. Yuuji mutters something about being more polite, but is ultimately ignored. “Your clan is so pathetic you all depend on a child.” 

“How dare you–!” Shizue’s knuckles turn white from the grip she has on Satoru. The child winces and Yuuji can only sympathise.

“All right, that’s enough.” Amanai-sensei cuts in. “We have a car that will pick us up in five minutes. We can’t afford to lose any more time.”

Shizue’s hands suddenly lift away from her son’s shoulders. Even she seems confused by this. Satoru only glowers at the ground before he mutters something under his breath. This must be Limitless then.

Taking advantage of the brief ceasefire, Yuuji steps forward and gestures to the suitcases. “Are these your things?” He asks Satoru, who seems bewildered at being directly spoken to. The boy nods and Yuuji plucks the two bags under his arms. 

“The clan head said you would give us–” Amanai-sensei starts again.

“Yes yes.” Shizue ruffles through the drawstring bag she carries. She hands out a small folded paper to Amanai, who snatches it away. “If you do not update me about Satoru every two hours, I will get Chikara to ban you from every–” That’s when Yuuji blocks her out.

“These are huge.” Yuuji says to Satoru, while Shizue continues to threaten Amanai-sensei. “You must have a lot of toys in there, huh?”

Satoru looks away from his mother, regarding Yuuji with a pout. “Toys are for babies.”

“What?” Yuuji chuckles, shifting his hold on the luggage. “I had race cars until I was like, twelve.”

“Pfft.” Satoru grins, “Then you’re a baby.” 

“Am not.”

“You’re a baby!”

“Could a baby do this?” Yuuji brings up the suitcases above his head, one hand under each. It’s not that impressive, Yuuji is pretty sure he could throw Satoru on one of the roofs with no effort. But he doesn’t want Shizue to start freaking out. 

Yuuji is cheering internally when he sees Satoru’s mouth gape in awe. But the child quickly hides it. “I could do that too.”

“You wanna try?” Yuuji extends one of the suitcases to the boy. 

Satoru doesn't say anything, just takes the bag with a serious face. The hold lasts about three seconds before he drops it, almost hitting his feet. The resulting bang makes both Shizue and Amanai look in their direction. It seems that they have paused their tension-filled conversation just to stare in bewilderment as Satoru continues to try and get the bag off the ground.

“Aw, maybe when you’re a bit older.” Yuuji makes a move toward the luggage. 

“No!” Satoru wraps himself around it. “I can do it.” And gets red in the face trying to lift it above knee level. Well, the kid’s knee level. The five of them are silently watching as the boy struggles. It’s right before Yuuji plans to take it back from Gojo when Nobara’s phone rings. She flings open the screen and reads the caller’s ID.

“That’s our ride. We’ll contact you when we arrive at Jujutsu Tech.” Amanai-sensei nods and swiftly makes her exit, Megumi and Nobara right behind her. In an effort to match their pace, Yuuji just hoists both the bags on one shoulder and Satoru on the other. Not even realizing his blunder until a bunch of kicks find their way on Yuuji’s spine.

The walk back down is much quicker, Satoru is eventually let down and trailing behind them. Yuuji keeps looking back to ensure the kid is still there, but all he’s met with is a pair of unnatural blue eyes’ glare.

When they reach the bottom of the hill, there is a black car parked on the other side of the rural road. Their teacher crosses the street and knocks on the driver’s window. Only after it lowers, does she ask: “How many seats does this car have?”

So, apparently, the higher ups didn’t know Amanai would also come with them to take Satoru from the Gojo Clan. She was, after all, supposed to be on a mission at this time. ‘Are you not going to get in trouble?’ Megumi asked at that point, Amanai-sensei only laughed. ‘It’s fine, a friend of mine owes me a favor, he’ll do it in no time.’ Since the way here was by public transit, they had no driver or assistant manager reporting back the fact that Amanai also had to be driven back. So, obviously they sent just a normal, five seat car.

And now this brings them to their next predicament. Being shoved together in the back of the car (Amanai-sensei called shotgun before any of them could protest), with a six year old child who has the power to push people away without much effort. 

“Uh, wouldn’t it be easier if you didn’t use your technique?” Yuuji asks, cheek pressed on the window. Satoru is using Limitless, and apparently, it has quite the range. Because the boy is sitting comfortably in his seat, while Yuuji and Nobara are both shoved in their respective directions. Megumi is also indirectly affected by this, since Nobara keeps ribbing him with her elbow. Whether it is intentional or just a consequence of their current positions, it’s up to anyone’s guess.

“Nope.” is Satoru’s easy response. 

“Are you sure–?” Yuuji asks again, trying to be polite. 

“Very sure.”

“Okay…” 

It’s actually surprising that Nobara isn’t complaining more about this. But she is content with the discomfort she is causing Megumi for the time being. His classmate is brooding as he stares out the window, refusing to glance or speak to anyone. Even as Nobara’s elbow seems to dig even further in his stomach.

“You kids alright back there?” Amanai calls out and makes eye contact with Yuuji through the rear view mirror. Megumi is shooting sensei a look that translates just how ‘alright’ he is. Seeing this, Amanai-sensei’s face cracks with a grin. And she promptly ignores them for the rest of the drive.

Once Mount Mushiro comes into view, Yuuji can feel himself become exhausted. Today hasn’t been physically draining, it’s just that Yuuji wants to go into his dorm and collapse face first on the bed and be concerned about… all of this tomorrow. 

“By the way,” Nobara starts, “Where is the kid going to sleep?”

Satoru tilts his head to look up at Nobara. Amanai hums from the front seat. “We have plenty of empty dorms. I’m sure he’ll be fine to sleep on his own, right kiddo?” Amanai coos and turns around fully to make eye contact with Satoru. Whose face immediately darkens.

“That’s definitely a yes.” Nobara reports with glee. Satoru remains stubbornly quiet.

When they finally set foot on campus, Yuuji’s brain feels like it’s been shut off. Some food would be really good right now. As well as a movie. Amanai-sensei seems to think the same, as she slaps Yuuji’s back with more force than necessary. “Yuuji! Cook your teacher some meatballs.”

“Huh? Aren’t you supposed to be the adult here?” Yuuji says, defeated. Amanai is already walking away. It’s a fight he knows he won’t win. Amanai is horrible at cooking, infamously so. The principal has even stated a rule that she shouldn’t be in a 2 meter radius of the kitchen. No matter the context. It sounds excessive but Yuuji has witnessed the horrors that happen when sensei tries her hand at cooking.

“This seems about done.” Amanai proudly announces. 

Yuuji can only stare in shock as the meat he bought just a few hours ago seems to have taken a new form of life. It had become some sort of brown sludge, and yet it’s somehow both raw in the middle and burnt to crisp on the outside.

“What the hell is that…” Nobara whispers from the side. She’s currently chopping up the vegetables needed for the salad, but it remains forgotten as they all stare at the abomination Amanai just created. Megumi seems to not be able to handle it anymore and gags, running out of the room.

“Come on, guys.” Sensei chuckles and shrugs, the movement causes the sludge to jiggle. “It’s still edible.”

Nobara turns to Yuuji, “I’ll give you three hundred yen if you take a bite out of that.”

Yuuji sputters, “You think my life is worth three hundred yen?!”

Safe to say, sensei should stay far away from any cooking utensils and anything more complex than frozen food. Megumi is… fine at cooking. Follows instructions easily enough, though he is a bit stiff. Tsumiki is also great, but she’s busy studying tonight and Yuuji doesn’t want to bother her. Hana could be a nice cook if her wings wouldn’t knock off plates and silverware every time she turns around. 

The second years are on a mission, and the first years are definitely not on campus. So that only leads Yuuji to… 

“No, sorry. I’ve got a thing tonight.” Nobara interjects when she catches him looking.

“ A ‘thing’?” Yuuji scoffs, “We both know you just want to skip on any chores.”

“And?!” Nobara leers, shaking a fist in front of Yuuji’s face. “A girl is allowed to put herself first. Now go and don’t bother me until dinner is finished.”

Nobara really reminds him of an abusive husband sometimes. 

“No.” Megumi responds curtly when Yuuji redirects his eyes. Groaning, Yuuji slumps forward in defeat. “I promised Tsumiki I would help her with her homework tonight. Sorry.”

Satoru, who has been silent the whole time, tugs on Yuuji’s shirt. “I’m hungry.”

“Yeah, buddy. Me too.” Ruffling his white hair, Yuuji suddenly perks up, “You wanna help me cook?”

Satoru only shrugs, but Yuuji is already excited. Cooking with others is always a good bonding experience. “Alright! Come on, I’ll show you where the kitchen is.”

Even if the kid is tall for his age, he still can’t properly reach the sink to wash his hands. Yuuji tries offering him a chair, but the sharp denial he receives is enough to back off. So, without a word, Yuuji places the chair in a corner, still in view in case someone changes his mind. 

“Sensei requested meatballs, so we’re going to make that today.” Yuuji explains as he ties an apron around the waist. Satoru narrows his eyes. 

“Give me one as well.” The boy gestures to the cloth, and so Yuuji wraps Satoru in the only other one in the kitchen. It’s a bit big for him, but it’s manageable. Looks kind of like a dress, but maybe it’s better not to mention that. Little boys are very sensitive emotionally. Yuuji knows from experience. 

“Have you ever cooked before?” Yuuji asks as he washes the green onions. 

Satoru’s face wrinkles, fiddling with the knot holding the apron. “Cooking is for servants.”

“...But you’re helping me cook right now?”

“W-well that’s because I’m making sure you don’t screw this up! I’m a growing boy! I need to eat only the best.”

Leaving it at that, Yuuji takes a quick peek around the kitchen to scour for any other ingredients. Unfortunately, no one has taken time out of their day to go grocery shopping. So while they have some meat, there’s only a few eggs and less than half of a bottle of milk as protein. But it’s fine. They can work with this.

“You wanna try mixing this?” Yuuji sets the bowl of minced meat on the counter, Satoru has finally let go of his ego and dragged the chair over. Standing on it, Satoru is slightly taller than Yuuji, and he seems to take great enjoyment in this. Stretching up even further just so he can look down on Yuuji.

“Mhm.” A smug grin is on Satoru’s face.

“Okay now, follow my instructions.”

Satoru whines the whole time he’s kneading the meat. “It’s slimy!” And bodily shudders when Yuuji adds another yolk. 

“Aren’t you supposed to be strong?” Yuuji chuckles, throwing away the eggshells. “Is chicken meat enough to defeat you?”

After that, Satoru still mopes about it, but slightly quieter. His mood improves after he’s allowed to wash his hands, and watches curiously as Yuuji shapes the meatballs with two spoons. Satoru of course wants to try, but since he’s new at cooking, it looks misshaped. 

“You can still eat it, don’t worry.” Yuuji feels compelled to add when Satoru continues to glare at the creation. Shaking his head, Satoru grabs the two spoons again and begins furiously shaping the next one. 

In the end, they have a tray of meatballs. All varying in size. Satoru looks very proud though, so Yuuji is too. 

“Is it done yet?” Is the question that has been repeated about four times now. They’re sitting near the stove, watching the broth boil. The vegetables inside the pot have already softened. And the smell coming from it is really hard to resist.

“No. Maybe in about two minutes.”

“Oh okay.” Satoru whispers as he watches the liquid bubble. It’s silent for about ten seconds. “Is it done now?”

“No.”

Satoru groans and throws himself limp against the chair. “But I’m hungry!”

“I’m hungry too! But we have to be patient. Otherwise we’ll get salmonella or something.” Yuuji rubs his eyes, tiredly. 

“What’s salmonella?”

“It’s like… A disease you get if you eat chicken that’s not cooked enough.”

With that simple explanation, Satoru becomes pale. “...Disease?” 

“Yeah, you get sick and throw up everywhere.”

Satoru is deathly silent after this.

When those two minutes finally pass, Yuuji moves to turn off the stove. Only for Satoru to firmly grasp onto his sleeve. Yuuji makes a confused noise and Satoru tightens his grip. “...Are you sure it’s done?”

“Uh, yes.” He glances at the clock on the wall just to verify. It’s been more than seven minutes, surely it is done now.

“But what if it’s not? What if it’s going to make me sick?”

“You were the one who couldn’t wait–”

“Just let it boil more, please.”

So in the end they have some overcooked meatballs and vegetables. Not as Yuuji usually makes them, but it’s tasty nonetheless. Satoru is a bit skeptical, but lights up when he finally takes a bite. He reaches forward to take another and Yuuji has to wrangle him from not eating all of them.

Amanai-sensei is the first to arrive, Yuuji has only just sent her a text and she is already rushing past. 

“I’m the oldest, so I get to eat first.” She announces and gets herself a plate, proceeding to pile it up with everything in the pot. Satoru, who has just sat down, glares at her with bright eyes as she continues to seize more and more meatballs. 

“Stop taking everything!” Satoru finally snaps after half the pot is empty already. Amanai rolls her eyes and, while staring straight at Satoru, snatches another piece. 

Megumi and Tsumiki come right as the two start bickering. Which quickly turns into a screaming match. Megumi throws Yuuji a raised eyebrow, but he can only shrug. 

Satoru is just about to throw his plate, food and all, at sensei when Tsumiki greets him. “You must be Gojo Satoru! I’m Tsumiki, it’s nice to meet you.”

“Hi.” Satoru says blandly, hand still holding the plate. 

“Did you help Yuuji cook all this?” Tsumiki sits down and across them. Megumi hands her utensils, already reaching forward so that he can plate her food as well. That’s older brothers for you. 

“Yes. And this hag is eating all of it!” Satoru gestures to Amanai, who sputters and snaps her head in his direction. Quickly swallowing, sensei hits her chest before redirecting all anger on the child next to her.

“Hag?! I’ll teach you some manners you spoiled brat!” 

“You’re a hag! Hag hag hag–!” 

Nobara and Hana don’t say anything when they come in. Just remaining rooted at the entrance. “Uh, is this a bad time?” Hana finally asks. 

Amanai moves to strangle Satoru, but the boy activates his technique. Only laughing in her face as the woman keeps trying to hit him. When she sees this doesn’t work, she directs her attention to the unshielded plate in front of the boy. And proceeds to eat everything off it. The following shriek is loud enough for everybody in the vicinity to cover their ears.

“Uh, you sure you won’t get in trouble for doing this?” Yuuji trails after Nobara, Megumi at his side. They’re currently in town, making use of the card the Gojo Clan handed to them. And without telling anyone about their current location.

“Of course not! After all, we’re going to buy necessities for Satoru-kyun here.” Nobara gestures to the boy next to her, who preens as she ruffles his hair. “What do you want, Satoru-kyun?” Nobara coos, “Some Prada? Or maybe Balenciaga?”

“Whatever’s most expensive.” Satoru grins.

Of course, that is all Nobara wanted to hear, as she squeals and hugs Satoru quickly before directing them all to the nearest mall. 

Yuuji is just minding his own business, taking a look around a store that seems way too overpriced when a shiver runs down his spine. 

“Put that down.” A terrifying voice whispers in Yuuji’s ear. He jumps and accidentally drops the orange hoodie he was holding. 

“Why–?” Yuuji can’t even finish his protest before Nobara drags him away. 

“Orange is so not your color. We will never hang out in public if you’re wearing that.” 

Out of the corner of his eye, Satoru is burying Megumi in different types of clothing. Ranging from pants to puffer jackets. Nobara’s influence has already started taking hold on the child. It might be too late to do anything to stop it.

“Try this instead.” Nobara chirps.

“... I’m not putting that on.” Yuuji eyes the dark red satin shirt Nobara keeps trying to shove in his hands.

“Yes. You. Are.” Nobara says with gritted teeth. Previous mannerism gone.

“I’m not!” Yuuji squeaks, backing away. “This is harassment! I’ll call security on you!”

Nobara is silent, crowding Yuuji until his back hits a wall. Left with nowhere else to run, Yuuji can’t do anything but let his so-called ‘best friend’ push him into a changing room and throw the shirt in right before the curtain closes.

When they go to the register, Nobara is too busy arguing with the cashier about the card’s ‘actual’ owners to notice the satin red shirt is back on the shelf.

“Let’s go see a movie!” Voice muffled by all the bags in his hands, Yuuji suggests in excitement. Though the luggage seems to topple over at any minor movement, so he can’t articulate properly.

“Are there even any good movies out right now?” Megumi, who has no burdens in his arms, inquires. 

“Any good ones are definitely not for kids.” Nobara slings one singular small shopping bag on her shoulder, her other hand bringing the black card up close to her face to analyse every minute detail. Knowing her, she’s probably memorising the numbers on the back for future use. “And I want to go to a coffee shop nearby. I heard they make these delicious parfaits.”

“You guys are boring.” Yuuji sighs. Then he glances down at Satoru, who is munching on the gum Yuuji handed out earlier. “What about you, Satoru? You wanna see a movie?”

Satoru says nothing and continues chewing, then: “I’ve never seen a movie.”

“Never?”

“Never.”

Yuuji digs his heels in the floor, and fumbles before all the bags can meet the ground. “Are you guys hearing this?”

“Yeah. Well, you’ll definitely see one in the future.” Megumi shrugs and continues after Nobara. Only Satoru is waiting by Yuuji’s side, looking up curiously. His only loyal companion in this sea of traitors.  

“Let’s go then!” Yuuji calls out, “We have to show Satoru how enjoyable movies are!”

“Says the guy who likes Wormman.” Nobara scoffs, dropping the arm from her face. Not even dignifying him with a glance.

“It’s ‘Human Earthworm’...” Yuuji corrects but it’s all for naught. He slumps in disappointment. Satoru looks at Yuuji for a bit before marching towards Nobara and snatching the card out of her hand. She yelps and immediately tries taking it back, but Satoru has already activated Limitless. 

“The card is with me now! And I want to see a movie!” He announces, holding the card close to the chest.

“A movie? Don’t you want to eat parfaits with chocolate and ice cream and strawberries?” Nobara says with an overly sweet tone, eyes sparkling.

A pause, Satoru seems to contemplate heavily on this. “After the movie.” Satoru says decisively. 

Nobara groans, light gone from her eyes. But Megumi grabs her sleeve. “Come on, the quicker we do it the quicker we get it over with.”

The movie they end up watching is ‘Ratatouille’. It’s definitely a kids’ movie, but Megumi is surprised to find himself enjoying it. Tsumiki would love it. Maybe he should buy the DVD to show her later.

Of course, no one has enjoyed it as much as Satoru Gojo. Who is holding onto Yuuji’s hand and jumping all over the place. “Let’s see another one!” 

Yuuji looks ready to agree, so Megumi has to interrupt. “Amanai-sensei said she should be back by six, there’s no time to waste if we don’t want her finding out.”

As one, both Yuuji and Satoru wilt in place. “Aw man.” Yuuji sighs, “Don’t worry, Satoru. I have some DVD’s in my room. Maybe we can watch something back at campus.”

Satoru pouts but nods nonetheless. “Fine…”

Nobara snatches the card back at the first opportunity, while Six Eyes is busy kicking the ground. “We went to the cinema, now let’s go eat parfaits!” That at least brings back Satoru’s good mood. The whole walk to the coffee shop, Gojo keeps talking about ‘Ratatouille’. The rant is mostly directed at Yuuji, who is the only one willing to entertain him.

“You should make rata-whatever tonight!” Satoru clings to Yuuji’s side. “It’s going to be amazing, I just know!”

“Uh, I don’t know how to make it though.” Yuuji rubs the back of his head, as if embarrassed by the fact that he can’t cook on the same level as a fictional chef rat.

“That’s okay, you’ll learn and make it for me.” 

“I guess."

Nobara points down the street to a small building, “There it is!” And bolts away. Megumi isn’t really feeling like running off, so he stays walking at the same slow pace. Satoru also dashes, but when Yuuji doesn’t follow, he stops and tilts his head. Megumi is also curious, regarding his classmate with a confused look. Yuuji is the first to try and eat stuff. Should be obvious since he swallowed that cursed finger without hesitation back when they first met.

“You go with Nobara, me and Megumi will reach you guys soon.” 

Satoru frowns and throws Megumi a nasty look before huffing and running after Nobara. 

“You don’t want parfaits with ice cream and chocolate and strawberry?” Megumi copies Nobara’s tone from earlier.

“Nah, not really.” Yuuji chuckles, “I just wanted to talk with you for a bit.”

Ah. Megumi fights off the urge to grin like an idiot. “What is it?”

“It’s…” Yuuji clicks his tongue, “Eh, you know I’m kinda new to the whole sorcery society. I guess some things still sound weird to me but…”

“You aren’t exactly new to this.” Megumi points out, “But, sure. Is there something you want to ask?”

“Is it normal to shelter clan children like this?” He gestures vaguely in Satoru’s direction, who is looking up in wonder at the ad of a dessert. “I know you guys are old fashioned and all…”

“Hey, don’t rope me in with the elders.” Megumi scoffs and pinches Yuuji’s side. His classmate makes a sound that resembles a laugh, but doesn’t do much else.

 After a second of silence, Yuuji asks again. “You get what I mean, right?”

“Yeah. I do.” Megumi sighs. 

“So…?”

“Normally, I’d agree with you, but I can’t help but also understand where the Gojo clan is coming from.”

Forty eight clan heads, with only twenty three of them living past thirty. That doesn’t even take in consideration the sheer number of Six Eyes who have not reached adolescence. Hell, some of them didn’t even reach double digits. Megumi remembers the scandal even now. It was ten, maybe eleven years ago. A new Six Eyes user has been born. The difference between Six Eyes and a lot of other hereditary techniques, is that you can confirm them right after birth. Since they are more of a physical attribute rather than mere cursed energy.

The infant survived only four months. She was found breathless in her crib, foul play was of course suspected. There were no curse residuals, so most likely whoever did it had simply suffocated the baby with a pillow. The outrage the Gojo clan expressed was of course disastrous. Conspiracy theories emerged, each more wild than the other. Some assumed that the killer was simply a hitman on contract, the bounty on the Six Eyes is enormous after all. 

Others suspected that it was Gojo Chikara himself, since the child was not his. As a means to keep his position as clan head, it is theorised that he, or somebody ordered by him, assassinated the infant. The Gojo clan instead thought that some of the other clans had arranged for this to happen. The relationship between the three clans has always been precarious, but this incident has solidified the Gojo clan into announcing that they no longer consider the Zen’in and Kamo clans allies. 

Megumi remembers it so well because it was right when Amanai had brought him into the Jujutsu world. He remembers thinking that someone would kill him and Tsumiki simply because of his technique. 

“A lot of Six Eyes users have died prematurely.” Megumi continues. “The one before Satoru was killed at only a few months old.”

“I…” Itadori drags a hand down his face. “It’s just, whatever Satoru is experiencing seems like its own form of cruelty, you know? Sheltering someone never ends well.”

“You’re right.” Megumi finds himself saying, “But it’s not our place to decide that.”

It is then that they arrive at the coffee shop, Nobara and Satoru already seated inside. Their classmate waves her arm to beckon them over. As they sit down across from each other, Nobara immediately begins talking. 

“Me and Satoru have ordered four parfaits, so you better be grateful.”

“You know I don’t like sweet things.” Megumi deadpans. 

“Come on, they had a promotion going. Just give it to Yuuji or something.” 

Megumi turns to Yuuji, who’s expression looks eerily similar to his shikigami when they’re waiting for treats. Sighing, Megumi just nods and waves him off. It’s a bit hard to ignore Yuuji’s cheer though. And it’s even harder to fight off the smile forming on his face.

“Have you ever eaten a parfait before, Satoru?” Yuuji twists and rips the napkin set on the table, keeping occupied while waiting for their order.

“Of course I have!” Satoru huffs and turns his nose up. 

“Really? When?” Megumi is dubious at the fact that the clan would let Satoru out into the city to try something as westernised as parfaits. 

“A while ago.” Gojo snaps. 

“Sure.”

The waiter comes by and places the four desserts on the table, both Nobara and Satoru immediately take theirs, while Yuuji is busy thanking the employee. The three of them begin digging in as if they haven’t eaten all day. Megumi just shakes his head and opens his phone. 

Tsumiki

i just finished studying, what r u guys doing?

Megumi accesses his camera and quickly snaps a picture. It takes a while to load though.

Tsumiki

looks delicious!!!! 

Me

is hana with you?

Tsumiki

noo she had to leave for a mission

r u comin back soon??

Me

hopefully

“Are you going to eat that?” Satoru makes Megumi look up from his phone. Yuuji is still shoveling food in his mouth, so he can only hum. The Six Eyes is pointing to the untouched parfait.

“Did you already finish yours?” Nobara inquiries. “Can’t blame you, these are really good.”

“You can take it if you want.” Yuuji mumbles around the food in his mouth. Making Megumi scowl, repulsed.

The Six Eyes doesn't even wait for Yuuji to finish talking, stretching across the table to glide the dessert closer. 

They end up ordering two lemonades and a chocolate crepe after. One of the drinks was for Megumi while the other one was ordered by Satoru himself. Though the boy quickly changes his mind.

He takes one sip of the citrus drink and immediately sneers. “It's sour!” Sticking his tongue out in disgust, Satoru pushes the glass over to Yuuji. “I don't want it anymore.”

“You think it's sour because you ate something sweet right before.” Megumi points out, stirring the drink with a straw.

Satoru fake gags, “Should have known not to trust your taste.” 

Rolling his eyes, Megumi ignores Nobara’s loud giggles. 

To wash out the horrible taste of natural fruit, Satoru orders a crepe absolutely smothered in chocolate. Megumi doesn't comment on it, but asks the waiter to make it to-go, since it's starting to get dark out. 

“When's the next train?” Yuuji wonders out loud, struggling not to drop the infinite bags in his arms. Megumi would help but… doesn't really want to. It’s nice not having five kilograms worth of clothes in your hands.

“In about twenty minutes.” 

Their heads shoot forward when they hear Nobara's squeal. “Look how beautiful the sky is! Yuuji, come over here and take some photos.” She extends her phone out, not even glancing back to make sure Yuuji is following. Because he always will. And that's what he does.

“Sorry, can I just–” Yuuji fumbles, trying to hand Megumi some of the luggage.

“Yuuji!” Nobara barks out.

“Here.” Megumi takes two bags in one hand, which isn't a lot, but Yuuji smiles all the same. Muttering his thanks before running after Nobara.

“Get my good side so I can send them to Saori later.” Already fixing her hair, Nobara is posing as if they're shooting a magazine.

Megumi drones out Yuuji's suggestions and Nobara's orders, looking up and seeing the purple and orange sky. Maybe he should take a picture for Tsumiki too.

A small cough draws his attention, and Satoru is still eating the crepe bought earlier. The Six Eyes is watching Megumi with a thoughtful yet distrustful look. 

“What are you staring at?” Megumi asks before he can think better. It makes him internally wince. Nobody has ever said that he’s good with children. Maybe except Tsumiki, but they’re just a year apart.

The snappish tone is enough for Gojo to form another disgusted look on his face. “You’re the next Zen’in clan head.” It’s not a question, more a statement.

“What about it?”

“My mother said I should ‘get along’ with you because of that.” Gojo bites into the pastry as if he’s imagining something else under his teeth. “But you’re boring. And mean.”

Eye twitching, Megumi crosses his arms. “Am I supposed to be offended? It’s not like I want to be friends with you anyway.”

The thought that Megumi could have turned out like the child in front of him is a dark one to explore. If Toji actually managed to sell Megumi into the clan, things would’ve turned out way different. In a world where Amanai never brought him and Tsumiki to Jujutsu High, where Yuuji would’ve been executed, where he wouldn’t have met Nobara and Hana. Maybe in that world Megumi would’ve turned out like Satoru Gojo. 

Kept far away from civilization, whispers of his ‘greatness’ and ‘potential’ always being in hearing range. Taught from a young age that the weak have no spot in the world, that anyone who disagrees deserves death. Would a Megumi who lived like that still be happy? Or would he be like Noritoshi Kamo? Miserable with the power he holds. 

The hold he has on the bags tightens without his knowledge. 

“You’re a bully.” Gojo Satoru hisses. “You’re cruel to everyone. I could never get along with a person like that.”

Bristling, “I’m not cruel. But I’m not a good person either. I save who I want and be polite to those who deserve it.” Megumi tilts his head away. Best not to engage any further. The other two are still taking pictures and seeming nowhere near done.

“Yuuji and Nobara don’t need you.” Megumi snaps his neck to look at the kid again. “They’re too nice to have someone like you as a friend.”

A deep, small and unimportant part of his brain agrees. Everyone is too good for Megumi. Too powerful, too kind, too ambitious. Amanai went through so much, just so she could help Megumi and Tsumiki adjust. Hana only likes him because he saved her from Kenjaku last year. But she deserves someone who reciprocates her feelings. Nobara deserves a friend who matches her energy, who talks with her and engages. Yuuji and Tsumiki deserve a person who is as kind as they are. 

But the selfish part of Megumi’s brain disagrees. Megumi worked hard to get where he was. He gave it all to save Yuuji from death and will do it again if needed. He was the one who trained with Nobara so that they could both stand at the same grade. He was the one who brought Hana to the school. He was the one who took care of Tsumiki before Amanai came. 

Maybe Nobara, Yuuji and Tsumiki don’t need him. But Megumi does. Always will.

“You don’t know what the hell you’re talking about.” The words spit out like venom from a snake. “You’re just another mission. Another job we have to do before we move on to the next one.” When Gojo takes a step back, Megumi takes one forward. “You think you’re friends with them? You’re just a brat we have to put up with until your clan comes and takes you back where you belong.”

A moment too late, Megumi notices the tears brimming in Satoru’s eyes. 

Everything is silent for just three seconds, until Satoru drops the crepe and runs in the crowd. 

Cursing under his breath, Megumi dashes after. 

“Satoru? Satoru! Come back!” The Zen’in’s voice resonates through the street. Though it’s quickly drowned out by all the other people around. Who cares anyway? It’s not like he will go to the guy again. Quickly wiping his eyes, Satoru tries opening them again and immediately regrets it. 

Bright lights, hundreds of humans. Some curses are hanging around as well. It’s too much information. Satoru has never been surrounded by this many people before. But he refuses to turn back. Hands over his face, Satoru navigates through the wave of the crowd. Trying to locate a place that’s less busy.

“Gojo! If you don’t return, Yuuji is going to be mad at you!” 

Pausing for just a second, Satoru processes the information. But Yuuji is kind, he’ll understand when Satoru explains what happened. And then they’ll make food again and watch movies. Because they’re friends. 

You’re just a brat we have to put up with until your clan comes and takes you back where you belong.

Lying. He was lying.

Eyes still closed, Satoru runs until the noises around him dwindle away.  

The next time he dares to look around, he’s encircled by buildings. People are still somewhere around, but it’s not as obnoxious as earlier. He imagines staying here for hours, and when he finally decides to come out, Yuuji and Nobara will burst into tears. They’ll hug him and they’ll apologise over and over. Thinking Satoru was scared. But he’s the Six Eyes, the strongest. So of course he wasn’t. Then Nobara will be so impressed with him that she’ll buy him another dessert. And Yuuji will realise that Satoru is the best person on the planet. All while the Zen’in will stand in the corner and brood.

It’s decided. Satoru will stay here until the Six Eyes can sense either Yuuji or Nobara. And if the Zen’in comes around, Satoru will simply scream that he’s being kidnapped.

There’s a ton of cursed energy around. It’s slightly hard to differentiate between every single person. Well, it is hard for anyone except Gojo Satoru of course. So there’s nothing to worry about.

In the distance, a dog barks.

It’s starting to get dark. The sun is gone and all that’s left are the stars and the clouds. There are street lamps though, so Satoru isn’t scared. 

The sky is fully black now. No sign of Nobara or Yuuji. That’s fine. They’ll find him eventually. Satoru isn’t scared. He’s the strongest.

A group of men walk by the alley in which Satoru is hiding, they don’t notice him, but their loud laughs are enough to make his shoulders jump. Still not scared.

Footsteps echo through the alleyway. Satoru’s brain is too overworked to fully recognise the person behind him without turning around. Maybe it's Zen’in, at this point, Satoru is willing to forgive him if it means getting back to the other two. But he's not scared. Obviously.

A hand touches his shoulder, making him lurch to the side and turn around. “I'm not scared!”

The man in front of him pauses. The palm is still raised from where he put it on Satoru's shoulder. “I never said you were.”

“Right. Because I'm not.” Satoru clarifies, heart beating in his ears.

“Are you alone? Where are your parents?” The man adjusts the cap on his head, looking around the empty alleyway. 

“None of your business.” The sentence comes out more shaken than intended. 

“Maybe I can help you find them. What do they look like?” The stranger smiles for a second, trying to appear friendlier. As if Satoru, The Six Eyes, can't see right through the facade.

“They look like they mind their own business.” Satoru frowns up at the man, who laughs.

“Come on, it's dangerous out here. Surely you want to go home?” 

Home. What a joke. As if Satoru needs a place like that. He goes wherever he pleases and makes himself comfortable anywhere because it's the world's job to make life for the strongest easy. 

“No thanks. Now go away before I start yelling.” 

The man hums. “There was this pink haired boy walking around earlier. He kept asking passersby if they saw a boy with white hair and blue eyes.”

Pink? Yuuji was looking for him? 

“Where?” Satoru immediately demands.

“It's a bit further from here. I can show you if you want.” Offering a hand, Satoru stares at it for a second before taking it.

They walk out of the alleyway, continuing into the street. Oh, man. What was he thinking? Yuuji is probably worried sick and crying because Satoru is gone. 

“Can't we walk faster?” Satoru tugs on the man’s hand. The quicker Yuuji stops sobbing the better. They're rounding up another street corner, showing a road less populated than the one before.

“Patience, Satoru.”

Satoru scowls, who does this normie think he is? 

Wait.

“Hm? Why did you stop?” The man tilts his head down, looking at Satoru with concern.

His hand feels cold and clammy in the stranger's hold. “How did you know my name?”

It's quiet for a while. The stranger isn't saying anything. Satoru's heartbeat gets faster and faster. Until it pulses in his eyes, ears, and all his senses. Making it hard to concentrate on one thing. Everything seems to fly around in his vision. Bright lights. Weak curses moving around. 

Then, the stranger laughs. A loud, boisterous laugh. It rings in Satoru's eardrums.

“How careless… Well, it's like they say: To make mistakes is to be human.” 

Satoru wrenches his hand out of the man’s hold. “Who are you? What do you want from me?” 

Are you going to kill me? 

The stranger chuckles, lacking any warmth. “I wasn't exactly lying earlier, you know. Yuuji is running around looking for you. That's why we have to be quick. Can't let him ruin my plans further.”

Satoru takes a step back, but the man grabs a hold of his hair, dragging him near. The whimper he lets out isn't enough to drown out the thoughtful sound coming from the curse user.

I don't want to die. 

“Why aren't you using your technique? You could easily get away from me.” The curse user grins. “Or… Are you unable to?” 

“Don't kill me–” Satoru sobs, hands curling around his pulled hair.

“Fascinating. You hold the power of the cosmos in your body, yet the fear overrides your instincts. I suppose it would be terrifying. After all, you've never met someone who doesn't worship the ground you walk on.”

Satoru tries activating Limitless, imagining putting a wonderful distance between the two of them. Yet he can't concentrate, he can't do it. All the training was for nothing. Father was right when he said he was weak. That he should be getting stronger.

Satoru is going to die because he's weak.

Something red flies overhead. The stranger ducks suddenly, the movement dragging Satoru's body after him. The cap the man was wearing falls to the ground. Crying out in pain, it takes a moment to notice that the stranger has a row of stitches on his forehead.

The amusement from earlier is gone. The curse user narrows his eyes and drags Satoru closer, wrapping an arm around his neck. 

“Hurting children? You truly never change, Kenjaku.” Another person rounds the corner, face hidden by the darkness. 

“You again.” The curse user, Kenjaku, sighs. “Like an annoying pest, I just can't get rid of you, can I?”

The person steps out of the shadows, revealing a man with a dark line running across his face. The purple rings around the eyes are also a prominent feature. There's something off about him. Yet Satoru's brain is too fried to try and figure out what that is exactly.

“I’ll kill you.” 

“You say that every time. Be a little creative, will you?” Kenjaku tuts, arm tightening around Satoru's throat.

“You killed my brothers. You tortured my mother. I'll never forgive or forget you.”

The smell of iron is the first thing that Satoru registers, the second is the red line shooting right at Kenjaku’s torso. 

Blood covers Satoru's vision, the sticky substance cools on his cheek. It takes a while until Satoru dares to wipe it off. The other two men aren’t as stupored. A quick series of movements follows, one that makes the Six Eyes even more overworked. It’s hard to fully comprehend what happens, but there’s a vague idea. 

A rush of cursed energy shoots in his and Kenjaku’s direction. The man– or, not. Something is still off about him– closes in on the two of them. Kenjaku, in no particular hurry, shoves Satoru in front of the attack and jumps to the other side of the street.

The training Satoru did all his life is not useless, it turns out. Because, on instinct, he drops to the ground and hears the small whistle that emits from the projectile. Which turns out to be blood. Satoru has read about it before. Inherited Cursed Technique that originates from the Kamo clan, Blood Manipulation.

But father said that the Kamo clan is weak now, being led by a young and idealistic head. Could the person in front of them truly be part of it?

“I’m so sorry…” The person is immediately at Satoru’s side. “Please don’t tell Yuuji I almost hit you. I didn’t mean it, I swear.” Incredulous, Satoru watches as the man seems close to tears. “Even that gorilla from Kyoto is more worthy of being Yuuji’s brother.”

“Wha…” 

A loud howl echoes nearby, getting closer by the second. The person visibly stiffens.

“Must you always ruin my plans, Choso?” Kenjaku sighs, “And you didn’t even manage to kill me. You truly didn’t inherit any of my qualities.”

A white dog suddenly jumps for Kenjaku’s throat, another black one comes right after, barking all the while.

Kenjaku doesn’t seem particularly phased by this, only bracing the attack with an arm and letting the hound latch onto it. The black one continues barking. Choso, apparently, stands kneeling at Satoru’s side, bracketing him. 

“Satoru!” Megumi’s voice calls out.

“I’m here!” Satoru stutters a bit before he shouts. 

The white hound is thrown violently to the side, with it coming off a small part of his sleeve, revealing the developing wound. Its twin makes a move forward before quickly backtracking. Megumi then comes into view, red in the face from running and analysing the scene with a quick glance.

“You again.” Is addressed to Choso. “We’ll talk later. For now, prove your loyalty by helping us get rid of this guy.”

But Choso shakes his head, “We don’t know what technique Kenjaku has right now. As much as I would love to kill him, it’s better for the Six Eyes’ safety if I stay here and protect him.”

“I don’t need protection!” Satoru denies, but nobody pays attention.

Megumi narrows his eyes and then nods. Moving into a fighting stance, the Divine Dogs go back at his side. There’s a surge of cursed energy coming from both the Zen’in’s hands and a spot on the ground nearby. Unfortunately, Satoru can’t actually see what’s going on because Choso has wrapped his arms around him tightly, shoving his face in the dark clothing Choso wears.

His protest is muffled, by both the fabric and the sudden action-filled sounds coming from all sides. Head pounding, it’s hard to do anything but try to ignore it until it all becomes a little less painful. 

A wounded cry comes out from Megumi, which forces Satoru into tilting his head back to analyse the fight. Kenjaku is smiling, but he has clear evidence of being ruffled up by the attacks Megumi has been giving him. The Zen’in, on the other hand, seems even more hurt.

“Have you figured it out yet? This body’s cursed technique?” When no response comes, he follows up with, “Come on, don’t make me say it. It’ll be that much harder for you.”

A metal bang follows, followed by a wet, violent sound. Satoru blinks and suddenly Kenjaku is holding his side in pain. 

“What? Got nothing left to say? You were so talkative earlier.” Nobara makes her appearance, standing by the white Divine Dog. Satoru snaps his head in her direction when he recognises her cursed energy. “Did you think the dog bit you just for the hell of it?” 

She displays a small, straw doll. Pinned to it by a nail is a piece of material and blood which quickly darkens the hay. 

“I should’ve killed you when I had the chance.” Kenjaku coughs up blood, “Is this the thanks I get for letting you live?”

Nobara scoffs, “It’s the thanks you get for trying to mess with me.”

Kenjaku looks up at the dark sky, seemingly contemplating. “I suppose it would be foolish to think that a half-baked plan would be enough to kill the Six Eyes. Always so bothersome, you are.” Turning his head back reveals dark eyes that are pinning Satoru down with a glare.

The curse user raises an arm, everyone is immediately tense again. But Kenjaku only points with his index finger before disappearing out of view entirely. 

“Fucking coward!” Nobara hollers, stepping on the straw doll with vitriol.

Megumi sighs, dragging a hand down his face. “It’s better this way, Nobara.”

“Better for that asshole, definitely.” She mutters, stashing her hammer in the pouch tied to the belt. “Anyone hurt? Yuuji’s called Amanai already, so we’re going to have to wait until she comes.”

All three of them shake their heads. As if just noticing him, Nobara raises an eyebrow at Choso. “Aren’t you the Death Painting?”

Satoru flinches and looks at Choso again, so there is something wrong with the guy! He immediately goes to shove him away.

“I prefer ‘older brother’.” 

“Oh yeah, Yuuji told us about that.” Nobara grins, “That dude has the most complicated family tree I’ve ever seen.” 

Choso looks down at Satoru again, ignoring the attempts at escaping his hold. “Yuuji… Is he alright?”

“Why don’t you ask him yourself?” Megumi pipes up from where he’s leaning against one of the buildings.

Flinching as if hit by a whip, Choso tightens the hold he has on Satoru. Completely uncaring of the hand glued at his cheek, pushing him away, and the leg kicking in the ribs. “Hey, let go of me you creep!” But nobody even seems to hear Satoru’s yells.

“I can’t show my face to my baby brother until I have gotten rid of that monster. How can I even call myself a good sibling when…” The odd sight of blood running down from the Death Painting’s eyes is enough for Satoru’s thrashing to stop.

“...Are you crying?” Satoru asks, baffled.

The choked, “No!” and the quick wipes on the face are enough of a tell.

Just then, a familiar cursed energy comes closer. Satoru finally manages to detach from the Death Painting, and turns to look at his friend finally returning.

“Is everyone okay?” Yuuji snaps his head in every direction, “Is he gone? Wha– oof!” He stops talking when Satoru rams straight into his stomach, arms wrapping tightly around his middle. “Satoru!” Yuuji finally says after a pause.

His eyes are pulsing, feeling hot and itchy. “I wasn’t scared.” He mumbles against Yuuji’s uniform. Two warm hands eventually find their way on his shoulders. 

“Obviously.” Yuuji chuckles, “You’re the strongest.”

Sniffling, Satoru nods, digging his face even deeper in Yuuji’s stomach. But that is only because he is comforting Yuuji, of course. The teen is holding his tears back remarkably well, but Satoru understands that he is actually devastated by the mere thought of Satoru being lost and scared. But that would never happen anyway.

“Choso.” Yuuji starts talking again after a while, “Are you finally ready to–”

“No! I can’t!” The quick sounds of footsteps grow more and more distant by the second.

“Is that guy actually for real?” Nobara groans, “I swear, he’s as stupid as you are, Yuuji. That’s the only evidence we have that you two are actually related.”

“Yeah, yeah.” Yuuji’s voice rumbles throughout his entire body. “Megumi,” a questioning hum follows. “Don’t you have anything to say to Satoru?”

Reedy, heated whispering follows. Satoru doesn’t pay attention to it until the much louder: “Ugh, fine!”

“Satoru.” When being addressed, he turns around almost automatically, letting go of Yuuji’s uniform after a long moment. Megumi is looking at him for a bit before kneeling. “I want to apologise.”

After a brief silence, the Zen’in continues. “I was… wrong, for saying you aren’t a friend. You are more than a mission to them–” Nobara grunts threateningly, “To us.” An approving sound, “And it’s not your fault that I got mad, even though you said some bad things and clearly–” A deliberate cough, “...Anyway. I’m sorry. I hope we can try and be friends again.”

It’s silent for a very long time, Satoru has half the mind to just ignore the Zen’in. But… “Ugh, fine. You can try to be my friend.”

A sniffle comes from the corner of the street, they all turn to see the hag– Amanai– wiping her eyes. “Megumi apologising… I never thought I’d see the day!”

“Oh shut up you–”

“Sensei! When did you get here?” Yuuji exclaims in curiosity. 

“Just a few minutes ago. I saw that half-curse running away, is he going to be a problem?”

“You know how Choso is.” Yuuji answers tiredly.

“Unfortunately.” The hag sighs. “Besides that, everything fine? No hidden wounds we gotta worry about? Failed Binding Vows, hypnosis… all that?” At their shake of the head, she scratches the back of her neck. “That’s great.” A wide grin, “All of you are grounded.”

“Huh?!”