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I. Kugisaki Nobara
The path of a sorcerer was far from easy. In fact, one could argue it required extreme versatility – candidates usually possessing fearsome tenacity, generational talents and quite frankly, an unnatural affinity for the weird and supernatural. Which made sense, since they did spend majority of their careers exorcising monstrous creatures the larger part of society didn’t even believe to exist. Consequently, Nobara proudly considered herself to be quite an open-minded individual, capable of confronting any outlandish situation head on due to her promising background as a sorcerer.
But even (gorgeous) superstars such as herself had their limits. And Nobara could safely say she would never – and emphasis on that never please – grow accustomed to this new routine of waking up every day only to see the King of Curses roaming out and about their campus grounds. Accompanied by a chirpy Itadori Yuuji, of course. Always.
How this reality had come to be, Nobara was still trying to figure out herself. But overall, it was certainly quite the bombshell to return to after a lengthy absence. After all, it wasn’t like anyone actually bothered to…I don’t know…warn her about their new cursed resident. Would have definitely saved her a lot of grief and stress if they did. Funnily enough, Nobara could still vividly recall the first time she encountered the infamous King of Curses in their school – a hulking beast of a man with four eyes and four arms prowling in their temple courtyard at that time. It had been quite the peculiar sight to see so early in the day, and had stopped her dead in her tracks, eye blinking as she squinted into the distance.
Because surely… she was seeing things? This was Jujutsu Tech she was standing in, and no curse – let alone Ryoumen Sukuna – should be parading on its protected grounds. At least not without being firmly sealed within Yuuji. So, it must have been a hallucination, conjured up by her post-treatment brain. Shoko-sensei did warn her about the potential risks posed by head trauma after all, before releasing her from the infirmary that same morning.
Thus, it was only natural Nobara would be rather sceptical at such a ridiculous sight. The King of Curses in their sorcerer’s school? What a joke! Yet… when the illusion of an entity directed his cold, disinterested gaze towards her, face contorted in disgust, Nobara had been ready to haul ass back to the infirmary. Have Shoko-sensei take another look at her one remaining eye, because frankly, that apparition had been far too realistic for something supposedly crafted by her mind.
Yet before she could take more than one step back, a familiar voice shouted her name – loud and excited. It was the only warning she received before Itadori Yuuji, in all his muscley 80-kilo glory, collided straight into her – sending them both onto the hard wooden floor. It knocked the breath right out of her, and any lingering concerns about curses was immediately forgotten as she tried to calm the sobbing boy in her arms.
“Kugisaki! You’re alive!” Yuuji had cried, relieved tears streaming down his rosy cheeks as he hugged the stuffing out of her. And under normal circumstances, Nobara would be quite pleased at such sincere and genuine elation towards her presence. She should be revered like this more often! But with Yuuji’s embrace growing painfully tight around her, Nobara could only respond with frantic smacks to his shoulder – grunting loudly in hopes the boy would get a clue and release her before she choked to death. He always did have such freakishly inhuman strength, and Nobara didn’t need another close brush with death despite the well-meaning intent behind his passionate hug.
Thankfully, she did not have to suffer long as Yuuji was promptly yanked from her grasp, his fingers grabbing at the air in response to being hoisted off the ground so roughly. And though the alleviated weight was greatly appreciated, it didn’t do much to diminish the sheer horror of having their reunion cut short by a very dangerous (and very much real) curse that had been looming behind them the whole time.
“Ah. Sukuna.” Yuuji chirped, airy and relaxed.
A complete contrast to Nobara herself, who could only watch with a mix of horror and fascination as Yuuji dangled pitifully in curse’s grip – like a kitten caught in its mother’s jaw. Sukuna had a strong hold on his hoodie, leveraging the cloth like a handle to pull the boy level with his eyes. Yuuji – bless his soul – merely retaliated to the manhandling with a petulant pout, reminiscent of a child denied candy rather than actual sorcerer at the mercy of the most powerful curse in existence.
And though Nobara had long come to (begrudgingly) accept Yuuji’s innate lack of self-preservation, even she had to second guess his sanity when the teen continued to remain completely unfazed by the menacing curse at his side – Sukuna reaching a large, coarse hand towards his face. Effortlessly, the curse’s massive palm eclipsed Yuuji’s head, and she couldn’t help but note how easily he could crush the boy’s skull in that instance. The thought of it made her heart seize, and Nobara swore loudly when she realised the disgusting lack of weapons on her form.
Desperately, she pushed her tired body off the ground, ready to tackle the King of Curses and potentially scratch his eyes out. Anything to buy Yuuji some time to slip out of his hoodie and escape. But before she could action her rather reckless plan, Yuuji released a soft giggle, tilting his head forward to meet the curse’s touch. And though Sukuna scoffed at the sound, his fingers still moved to wipe at the watery tears staining the boy’s cheeks – acting with a gentleness Nobara didn’t even think possible from such a wicked being.
She felt her jaw drop, fists moving to rub at her eye because surely…she had gone mad. Itadori Yuuji and Ryoumen Sukuna actively not trying to slaughter each other? Absolute nonsense! Perhaps she was still unconscious in the infirmary after all, the last few weeks of recovery having been just an incredibly realistic dream. But as the impending existential crisis began to escalate, a cheery and familiar greeting reached her ears, dragging her from her thoughts. Nobara frowned, watching as Gojo-sensei finally made his appearance – skipping towards the trio with a smug smirk on his face.
It seemed she wasn’t the only one vexed by his nonchalance, as a scowl immediately overtook Sukuna’s features at the man’s emergence – dropping Yuuji onto his feet only to abruptly shove the boy behind him. As if guarding the teen from their flamboyant teacher. Not that the curse had to worry, because Gojo-sensei made a straight beeline to her side, ushering Nobara off the ground with a firm but kindly tug. Yuuji poked his head around Sukuna’s broad form, eyeing the pair with such honest concern it nearly had Nobara rushing forward, ready to give her friend a bop to the head for underestimating her tenacity. Honestly, he should’ve been far more concerned for himself, being clutched so closely against the King of Curses and all.
But their teacher was quick in holding her back, casually taking it upon himself to help “good ol’ recovering Nobara over here” back to the dorms so she could recuperate further in peace. It was just an excuse of course, to chat without the unnerving presence of a Special Grade. But Yuuji had believed them nonetheless – waving the pair off with a longing stare and a promise to catch-up soon when she felt better.
That was how she ended up settling against a dusty couch in her room, listening intently as Gojo-sensei explained the affairs that had transpired during her time spent comatose. It was a bit much to process in one sitting, though she noticed Gojo-sensei wasn’t as forthcoming with details as one would expect regarding such a precarious situation. She supposed he must have had his reasons, likely commanded to keep a tight lip by the ever-so secretive higher ups. But then again, he had also been sealed away for majority of the incident himself, so it was possible their teacher wasn’t as clued in about the current arrangements too despite the knowledgeable impression he presented.
Regardless, Nobara managed to understand enough, absurd as it all was. Honestly, to think there would exist a reality where the King of Curses didn’t actively seek to scorch them to ashes. It was almost impossible to believe despite a general comprehension of the circumstances surrounding it – Yuuji having miraculously bound Sukuna to a baffling pact that prevented the curse from wreaking havoc amongst humanity. And though Nobara had accepted it, she couldn’t say she was fully comfortable with such an ambiguous contract, even if Gojo-sensei seemed fairly unconcerned.
She assumed it must have been the same for the jujutsu council, those uptight bastards far too steeped in their traditional ways to have voluntarily entertained Yuuji’s pact. It was only later, after pestering a very weary Fushiguro, did she find out about the apparent hearing that had gone down between the higher ups and Sukuna – a spectacle of a tribunal that had nearly ended in bloodshed if the rumours were to be true. Gojo-sensei had supposedly been present at the hearing too, alongside another Special Grade sorcerer named Okkotsu Yuuta – the latter having been Fushiguro’s main source of information when Gojo-sensei failed to satisfy his burning curiosity.
And based on the details their senior had imparted, the council didn’t exactly have a pleasant experience. Which was always satisfying to hear, Nobara eager to relish in the suffering of such detestable assholes. They frankly had it coming in her opinion, and it was high time someone knocked them off their pedestal already. Even if that someone had to be the King of Curses, who had immediately asserted his dominance at the hearing to effectively displace the elder sorcerers of their long-standing authority.
All in exchange for Sukuna’s restraint, of course, the curse willing to turn a blind eye to the humans he despised so deeply should they abide to his outlined terms and conditions. That was, the King of Curses would refrain from levelling all of Tokyo as long as the higher ups ‘never showed their pathetic faces in front of him again’ as he so aptly worded it.
And who were the council to reject such a magnanimous proposal, especially if it diminished the possibility of further casualties amongst their ranks – the deadly the assault on Shibuya still fresh on everyone’s mind. No, there wasn't a need for any more mindless mass destruction.
Especially if Fushiguro’s recounting of Sukuna’s overwhelming strength proved to be true – the King of Curses having effortlessly annihilated all enemies during what Fushiguro the ‘Culling Games’ to exert his supremacy. Which was no small feat, considering the mastermind behind the incident was the very same being that had dangerously imprisoned Gojo-sensei to cripple their forces in the first place.
And though the shadow-summoner was known for his cool-headed demeanour, even Fushiguro couldn’t hide his unease as he relayed his account of the event, grimacing whenever he recalled the pure power radiating off the King of Curses during the final standoff – Fushiguro himself barely clutching onto consciousness at the time after a failed attempt of his own to end Kenjaku. Which was concerning to hear. And though Fushiguro had profusely objected to the pact at first, he too had eventually been forced to concede to the circumstances.
Still, Yuuji must have pulled together one hell of a pact she thought – to have the King of Curses indulge his desperate pleas to such a degree. Because there was no denying it, that this façade of peace was simply an indulgence from the curse, the merciful whim of a being so strong they could afford to disregard the potential threat presented by sorcerers. And though he may tolerate their existence for the time being, Nobara was in no way under the impression that Sukuna wouldn’t kill them should the opportunity arise. After all, not a single soul besides Yuuji knew the true conditions of their pact, and they wouldn’t put it past Sukuna to sneak in some loopholes to tip the agreement to his advantage – Yuuji far too trusting of the people he placed his faith in.
And it didn’t really help build confidence amongst the students when Sukuna blatantly expressed his strong disdain towards them as well, often gazing upon their group like they were the dirt beneath his feet – Yuuji either too distracted or too accustomed to his menacing aura to even notice the pure hostility. Though she would give it to the curse, he never did raise a hand against them despite his clear distaste, sticking to the pact as Yuuji promised he would.
It was quite honestly unsettling, and Nobara wasn’t sure she wanted to ask her friend what he had to offer in return for such convenient compliance just yet.
Speaking of Yuuji, the boy seemed completely unperturbed by the rather blindsiding turn of events, taking Sukuna’s overbearing company all in stride. “Well, it’s good that Sukuna has settled down instead of harming anyone, isn’t it?” he had asked, eyes wide and confused when Fushiguro boldly enquired about his stance towards their new cursed dorm-mate.
“He’s a bit rough on the outside…but I trust him.” He giggled. “We’re growing to become great friends! At least I think so…” Yuuji mumbled, tapping a finger thoughtfully against pouting lips. “He’s still so mean with his words though!” The boy whined. And unable to say much against such a frivolous response, both students had no choice but to silently move on from the topic.
Nonetheless, living with Sukuna was no easy task. For one, the King of Curses hoarded Yuuji’s free time like a dragon hoarded gold. Not once had she seen either one without the other somehow trailing just behind. It certainly made hanging out with Yuuji quite the endeavour, seeing as it was a bit difficult to hold any semblance of a decent conversation with the threatening Special Grade hovering about every-time she even breathed near Yuuji.
Sukuna was also very particular about the areas they were permitted to enter too. His shared residence with Yuuji for one, was completely off limits – which she knew displeased many people, especially Fushiguro. And of course, the shrine conjured by the curse after he had levelled an entire sector preserved by the council was also decreed private as well. Honestly, the bastard acted like he owned the place or something. Which…he did…technically, ever since he usurped the land from the elders. But still! Nobara had been calling these grounds her home far longer than the curse! She should’ve been allowed to step foot wherever she wished.
Yet despite this dissatisfaction, Nobara kept her cool - advised alongside every other student to avoid jeopardising the precarious peace Yuuji had secured for their sakes. Something she still struggled with even as time passed, though she supposed she was doing better at coping than poor Ichiji-san. The permanently anxious man appeared to stop breathing every time Sukuna passed by; the curse’s intense aura overwhelming on good days and utterly stifling on bad ones. It was tough just battling that instinctive reflex to reach for her weapon whenever the hulking entity made his presence known. A sentiment she knew was shared amongst their cohort.
So perhaps it was a small mercy, when the curse began alternating between his giant physique and a smaller, more human-like form – reminiscent of Yuuji if not for the red eyes, slicked back hair and tattooed face. She assumed navigating the halls of their cramped, narrow temple school must have become wearisome for the large curse – who seemed to value efficiency above all else. And though the appearance wasn’t completely disagreeable, it was still disconcerting at times, seeing Yuuji’s almost cherubic-like features displayed on another face with not a hint of his humanity or charm. A truly innocuous guise that veiled the danger behind the entity that wore it. Nobara only wished that Sukuna’s domineering personality diminished along with his size – the King of Curses still unrelentingly controlling towards their resident pink-head despite lacking his mammoth body to physically block off the boy.
It eventually grew to a point she found herself whining to Maki-senpai and the other second years – Nobara vexed by the numerous shopping trips cut short due to the obstruction of a clingy curse (a problem she never expected to encounter in this lifetime ever). And thankfully, Panda-senpai had been supportive of her rant, the bear just as vocal about his annoyance too. Okkotsu-senpai on the hand… she wasn’t even sure where he stood on the whole situation, the Special Grade sorcerer simply reassuring her with a rather knowledgeable nod. As if he completely understood the logic behind the King of Curse’s bizarre behaviour.
“Just give it some time Kugisaki.” He had assured, as if his vague words would make her current frustrations fade away. “I’m sure they simply need to work on building healthier boundaries. My Rika was like that at the beginning too!”
“In fact, I would say they’re doing far better than we did…” she heard him mumble – not that she really understood what he was trying to say. But Okkotsu-senpai was a bit quirky like that sometimes, so she tuned him out to focus on her beloved Maki-senpai instead – who graciously supplied her with all the head-pats and comfort she desired. “Don’t worry Nobara, I’ll accompany you on your next trip out, alright?” Her senior had promised, and Nobara quickly cheered up at the notion of another date! Okkotsu-senpai was right she reasoned, too caught up in planning her outing with Maki to spare any more thought towards the issue with Sukuna. Perhaps time would allow tensions to settle. She was merely overreacting.
Sad to say, the situation did not get any better as Okkotsu-senpai so boldly claimed. In fact, she could confidently say it only grew worse, seeing as Sukuna infuriatingly interpreted their waning efforts as his right to further monopolise Yuuji. She wasn’t even sure what those two got up to during their time together, but she did note the increased frequency at which Yuuji appeared with band aids covering his frame. It sent alarm bells ringing in her head.
Because sure, Yuuji had been taking his training more seriously lately, especially since he now lacked Sukuna’s cursed energy to supplement his own. But there was no reason for him to be exerting himself to such a degree. It just didn't add up, and Nobara wouldn’t put it pass the King of Curses to have been abusing her sweet friend whenever he spirited him away. It made her blood boil, Nobara ready to drag Yuuji off by force if she had to – just to confirm with her own eyes and ears that the boy was truly alright. Yuuji loved to hide his suffering after all, unwilling to let his friends share his burden. It was an exasperating trait of his, and she refused to remain complacent should he really be under distress.
And it seemed the heavens agreed with her on this venture – as she unexpectedly managed to bump into the busy boy alone. A blessing in disguise.
It had been another casual morning, Nobara shuffling languidly to the kitchen to grab a quick breakfast. She had long since accepted her fate of consuming stale cereal that morning, seeing as Yuuji rarely had the time to cook for their group anymore. (Another reason to despise the King of Curses). But as she rubbed the sleep from her eyes, a sudden delicious scent wafting from the kitchen had her back straightening – Nobara jogging just a bit faster when her tired brain processed the fact that someone actually deigned to make food that day. She wasn’t sure who though, since Yuuji was the only one in their school capable of touching a pan without it imploding.
Yet upon marching into the kitchen, she was met with the sight of a swaying Yuuji, humming cheerfully as he poured more batter onto a heated pan. The nostalgic view had her stopping in her tracks, a warm sensation bubbling in her chest. Taking a quick scan of the vicinity, Nobara was quite pleased to realise she was the first one there – and even more elated when she noticed Sukuna wasn’t hovering around her friend as he usually did either. Like some poor mockery of a ghost. So slowly, she crept forward, intent on catching her friend off guard for a hug. However, Yuuji must have sensed her intense gaze, because the boy turned to face her with a large smile on his face – the sweet one that made everyone soft at his feet – waving a dirtied spatula.
“We have pancakes for breakfast today! And I might cook up some egg and bacon for the others too!” he greeted chirpily, completely unaware of the speck of flour that stained his face, just across from his lip. Nobara sighed, an affectionate grin making its way onto her face. Only Yuuji could be so oblivious to his unkempt state, her friend undeniably a baby sometimes. Oh well, she would help him out just this once – Nobara feeling extra generous at seeing the usual MIA sorcerer. Yuuji should be thankful for such a thoughtful and fashion-forward friend – she was certain he would be living in old sweats and utterly dishevelled if it weren’t for her – moving to swipe at the flour on his skin.
But just as her knuckles grazed the soft flesh, Yuuji was suddenly yanked back, a strong arm wrapping around his waist to pull him against an (ugh regrettably) muscled chest. How Sukuna had entered the room undetected by the both of them, she would never know. But Nobara had only a split second to register the new presence before the curse yanked at Yuuji’s already loose shirt, exposing the long collar of his neck for the entity to viciously bite down on – sharp visors penetrating the smooth skin.
“Ow Sukuna! Ow!” Yuuji cried, swatting at the curse’s head. But it didn’t seem to register to the durable being, who only hugged him tighter, teeth refusing to let go. Nobara felt her spirit leave its body as her brain tried to process the scene unravelling in front of her – pausing for just a stunned moment before she whipped out her trusty hammer, rushing forward.
“Let go of him you freak!” she screeched; arms raised extra high for added force to swing her weapon down on the beast devouring her friend – Nobara only stopping when Yuuji held out both arms in defence, lest she hit him accidentally too.
“Wait NO Kugisaki! Stop!” He cried, just as Sukuna finally detached from his collar, licking almost lewdly at the red bleeding mark he left behind on the junction of Yuuji’s neck.
“Wha- I – he – What!!!!” Nobara cried, waving her hands in front of her widely – which truthfully, might not have been the best idea seeing as she had a hammer in one of her fists, but she blamed it on the adrenaline rushing through her veins. For a minute there, she had truly believed her friend was in danger of being consumed – Sukuna historically proven to have eaten humans according to the scrolls she and Fushiguro scoured after they discovered everyone would be sharing a common area with the curse.
But Yuuji only looked slightly miffed and sheepish at the nipping entity.
“Ugh Sukuna! What did I say about biting me?! Why do you always have to be like this!?” he scolded, though the curse only ignored his complaints, appearing more content than ever as he moved to sit at the chair closest to where Yuuji had been standing.
“What…?” She couldn’t help but repeat. What did he mean by always like this? Was Sukuna actually biting Yuuji on a regular basis? What!? She turned to face Yuuji yet again, eyes flashing in anger. The boy must have detected her growing displeasure, as he was quick to switch focus on placating her.
“Ah, don’t worry Kugisaki. Sukuna likes to bite me sometimes.” He commented casually, as if being nibbled on like a treat was an ordinary occurrence for the young sorcerer. “I think it’s just his way of telling me he’s hungry.” Yuuji continued, ignoring the increasingly concerned and stunned look she was shooting his way. “But I do wish he could be a bit more normal about it.”
…
Nobara truly had no words to spare. Firstly, Yuuji was clearly off his rockers. Perhaps driven to madness by his constant exposure to Sukuna – she heard potent cursed energy could do that to an individual. Because who in their right mind would let someone just…mark them like that? Her eyes flickered to Yuuji’s neck, taking in the red wound that had thankfully stopped bleeding, but still stood out glaringly on his pale skin. Yep, this was beginning to become too much to deal with before her first dose of coffee.
She pinched her nose, trying to settle frayed nerves. Nothing good would come from snapping at Yuuji now. Her friend was simply wired differently like that. To think he would genuinely attempt to write off Sukuna’s behaviour as a sign of hunger. There was just no way. And Nobara’s keen suspicions were only confirmed when with another glance, she caught Sukuna eyeing her coldly, lips crooking into a smug smirk when he realised how shaken she appeared to be at his prior actions.
“Brat.” he called, head shifting to regard Yuuji once more as the young boy turned at the sound of his name. Nobara followed suit, curious to see what else the curse could possibly be up to now.
“What?” Yuuji retorted sulkily, pouting childishly even as he directed his full attention to the curse. Sukuna rolled his eyes, unamused by the blatant attitude. “Tch. Come here brat.” He ordered; voice snide. “Unless you want to remain looking like a fool with that smear on your face.” Sukuna goaded, a teasing smile forming on his lips despite his earlier tone, brows lifted questioningly. And just like that, Yuuji ambled closer – hook, line, sinker.
“What smear? Where?” He whined, confusion radiating off his frame in waves – which quickly transformed into indignation when he realised the King of Curses had begun chuckling at his petulant tone. The interaction was far too friendly – almost flirty even – and Nobara couldn’t help but gawk at the duo for what felt like the 100th time that day.
What was going on here? But before she could voice her confusion, her words were cut short by a fond yet exasperated sigh from Sukuna – the entity steadying Yuuji with one hand before a finger gently brushed away the batter on the boy's cheeks. The curse’s knuckles notably lingering at Yuuji’s lips far longer than what was appropriate between, well…people who weren’t romantically involved. The scene was straight out of a manga she mused, observing as Sukuna stepped back to clean the leftover batter on his finger with a sensual flick of his tongue.
But sheesh, what a drama queen she huffed. Just who was the curse trying to seduce? Yuuji? Then, just as those words crossed her mind…it all seemed to click into place, Nobara’s eyes widening in shocked realisation.
No way. She thought, braining working a mile a minute to process her observations. There was just no way!
But considering the manner in which he had snatched Yuuji from her reach, and oh…the actual physical marking of her friend that had been going on for God knows how long… Nobara was beginning to suspect Sukuna might regard Yuuji as more than just a mere man servant he kept around to cater to his whims. As in much more – leaning into ‘I want you to be my bride’ more.
God it was so obvious now that she considered it, the entity’s prior behaviour suddenly making that much more sense, along with Okkotsu-senpai’s ambiguous assurances weeks ago – how long had the senior known she pondered. Did Yuuji even know about it? He seemed oblivious as ever to the intentions of the possessive curse lingering at his side. And watching the sweet smile he shot Sukuna’s way along with the friendly “thanks” – she had a gut feeling the boy was completely ignorant to the deeper meaning behind the curse’s action. Which perhaps explained Sukuna’s constant need to be all up in Yuuji’s space. The King of Curses couldn’t have competitors sniffing around the target of his affections after all she speculated.
Not that she was one – a competitor. Nobara huffed. If that arrogant prick actually spent some time outside of Yuuji’s orbit and bothered to remember anything about the rest of them – he would know that she was in no way a threat to his… relationship (and ugh it still made her dizzy to even think about it) with his ex-vessel.
“Ahem, I’m going downtown with Maki this week.” She announced, deciding it was due time to clear the air regarding her status with Yuuji – especially if it meant their resident curse would lay off with his posturing, at least towards her. “I…I think we’ll get those rings I was telling you about.” She boasted, eyes flickering to the King of Curses even as the words were directed at Yuuji.
‘Oh wow! The ones you sent me pictures of last month?” Yuuji exclaimed, always so sweet and attentive when it came to anything related to his friends. It calmed the tension inside Nobara, and she shot him a smug smile.
“Yep! I thought it’d be good, you know? To have something to commemorate the anniversary of our…of our relationship I guess...” She mumbled, still feeling awed at somehow scoring someone as amazing as Maki-senpai even after months of dating. At the mention of her girlfriend, Nobara noted how Sukuna’s eyes suddenly seemed laser focused on their conversation, the young sorcerer ready to pat her own back for successfully drawing his attention. That’s right! Listen up King of Curses because she was not interested in Itadori Yuuji.
“That’s so romantic!” Yuuji cried, ignorant to her ulterior motives for boosting but excited nonetheless – eyes sparkling as he turned to flip a pancake before it burnt. Once the safety of the cake was confirmed, he returned his gaze to Nobara, this time with a softer smile. “I’m sure she’ll love it Nobara. Maki-senpai will like anything if it’s from you.” He teased, drawing a flustered glare from Nobara as she spluttered frantically, stomping away to the same kitchen table the King of Curses was occupying.
“Gosh you say the most embarrassing things!” she yelled as she pulled out a chair, throwing herself onto the seat with a scowl and ignoring the giggle she could hear from Yuuji. Usually, she would pull his ear for being so cheeky, but she had other things to worry about this time, arms crossed to glare intently at the King of Curses located across from her, who only just returned the strong gaze with a sneer of his own.
Perhaps it wasn’t the smartest thing to do, challenging an all-powerful entity that could rival their teacher, but Nobara was anything but a coward. And she was willing to risk it all to achieve some peace of mind. Fortunately, Sukuna did not immediately resort to violence at her boldness – likely influenced by Yuuji’s presence in the room – the curse choosing to simply observe her with an unreadable expression on his face instead. Then, like a cat unwinding, he released a slight chuckle, leaning back to appraise Nobara with a smirk – the very tension that had permeated the air dispersing just as easily to her relief.
“You’ve got guts woman.” He remarked regally before returning his gaze to Yuuji, who had started walking over to the table with two plates of hot pancakes. And just like that, it felt as if a settlement had been reached with the King of Curses, Nobara certain that something had shifted in her acquaintanceship with Sukuna. In a good way though, she mused, lifting a piece of pancake to her mouth as she watched Sukuna prod Yuuji to feed him with an amused smile on her face.
“You can feed yourself Sukuna!” the boy had cried, struggling uselessly against the stronger curse who easily dragged him to sit by his side. “I need to finish preparing the other’s meals.” Yuuji insisted.
“They can starve.” Sukuna replied monotonously before successfully yanking Yuuji onto his lap, trapping the boy against the table and his broad chest. Yuuji huffed dramatically but nonetheless moved to feed the entity. And though it was still weird, their relationship, maybe… just maybe Nobara could get used to the King of Curses after all.
II. Fushiguro Megumi
Fushiguro Megumi liked to think nothing fazed him anymore these days. From the tender age of four, he’d already gone through it all – losing his family, being adopted by an eccentric Gojo, living as a sorcerer, you name it. Yet, even for an individual as desensitised to the horrors of life as himself, there was just something purely unnerving about Ryoumen Sukuna – the King of Curses – casually prowling about their school without a care in the world. As if the entity weren’t an existence their organisation had spent centuries plotting to kill for good. And yes, while both parties may have seemingly settled into a tentative state of peace for the time being, Megumi himself wouldn’t be forgetting or forgiving any of the despicable deeds Sukuna had inflicted upon the world and on his friends any time soon. Especially Yuuji.
Because how could he, when the memory of Yuuji’s death – heart torn out callously by the King of Curses and tossed aside like last week’s trash – still haunted his dreams on restless nights. The way Sukuna had held his best friend hostage – all while making a mockery of him – never failed to incite his rage. So Megumi made sure to keep it fresh in his mind, the anger a constant reminder on the vile cruelty Sukuna was capable of - and of what he had to lose. He wouldn't fail a second time. He would protect his friends – he would protect Yuuji – no matter what. Yet, despite the determination, it felt as if he had already fallen short on his promise to the boy - Sukuna having successfully shackled Yuuji to his side after his untimely resurrection despite no longer requiring the boy as a vessel.
It honestly made Megumi sick, having to swallow his protests as Yuuji was forced to accompany the entity around like some pet. The fact the King of Curses was even allowed to remain close to Yuuji after everything he had done truly didn’t sit right with the shadow user – even if the curse had supposedly undergone a change of heart towards his vessel and humanity. Not that many actually believed such a claim, Megumi himself incredibly dubious at Sukuna’s intentions. After all, it just simply didn’t add up, the way Sukuna’s relationship with Yuuji had developed from pure animosity to something resembling healthy.
But regardless of his own grievance with Yuuji and Sukuna’s continued association, Megumi wasn’t strong enough to make the curse disappear…at least not yet…so he was limited in options for the time being – begrudgingly accepting the presence of Sukuna despite the bitter taste it left in his mouth. Although it wasn’t completely without benefits at least.
Because as much as Megumi personally despised Sukuna, it was undoubtably the curse’s unforeseen return that had completely deterred the high council from getting too…boldly involved with Yuuji – the dirty geezers far too unscrupulous for their own good. And given the opportunity, Megumi knew they would easily release their unjust rage on his innocent friend, blaming Yuuji for Sukuna's resurrection rather than acknowledging the reality that he was merely a victim to the circumstances.
However with Sukuna around – and much more possessive of his vessel than before – any genuine protest or schemes from the high-ranking sorcerers were swiftly curbed. The King of Curses had very little patience for the weak after all; and had been ruthless in crushing the council’s long-standing authority to then expel the old fools permanently from their own Tokyo Headquarters – their absence a condition pointedly emphasised in Sukuna’s demands, lest he retract his current generosity and burn the surrounding city to ashes.
And despite the dangers that threat implied for the rest of them too – Sukuna prone to violence at leisure – it was still undeniably satisfying to watch the wrinkled sorcerers flee their school without a single uttered word, shaking in blatant fear. Though such comeuppance would have felt even better had he been permitted to attend the infamous hearing in the first place, Megumi always enthusiastic about any occasion to humble the high council.
Fortunately, Okkotsu-senpai had kindly agreed to keep him informed on the hectic affair – far more so than Gojo, who preferred to keep a tight lid on the situation. But based on Megumi's observation, the the man appeared rather at ease with the current arrangements - the strongest sorcerer uncaring that the very curse he was destined to kill ran free.
Though he supposed getting Yuuji’s execution revoked was the main concern for the most of them, Megumi eternally grateful that their time together was no longer under threat of being cut short. He had missed Yuuji and Nobara dearly in their time apart; and had been looking forward to spending their days together now that the danger constantly lurking around them had diminished.
So, it was truly such a shame, that he rarely got to see his friend despite their newly attained safety – Yuuji completely preoccupied with attending to the demanding curse at his side – burdened with the responsibility of dealing with Sukuna even as he escaped his fate as a vessel to the curse. It didn’t help that Sukuna was completely unwilling to cooperate with anyone beyond Yuuji, the entity absurdly fixated on his previous host for reasons no-one could comprehend.
And though it was mainly speculation at this point, if he had to identify a basis for when Yuuji’s situation with Sukuna began to flip, Megumi would undoubtedly choose the ‘Culling Games’ as a focus of investigation. It was during this incident, that something had changed in the circumstance between Yuuji and the Special Grade – and Megumi was left wondering about what exactly happened during that death tournament, when the enemy had successfully separated their group early on despite Okkotsu-senpai’s best efforts to keep them together.
His own attention had unfortunately been split at the time, focused on protecting Yuuji, saving his sister and releasing Gojo all at once, so he hadn’t been able to keep a closer eye on his friend. But it seemed during the small period he had been away from Yuuji, the boy and Sukuna clearly came to some sort of amicable agreement – which was questionable… if only because of Sukuna’s inherently malevolent nature.
Yet looking back on it, he assumed in the midst of it all, Sukuna was the only companion Yuuji had during his struggles alone. And they did say strife fostered bonds. He just never believed it to apply to curses as well. Regardless, despite Megumi’s burning interest in the events that had transpired on Yuuji’s end, he knew the boy didn’t enjoy speaking on it much. The culling game had been kind to no-one, and it was a miracle they all came out of it alive. So, if Yuuji didn’t wish to relive such unpleasant memories, then Megumi would respect those boundaries as a friend. Even if it meant repressing his natural curiosity.
Besides, there was at least comfort to be held in the fact the King of Curses did contribute heavily to defeating Kenjaku, ending the threat that had toppled their forces almost effortlessly. He could still recall the terrifying moment Sukuna had burst into the Kenjaku’s hidden lair, like a devil ascending from hell – the giant curse clutching an unconscious Yuuji in his arms. Megumi had felt his own heart stop at the sight, body crawling instinctively to reach his defenceless friend at the mercy of the monster. But he had been too weak to do much, sorely incapacitated from his earlier bout with Kenjaku – so Megumi could only lay and watch as Sukuna engaged the enemy, struggling to fight off the urge to close his eyes and rest.
From his faint memories, the battle had been short, Sukuna unstoppable now that he had returned to his former glory. The single formation of a familiar hand-sign, and an uttered ‘Malevolent Shrine’, and it had been over – for both Kenjaku and himself. The curse likely dragged into a painful demise within Sukuna’s domain and Megumi himself easily knocked unconscious, unable to resist the assault of Sukuna’s potent cursed energy in such an exhausted state.
He woke up much later, bandaged and hooked up to beeping machinery in the school’s infirmary – a tired looking Okkotsu-senpai at his side. It was there lying on that uncomfortable bed that was he was updated on all the chaos that had gone down in his absence – Sukuna’s confirmed victory over Kenjaku, Okkotsu-senpai’s gruelling endeavours to undo Gojo’s seal (which had thankfully been successful – the man only under surveillance for the time being due to the council’s stubborn insistence) and of course, the confounding situation between the newly resurrected King of Curses with Yuuji.
It had been a lot to take in, especially so soon after just returning to consciousness. Yet Megumi had been ready then and there to tear off the many tubes attached to his body and storm out to find Yuuji and Gojo – desperate to see his comrades alive and well. It was only at Okkotsu-senpai’s insistence (enforced by a terrifying Rika), did he remain in bed – ordered by his senior to recover first and reassured by the same man on the safety of his precious people.
Which was how he spent the next few days, restrained to bed as Shoko-sensei assessed his health, leaving Megumi unable to prevent the following upheaval that would occur at the hands of Sukuna. Honestly, it would have been slightly funny, if it were so incredibly infuriating, to realise how everything had bent to the will of the King of Curses after all. As the entity always said it would.
But just because he had to accept the current circumstances, didn’t mean he had to like it! Sukuna for one, was still as unbearable, arrogant, and spiteful as he was before his resurrection – when he used to merely exist as a mouth on the side of Yuuji’s cheek spitting snide remarks. The only real difference this time around, was the intense attachment the curse had seemingly developed towards Yuuji – Sukuna caging the boy at his side and monopolising every second of his friend’s free time.
Acting as if he hadn’t openly expressed his resentment towards the boy just a few months earlier. It was too much of a disconcerting switch in disposition in Megumi’s humble opinion – so forgive him if he was prone to a little suspicion. And his vigilance only proved necessary when Sukuna demanded the school reconstruct a section of its dorm for the King of Curses to occupy with Yuuji. Together. Alone. Something which had incensed Megumi to a ridiculous degree – because what? Had dragging Yuuji around throughout the day grown too dull for the king to organise such a ridiculous arrangement? Regardless, he didn’t trust the curse as a next-door neighbour, let alone as a roommate – and he refused to let Yuuji fall victim to it.
Yet despite his vehement protests, the school had gone ahead with the scheme – far too fearful of Sukuna’s wrath to truly deny the curse of what he wanted. Typical. The cowards had always been so willingly to throw Yuuji under the bus if it meant saving their own hides. Not that Megumi was willing to let them have their way without a fight, the teen swiftly confronting Gojo about the decision only to have the man explain that the final verdict would be made by Yuuji – Megumi certain now that their teacher was privy to some information unknown to the rest of them, for it was the only reason he could remain so calm at his student’s impending imprisonment with a curse.
And though he tried to appeal to Yuuji, insisted he stand his ground and call on Gojo-sensei to help them, his friend had only shot him a reassuring smile before agreeing to his new living conditions without a single complaint. Always too self-sacrificing for his own good, leaving Megumi powerless to help him. To make matters worse, it was if Sukuna could sense their frustration – the curse upping the ante with his behaviour and elevating just how far he could push his presence into their lives. Which was unbearable.
But with the sorcerer's organisation so insistent on maintaining the tentative peace – a peace which Yuuji sacrificed so much to achieve – it had been difficult for any of them to object any further. Regardless, that rationale still didn’t assuage the bitter jealousy of watching haplessly as Yuuji’s training sessions – once spent with them – was promptly seized by Sukuna as well. The curse insisting the boy had not a lick of talent, a problem only rectifiable by someone of Sukuna’s self-proclaimed calibre.
A proposition Gojo had assented to surprisingly enough, justifying the choice under the logic that if anyone were to know Yuuji’s potential, it would be the curse that had quite literally inhabited his body – their powers shared as one. Which had sounded ridiculous to him and Nobara, but he supposed their teacher expected them to be comforted by the knowledge he would be present at whatever training plan Sukuna cooked up. And to a certain degree, it was good to know Gojo hadn’t completely abandoned Yuuji to the wolves, but it did little to fix the actual glaring problem of Sukuna’s control issues - the curse now completely influencing Yuuji's life and cutting out his friends.
Thus almost inevitably, Megumi found himself spending more time with Maki, Inumatsu and Okkotsu-senpai as a result – which had put a noticeable damper in his mood.
So, it was a pleasant surprise when one morning, he was assigned a mission. With Yuuji. Not another stint with Nobara. But an actual goddamn mission with Yuuji – just the two of them alone, Sukuna for once not lingering around his friend like some vengeful spirit. Because make no mistake, even when Yuuji was deployed alongside their group for a more team-oriented mission, Sukuna would tag along – hovering around the boy while shooting snide remarks towards the rest of them. The curse commenting on their lack of talent the moment they struggled in the slightest against whatever enemy faced them – all while making sure that same enemy couldn’t even breathe the same air as Yuuji. Which was quite redundant for the boy’s development in Megumi’s opinion, not that Sukuna would care. Listening rights were only accessible to Yuuji after all.
Either way, he decided not to look a gift horse in its mouth and thanked the universe for the unexpected blessing – grateful to have secured much-missed time with his best friend. Though he did find Sukuna’s absence rather strange – his confusion blatant because Yuuji shot him a small and knowing smile.
“Sukuna’s out on his own mission with sensei.” He had explained. “Can you believe it? Gojo-sensei has been trying to get him involved in missions for months; but he’d turn it down every time!”
“I wonder what was different about this case.” Yuuji murmured, voice going soft. And Megumi couldn’t help but wonder the same. Sukuna wasn’t the type to work without an ulterior motive, self-serving in nature through and through. So what did he gain from undertaking a mission for the organisation he swore to level to the ground? Was it the money? Special Grade missions always paid well after all, and he assumed Sukuna was assigned one of that rank – too powerful to be wasted on clean up duty. But what in the world did a curse need money for?
It wasn’t like the school didn’t already cave to the curse’s every demand – too afraid of Sukuna’s wrath to ever deny him. And if anything, Megumi swore Sukuna had servants of his own working behind the scenes – handling any other needs the curse was unable to procure through Yuuji or the school. In fact, Megumi often spotted a white-haired individual traversing their temple grounds shrewdly, always heading to the area Megumi knew Sukuna preferred to lounge about. Hmm. Perhaps he should have his summon shadow the servant next time he pondered before turning to Yuuji, who had seemingly moved on from the topic of Sukuna – the boy grabbing at Megumi’s arm to drag him forward.
“Well, I’m sure Sukuna has his reasons.” Yuuji concluded, brushing off his curiosity without a care in the world. “Let’s just focus on our mission. Because man, it’s been so long since we last hung out like this…just the two of us.” Yuuji commented, scratching the back of his neck with a sheepish grin on his face.
“I’m actually a bit excited.” He admitted softly, his shy words filling Megumi’s chest with a strange warmth.
Yes. Yuuji was right. This was a rare chance to spend time together uninterrupted. And just like that, any apprehension regarding Sukuna and his suspicious activities dispersed from his mind, Megumi intent on enjoying the day out with Yuuji. After they exorcised the curse of course.
.
.
.
In the end, it had turned out to be a rather simple mission, the target curse executed rather swiftly. In fact, he was surprised Gojo would even assign two sorcerers to such a low-rank threat – but a part of him suspected the man had done so for his sake, their teacher surprisingly perceptive (and kind) when he wanted to be. In any case, it was an appreciated gesture, and Megumi noted to buy the man some sweets as he explored the local area with Yuuji – content with simply perusing the stores with his friend. It reminded him of the old days he supposed; before their lives went to shit and when their biggest concern was a juvenile Goodwill Match.
This nostalgia was only amplified when Yuuji begged him to summon his demon dogs – insisting he missed their adorable faces. A request Megumi had relented to of course, since the poor animals likely craved Yuuji’s presence as much as their owner – his friend undeniably better when it came to giving the dogs the cuddles they deserved. And certainly not because he was weak to Yuuji’s pleading face or anything.
And as predicted, his dogs had been ecstatic to see Yuuji, attacking the teen’s cheeks with affectionate licks and frenzied nuzzles. It made for an undeniably sweet sight, and Megumi could literally feel every bit of accumulated stress exit his body as he soaked in Yuuji’s charming company – realising once more just how greatly his friend contributed to their trio’s dynamic. It truly wasn’t the same without Yuuji he mused, the boy’s bubbly personality balancing out Nobara’s dominant confidence and his own cool-headed demeanour.
And to think this could possibly be snatched from them at any notice. Megumi frowned, the heavy realisation flooding his gut with concern as he processed the extent Sukuna had changed their lives upon his resurrection. He turned to his friend, suddenly determined to exploit their current privacy to ask what he’d been meaning to for months.
“Are you really okay, Itadori?” He questioned, expression grim as Yuuji turned to face him, a confused glint in his eyes at the sudden enquiry. Megumi coughed, realising just how aggressive he had sounded as he attempted to ease the stiffness of his posture – too unused to expressing concern so blatantly. Yuuji seemed to appreciate the sentiment nonetheless, relaxing as he moved to sit closer beside Megumi.
“Yeah. I’m good Fushiguro.” He confirmed, a small but genuine smile peeking onto his lips – his sincerity doing much to dispel the worry that had plagued Megumi for weeks. At least now, in this moment, he knew Yuuji was happy. Even if he still had his doubts that Sukuna wasn’t mistreating Yuuji in some way.
“And Sukuna?” He pressed on. “How is…everything with him…?”
“Hmmm, it’s been good.” Yuuji explained, a thoughtful look on his face. “He’s just as grumpy as ever. It’s also a bit weird, that he actually went on a mission with Gojo-sensei. But it’s nice too, I guess? I’m always telling him he needs to get out more. And I know Gojo-sensei could use the help managing cases. I do hope sensei’s not overworking himself! Should I bake him some sweets?” The boy rambled on, completely unaware of his straying focus, leaving the one issue Megumi truly cared about unaddressed.
“And Sukuna’s not... hurting you Itadori?” He probed, shifting to grasp the boy’s hand with his own, squeezing it in what he hoped came off as comforting. “You can tell me…if he is. I promise I’ll protect you Itadori. So please…” He urged, watching as Yuuji’s eyes widened at his honesty before settling in understanding. He smiled, rubbing a thumb over Megumi’s skin, tender and sweet.
“I promise I’m okay.” He insisted, squeezing back at Megumi’s hand. “I know you don’t trust Sukuna. And I haven’t forgotten what he’s done either… or what he’s capable of. But… I don’t know. Sukuna’s just different now, and if a bit of goodwill can stop any more bloodshed, then how could I possibly turn him away.” He stated, face subdued and contemplative, a rarity from his normally cheerful friend.
“I understand if you don’t want to be near Sukuna, but if we can all be friends…” He mumbled, red tinting his cheeks when he grew aware of how sappy he sounded. It was a cute look on Yuuji, and Megumi knew then and there that he’d lost the battle before it’d even started. He sighed, a defeated sound.
“I’m not going to make any promises on getting along. He’s an asshole.” Megumi declared gruffly, earning a loud chuckle from Yuuji who only nodded in agreement. “But if he’s not hurting you, then I guess I can continue to tolerate his existence a little longer.”
“Hehe. That’s all I ask for Fushiguro.” He teased, moving to embrace a flustered Megumi. “Oi, you’re heavy idiot!” He complained, gently shoving at his friend, but holding no real intention to displace the boy, enjoying Yuuji’s warmth. His dogs – unwilling to miss out on any cuddle time – hopped into the fray, toppling the both of them to the ground – Yuuji laughing all the while. The happy sound brought a small smile to Megumi’s own face, and for the first time in a long while, he felt truly at peace.
But soon enough, the sun began to wane, and the two sorcerers were forced to end their impromptu outing to make their way back to the school – Yuuji skipping the whole trek home. Megumi couldn’t help but shake his head at the teen’s exuberant energy, impressed but unsurprised that the boy still retained such spirit despite spending a whole day out. Megumi personally was looking forward to a nice warm bath in his room – worn out after having spent hours with his dogs slobbering all over them and desperate for some relaxation.
However, it appeared the universe had other plans for his evening, as the moment he and Yuuji turned into the hallway of the dormitory, another pair of familiar individuals sauntered in – Gojo and Sukuna having successfully completed their missions too based on the assured looks on their faces. Unsurprisingly, the duo was arguing as they had entered, but the quarrel was quickly dropped the second they registered Yuuji and Megumi in the hallway – Gojo perking up visibly when he spotted them, waving cheerfully. Sukuna on the other hand, made a straight beeline for Yuuji, every other existence going ignored by the curse the instant he noticed the boy.
Yuuji – likely used to this behaviour – merely skipped forward to meet Sukuna halfway, smiling like he had a thousand questions in mind. Which he probably did. Yet, the moment the curse drew near, the almost content mood he had been projecting vanished as a grim expression overtook his features – Sukuna scrunching his nose rudely as he slowed to a halt.
“Brat. What have you been up to while I was gone? “He questioned curtly, countenance both eerie and disgusted as his eyes roved Yuuji’s form. He walked closer and took a short sniff, a scowl forming on his lips when he finally pulled back. “You smell like mutt!” he accused angrily just as his gaze landed on Megumi, who had been trailing behind Yuuji for a while now.
And upon laying eyes on him, it was like a switch had been flipped. Sukuna’s face flattened ominously – and any hint of emotion previously displayed towards Yuuji swiftly vanished as a cold glint entered his eyes – the curse regarding Megumi with such prevalent distaste it almost permeated the air. Against his will, Megumi stiffened, just barely stifling the urge to take a step back at such a sinister aura. Instead, he willed his body to return the glare, lips thinning into a steely frown. At the mounting tension, Gojo was quick to intervene, attempting to both placate Sukuna while taking the heat off Megumi.
“I sent them on a mission today!” Gojo explained, disrupting their tense stare off with a lively clap. “Can’t have you stealing all the jobs, can we?” He joked casually, unfazed by the livid glare directed his way by the King of Curses, who appeared incredibly ruffled by the idea of Yuuji out on a mission on his own. Megumi was almost tempted to remind the curse that Yuuji had always been and would continue to be deployed as an independent sorcerer – whether Sukuna liked it or not. But his petty plans were hampered by an enthusiastic Yuuji, who was all too happy to go along with Gojo.
“Yep! Just you wait Sukuna. Those Special Grade missions will be mine soon!” he declared; fist pumped in the air. And while he supposed Sukuna had been humouring Yuuji’s personality as of late, it seemed the curse’s patience had suddenly run thin as Sukuna merely ignored the challenge, eyes still dangerously narrowed as he asked once again.
“Brat. Why do you smell like mutt?” He grounded out, eyes flickering from Megumi to Yuuji and then back – his demeanour blatantly threatening as a dark, blank look shadowed his features. Honestly, if Yuuji hadn’t been present at that moment, Megumi was certain Sukuna would have already started flaying his skin – the entity regarding him with a distinct malice that almost felt accusatory in nature, as if Sukuna believed himself to have been personally wronged by Megumi. Which if anything, should have been Megumi’s line!
But regardless, the encroaching danger was undeniable, and despite his friend’s insistence that Sukuna had changed – that he was safe to be around – the shadow summoner was still strongly tempted to pull Yuuji back in that moment. Fearful of the curse’s murderous disposition. He didn’t know what rampant assumptions were currently flittering through Sukuna’s head, but his growing rage was impossible to miss – and he refused to let Yuuji get caught in the crossfire should the curse suddenly choose to stop playing nice.
“Eh? I don’t smell bad, do I?” Yuuji asked, completely oblivious to the strained ambience that had built up around him. “Fushiguro let me play with his summons for a while, but they’re very clean! And cute! And they smell nice!” He insisted, apparently determined to defend the integrity of Megumi’s dogs in their absence.
And whilst Megumi didn’t think Sukuna was looking to hear about animal endeavours, it appeared those simple words had worked in calming the curse nonetheless – Sukuna relaxing as whatever information gleamed in Yuuji’s sentence appeased his anger. Almost fondly, the curse sighed before stepping forward, gripping Yuuji by his arm to pull him against his chest – the teen’s face tucked snugly against Sukuna’s shoulders as another arm wrapped around the boy.
“You smell like garbage brat.” He remarked snidely, hands roaming Yuuji’s body as the boy squirmed in his grasp. “Stop that tickles Sukunaaa!” Yuuji whined, but the curse refused to let up, rubbing his own face near Yuuji’s neck – almost as if he were…scenting him? Which sounded preposterous the moment Megumi thought it. Yet the only other time he’d seen an individual smother another to such an extent was well...with his own summons – when they decided to drown him in their smell after a good grooming session. It was a familiar behaviour for the shadow summoner, which was why his brain had recognised the habit so quickly.
But such occurrences were mainly experiences witnessed amongst his summons, animalistic in their nature. He honestly didn’t think it was a habit practiced beyond certain creatures, let alone Special Grade curses – not that he was claiming to be an expert on their ways, the powerful entities often beyond comprehension for humans.
Yet as he watched the near scandalous scene in front of him, Megumi felt an urge to turn away, cheeks turning a bright red at the almost intimate display. He felt a hard hand clamp his shoulder, Gojo suddenly at his side with a mischievous look on his face.
“Don’t mind, don’t mind!” he chortled with an amused smirk, nonchalant despite his student quite literally being manhandled by a Special Grade curse. And whilst Megumi generally preferred to show a more composed countenance around Gojo, he found himself unable to hide his confusion as he struggled to voice his words.
“Wha-why?” Megumi mumbled before trailing off, simply unable to process the current reality. Gojo must understood him regardless, as the man offered a sympathetic hum of agreement before nodding confidently. “It must be a curse thing. At least that’s what Yuuta thinks.” He comments. “Seems to me they’re quite the territorial type, aren’t they?” Which wow…was quite the understatement of the year in Megumi’s opinion, but he chose not to humour Gojo’s poor attempts at a lightening the mood.
“Well, I’m going to file quick report now – first time documenting one with the King of Curses and everything. I suggest you do the same with your own mission.” Gojo chirped before flickering away, leaving Megumi alone to fend for himself – the jerk.
And whilst the idea of leaving was tempting, he refused to do so without ensuring Yuuji was alright. Thus with trepidation in his heart, he turned back to the pair, only to release a sigh of relief when Sukuna appeared to have concluded majority of his scenting – the curse having finally loosened his tight embrace on Yuuji, who he assumed must be pouting at the mess made of his hair. However, besides the occasional fussing, Yuuji seemed perfectly unperturbed by Sukuna’s actions – a reaction which was both concerning and disturbing to Megumi.
God, in times like these, he wished Nobara were around – his fellow sorcerer much more in tune with the emotional aspects of life in comparison to Megumi. But based on his admittedly subpar knowledge, scenting tended to be a positive sentiment, right? So he supposed it at least proved to a certain extent, that Sukuna wasn’t actively out to harm Yuuji as the boy had claimed. At most, his friend would likely reek of Sukuna for an extended timeframe, only detectable for others with a sharp nose as well. (In other words, Panda).
But still, it was a rather strange way to mark their truce he thought, noting that he should perhaps read up further on the available behavioural studies of curses. Though that could wait until tomorrow – Megumi far too tired to deal with such headaches today. Because after a long outing with Yuuji – which included a sentimental discussion on their new lives and Sukuna – the young shadow user needed a break from the pair’s peculiar relationship.
So, with a weary grumble, he jogged off to find Gojo. But just as he hopped the window ledge (keen to make his escape), a gruff ‘much better’ from Sukuna reached his ear – piquing Megumi’s curiosity and prompting the young sorcerer to peek over his shoulder. There, he was met with the view of a very smug King of Curses, who appeared to be appraising his efforts in marking Yuuji. And whilst he could not see his friends face, for a moment Megumi couldn’t help but wonder what face the young boy must be making.
III. Gojo Satoru
He’d been hesitant to consent at first, when the King of Curses initially declared his intentions to assume control of Yuuji’s training – untrusting that the curse would treat his student right nor that he would properly keep him safe. But when Yuuji himself had seemed so intrigued by the idea, it had been hard for Satoru to say no – the sorcerer always so weak to the boy’s watery eyes and longing pouts.
And admittedly, while it was certainly a precarious call on his half – something he knew infuriated Megumi to a ridiculous degree too – Satoru would be sure to tag along to any training session to keep an eye on the pair. So technically, any overarching risk would be mitigated anyways. After all, Satoru would protect Yuuji no matter what – there was no doubt in that.
Besides, from a learning perspective, Satoru had always been a man driven by curiousity. And despite his wariness of the King of Curses, he too had been fascinated by the notion of a curse guiding a sorcerer – Sukuna surely a pool of knowledge considering the many centuries he’d lived. It was worth a shot to see the results he supposed, and if anyone were to know Itadori Yuuji’s capabilities inside out, it would be the very cursed that had resided in his body…right?
Regardless, there was no room for regret – and only time would tell if he’d made the right choice. Still, to think he would ever need to negotiate his student’s regime with a curse – how the times change. But at this point, such abnormal happenings were almost commonplace for Satoru – his life overhauled ever since returning from the prison realm. Though he guessed it did go to show, that even the strongest could falter under the right circumstances – and that this uninspiring world still had some surprises left to challenge his capabilities.
After all, not once did he ever anticipate that he would vouch for Sukuna against the higher-ups. Though he supposed that was more for Yuuji’s sake than the curses’ anyways. And while he may hold no fondness for Sukuna, Satoru wasn’t one to ignore such a convenient opportunity to secure Yuuji’s safety.
Because as much as it sucked to acknowledge so, Sukuna’s presence did provide a more…subtle method of interfering with the council’s plans – one that didn’t jeopardise his commitments to the jujutsu world. And well…with Sukuna’s authority, it wasn’t hard for the curse to bend the council to his will – banishing the old coots from their own Tokyo Temple and turning the sorcerer’s school into his new humble abode.
The whole incident had been quite the entertaining experience in Satoru's opinion, and quickly became the talk of the jujutsu world for days as well – Satoru’s own memory of the infamous dismissal still fresh in his mind. He had only recently been freed at the time – still recovering from the whole prison realm ordeal. Yet there had been no room in his schedule for rest at all as he found himself dragged into a whole debacle of problems upon his return. The main complication ending up with him dragged to the grand temple halls after a short stint under confinement.
There he was met with the sight of a fuming set of council members along with an apologetic Yuuta. Satoru himself was still reeling over the atrocities that had occurred during his forced absence – Nobara’s damaged eye, Inumaki’s missing arm, Maki’s scars and…and Nanami’s passing – so he had been rather short-tempered that week.
And whilst he was in no mood to deal with the higher-ups and their attitude at the time, even he knew the significance of the tribunal – briefed by Yuuta on the precarious situation they found themselves in and on the necessity of a successful negotiation. Yuuji’s freedom was at stake after all. And he refused to fail his students ever again – so he had bit back his rage and attended with a pleasant smile on his face. Besides, he at least had Yuuji’s face to look forward to seeing, the strongest sorcerer fuming after he had first been denied visitation rights by Yuuta (and by extension Sukuna.)
His fellow Special Grade sorcerer had told him it was pointless to try – high risk too – as the King of Curses was not permitting anyone into the section of the school he had commandeered. Unwilling to expose Yuuji to what he deemed was unnecessary. Only Shoko had been allowed into the premises, and that was strictly under the guise of monitoring Yuuji’s health – the woman expected to be in and out quick. And though his student was supposedly healthy and happy according to the healer, Satoru had been determined to see Yuuji for himself.
For how was he meant to believe the manifestation of pure evil was actively keeping his sweet student from harm? The last time he’d seen the two interact, their relationship had been more than hostile – with Sukuna ready to kill Yuuji himself should the opportunity arise. In fact, he’d already done so once! And yet they really expected Satoru to leave his precious student alone with said beast? Not a chance.
And despite the increased surveillance placed on him by the high council upon his release – the bastards keen to keep him in check, fearful of their diminishing control – Satoru had been ready to defy all orders to go find Yuuji. Only Yuuta’s untimely interference had given him some pause, not that the young sorcerer was capable of truly stopping him – Satoru completely outclassing the boy despite his talents.
“Do you actually think you or he could stop me if I really wanted to see Yuuji?” He had grounded out, frowning at the wary form of Yuuta before him – the second year not quite drawing his sword but certainly prepared to should it become necessary. And whilst Satoru would never harm his beloved student, his patience had long since run thin by then, and the sorcerer was determined to speak to Yuuji – whether Yuuta stood aside peacefully, or he had to force him to yield.
“I don’t know sensei.” Yuuta had replied, holding firm despite the undeniable disparity in their strength. He’d always respected that about the boy, his effortless cool demeanour under any situation. “But what I do know is that you’d both destroy half the city before any resolution can be reached. Would you really do that sensei? After everything this city has already been through?” He questioned; words not necessarily an accusation towards Gojo’s occasional disregard for collateral but still hurtful all the same.
“This appeal is our one chance sensei. We’ll all see Itadori-kun soon. I assure you on my life, he is safe. But for now, we need to focus on settling on an agreement, before Sukuna decides it’s no longer worth the effort.” Yuuta insisted. Apparently, it had taken a near miracle to stop Sukuna from spiriting Yuuji away the day Kenjaku had fallen – only Yuuta’s quick thinking and astute words having barely convinced the curse to consider an alternative solution – for Yuuji’s sake.
And though they may have been granted Sukuna’s time, the King of Curses had also only given them 2 weeks to prepare their case – the entity just willingly to humour an appeal once, and once only. Which had certainly put the pressure on Yuuta, who not only had to secure the council’s participation, but organise a temporary abode for the King of Curses to occupy while, of course, continuing the efforts in unsealing Satoru from his prison.
The fact the young sorcerer had even achieved all those objectives despite the limited assistance on hand – Megumi unfortunately down for the count – had been a true testament to his immense talents, Satoru grateful for the boy’s unending devotion and effort. He without doubt had chosen the right individual to leave in charge should he ever be incapacitated.
And although the logical side of him recognised the tremendous responsibility Yuuta had shouldered on his behalf – too much for someone so young – his growing frustrations at the situation, and more importantly at himself, had left him feeling spiteful all the same.
“You seem rather chummy with a curse.” He had commented coldly – the remark made without thought, but one he couldn’t take back as the condemnation was left hanging in the air. Immediately, Yuuta stiffened, and Satoru knew his words had hit its mark, the boy frowning in return. He never did take well to implications of disloyalty.
“Well, you weren’t there, sensei. I had no choice.” He retorted, his own accusation ringing loud. Then, a pause, as if he regretted the words. “I- things have changed since you were sealed, sensei. But please, trust me on this.” He had plead; and hadn’t that made Satoru feel like a load of hot garbage. Yuuta had gone above and beyond for his sake, keeping his students safe while he sat around unable to do anything despite his title of the strongest. Yet he chose to repay the boy with his harsh words and judgement instead – too caught up in his own frustrations.
Satoru deflated, the fight visibly leaving his body as he sighed. Charging into the situation bullheadedly like he did at Shibuya would contribute nothing – and he was done failing his students. Yuuta must have sensed his dejection, as the boy offered him an apologetic smile, promising to provide any updates regarding Yuuji the moment he received them. A small but compassionate consolation. Honestly, the second year was far too kind for his own good, and Satoru vowed to repay him heftily in the future – but as for now, he would trust Yuuta’s lead and judgement.
Which had turned out to be the right call after all, seeing as the final outcome had worked out in everyone’s favour to a degree. And as a satisfying bonus, they were able to witness the council receive some much-deserved retribution too.
The old men had been far too reassured at the beginning, seated on their stands and muttering beneath their breath as they awaited Sukuna’s arrival, haughty as they issued commands to the two Special Grade sorcerers present in the room – very conveniently ignoring the fact they had ordered Satoru to be abandoned in his prison realm to rot away. As if he hadn’t sacrificed everything for this damn organisation.
Only his students had refused to give up on his rescue – far too kind and loyal despite being raised by someone so twisted like himself – but they had suffered greatly for their devotion, Yuuji in particular hunted like an animal on the orders of the council. Just the thought of it rekindled his fury, and he turned to eye the higher ups once more, lips dipping into a frown. It would be so easy he thought, to cease their existence this instance, silence their incessant barking once and for all. They were just so needlessly loud after all.
“This is ridiculous. We should just kill them already!” Satoru heard them shout; their wrinkled faces twisted in rage as Yuuta tried endlessly to appease the men for what must have been the hundredth time that week. “To even consider the demands of a curse is blasphemous! And you call yourselves Special Grade sorcerers? It’s embarrassing!” They derided.
It sent a scowl to his face, hearing their selfish words. If they expected him to abandon Yuuji to his death alongside the King of Curses, then they had another thing coming. He had long reached the end of his patience with the geezers, and though he may have restrained himself now for the sake of both Yuuji and Yuuta, Satoru would no longer turn a blind eye to the council. He was through humouring their games; and planned to deal with the meddling nuisances accordingly the moment the tribunal was over – that is, if he didn’t just snap now and end them on the spot. Thankfully, before their noisy voices could grate on his nerves any further, the doors to the temple haul slammed open – a beast of a man walking through the entrance, accompanied by a slighter more feminine looking servant at his side.
The King of Curses had finally arrived it seemed.
Satoru smirked, observing the infamous entity with visible interest as Sukuna sauntered further into the hall. He made for a rather impressive sight Satoru had to admit, easily towering over every individual in the room with his fearsome height, the horror only exacerbated by his four massive arms and almost blood red eyes. And though Sukuna may have curbed his violent inclination for the time being, it didn’t stop the curse’s malicious and hostile power from permeating the air either – overbearing and oppressive.
Yuuta had been right to avoid conflict he thought. Because even with an assured victory – Satoru confident in his ability to win – it certainly wouldn’t be easy. The casualties incurred would go against everything they as sorcerers worked to protect – though he supposed morality had never been a priority for the higher ups, willing to sacrifice anything should the outcome advance their agenda. How they planned to manipulate this precarious of a situation however, Satoru was curious to know.
His gaze returned to the council, interested to see their reactions. Almost expectedly, the elder men had fallen silent in a heartbeat at Sukuna’s appearance, their unease blatant as they finally seemed to grasp the danger present before them. After all, no amount of heritage or prestige would save them from the King of Curses – and for Satoru, such a realisation from the arrogant bastards was utterly cathartic to behold. He grinned, mood lifting as he turned to face Yuuta, who had stood to call attention.
With all parties finally in attendance, the negotiations could begin.
“You have our gratitude for the audience today.” The second year greeted, stepping up to speak on their group’s behalf since he was the most determined one there to see the conference end in success. The elders had merely looked on in disdain, having seemed to regain their nerves once they recalled the presence of Satoru and Yuuta in room.
“Lord Sukuna has come bearing his demands.” The feminine servant replied, completely disregarding Yuuta’s polite welcome to jump straight to negotiations. Yuuta nodded, unperturbed by the upfront behaviour, but the same could not be said for the higher ups, who visibly bristled at the words. They were a prideful bunch, and Sukuna’s sheer dismissive attitude and refusal to address them himself had likely scuffed their ego. Not that Satoru could really blame the curse – he too wasn’t one for false pretences of armistice either.
Instead, the powerful sorcerer found himself paying little attention to the proceedings, too preoccupied with scanning the other party in the room – eyes searching for a sign of pink hair. Yuuta had promised him Yuuji would be present today. Yet, he hadn’t spotted the boy at all when the curses had entered, and he didn’t appear to be arriving late either.
Then, just as Satoru began to believe he had been duped, a familiar face peeked out from Sukuna’s side, looking about curiously. Yuuji his mind supplied as his eyes simply worked to memorise the sight of the boy – his fears fading away as he finally managed to glimpse the teen he had been so keen to see for days. His student appeared relatively healthy he noted, a small smile making its way onto his face, though it was hard to be sure due to the manner Sukuna obscured him from view – his bulk and robes hiding Yuuji away.
But even with those obstructions, Yuuji still managed to catch his gaze, smiling excitedly as he waved at his teacher. Yet, before the teen could move forward to better greet Satoru, a muscled arm pulled him back, preventing the boy from stepping forth any further.
“Brat, what did I say about staying put?” Sukuna rumbled, his voice no louder than a hushed murmur but still silencing the room all the same with its authority, tension palatable in the air. “You agreed to the terms to be present today, and you will abide by them.” The curse continued, untroubled by the disruption he had caused.
And for a moment, Satoru couldn’t help but wonder what the entity meant by terms; but his focus quicky shifted to Yuuji when the boy visibly pouted, deflating a little in disappointment but ultimately remaining put in his spot. An uncharacteristic acquiescence from the normally defiant boy. He grimaced, mind immediately beginning to fill with concerning scenarios. Had Sukuna threatened him? Beat him into submission? He wouldn’t put it pass the violent curse. But just as he opened his mouth to protest, ready to challenge the curse on his regulation of Yuuji’s free will, a particularly bold council member cut him off with a snide remark.
“Filth!” He spat, glare trained on Yuuji as he spoke, but it was obvious the target of his words wasn’t only the boy, clearly meant to address all curses in the room. The fool. Poor Yuuta visibly tensed at the outburst, hands moving to his katana in preparation for disaster as Sukuna slowly appraised the council with a disinterested sneer – like they were the dirt beneath the soles of his shoes.
“How the times change, yet you sorcerers remain as pathetic as ever.” He scorned, seemingly done with his cursory judgement of the elder men as he turned his attention back to Yuuji in clear dismissal. And had Satoru been in a better mood, he might have chuckled at the callous verdict – the council never did change – but instead his gaze remained firm on Yuuji, who had shrunken in on himself to hide behind Sukuna. The downcast expression on the student’s normally adorable face made Satoru want to run up and hug the boy – console him with the best clothes, toys and sweets money could buy before blasting the higher ups into smithereens for ever making the innocent child believe he was anything but perfect.
But with the situation quickly escalating, any sudden movement from him would only lead to trouble, so Satoru bit back his urge to smother Yuuji and instead directed his ire at the council men – who had only gained more confidence at Sukuna’s stayed hand.
“You dare!!!” They screeched, leaning forward to undoubtedly bite back before Yuuta stepped in – Rika hovering just above his shoulder now as he silenced the higher ups. “Please sir, let us first hear their terms before we debate.” He reasoned, signalling Sukuna’s servant to read from the ancient looking scroll it had brought forth. A pact...? Satoru mused, eyeing the cursed-imbued item in the servant’s hand – well then, it appeared whatever conditions Sukuna proposed, he intended them to keep with no room to retract.
“Lord Sukuna has graciously chosen to spare humanity.” He began, voice soft but affirmative as he laid out the rules to their pact. “Should you sorcerers abide to the following conditions.”
It was an appealing proposition – offering an opportunity to secure the safety of humanity in an instant. At least, in theory. Satoru wasn’t actually naïve enough to believe it came without a price. Or some form of loopholes. But he made no move to protest, curious to see how negotiations would play out.
The servant went on to list a multitude of demands, from the council’s relinquishment of their authority over the temple grounds to their banishment from the district of Tokyo. And a few other little details he would need to review in time. But in general, they were all arrangements Satoru was more than thrilled to agree to. It was only when they brought up Yuuji, did his amusement begin to falter. Under the same proposition, his student would undeniably remain within Sukuna’s jurisdiction, and were anyone to challenge that status, the curse would consider their pact void and retaliate with his full power.
Satoru frowned. So at the end of the day, it all hinged on Yuuji it seemed, Sukuna’s pact more centred on keeping the boy by his side above all else. It made his eyebrows furrow, untrusting of Sukuna’s intentions for such an absurd decision. What purpose did he have in possessing Yuuji? He had achieved his desired reincarnation, so a vessel was no longer necessary. Then was it a hostage declaration directed solely at Satoru – seeing as he was the only real threat to Sukuna’s reign? It certainly made sense he supposed, especially since he would never actively choose to put Yuuji in harm’s way, at least not without confidence in his ability to save him from it. But regardless, this was heading into territory he did not approve of, and it needed to be stopped. Satoru spoke up, the first words he had offered since the hearing had started.
“And we’re just to believe you’ll keep Yuuji safe?” He questioned. “Or that your intentions with him are innocent? Your other conditions are acceptable, but Yuuji is to be returned to us.” He argued, his tone leaving little room for protest as he turned to gaze at his student yet again. He wouldn’t abandon him, he swore on his life, nor would he fail him or any of his students any longer.
“Sensei…” Yuuji mumbled, looking at him in awed shock before Sukuna obstructed him from view once more. “Denied.” Rumbled the curse, scowling in annoyance as he returned Satoru’s glare whole-heartedly. “The boy remains by my side, or the deal is off, and I simply kill everyone in this room.” He threatened.
“Sukuna!” Yuuji yelped, looking both horrified and affronted at the same time. “He didn’t mean that sensei!” The boy insisted. “Please don’t worry about me. I’m fine! Please think about the rest of the world, this deal can save so many lives!” He proclaimed, genuine in his urging even if it saddened Satoru nonetheless. Yuuji would always put the lives of other above himself no matter what it seemed, ready to sacrifice his freedom once again to the King of Curses in a bold bid to save the world.
“You dare to call for such demands!” interrupts the same council man from earlier. “The fact you stand here – a traitor and a whore to the King of Curses – is evident of your sins!” He screeched; finger pointed rudely at Yuuji – who merely flushed at the vulgar accusation. “Know your place! You should be grateful we haven’t executed you on the spot!”
And just like that, Satoru felt his body stand on its own, pure fury resonating throughout his frame as he clenched his fists. He should kill them – right here, right now. He couldn’t let them walk out of here alive, not after what they dared to imply. Of who they dared to threaten. Just how many times would these corrupt bastards continue to blame the innocent he raged – sacrificing lives one after the other?
For them to sit there and accuse his sweet, precious student of treason was vile, and he didn’t wish to see the hurt expression on Yuuji’s face any longer. He’d end them, now. Responsibility as the strongest sorcerer be screwed. Besides, he could always take lead of the organisation should the deaths of the elders truly cause issues – at least until they found an appropriate replacement.
With his mind made up, Satoru moved to channel his cursed energy, watching Yuuta keenly as the boy would surely be the first to try and stop him. And though Satoru could take him, he preferred to keep any potential injuries inflicted on the teen to a minimal. Yet before he could fully form his signature hand gesture, a loud and haunting shriek cut through the air.
“Ahhhhhhh!” The contemptuous council man howled, clutching at the stump that used to be his arm in both disbelief and agonising pain. The rest of limb lay limp on the floor, blood splattering the once clean wood surrounding it.
“Lower your voice, vermin.” Commanded Sukuna coldly. “And don’t think you can address what is mine so casually. Or it’s your tongue I’ll take next.”
“Sukuna!” Yuuji cried, clutching onto the curse’s robes as if it would hold him back, a horrified look on his face at the violence Sukuna had just committed. On Yuuji’s behalf too, Satoru couldn’t help but note. Ignoring the ruckus around him – the higher ups divided between helping their fallen member and kicking a fuss – Satoru felt the prior agitation in his body unwound as his mind raced to make sense of the scene that had just transpired. Because things were definitely not adding up.
His gaze flickered to the King of Curses, who appeared awfully nonchalant despite just effortlessly dismembering another’s arm – Yuuji now actively smacking the entity in indignation at his callous disposition. And under most circumstances, Satoru would have immediately dragged the boy away, then reprimand him for his hazardous stunt despite knowing the fickle nature of the King of Curses. Yet this time, Satoru contained the urge to shield his student in lieu of examining the pair’s odd interaction – fascinated.
Sukuna did not swat the boy away for infringing on his person as Satoru initially expected. Instead, the curse looked to be amused by Yuuji’s efforts – smirking as he moved to gently flick the teen’s forehead. The action was relaxed, almost teasing, and Satoru felt his brows dip in bewilderment at the familiarity between the two. Surely the world couldn’t have changed that significantly in his absence. Because this was certainly new.
Mentally, he took a step back and analysed the information he already knew. The last time he checked, Yuuji and Sukuna did not have a good relationship. Yet now, the King of Curses was clearly invested in his ex-vessel – that much Satoru could confirm. The reasons for Sukuna’s investment on the other hand, was a complete mystery to the sorcerer. Satoru had initially assumed it to be of nefarious purposes, but when he recounted the last few hours in his head, he couldn’t help but notice the strange timing of Sukuna’s interference.
The King of Curses had been completely disinterested since his arrival, content to leave the negotiations to his servant – likely deigning the sorcerers unworthy of his time and attention. Yet, the moment the council had directly addressed Yuuji – threatened him – Sukuna had snapped to action. It was almost as if he were…defending the boy. But why? Satoru mused, bringing a hand to his chin as he mulled over the puzzle. Did Yuuji perhaps play a more important role to Sukuna’s schemes than he thought? It would explain his interest in keeping the teen safe and by his side…
“You!” A council member yelped, pulling Satoru from his ruminations as he stared at the finger pointed his way. “Standing around as this beast threatens the safety of these sacred grounds! Do something! Get rid of these creatures now!” He demands, waving his arms wildly and Gojo almost chuckles.
Time was running out – a settlement would need to be made soon. Personally, Satoru didn’t mind Sukuna’s demands per say – his only displeasure being the curse’s monopoly of Yuuji. If the other party could concede to certain liberties pertaining to Yuuji, permitting the teen to engage with his friends, and of course, granting their group the rights to come by – Satoru could be convinced to part with his approval. He wasn’t completely void of rationale after all, even if he did have a high investment in Yuuji’s safety. And in an unconventional way, this could work to benefit their side just as greatly.
It would be a risky call of course, but one that could pay off nicely if they pulled it off properly. He grinned slyly, stepping closer into the fray. Besides, it was a win in Satoru’s eyes if they secured both the city’s safety and the elders’ withdrawal. And Yuuji would additionally remain safe within the school grounds – admittedly well protected from any underhanded assassination attempts by the council in the company of the King of Curses. And as an added bonus, the higher would be less capable of sticking their damn noses into Satoru’s own business too. The choice was obvious.
Calmly, he removed his mask, revealing crystalline blue eyes as he stared Sukuna down. The curse doesn’t yield a single inch to the pressure, only shifting to push Yuuji behind his giant form – the boy visibly shaken as he murmured a soft and hurt ‘sensei.’ It made his heart clench, guilt churning in Satoru’s gut at falsely scaring his student, but he needed the message to land.
“Hmmmm, I don’t mind a good fight.” He deliberated light-heartedly, tapping his chin thoughtfully before dropping into a more battle-ready stance. “But don’t blame me if I end up killing you too.” He warned the room forebodingly, ensuring the council caught his bloodthirsty expression. And just like that, the dark implications seemed to click in their tiny brains – the men stumbling back in fear, shaking at the realisation that a conflict between the two most powerful beings in the world would only mean definitive death for those nearby – regardless of the winner.
“I say this is pretty sweet deal.” Satoru quipped, relaxing his frame. “With a few adjustments from our end of course!” His little suggestion earnt him a scowl from Sukuna, but he brushed it off to address the council once more. “The King of Curses spares us oh so poor humans – and you even get a nice new office in Kyoto.” He jokes, evoking their soon to be banishment from Tokyo. And at his words, the council men falter, the impending dissipation of their long-standing authority beginning to sink in for the poor fools. Satoru’s smirk was practically maniacal.
They turned desperately to Yuuta, as if the boy would change the outcome in any way, but his fellow Special Grade merely grimaced. There would be no ally in this room.
“You-you planned this!” They stuttered. “You’ve gone and conspired with these… these curses! Do you think you can get away with this!?
“Now, now. Settle down, wouldn’t want to trigger a heart attack or anything old man.” Satoru jibed, cackling. “Surely your age has gotten to you? Think carefully about who you’re trying to accuse of treason here. Why would I, Gojo Satoru, wielder of the Six Eyes, ever need to conspire with a curse? I’m the strongest after all.” He stated, any humour now completely erased from his form.
“From my point of view, it’s the ones who refuse to adhere to peace, that are the real threat to us all isn’t it?” Satoru accused, his own aura now combining with Sukuna’s to dominate the room. And against such fearsome compulsion, what other choice did the poor bastards have but to agree to the pact. After Satoru wheedled his own conditions in of course. It wasn’t the best; but it would have to do. He’d figure out another plan to free Yuuji from his cursed warden soon.
And hence, the tension-filled hearing came to a close, the council each pressed to sign their name in blood on the pact – Sukuna having supposedly already filled his part prior during the contract’s preparation. Satoru noticeably stood aside during the process – engrossed in an intense staring match with the King of Curses. He highly doubted it was Sukuna’s own blood on that scroll, but needless allegations during the crux of negotiations would only stir trouble. One threat at a time, Satoru reasoned, one threat at a time.
Once the council had scribed down their names, they rushed to leave the grounds – eager to depart in case Sukuna decided his patience had run thin. More sorcerers would likely come over the next few days to relocate their belongings Satoru assumed, but the earlier they left, the better. He sighed, turning to the weary-looking Yuuta in solidarity. The second year simply shot him a thankful smile, likely grateful for his input which had ultimately turned the abysmal negotiations around, and he returned the gesture with a cheeky thumbs up. Ordering his ex-student to go and finally get some well-deserved sleep – the rest could be sorted later – Satoru jogged to catch up to the exiting King of Curses, who had a nervous Yuuji in tow.
“Yo!” He greeted, tone casual and friendly – as if he weren’t addressing a group of highly dangerous curses. “Sensei!” Yuuji chirped, his prior downcast look gone as he threw himself onto Satoru, wrapping him in a tight but loving hug. It knocked the air out of him, but he couldn’t find it in himself to put the boy down, only squeezing back firmly as he spun his student around.
How he missed this. God how long had it even been since he last truly enjoyed some time with any of his students. Yuuji was already a bit heavier he noted, indicative of the growth spurt he must have hit while Satoru was missing. It made his heart both swell and clench, especially when he spotted the distinct scars marking the teen’s face that hadn’t been there before.
Instinctively, his mind flickered back to Nobara, who he had visited in the infirmary when he’d been notified of her condition. The girl was undergoing rehabilitation exercises when he had stopped by, looking up to flash the grizzly scar running across one of her eyes. He faltered at the sight, and Nobara slapped a hand to the mark, hiding it automatically as she lectured him on his bad manners – knock before you enter a lady’s room she had yelled – but Satoru could only laugh weakly as he nodded.
Gods, the suffering his students had gone through while he was incapacitated. It triggered the need in him to wrap them up – all of them – swab them in a warm blanket and stow them away, locking the door and tossing the key so that nothing in the world could ever lay its hand on them. Because he might just completely lose it if he failed another person so precious to him.
And perhaps Yuuji had sensed that trepidation, because the sweet child raised a hand to his cheek, peering at him with worried honey brown eyes. Yet, before he could return the concern with a reassuring grin of his own – a strong arm unceremoniously yanked Yuuji from his grasp – Sukuna casting a vicious scowl his way.
“Keep your hands off what’s mine!” The curse growled, earning an annoyed twitch from Satoru. “I don’t recall Yuuji ever becoming yours?” He rebutted, reaching for his student before Yuuji ripped himself from Sukuna’s grasp and stepped away from the pair.
“You two! We just reached an agreement, and you’re already fighting?” Yuuji cried, cheeks puffing up into his signature pout – the one that made Satoru want to pinch his cheeks and squeeze. “I can’t believe it! And you! Sukuna you promised you’d try!” He whined; hands placed on his hips like a scolding mother. Cute…his Yuuji was just too cute…
Immediately, the prior agitation in the air vanished with Yuuji’s abrupt admonishment, and Satoru turned to appraise Sukuna, who appeared vexed but ultimately acquiescent. How utterly bizarre he mused. This would require further observation without doubt. He needed to unravel the King of Curse’s sudden patience for Yuuji, and whether it could be twisted into something beneficial for his student. He grinned, patting Sukuna on the shoulder before the curse twisted away with a snarl.
“Come on now. Let’s have bygones be bygones!” He chirped, stuffing his hands into his pockets to imitate a relaxed posture. “After all, can’t say I’m not impressed with your earlier display! Not many people can knock the council off their high horses so easily.” He complimented, garnering him an approving nod from Yuuji – even if Sukuna himself was not so receptive of the strained praise. But Satoru had always been talented at ignoring other’s chagrin, so he soldiered on.
“Guess we’ll be working together quite closely from now on, yes?” He teased, winking beneath his cloth.
.
.
.
Which funnily enough, ended up being far from wrong, seeing as how they were both currently situated atop a hill, monitoring Yuuji as the boy battled a semi-Grade 1 curse below. It was a test of sorts, to gauge the teen’s growth after months of training his cursed energy back into shape. And so far, so good, even if Satoru found his attention straying to the enigma of a curse off to the side.
He hadn’t been sure what to expect after the formation of a pact with the King of Curses, but the following months had certainly been uncanny. As anticipated, there were some bumps here and there at the beginning, especially regarding boundaries and living space. But overall, despite collective suspicion from all around, Sukuna did surprisingly adhere to the terms of the pact – and not a single soul in or out of their school had been harmed…at least not yet. And whilst he couldn’t say he fully trusted the infamous King of Curses, the same caution from early weeks was no longer as potent these days – Satoru almost accustomed to the entity’s presence from sheer exposure alone.
Though what was disconcerting however, was Yuuji and Sukuna’s new dynamic. Of course, Satoru had recognised from the get-go that something in their unusual relationship had shifted during his time in the prison realm, but he had initially attributed the change to more nefarious reasonings and purposes. Yet the more time went on, the less his theory proved to be credible – Sukuna seemingly content with the current equilibrium, granted that Yuuji was never too far from his side.
In all honesty, it made Satoru feel a bit displaced, as if his position in Yuuji’s life was under jeopardy. After all, the King of Curses wasn’t satisfied with only hoarding Yuuji’s regular hours – he made sure to encroach on the boy’s training regime as well. In fact, Sukuna was fiercely territorial of the boy, a trait he knew bothered both Megumi and Nobara to a great degree – the pair constantly whining whenever Yuuji was pulled from yet another mission on Sukuna’s demand. And in all fairness, Satoru had to agree. The curse was indeed taking his fixation to a level that wasn’t quite normal…or healthy.
It was reaching a point where Satoru could actually count the few times he managed to touch Yuuji this month on one hand – which was seriously a hate crime! Yuuji was the only one of their bunch to reciprocate his affections after all! But whenever he would approach the boy, either to ruffle his hair or give him a quick hug, Sukuna would be by his side in an instant – slapping Satoru’s hand away with enough force to dislocate his wrist had he failed to keep infinity active.
“Your hands are filthy. Do keep them to yourself, six eyes.” Sukuna had scorned, realising he could avoid Yuuji’s ire by coating his orders as casual jibes – his student stubbornly set on the notion it was Sukuna’s ‘way of showing affection sensei.’ But the message was clear. Don’t touch. A command bordering on protective – a notion Satoru was beginning to associate more and more with Sukuna – the overgrown guard dog he snarked.
Not that one could tell now with the way the curse was currently cackling at Yuuji’s struggles – his student under hot pursuit by the semi-Grade 1 curse. Deftly, the boy dodged its sharp claws, showcasing a level of speed and flexibility that never ceased to impress Satoru – Yuuji striking back when feasible with a few well-placed hits of his own too.
“Come on brat! This is pathetic even for you!” Sukuna taunted, a mocking smirk on his face as he observed the fight. Satoru personally thought the curse’s judgement was a bit harsh – Yuuji actually doing quite well for a boy who just recently recovered from the physical and spiritual exertion of having a curse ripped from his soul. The fact he was even taking on a semi-Grade 1 alone spoke of the dedication and grit the young teen had put into his training over the last few months – unwilling to fall behind his friends.
And though there was some work still to be done to get him back to peak condition, Satoru trusted Yuuji to succeed. He had faith in the boy. He would win against this semi-Grade 1, so Satoru kept his focus on the real anomaly at the moment – Sukuna. The sorcerer had long come to accept his possessive disposition towards Yuuji – but the real mystery was why? What did Sukuna feel towards the boy? Even now he struggled to grasp the true motive of the King of Curses, the entity switching between ridiculing and guarding the teen.
And like lightning, his conversation with Yuuta a few days prior to the mission flashed in his mind, a constant reminder of what could potentially be developing before their eyes – should Satoru actually acknowledge the ludicrous idea.
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.
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“Hmmm. You seem to be hanging out with Yuuji more often lately.” Satoru had commented, noticing the friendly way Yuuta had waved goodbye at the boy before meeting Satoru where he waited against a wall.
“You think?” The second year replied, a small smile to his face. “I’m glad if that’s the case. Itadori-kun is a sweet boy.” He complimented; an opinion Satoru wholeheartedly agreed with. “I guess I just want to make sure everything is okay with him.” Yuuta explained, ruffling his dark locks sheepishly. “He is very much like Rika and I.”
Hmmm. Satoru supposed he could see the logic in that. If anyone were to understand the difficulties of cohabiting with a curse, it would be Yuuta. But at the same time, the second year’s situation was rather different to Yuuji’s as well. Because though Sukuna and Rika were both Special Grades in their own rights – one wasn’t exactly a lovesick entity pacified by the presence of its beloved, which he didn’t hesitate to point out to his fellow sorcerer.
“The semantics are similar I guess, but I would hardly say it’s the same. You and cute little Rika get along so much better after all, my little lovebirds!” He teased, bopping Yuuta on the nose and skipping away just to fluster the reserved boy a bit. But when the second year did not deign him with a reply as he normally would, Satoru turned to meet Yuuta’s serious gaze.
“No sensei, they’re like us.” He asserted, voice not once wavering – and perhaps it was the gravity behind his tone that forced Satoru to rethink his stance, but the hidden implications simply clicked into place for Satoru.
“Oh.” He utters. Oh indeed. Because if what Yuuta was insinuating about Sukuna proved to be true, it would definitely be trouble, especially if the King of Curses ended up being anything like Rika. She had always been a particularly special case after all – the curse that loved, her affections for Yuuta having transcended even death.
Yet…it was also an oppressive love, one that could easily end in tragedy if mishandled. Which was why Satoru had always been impressed by Yuuta’s ability to appease the Special Grade – bringing its rather tumultuous temper to a fizzle with a few flattering words.
He wasn’t sure the same technique would be so effective on the King of Curses however... if Sukuna even held such feelings for Yuuji that is. And was that not a puzzling concept? Satoru found it hard to believe that Sukuna could even regard anyone with affection – let alone Yuuji – his once sworn nemesis. But God, did it also make so much sense – Sukuna’s constant proximity to Yuuji, his irritation at others approaching Yuuji and so much more. Perhaps he gave the King of Curses too much credit then – Rika and Sukuna appeared to be much more alike than he initially thought. Was it a curse thing he mused?
But if it was…then what would happen should Yuuji reject Sukuna’s affections…? Satoru grimaced. There was no way such a refusal would be taken well based on previous experiences with Rika – the concern only further exacerbated by the fact that the current status quo was heavily reliant on Yuuji too, seeing as it was his initial pact with Sukuna during the Culling Games that truly kept the curse in line. Would that itself become void?
And did Yuuji even know? He looked as chipper as usual – not once hinting at anything remotely romantic with Sukuna. But then again, his student was more oblivious than most – even if one should realistically notice if they had somehow landed in a situation where a curse harboured feeling beyond ownership for them. Either way, Satoru had decided to monitor the pair before leaping to conclusions – or actively intervening.
.
.
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So here he was, utilising yet another opportunity to study Sukuna. He observed the curse’s body language, noting the way his eyes remained streamlined on Yuuji despite his callous remarks. It didn’t escape Satoru’s awareness either, how the curse would tense just the slightest bit when the enemy brushed a little too close to Yuuji in its pursuit. Or the way Sukuna’s finger would flick, throwing off the foe with a slight nick to its tendons – just enough for Yuuji to land the decisive below. Blood splattered wildly following the explosive punch, curse guts flying in all directions, though they were safe from the aftermath up above their hill. Yuuji was clearly thrilled with his success, Sukuna smirking from his perch as well. But Satoru frowned at the curse’s veiled interference.
He didn’t think it was very productive for Yuuji’s growth, but he had a feeling Sukuna wouldn’t take well to his criticism. Satoru sighed, turning to grin at his enthusiastic student. He supposed he could always take Yuuji on another assessment – away from the King of Curses who seemed to smother him with his vigilance. Satoru was confident he could handle the raging aftermath.
“Woohoo! Did you see that Sukuna? Sensei!? A clean hit!” Yuuji cheered, jumping around exuberantly and utterly ignorant to his curse’s meddling.
“Tch. Don’t get too cocky now brat! Sloppy footwork all around!” Sukuna rebuked, earning him a cute glare from Yuuji, who opened his mouth to yell, fist raised. And likely too focused on defending his pride, Yuuji failed to spot the puddle of blood in his path, the boy yelping squeakily before falling back – fortunately into Sukuna’s awaiting embrace, the curse having teleported to Yuuji’s side in almost an instant.
“See? Just like I said. Lousy footwork brat.” He teased, though he made no moves to release the boy, still holding tight onto Yuuji’s waist even as he helped him back onto to his feet – Yuuji for once displaying a degree of awareness when he flushed brightly at their proximity.
Ah. It really is the same, Satoru couldn’t help but think, floating down to meet the pair with a cheery congratulations to Yuuji. He would definitely need to seek Yuuta’s advice more often in the future then. The romance between a curse and a human wasn’t really his specialty after all, but he intended to keep Yuuji safe throughout the amorous ordeal.
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Following the successful assessment, Satoru found himself mulling over his recent learnings as he paced down the dormitory halls. Sukuna posed a problem, whether he was actively trying to disrupt their peace or not he languished. It had been easier back then, when his sole impression of Sukuna was that of a strict master keeping a tight leash on his servant.
But with Yuuta’s words on his mind, along with his own keen observations, there were just too many factors to account for now. His prior concern regarding Yuuji’s potential rejection of the curse was first in mind, followed by the possible hazards associated with a pursuing curse. Did an evil entity even understand the basics to courting another? A part of him would have anticipated the entertaining display had it not been Yuuji at the centre of such dangerous affections.
And beyond the emotional aspect, there was the issue of Sukuna stunting the boy’s growth with his smothering. Because whilst he related to the curse’s innate desire to keep the boy out of harm’s reach, Yuuji also required a level of independence to truly shine. He would need to figure out a plan he supposed, to shadow his student away from Sukuna and give him that room to develop. And almost like Sukuna had sensed his plotting, a broad form blocked his path as he made to finally return to his office.
“Oi, six-eyed vermin.” Sukuna growled, brusque as usual and surprisingly without Yuuji in tow. He knew the two had a penchant for midnight snacking, so he assumed it must have been the reason the normally reclusive curse was out and about.
“Well, that’s rude.” Satoru retorted, a casual hand on his hip. “So, to what do I owe the pleasure? A visit from the King of Curses is quite rare after all.”
Sukuna scoffed, arms folded in a manner that screamed ‘you’re a waste of space.’ Which again, rude! “You extend your services as a sorcerer in exchange for gold do you not?” The curse spat, looking like he wanted to be anywhere but there in front of Satoru. He blinked, replaying the sentence back in his head. Was…was Sukuna referring to money? It was the only form of currency they received as payment for their missions.
Satoru nodded, eyeing the curse with curiosity. “Money specifically, not gold. But the value is the same I suppose. Why the sudden interest oh King of Curses?”
“I’ll spare my services sorcerer, once.” He offered with a smirk. “Do use it wisely.”
And wasn’t that a major bombshell? The idea of Sukuna voluntarily undertaking a mission was a dubious one, but the merit was too good to pass on. With the low number of Special Grade sorcerers in comparison to the high amount of Special Grade curses that roamed around, it would be a great opportunity to fill the gaps in their already abysmal manpower. He grinned, a few select missions he’d been putting off already coming to mind, signalling the curse to follow him to his office. But as they sauntered down the hall, Satoru couldn’t help but wonder.
What could the King of Curses possibly need with money?
IV. Itadori Yuuji
Yuuji shivered as he brought his scarf closer to his cheeks, seeking the warmth it offered while he waited for Sukuna to return from wherever he scurried off to. He eyed the night sky, admiring the stars before his thoughts wondered off to how the others were faring. Had they gone home? He supposed it was possible, considering their attendance at this local festival was completely unplanned – an indulgence from Gojo-sensei after a successful mission left them with more time to spare than anticipated.
But still…he had been hoping to catch the fireworks together with the team – especially now that he had so much time left to experience the world with the prevention of his execution. But alas, leave to Sukuna to wonder off and have them separated he huffed, feeling his irritation spike just the slightest. He knew the curse valued his privacy, but he really needed to learn to get along with others!
“Brat.”
Speak of the devil. The familiar voice had him jumping, turning to face the returning King of Curses with an exaggerated pout. Said curse only answered his petulant display with a sly smirk – almost as if he knew Yuuji was incapable of staying upset at him for long – which was true… but it didn’t make his current annoyance any less potent.
“Where have you been?” He asked, observing the approaching entity with a frown – noting how Sukuna had changed from the modified uniform he normally adorned on missions to his usual kimono in the time he had been gone. How the curse had the energy for such a switch was beyond Yuuji, but he supposed he had no complaints – Sukuna always did look best in traditional wear after all he thought, eyes mesmerised by the sight of the curse under the starry night sky before they widened in embarrassment at such mortifying narration.
Yuuji flushed, feeling his heart flutter for reasons unknown to him as he forced his gaze elsewhere – praying his bright blush remained unnoticed under the absence of decent lighting. How weird he mused as he willed the heat on his cheeks to recede, mulling over mystery behind his body’s almost bashful response to the King of Curses in recent weeks. Because it had definitely been occurring more often as of late, this strange reaction to Sukuna’s presence. The butterflies in his stomach, the rapid beating of his heart…it was all so new to Yuuji – who never really experienced such tumultuous emotions in his albeit short stint alive.
He had visited Shoko-sensei one time, to determine the source of such sickly woes. But the tired woman had merely offered him a gentle pat on the head and a knowing smile before sending him back to the dorm with no real solution at all. Which was rude! But he supposed some minor heart palpitations and nervousness was leagues better than the previous dread that once ran through his veins at the mere mention of Sukuna’s name.
Though such a time felt so distant nowadays, with how greatly their circumstances had changed. To think Sukuna had once been Yuuji’s – no, the world’s – greatest adversary… yet now, he felt more like a friend and roommate more than anything else. Yuuji giggled at the bizarre comparison, drawing a frown from Sukuna as he regarded him with suspicion – the curse seeming to have a sixth sense for when Yuuji was making the slightest bit of fun about him.
“Something amusing you brat?” Sukuna remarked, a flat tone to his voice to which Yuuji stuck his tongue out. “Nothing!” He piped, fluttering his eyes at his companion – who only turned away with an annoyed click of his tongue, and any prior exasperation that had plagued Yuuji’s mind vanished – the young teen suddenly more excited at the prospect of enjoying a firework show with the King of Curses. Carelessly, he dragged Sukuna forward by the wrist, running to the hidden spot he had discovered while waiting around for the curse. When both males had planted their bottoms on the soft grass, Yuuji turned to face the disgruntled Sukuna, pupils wide with excitement.
“This will be your first firework display since coming back Sukuna!” He exclaimed, wiggling in his spot only to be flicked in the forehead by aforementioned curse, rudely bringing his excitement to a pause. “Settle down brat. It can’t be any more spectacular than jujutsu.” He dismissed snidely; and had Yuuji not been too preoccupied with clutching his sore head, he would have called the curse out for underestimating the capability of modern technology yet again.
But soon, the tell-tale whistle of ascending fireworks sounded, and Yuuji returned his gaze to the sky – taking in the first batch of explosions in awe. He pulled his legs in closer, hugging his knees comfortably as he found himself lost in a strange melancholy brought about by the bright lights and noise – mind wandering back to memories of the last few months. Of Sukuna.
It was quite ironic he mulled, that the greatest influence on the trajectory of his life had both been made by Sukuna alone – the entity seemingly the crux to his existence at this point – Yuuji’s life flipped the first time when he swallowed Sukuna’s finger, inciting his execution. And Yuuji’s life transforming a second time when the curse had humoured his desperate pleas for a binding vow – Yuuji begging on his hands and knees that day for Sukuna to save his friends and world in exchange for anything he could provide. His soul, his body – he had promised it all to the King of Curses – who had only looked on hungrily.
“I’ll end this farce of a Ragnarök and save your friends brat. I’ll even spare this wretched world you love so dearly too.” He had whispered alluringly, tilting Yuuji by his chin to stare into his four glowing eyes. “But in exchange, you’ll be mine Itadori Yuuji…only mine. For all of eternity.” He demanded. “Do we have a deal?”
And Yuuji – so weak on his knees; so close to passing out from the sheer exertion of having Sukuna extracted from his body – had no real choice but to agree, not once considering what becoming Sukuna’s could entail. And perhaps at that point, he no longer had it in him to care. Sukuna could have devoured his corpse down to the bone and he would’ve been fine with it. Not that the curse ever did so, strangely enough – Sukuna failing to fulfil any of the grim expectations Yuuji had regarding a life under the King of Curse’s ownership. Though he supposed it wasn’t the first time Sukuna had blindsided him in such a manner – the entity’s intentions always so difficult to navigate.
And at least in this occasion, the signs of Sukuna’s baffling shift in disposition had shown itself early during the ‘Culling Games’ – the curse almost mellowing out the more Yuuji consumed his fingers, almost as if his personality were no longer built upon pure anger and malevolence alone. And whilst Yuuji couldn’t quite put it in words, there was a certain age and wisdom to Sukuna now – a refined elegance that manifested itself in the way the curse walked and talked.
Perhaps it was this newly acquired patience, that had Sukuna humouring his desperate plea in the first place – like an ancient god indulging a minor distraction. But regardless of the outcome, there surely had to be a motive behind the King of Curse’s sudden magnanimity – only Yuuji had yet to figure it out. Because it couldn’t be power, Sukuna already attained his former strength with his resurrection – ruling out Yuuji’s necessity as a vessel. But the curse hadn’t seemed all that interested in consuming or tormenting him either…
Instead, Yuuji was simply expected to remain by his side at all times, tending to the curse when he demanded the attention (and Sukuna demanded a lot of it) but never really required to do much more than that. It could be said that Uraume handled most laborious duties – Sukuna having even scolded Yuuji when he volunteered to help out around their shrine. Which made no sense in Yuuji’s opinion – why keep him around then – though he eventually wore the curse down over the weeks until his assistance was finally permitted. It never sat right for Yuuji to lounge around and be served on.
But all in all, Yuuji believed he lived a rather peaceful life with the King of Curses – against all odds.
And while he knew the others worried about him often, Yuuji couldn’t quite bring it upon himself to truly oppose Sukuna for his freedom. Because the curse was just different now – more…humane. And whilst he would never forget the atrocities the Sukuna had committed against them; he also didn’t have it in his heart to remain resentful either.
And was it really that bad of him to pursue the amicable option – even if it meant overlooking the less pleasant aspects to the King of Curses? Would it truly have been better to continue their eternal conflict against the entity – sacrifice another set of young lives in a battle he just knew they would lose? Perhaps it was selfish of Yuuji, but how could he possibly turn away the chance of peace when Sukuna so willingly offered it?
“Brat!” The disgruntled call pulled him from his sombre ruminations, Yuuji registering a slight sting near his mouth from how severely he was chewing his lip raw.
“You seem troubled.” Observed Sukuna, a frown marring his face as he reached to caress Yuuji’s cheeks, running rough knuckles across the distinct markings beneath Yuuji’s eyes. “Weren’t you the one so eager for this human display of lights?” He asked teasingly as Yuuji lightly backed away from the touch, blushing.
Sukuna’s touch felt hot on his skin he thought, and while Yuuji wished to placate the curse’s clear confusion over his downcast mood – he found that his own heat-addled mind was struggling to form basic sentences as he registered the sheer intimacy of their interaction just prior. The sudden meekness only exacerbated by the complete lack of company around them – Yuuji and Sukuna alone in their private clearing…just the two of them…as if they were on a date! Even the ever-present Uraume was absent today he realised.
And with that revelation, Yuuji stiffened, his heart feeling as if it would burst forth from his chest – the young teen grappling to calm his nerves. God how absurd! He should be used to Sukuna by now, yet the curse’s presence truly did things to his heart! Was that not weird? Shouldn’t friends become more comfortable as their bonds strengthened? He cried internally. It wasn’t like any of this was new even!
Sukuna had always been rather…stifling in nature – Yuuji long coming to accept that the curse had zero comprehension of personal space – Sukuna often inserting himself into Yuuji’s proximity and generally behaving in a manner most would consider inappropriate between two individuals yet to be romantically involved. But he honestly assumed it was a curse thing, Yuuji often observing the same absence of boundaries between Yuuta and Rika – the only other cursed pair in their circle. Either way, such interactions were nothing foreign to him, and it wasn’t like the curse was harming him!
Sukuna was just being…well Sukuna, yet here he was acting like some lovesick schoolgirl! Yuuji felt his eyes widen… lovesick!?! He choked, swallowing the gasp that almost made its way out his throat as Sukuna hovered closer once again – Yuuji keeping him back with a frantic wave of his hand as he beat his chest with his fist. No way!
Preposterous! He didn’t like Sukuna…did he? No of course not! They were simply friends who got along well – after all, it was hard not to when he spent every second of the day with the curse. And despite general disbelief, Sukuna could be rather enjoyable company when he wasn’t dead set on slaughtering every living being in the vicinity.
So then why the butterflies? The heart palpitations? The nerves? An irritating voice that sounded suspiciously like Gojo-sensei chimed in his head – though he had to admit it did raise some valid points. Why was he always feeling so breathless around the King of Curses? When had his untroubled attitude around the curse even begun to shift? He bemoaned desperately – though perhaps a part of Yuuji, deep down inside his soul where he liked to hide things that made him overwhelmed, he already knew. That incident flitting through his memories constantly no matter how many weeks passed by.
It had been a lovely spring day – warm but not too humid, and bright but with just the right amount of shade within the school – the perfect type of day for an outing. A point Yuuji had taken full advantage of to pressure Sukuna into accompanying him on a walk around the temple gardens – though it wasn’t long before the short walk somehow transformed into plans for a full-blown picnic, Sukuna ordering Uraume to organise their venue. Which the servant did so…enthusiastically.
The white-haired youth had gone full out in his preparation, bringing forth an impressive selection of intricate Japanese dishes that Yuuji knew he would be pestering the servant about later in the day. Even Sukuna himself had appeared impressed, sitting gracefully across Yuuji with a cup of sake in one hand and a smoking pipe in the other. The curse had taken on his true form that day – a sight that never failed to enrapture Yuuji despite the more logical side of him firing off alarms at the threatening image.
But he supposed even with his monstrous disposition, there was always an undeniably alluring aura to Sukuna – and surrounded by a backdrop of fluttering cherry blossoms that day, Sukuna had truly appeared divine. Not that Yuuji would ever let such praise slip from his lips, opting to gobble down the assortment of treats stacked on his plate instead. The curse was far too arrogant as it was, and he refused to fluff Sukuna’s ego any further.
But as he munched on his snacks, an unexpected breeze – gentle and cool – swept by, knocking both blossoms and petals from their branches to flutter about whimsically. The beauty of it mesmerising Yuuji as he took it in with enthralled eyes.
“Such a lovely view.” He had commented casually, turning to face Sukuna with an enthusiastic grin – only to pause however, when he noticed the curse had raised a muscled arm to gently cup a descending cherry blossom in his palm. For a second, Sukuna had examined the tiny flower – unimpressed as he tended to be with most things. But soon his eyes slowly shifted to Yuuji, the entity leaning forward to expertly tuck the blossom in his ear before moving back to examine his work.
“Yes, I suppose so.” He had uttered, addressing Yuuji’s prior exclamation with a fond smile – expression softening in a way Yuuji had never witnessed before. And just like that, his whole face had lit up in red, and Yuuji spent the rest of the picnic stuttering about – spilling food and drinks as he squeaked out embarrassed apologies – much to Sukuna’s amusement.
It was the first time he had experienced such emotions because of Sukuna, and unfortunately not the last – since from that day forth, his heart seemed determined to do leaps every time Sukuna deemed it necessary to address him so sweetly. (And every time the curse simply came near – though he chose to ignore that glaring coincidence).
He had initially brushed it off as mere excitement at their strengthening friendship – and at Sukuna’s budding appreciation towards the less murderous aspects of life (flora). But now, sitting under the stars as they enjoyed fireworks – his mind was unable to stray away from the tension of it all, of how reminiscent his exchanges with Sukuna were of the various romance manga Nobara stocked in her room. And of how he wouldn’t mind it – if they ended up like those starry-eyed protagonists from those romantic little books.
Oh God. He liked Sukuna didn’t he? Yuuji liked Sukuna. Like a lot. Yuuji yelped, feeling his heart thud loudly in his chest. Did he have to say anything? Confess? But Sukuna would never like someone as plain, boring, and useless as him! Yuuji felt his eyes water – suddenly wrought with a hollow sensation in his chest – because it hurt, the idea that Sukuna would and could never like him back. Completely overwhelmed, he barely registered the rough hand that wiped at his tears.
“Brat…” Sukuna’s voice was gentle this time, drawing Yuuji from his depressing spiral. “If this is such an unpleasant experience for you, we should go.” He suggested, already shifting to get up – prompting Yuuji to lurch forward, clutching onto the curse’s soft robes.
“No!” He shouted. “I wanted to watch the fireworks with you!” He cried, rubbing at his eyes. Because it was true. And though a mid-life crisis was not on the original agenda, Yuuji still wanted to spend this night with Sukuna. Together. At his vehement protest, Sukuna paused in his movements – eyeing him warily as if to gauge the truthfulness of his words – followed by a weary sigh.
“That would be easier to believe if you weren’t bursting into tears brat.” He scoffed, lowering his body to sit back on the ground nonetheless. But then, without warning, the curse tugged at Yuuji’s arm – pulling him closer and forcing his left hand open.
“I suppose waiting for a more joyful occasion would be more appropriate for you humans – but I have no interest in keeping this bothersome thing on me any longer.” Sukuna unexpectedly remarked, reaching into his robes to pull out an object which he proceeded to slide onto the fourth finger of Yuuji’s trembling hand.
It was a ring – the brightest shade of silver adorning the most stunning patterns – each line engraved carefully into its curve, the design reminding Yuuji so much of Sukuna’s tattoos. It was utterly exquisite, and for a moment, all he could do was stare and gape – marvelling at the beauty of the ring before his head snapped back to the bestower in confusion. Where had Sukuna gotten this? It looked far too new to be an heirloom from the past. But to acquire a ring of such beauty in this day and age required cash. Heaps of it! Sukuna didn’t even have a job!
Unless…the missions! Of course! Sukuna had been taking miscellaneous assignments here and there for a period of time after all – and considering the difficulty of those missions, he must have been paid heftily. Enough to afford a ring and more. But now the question was why? Why do all this? And Yuuji must have been much more absorbed in his speculation than he thought, because he had uttered this confusion out loud.
“You seemed rather impressed by the noisy woman’s gift for her lover.” Sukuna grumbled – cutting off Yuuji’s frenzied mumbling.
Noisy woman? Did he mean…Nobara? When had she…? And like lightning, the memory of their peaceful breakfast a while ago flashed before his eyes – when Nobara had shyly presented the ring she’d bought for Maki-senpai to commemorate their anniversary. But…
“But that’s different!” He insisted. “Nobara and Maki are…” He murmured, trailing off in embarrassment at the implication of ‘couples dating’ in front of Sukuna following his own love crisis.
“But you’re mine, aren’t you? How is that any different?” Sukuna scoffed, toying with the ring before lifting Yuuji’s hand to brush against his lips, gaze trained onto Yuuji as if to drive the point home. “Mine for eternity, brat.”
And Yuuji squeaked, oddly reminded of their picnic outing. Did Sukuna not know how his actions could be interpreted! He cried internally. There had to be a limit with how coy one could be right? And he was never like this with the others… Was the curse specifically bullying Yuuji? Because he didn’t know if his heart could take any more at this rate!
“Yes! But I’m yours as servant! That’s what’s different!” He yelled, snatching his arm away from Sukuna – who had stiffened the second he processed Yuuji’s outburst. Perhaps he was taken aback by his genuinely upset tone – Yuuji having rarely raised his voice against the curse since their pact, but Yuuji was tired of feeling so…emotional. Though in retrospect, yelling at a Special Grade entity may not have been the smartest idea, as Sukuna levelled him with a fierce glare – lips curved into a snarl.
“What did you just say?” He growled, appearing two seconds away from a rampage before he reined it in – pinching his nose. “You little! So, this whole time…” He groused, sentences clearly cutting short out of pure frustration. “I had wondered why you were always so…” And after a few more moments of this grousing, he shifted his attention back to Yuuji once more, this time noticeably much calmer.
“You have to be one of the most infuriating humans I’ve ever met.” Claimed Sukuna bluntly, pulling an offended gasp from Yuuji at the unprompted jab. “Think brat! Why would I need you as a servant, when I already have the likes of Uraume – who by far has no need for assistance!” He scowled, poking Yuuji roughly on the forehead with each enunciation of his words. Yuuji shoved the hand away with effort, his own frustrations beginning to boil.
“I don’t know!” He shouted. “I don’t know! You’re just too confusing! I never know what it is you want!” He admitted, silencing any other reprimand the curse had planned.
“Hah.” Sukuna’s sigh was telling. “I suppose an idiot like you would need things to be stated very clearly, isn’t that right brat?” Then, without any warning, Sukuna leaned forth and planted a kiss right on Yuuji’s lips – wrapping his muscly arms around Yuuji’s waist when he instinctively tried to pull back.
And so; under the starry skies, Yuuji shared his first passionate kiss with the King of Curses – Sukuna practically devouring his mouth – tongue circling every inch of that wet cavern. And when the curse finally pulled back, it was with a victorious smirk – Sukuna practically purring at the dazed expression on Yuuji’s face.
“Does that make things clear for you, troublesome brat?” He teased, licking his lips. “Afterall, I wouldn’t spare this unworthy world for a mere servant. And Yuuji – feeling oh so bewildered, but also utterly gleeful – couldn’t help but push his luck, emboldened by Sukuna’s affirmations. “I…I think you need to demonstrate again.” He lied. “Just to make sure I understand.” To which Sukuna grinned, teeth baring like a beast on the hunt. “You cheeky little…”
Thus, what little remained of the firework show went ignored as both males found themselves tangled in each other’s arms. And if anyone noticed they had returned home much later than usual – Yuuji covered in marks and flushing – they sure didn’t call it out.