[Before we start, just want to apologise that I wasn't able to keep my promise about bringing this out one week later. Unfortunately, I had a hectic week at work that I didn't think would be as hard; plus I also grew sick OF COURSE...The first day after I had finished a busy week at work. And as much as people say its fine, look after yourself first, which, I always will do. It still sucks that I couldn't deliver my promise. So I hope that what I am able to deliver to you all today ends up being something you like. But to make up for it, nonetheless, I'll see if I can get the next chapter out within Ten days instead of two weeks]

[The last chapter reached the goal limit, so as promised, I bring you all, just one week later, ANOTHER 15K WORD CHAPTER! And after the last one, we're back into the continuing of the ARC at hand. And in this chapter, we finally come face to face with a villain we love to hate. The guy who likes touching people! And who has surprisingly silky smooth hair I bet! Mahito! But there's also more to this chapter than just silky hair. There's a bit of heart thrown into this one, as the reader makes an unlikely friendship with a nobody. And it's those moments when set up the coolest events to come. So, get ready everyone, we're back in the Jujutsu World once more!]
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[Your POV]

Waking up this morning, I expected many trials to come my way. Maybe a few kicks in the gut from Gojo when we trained. Perhaps a violent attack from curses.  And, of course, the urge to try and not piss Maki off with a simple mistake or inconvenience that'd get on her nerves. But out of all the trials, all the tribulations, nothing quite scared me as the moment I found myself in now. A situation that scares even the strongest of male sorcerers. Bringing them all to their knees. All I could do was blink in fear, as I stood before the one enemy no man knew how to defeat. 

And that...was the female underwear section at a shopping mall. Yes, you heard me right, the greatest fear of all males was being caught standing in front of a mannequin wearing very see-through-looking underwear. You fear such a thing as a child, as a teenager, and even as an adult. The fear of being judged by every passing female who think of you as a weird pervert was something that always ran down the spines of the unlucky few who found themselves in the situation I found myself currently in. Yet, as with me being me. 

A powerful sorcerer unlike any other, I found myself weakened as I awkwardly stood before one of these very mannequins. Trying my best to avert my gaze, looking for something less inappropriate to look at. But there was nothing to save me. I was left to seep in the complete anxiety of fearing every single judgemental gaze that could potentially be looking down at me right now. Now, I could just walk away. But, of course, that was easier said than done, especially when the people I was with wouldn't let me leave.

(Y/n): [Slightly blushing] "Um...Maki? Couldn't I just, um...Wait somewhere else?"

I awkwardly finished off with a chuckle as I outright spun my body around, facing the opposite direction of the mannequin in doing so. Now, some may say why I didn't do that before. Well, upon turning around, I was greeted by the answer. And that answer was the sight of Maki looking through the various, um...underwears, that were set out on display on the benches before her. Yeah, this whole store was full of things that made guys feel very uncomfortable. Unfortunately for me, Maki didn't seem to share my thoughts.

Maki: "Huh? What? Why do you need to go somewhere else? I won't be long."

(Y/n): "I-It's not that you're taking your time--" [Thoughts] "Well, for this, maybe..." [Out Loud] "--But more so with where we are currently?"

Maki: "What do you mean? We're just in a clothing store."

Yeah...A clothing store, whose largest section seems to be that of underwear directed solely for females. Unfortunately, it seemed my efforts to direct such a thing may have taken too long, as when I came back to reality, I was greeted by the narrowed gaze of Maki, focused solely on me.

(Y/n): "...What?"

Maki: [Narrows gaze] "(Y/n)...Are you thinking perverted thoughts?"

(Y/n): "What?! No! That's exactly why I want to leave!"

Maki: "Because...You're thinking perverted thoughts?" [Shakes head, mutters] "Ha. I knew you were a pervert..."

I don't know what was worse. The fact she legitimately thought I was a pervert. Or the fact she just shook her head and immediately went back to looking over the various underwears before her.

(Y/n): "I'm not a--" [Leans in and whispers] "I'm not a pervert. That's the exact thing I'm worried people will think I am."

Maki: "Huh? What are you talking about?"

(Y/n): "I'm talking about..." [Whispers] "I'm talking about me just standing here in this particular section of the store."

Maki: "What about it? You're just standing there. There's nothing wrong with it."

(Y/n): "Yeah, that's what you think. Ask every other guy in this situation like me, and they'll tell you otherwise. This is one of the most anxiety-inducing moments we guys can have."

Maki: "(Y/n)...Don't be stupid."

(Y/n): "Stupid? You're just saying that because you're a girl. You don't know the struggles."

That one remark was enough to make me fear for my life as Maki immediately turned her attention away from everything else and turned right to look at me. Her narrowed eyes was all the warning I received, and all that I needed. A nervous gulp of saliva was all that came as a response. Thankfully, a few seconds later and Maki returned to what she was doing. Though, my nervous attacks were not yet over.

"Hey, (Y/n), how do you think this would look on me?"

It was as the second voice entered the air, that my head unconsciously turned towards it. Little did I know...It was a trap. A trap that I was instantly set upon when I turned my head to be greeted by the innocent smile of Nobara...Who was holding quite the revealing swimsuit up to her body. Thankfully, the item of...clothing, was simply held up in front of her fully clothed body. But I knew well enough that this act of teasing would go on forever if I remained here. So, in the end, without responding, I simply turned my head back around to the focused elsewhere Maki.

(Y/n): "I'm going to the lego. Come get me when you're ready to leave."

Maki: [Without looking] "Alright. Sure. Don't get lost."

(Y/n): "Wha--Lost? I won't get lost!"

Maki: [Without looking] "Sure. Whatever you say, babe. Just don't get lost."

(Y/n): "Maki! I won't get--Argh! You know what? Forget this! I've got lego I don't have enough money to buy to look at. Good day to you both!"

With that rather elegant departure, I took my leave and made my way towards the lego. Leaving Maki to pick up a light blue laced bra and bringing it up to her body, as Nobara set aside the swimsuit she was previously holding.

Nobara: "Is he going to be alright?"

Maki: "He has his phone. If he gets lost, he can just call me."

Nobara: "Not that. I mean, mentally. He kinda looked like he was suffering internally the whole time we were here."

Maki: [Smirks] "Why do you think I wanted to come to this part of the store first?"

That was all she said as she lifted her head to look at Nobara. The Ginger, herself, grinning back before she went to join Maki looking over the underwear. But whereas the girls spent their time wasting looking at clothes and other things, I was destined to do something that was actually important...Stare at cool Lego sets until I couldn't bear the fact I was unable to afford any of them. Now, normally, it takes about twenty minutes from first making eye contact with the Lego isle for my heart to sink to the bottomless pit deep inside of me. However, today must have been a special day, as only five minutes passed with me standing in between two massive rows of Lego sets on display before I released the desires of my heart.

(Y/n): "I WANT THEM ALL!"

Truly a commendable goal all guys could share. After all, what guy wouldn't want to own all the cool Lego sets? Definitely not uncool guys who prefer sex with girls. Pfft! Having sex with girls is nothing compared to the joy of building a 16+ Ten thousand piece Lego set in one go. Though, uh...Hopefully, Maki and Nobara never find out about that. They'd probably never let me come to any store with Lego in it ever again. But, I mean, it's not like I haven't tried to share my love for colourful bricks with them. Like last week! 

I pulled out an old Lego set I had stored for a few months now, and instead of normally doing it by myself, I asked Maki if she wanted to do it with me. I was so hopeful that she would, because it was something I really wanted to share with her. Just like I did with watching all the Star Wars movies that matter, and binge-watching anime I liked. But just like the responses I got when I asked her to do those things, I got a similar one when I asked her if she wanted to build Lego with me. Her response simply being that she would... 'Not engage in that'. 

But if you ask me, I think she's just really excited about it and is scared she'll come off as a nerd in front of me. Ha! Little does she know something like a girl building Lego was hot to a guy like me! But anyway! Whether she wanted to or not, I didn't let it stop me from taking in the pleasures of looking at all the Lego sets in front of me. One's I couldn't have, but I managed to push through the suffering as I continued to imagine what it was like if I could buy them all. But even if I couldn't, I could manage...

[3rd Person POV]

(Y/n): [Muttering] "Stupid fucking Sorcerer job. Why can't you pay me any money?! I want legos damn it!"

(Y/n)'s anger-filled words echoed amongst himself before he clenched his fist and tossed it to the sky. Silent groans and grumbles continued to escape his mouth, a sight (Y/n) would definitely not want any of the girls to see. Thankfully for him there was only one other boy in the Lego section with him currently. No more than ten meters away, a thin young man with green eyes and brown hair that reached to his shoulders. His side parting let a large portion of his bangs cover the right side of his face. Yet despite this blockage, he was still able to offer (Y/n) a confused glance. This young boy was Junpei Yoshino, a normal 17-year-old who went through normal day-to-day life like many others. 

Another thing he had in common, especially with (Y/n), was the joy he found as he stood amongst the various selections of Lego sets on display in the store. Though his joy was momentarily interrupted when this unknown energetic guy decided to join him, who constantly muttered to himself as he cried over the fact he...Couldn't get Legos? At least, that's what Junpei presumed when he glanced at (Y/n). Honestly, if Junpei had his way, he really just wanted to come into the store, get the Lego set he had been saving up for months now, and go back to where he had just came from and build it. 

He didn't want to interact with anyone, especially someone like (Y/n). But Junpei finally managed to block the noises coming from the (H/c) haired male across from him as he dropped his gaze back to the joy of his heart that currently rests in his hands. In them, a rectangular box with various colours on the front did little to hinder the joy Junpei felt as he stared at the Lego set before him. The Lego set in question was none other than a module version of an American Ford Mustang. Now, despite being born in Japan, Junpei had a wide fascination with cars, especially those from overseas. 

So when he heard that Lego were bringing out a Ford Mustang, one of his favourite cars, he knew right away he just needed to buy it. And finally! After months of saving up whatever money he could acquire, he was finally able to purchase it. Even better, it was finally in his hands. Right before his eyes. All he needed to do now was purchase it and he'd reach the happiness he had been waiting for so long now. However...just as he reached his high of happiness, it was quick to come back down when he realized the twisted part that came with buying Lego sets. At least for him anyway. 

Now, whilst Lego was destined to be built together by either one person, or by a group, it was often thought that doing things you enjoy in life is better when you share it with someone. And Junpei, he enjoyed building Lego. But unfortunately for him...He had no one to share it with. You see, he didn't really have any friends. And there was definitely no way he could get through his school life if his bullies found out he liked Lego. So, at last, it was something Junpei was forced to keep to himself. Though, sometimes, he couldn't help but smile to himself and wonder just what it would be like if he could meet someone who liked Lego just like him.

"Oooh! You're getting the Ford Mustang? Cool!"

Junpei: "H-Huh?"

The sound escaped Junpei's lips before he even realized who was talking to him. But that confusion soon shifted to outright shock when he saw that the person talking to him was the guy who had previously been mumbling to himself across the aisle. Now, he was standing before him with a large smile on his face.

(Y/n): "It's a pretty cool set, dude. You'll love it!"

Junpei: "O-Oh, um..."

Junpei didn't finish his sentence before he dropped his head slightly. Now, even before he stepped foot into this store, he knew he didn't want to talk to someone. After all, Junpei had the thought process that Lego was only for little kids. At least, that's what the bullies at his school told him when he made the mistake of bringing one of his Legos to school for show & tell. So that only doubled the anxiety he got when purchasing Lego. With that, he was already nervous when he found out he was standing in the same aisle as someone else. 

But the nerves he felt previously had now turned to irritation. Because as much as he didn't like being in the same aisle as someone, it started to get annoying when this guy started speaking to him. Not because Junpei didn't like people talking, but going off this guy's smile and appearance alone, Junpei could tell he knew nothing about Lego. If he had to make a guess, he'd presume this guy in front of him was a casual buyer at best. 

Who probably didn't know the best places to get discounts for sets, or even what year this Ford Mustang came out. Now, sure, he managed to call out the name of the set without looking at the front of the box. But it was pictured on the back with a realistic version of the car. So what idiot wouldn't know what vehicle was on the box. It was due to all of these thoughts that made Junpei just want to turn around and leave. Not wanting to be bothered by this guy anymore. And he was about to do exactly that, when suddenly...

(Y/n): "Honestly, I thought it was pretty cool when I picked it up. But once you build it, you find all types of surprises. Like the folding seats in the front; Bespoke alloy wheels it has: Oh! And the cool details like the muscle car they have in the mirror piece next to the steering wheel!"

Junpei: "I...It has those?"

(Y/n): [Smiles brightly] "Yeah, man! And that's not it! There's even the changeable number plates; the detailed V8 engine, and the--"

(Y/n) suddenly pulled his sentence short, however, when he came to notice the speechless look on Junpei's face. Despite half of it being covered, the one eye (Y/n) could see was enough for him to see the shock the boy in front of him currently had on display. Now, (Y/n) presumed this look was because Junpei was shocked about all the details the Lego set had, and whilst that was true, (Y/n) also took it as potentially spoiling what Junpei may not have known about the Lego set. However, the real reason Junpei was offering such an expression was because he was shocked that someone else was so seemingly excited by even the smallest of details that Lego had to offer. 

Now, even amongst average Lego buyers, Junpei got far more excited when he saw all the little things added into the sets, and got annoyed when he presumed the Lego company was going half-assed on the products they were selling. This led to a lot of other people in the Lego community that he had spoken to online to think he was over the top. And for the longest time, Junpei thought that he was alone in that regard. But right here and now, he came to realize that this boy standing in front of him was unlike any other person he had met before. For once in his life, Junpei found someone he felt enjoyed something as much as he did. And it left him speechless, that was, until the voice of (Y/n) broke him from his thoughts.

(Y/n): "Ah, what am I doing? Sorry, man. I didn't mean to spoil anything for you." [Nervously laughs] "I just saw you were getting the set, and I got a little excited is all..."

Junpei: "O...Oh. Um--" [Shakes head, slightly smiles] "T-That's alright. Um--" [Coughs] "I-I don't mind."

(Y/n): [Tilts head] "You don't? Whoa! Let's go! Haha...I thought I may have ruined it for you."

Once more, a nervous smile found (Y/n)'s face as he rubbed the back of his neck. Though, just seeing such a look on (Y/n)'s face, one Junpei knew well, was enough to give him the courage to actually smile at another person for the first time in a long time.

Junpei: "Uh, i-it's cool. Really! A-Actually...I wasn't exactly sure about buying this set anyway." [Smiles at you] "So you telling me all those cool things definitely makes me want to buy it now!"

That was a lie, but it seemed to be worth it to make this stranger smile back at him.

(Y/n): "Oh, cool--" [Chuckles] "Um, anyway, I'm (Y/n)...By the way. I-It's nice to meet you."

Junpei: [Thoughts] "Someone so cool...Like this guy...Is stuttering? Just like I do...?" [Out Loud] "I'm Junpei. I-It's...It's nice to meet you too, (Y/n)."

It was with this exchange of names that Junpei and (Y/n) smiled at each other once more. But the person happiest the most of all, was Junpei, who now found the boy he once presumed to be annoying, one of the coolest people he had ever met. And what made it better was the fact that (Y/n) was just like him! At least, that's what he thought...Until a few minutes later anyway. 

For as the time ticked by, both Maki and Nobara could be seen walking toward the Lego aisle that could be seen in the distance. Both girls had a bag each filled with various clothing items, though whereas they were both pleased with their own purchases, they seemed to be sceptical on what the other had chosen.

Maki: "I just want you to know I saw you grab that swimsuit you showed (Y/n) earlier. I hope it's the only time you'll be showing him it."

Nobara: "What are you talking about, Maki? I simply going to buy it because I think it's cute."

The two girls suddenly offered their best smiles as they turned to each other, but it didn't take much for them to realize the smiles on display were rather forced. Even so, Nobara made sure to keep her own as she gave her own thoughts to Maki.

Nobara: [Forcefully smiles] "But whilst we're on the topic of buying clothes to show (Y/n), I saw you bought some of that matching laced underwear set back there. You weren't planning on trying to seduce (Y/n) by any chance?"

Maki: [Forcefully smiles] "Seduce (Y/n)? Ha! Ha! Who do you think I am? I'll have you know, Nobara, that I merely got it because I, too, thought it was cute."

Nobara: "Right. Right..."

Maki: "Most definitely."

Again, the pair kept their smiles locked onto the other as they finally reached the final few steps toward the start of the Lego aisle, though just before they got their, Maki quickly dropped the grin and leaned in to glare at Nobara.

Maki: "Though I'll remind you now, remember the deal I gave you. Don't take my niceness as a free pass for you to just get with (Y/n) so quickly."

Nobara: [Cockily smiles] "Ha! Ha! Who do you think I am, Maki, dear?"

Maki currently had a lot of ideas, and the glare she offered was enough to suggest such. However, she wasn't able to mention such thoughts as she was forced to drop her glare as the pair finally entered the Lego aisle, where (Y/n) could be seen smiling brightly alongside Junpei. The pair currently having an arm each over the other's shoulder as they looked at the massive Lego Death Star set positioned at the bottom of the shelf in front of them.

(Y/n): "...It's so beautiful... I want it!"

Junpei: "Haha! You're not alone. But come on, it's so expensive. There's no way you could buy it."

(Y/n): "True. True. I may not have money, but..." [Leans in and grins] "Who said anything about paying for it?"

As soon as Junpei heard such, his eyes widened in shock as he covered his mouth with a hand. Though he was quick to drop it and bring back his smile. Junpei knew (Y/n) was joking...He thinked. However, before anything more could be commented on the subject, they were interrupted by the voice of a less than enthused Maki.

Maki: "Alright, (Y/n), we're done shopping now. You ready to go?"

Nobara: [Whilst texting] "Yeah. I wanna go get a smoothie." [Smiles brightly] "Oh! They have special flavours online!"

That remark just got a roll of the eyes from Maki, whilst (Y/n) just smiled and chuckled as he approached the pair. The only one left silent was Junpei, who stood in confusion as he watched (Y/n) walk toward the two pretty girls. Something Junpei couldn't believe, especially for guys like them who liked Lego. So Junpei had no idea why (Y/n) would be smiling as he approached them.

Junpei: "Y-You know them, (Y/n)?"

(Y/n): [Stops and turns around] "Huh? Oh, yeah! Maki's my girlfriend! And Nobara's my..." [Looks at Nobara] "...A friend...that's...a girl?"

There was clear confusion on (Y/n)'s face, what for, Junpei didn't know. But his mind was currently preoccupied elsewhere, as he struggled to take in the biggest takeaway from (Y/n)'s sentence.

Junpei: "Y-You have... You have a girlfriend? And a friend that's a girl?!"

(Y/n): "Huh? Oh, yeah! She's a real good-looking one too!"

Junpei: "B-But you like Lego? A-And other things girls think are weird?"

(Y/n): "Pfft! So what?"

Junpei: "So...What...?"

The sense of disbelief filled Junpei's confused face as he looked on at the confidence (Y/n) gave off. And this confidence only grew more as (Y/n)'s smile grew.

(Y/n): "I mean, sure, they might think it's weird or odd. But who cares? I like it, and after everything I've gone through in life, I've come to realize that relying on the thoughts and opinions of others doesn't do you much help."

Junpei: "B-But still! You want to seem cool in front of girls, right?"

(Y/n): "Oh, trust me, Junpei...I'm very cool in the eyes of my girlfriend~ Ain't that right, Maki?"

The wide smile on (Y/n)'s smile only grew as he launched an arm around Maki's shoulder and pulled her close. That alone was enough to make the girl with glasses blush slightly at the close proximity with her boyfriend. 

Maki: [Blushes] "U-Um, well... Of course, I--Wait! Argh! Shut it, punk!"

(Y/n): "Ha! See? Isn't she just adorable?!"

This caused yet another wave of red to thunder down on Maki's face. However, when Junpei saw this...He couldn't believe it. For the short time he had known (Y/n), he had totally believed that he had found someone who was just like him. Someone who was perfectly normal and nice, yet to everyone else, he was seen as a loser. 

In a way, Junpei hoped such was true, because that gave him hope that someone as cool as (Y/n) could potentially end up becoming his friend. But as Junpei watched in shock as (Y/n) kissed the girl with glasses on the head, Junpei realized that (Y/n) truly was way cooler then him. To the point...He'd never want to be friends with him. It was such a thought that caused Junpei to lose any happiness on his face and instead drop his head as he muttered a reply.

Junpei: "Oh...I see."

It didn't take much for (Y/n) to notice the look on Junpei's face. He was going to say something but was cut off when Nobara spoke out.

Nobara: "Hey, (Y/n), can we go already? I wanna really try these smoothies!" [Looks at her phone] "Oh! They even have couple-flavoured one!" [Grins at you] "Oh, (Y/n)~"

Maki: "Oh, no you don't."

Maki was quick to immediately snatch the phone from Nobara's hands, much to the amusement of (Y/n), who smiled from the sight. However, this only added to Junpei's downward spiral of happiness. His head hanging low as he turned to go and leave. However, just as he was about to take the first step, he felt a gentle tap on his shoulder. Instantly, he picked his head up and turned around to be greeted by the bright smile of (Y/n).

(Y/n): "Hey...Wanna give me your number?"

Junpei: "Y-You...You want my number?"

(Y/n): "Yeah, man. I was thinking, if you want, maybe when I get some money, we could met up some time and get some lego. Or, if you have any, we could build some together."

That one sentence caused Junpei's mind to go blank momentarily.

Junpei: "Y-You...You want to...Hang out with me?"

(Y/n): "Of course! You seem like a pretty cool guy! And you like Lego! So that's even cooler!"

The only thing Junpei was able to properly get out of that moment was the fact that (Y/n) thought he was cool. He had never been called cool before. So hearing it now felt so weird. However, Junpei couldn't help but smile. A reaction he carried even after the process of exchanging numbers with (Y/n) was over. He was so giddy about the prospect of actually having a friend that Junpei eagerly held onto his phone, when suddenly an idea came to mind.

Junpei: "Oh, (Y/n)! If you want to build Lego sometime, do you want to come back to my home with me now? I-I know you already own the Ford Mustang, but y-you could build something I have at home! Or you could build this one with me...?"

A look of nervous hesitation found Junpei's face as he awaited (Y/n)'s answer. Unfortunately, Junpei was given nothing but disappointment when (Y/n) finally responded.

(Y/n): "Uh, I'd love to, Junpei. But, um..." [Half smiles] "But the girls want to go check out a few more places in the mall."

Junpei: "Oh...I see."

(Y/n): "But, hey! Maybe another time?"

Junpei: "O-Oh, yeah...Definitely."

It was with that response that (Y/n) smiled and nodded, as Junpei did his best to do the same. In the end, he turned his back to the trio, where (Y/n) could be seen back with the two girls. 

Maki: "So are you getting anything, (Y/n)?"

(Y/n): "Huh? Oh, I was thinking about getting one. But I don't really have any money for it."

Maki: "I can buy you it, if you want."

(Y/n): "Wait. What? Really? But I thought you hated Lego?"

Maki: [Chuckles] "I don't hate Lego. I'm just not a fan of building it." [Grins] "Besides, you look pretty cute when you're in your own little world making it~"

That was the final sentence Junpei heard before the figures of (Y/n) and the two girls left him. For a brief moment, his smile dropped once more. The fearful thought that (Y/n) was better than him slowly creeping back in. However, Junpei found the strength to smile more when he remembered what (Y/n) had said to him. (Y/n) thought he was cool! And it was that one thing that kept Junpei smiling as he made his way to the front of the store and purchased the Lego Ford Mustang. But now, after purchasing it, all he wanted to do was build it with (Y/n). 

Unfortunately, unlike Junpei, he actually had girls to hang out with. So that meant Junpei was left to carrying the Lego set by himself as he ventured to go visit his only other friend. But as he did so, (Y/n) on the other hand continued to hang out with Maki and the Nobara. The trio continued to check out a few stores before finally they reached the smoothie place Nobara had mentioned earlier. It was really more of a very small pop-up stall than an actual store. Basically just a vender at a stand where he'd make smoothies from his cart. But a few tables and chairs were set out in an open space within the food court of the building, so it sufficed enough. 

As could be seen currently, where Nobara could be seen smiling happily as she drank her flavoured drink through a straw. The edges of her smile and sparkles in her eyes were easy to see. As this happened, across from her, (Y/n) could be seen looking at the box of the Lego set Maki had bought for him. The smile he had was enough to make Maki smile herself. The girl opposite him finding the sight of her boyfriend happy to be one that made her just as happy. However, she was suddenly pulled back to reality when her boyfriend suddenly reverted his gaze back to her.

(Y/n): "Thanks for buying me the Lego set, Maki, but you really didn't have to. I could have waited to get my own money to buy it."

Maki: "It's okay. Really. Besides, you buy me stuff all the time. So I thought I'd return the favour a little."

(Y/n): "Oh, yeah?" [Grins, leans closer] "And here I thought what we did this morning was a favour from you~"

The grin that was now plastered on (Y/n)'s face was not hard to miss. Such was confirmed when Maki quickly adverted her gaze to the side, thus causing (Y/n)'s grin to grow slightly. However, the one who reacted the most to this scene was none other than Nobara. Whose eyes were now wide as can be. What made the moment a little more comedic was the fact the straw to her smoothie was still wedged between her lips. Though, it didn't take long for Nobara to pop the straw free from her lips, coughing taking over her airwaves, as she struggled out a sentence.

Nobara: [Whilst coughing] "W-What...What..." [Coughs] "W-What's that supposed to mean?"

(Y/n): "Huh? What means what?"

Maki: [Rolls eyes] "She's talking about what you just said. Or, most likely, the way you said it."

(Y/n): [To Nobara] "What was the matter with what I said?"

Nobara: [Blushes] "It's not with what you said, just...The way you said it. You know...With the way you were grinning?"

Nothing but a confused look remained on (Y/n)'s face. Though, unbeknownst to the girls, (Y/n) knew exactly what Nobara was thinking. But acted as if he didn't know due to not wanting to make things awkward. Thankfully for (Y/n), he needn't say anything as Maki decided to take that job onto herself. Such she did as she spawned a soft smile on her face, one she offered toward the still blushing Nobara sitting next to her.

Maki: "Relax, Nobara. He's talking about how I let him have a shower first this morning."

Nobara: "H...Huh? What? That's it?" [Turns to you] "That's what you were grinning about?"

(Y/n): "Yeah. Pretty much."

Nobara: "Wha...What? Why? What's so good about that, that you'd call it a favour?"

(Y/n): "Ha! Trust me, if you were a guy, you'd totally get it."

However, of course, as some may not have known, Kugisaki Nobara... Was indeed, not a guy. So the look of confusion that had known covered her face for almost a minute now, the cause of her blush dissipating almost instantly, continued to remain as she stared at (Y/n). Yet, once again, Maki took it upon herself to answer. Though this time around her words were more so filled with their own slight disbelief and annoyance.

Maki: "He calls it a favour because every time I go for a shower first, he claims that there's always hair all over the place--" [Turns to you] "--Which is ridiculous and totally an overreaction."

(Y/n): [Stares blankly] "Maki, I walked into the bathroom the other day and for a good ten seconds, I thought I walked right into Panda...There was that much hair I could spot just standing at the entrance."

Maki: "Please! There wasn't any hair when I left! And don't compare my hair to Panda's! I actually look after mine!"

(Y/n): "Uh, so does Panda. Why else do you think we always run out of Shampoo and condition?"

This response, one coming completely out of left field, left both Maki and Nobara confused. Both at the fact that Panda actually uses such things, and the fact that (Y/n) knows such.

Nobara: "So, what? Panda uses them? So what?"

Maki: "Yeah. Because, I'll have you know, (Y/n), it takes more than Shampoo and condition to make a girl's hair look good."

(Y/n): "Yeah. And it doesn't take anything more than Shampoo alone to clean your body. You don't need to use soap after washing your body with Shampoo."

Maki: "I told you to use soap, (Y/n). You can't just use Shampoo to clean yourself."

(Y/n): "Uh, yes, you can, Maki. It's actually a well-known fact."

Maki: "No, it's not!"

(Y/n): "Yes, it is! And you know what else is a well-known fact? That you look so damn good today! Ha! Turned it into a compliment, and now you can't disagree with me! Ha again! Love you!"

And, in some strange way... (Y/n)'s plan worked. Because the remark on Maki's appearance was so not expected that it left the girl with glasses blank-minded for a moment. All she could do was blink a few times as she stared at her grinning boyfriend. However, (Y/n)'s gaze was soon shifted off his girlfriend when the sound of notifications started coming from his pocket. Instantly, everyone's attention was drawn to it. Much to the thanks of Maki, who was now blushing madly as she lowered her head out of the view of the others. 

Maki: [Mumbles] "...You're a dork."

A smile found (Y/n)'s lips after these words were released, but with his focus still on his phone screen, it was hard to say which was which. Though a hint was given only a few seconds later.

Nobara: "Who was that, (Y/n)?"

(Y/n): "Huh? Oh. That was just Todo."

Maki: "Todo? You mean the Todo who goes to the same school as my sister?"

Nobara: "The guy that bullied you?"

(Y/n): "Uh, huh. That's the one."

Maki: "Why's he texting you? And whatever happened after you two talked?"

Nobara: "Yeah. You never told us!"

(Y/n): "And I never will..." [Sighs] "...As I swore on the brotherhood."

Immediately, both Maki and Nobara raised an eyebrow in union before tilting their heads.

Nobara: "Brotherhood?"

Maki: "What shit are you talking about now?"

(Y/n): "Eh. Who knows! Anyway, gotta text him back real quick. One second, okay?"

That was all he said before getting up from the table and walking about. Yet, at last, (Y/n) did know what he meant when he mentioned 'brotherhood' and it was, of course, the brotherhood of being a boy. And it was due to this brotherhood that he couldn't disclose what Todo had said to him, especially when it involved a girl. And most definitely when one guy needed help from another guy to confess to that other girl. 

Though, (Y/n) had to be honest, it was still weird to think about him basically being the one to help his old bully get with the girl he liked. Becoming even more so weirder when said bully took it upon himself to constantly call (Y/n) teacher. It was a lot to take in, yet, (Y/n) came to realize quickly that if he didn't text Todo back quickly, he'd end up with a hundred and twenty-seven messages by the time he returned home. And seeing as he didn't want that, he decided to keep it a buck-fifty and ended up replying to Todo's various messages he already sent. 

However, in doing so, it meant leaving Nobara and Maki alone. Which, wasn't really a bad thing. And most certainly didn't seem to be a bad thing when the first thing Maki decided to do was bury her face back into the surface of the table she currently sat in front of her. And just to make her position extra secure, immediately went about covering the side of her face with her arms. This meant she could be left alone until (Y/n) returned. At least, that's what she thought...

Nobara: "Soooo...."

Maki: [Grumbles] "Please don't..."

Nobara: "...(Y/n)'s reaction before really made it seem like he was talking about something else, huh?"

Yet, despite her previous statement, Maki was quick to lift her head to face the ginger-haired girl. In doing so, a raised eyebrow of confusion could be seen.

Maki: "What are you talking about?"

Nobara: [Smiles] "I mean, the way he was grinning, and mentioning a 'favour' I thought he was talking about...You know..." [Leans in and whispers] "...Sex."

And just like that Maki instantly regretted lifting her head in the first place. However, she was unable to get away from this moment, even when she went to bury her face into the table once more.

Maki: [Groans] "Please, don't!"

Nobara: "Come on, Maki. It's okay."

Maki: [Groans] "No, it's not!"

Just to prove her displeasure further, she quickly went to lie her face down on the table cheek first. So now the back of her head was facing Nobara.

Nobara: "Come on, really. We're both girls! It's not disgusting to talk about it like when boys do it."

Maki: [Turns back to Nobara] "It's not about it being girls. It's just awkward to even talk about. Especially when it's towards a girl who clearly LIKES my boyfriend!"

Nobara: "Hey, what about the deal?"

Maki: "I said you can hang out with (Y/n), not date him! I'm only letting you hang out with him because, despite me still not entirely liking you...I feel I can trust you enough to know you wouldn't do anything. Especially after the way you helped (Y/n) feel good when standing in front of my sister and that idiot, Todo."

Maki's words were direction, and despite the embarrassment pressed across the face, she managed to bring them quite clearly. This, for a moment, left Nobara silent. Until she eventually brought her smile back as she took another drink of her smoothie.

Nobara: "Yeah. Yeah. Sure. Say whatever you want, but we're friends now. Besides..." [Drinks smoothie] "...I wasn't lying the other day when I said I'd have to wait a little longer to find someone like him..."

Maki: "Um...Okay...Thanks?"

Nobara: "You're welcome." [Smiles proudly] "...But (Y/n)'s pretty much a one of a type guy, so I'll just wait until he falls in love with me on his own right." [Grins] "That swimsuit I bought earlier should help~"

Maki: "SO YOU DID BUY THAT TO GET HIS ATTENTION!"

Nobara: "I never said that. But let's not worry about that." [Energetically turns to Maki] "Come on, already! Tell me about it! Have you and (Y/n), you know...Done it?"

Maki: "Why do you want to know?!"

Nobara: [Nudges shoulders] "Eh. Gotta know what competition I'm working with...And how far I have to go to win."

That remark was enough to make Maki glare and brind her teeth together. But Nobara simply winked back towards the girl as she drank her smoothie. And yet, despite this anger, it didn't last for long. You see, despite the weird subject, Maki found it kinda nice that another girl actually wanted to talk to her about something. Because despite what she may say and do, Maki kinda liked having another girl around the school. It was nice because, unlike her sister, it was someone that she could kinda relate to, even if in odd ways. Like defending the fact that girls don't put so much hair all over the place when having showers. 

But on a deeper note, it actually went down to a childhood thing. Because, as Maki grew up, she wasn't allowed to play with other kids to the degree that others in a normal family could. The Zenin Clan was definitely not a fun place to grow up. It led to Maki longing for things like friendships with other girls. Where they'd do each other's hair, paint nails, and talk about boys. Such, those things were childish, but those were things she wanted as a kid. To have a friend. So seeing Nobara showcase some interest in her girl side was somewhat...nice. Especially compared to moments when Panda or Inumaki would try to talk about things. 

Panda just talked about boy things all the time...Like the cool stick, he found earlier in the day that looked like a proper sword. And Inumaki, well...Inumaki was into a lot of stuff that wasn't really with Maki's tastes. In fact, the only one who really related to her on that level, was (Y/n). But with him being her boyfriend, there were some things that Maki felt awkward talking about. But with Nobara, it was normal for girls to talk about things that only other girls go through. So it was because of this, in the end, that Maki awkwardly looked down at the table before her, with a blush on her face, as she began speaking.

Maki: "W-Well, um..."

Nobara: "Yes?"

Maki: "W-We, uh...We haven't exactly...Done...That."

Nobara: "You haven't had sex?"

Maki: "Sssh!" [Whispers] "Do you want the whole world to find out?"

Nobara: "Eh. Not my embarrassing history being said."

The nonchalantly way in which spoke was enough to make Maki glare once more. However, Nobara just laughed it off.

Nobara: "Okay! Okay! I'm sorry. Please, continue... So you haven't done it?"

And once more, despite her inner thoughts, Maki continued with a soft expression growing on her face.

Maki: "Well... No. B-But we almost did."

Nobara: [Gasp] "Really?! When?!"

Maki: [Awkwardly glances at her] "Don't be so excited, weirdo."

Nobara: "Huh? Oh, right. When...?"

Maki: "A-A few weeks ago. It was when we were at training for the exchange event and I saw you talking to him."

Nobara: "Oh! You mean when you grabbed his hand and pulled him away?"

Out of embarrassment, Maki could only nod her head. However, even with her struggling to say words then, she managed to continue with more. 

Maki: "...Yeah. B-But we didn't go all the way. We just kissed and um..." [Blushes madly, shakes head] "The point is we didn't do it, okay! I...I didn't want to."

Nobara: "Oh... How come? Were you scared?"

Nobara expected Maki to offer some cocky remark that she wasn't scared. However, the amount of surprise that found her face a few seconds later was, well, a surprise to be sure!

Maki: "Of course I was scared! It...It's a big deal, you know? A-And it's not like I don't want to do something like that with (Y/n). He's a great guy, and...I love him. B-But that's the thing! I haven't even told him I love him yet!"

Nobara: "But you do?"

Maki: "Of course, I do! B-But...I'm scared about that too. I'm...I've never been good with soft emotions like that. I get nervous every time I think about love and shit. I wasn't blessed with a normal childhood like you. You've probably had tons of boyfriends already."

By this point, it was fair to say that Nobara did not expect the conversation between her and Maki to take this route. All the ginger could do was blink at Maki a few times as she hovered the straw to her smoothie a few inches from her mouth. As for Maki herself, she was growing more embarrassed with each passing second. All she wanted to do was scream and punch something. She was regretting everything she had said up to this point, and was beyond glad that she didn't say any of this whilst (Y/n) was in earshot. However, Maki was soon thrown for a curve ball of her own. When through this wall of silence that surrounded her, came the voice of Nobara.

Nobara: "Nope."

Maki: "Huh?"

Upon turning her head back to the ginger, Maki was greeted by, perhaps, the most genuine soft smile Nobara had ever offered her. That alone added to the already tidalwaves of confusion Maki felt inside.

Maki: "What?"

Nobara: "I've never had a boyfriend before."

Maki: "Wha--How? I thought you would have had a few, at least. You've never had a boy like you?" [Scoffs, smiles softly] "Damn...If I knew that, I probably wouldn't have been so worried when you were around (Y/n)."

Nobara: "Hey!" [Grins slightly] "Just because I've never had a boyfriend, doesn't mean I'm not good, or attractive to them. I'll have you know I've had over fifteen boys ask me out."

Maki: "And, what? You said no?"

Nobara: "Yep. To each one of them."

Maki: "But why? Don't you want a boyfriend?"

Nobara: "Of course, I do. Who doesn't want someone to be your special close one?" [Smiles softly] "But I turned those guys down because they weren't the special one I'm looking for."

It was clear by the way Maki tilted her head that she didn't fully understand what Nobara was talking about. Yet, this only led Nobara to smile more as she looked down at her drink and played with the straw. The red piece of plastic moving in circle within the inside of the drink, before she finally continued.

Nobara: "I know it might sound cheesy, and especially from someone like me. But I've always thought that when you get with someone, it's not a game. Sure, you can have fun. But when you're dating someone, you've gotta treat it with all your heart. So if I'm not sure I like a guy completely, I won't do anything. Heck, I won't even flirt with them if I don't like them."

Maki: "Why?"

Nobara: "Because that's just cruel. I don't want to hurt a poor guys heart if he has the balls to come up and confess to me. Though, I probably outweigh that good gesture by basically being a stone cold bitch sometimes. But that's just me, I guess..."

A silent laugh found her voice as her sentence came to an end. But what was really surprising out of all of that, was the fact that Maki couldn't help but smile herself after hearing what Nobara had just said. For a few moments, the pair just sat at the table in complete silence. It wasn't until Maki found the words to say that she finally turned to Nobara once more.

Maki: "You're right... That does sound cheesy from someone like you."

Nobara: "Hey! It took a lot of courage to say that to you! Haha!"

Maki: "Now you know how I felt!"

The pair once more shared a laugh. Their smiles matched perfectly as silence slowly wavered between them once again. This time around, however, it didn't last for long as Maki finally mentioned the thing that had been on her mind ever since she heard Nobara's last sentence.

Maki: "So...You won't flirt with a guy you don't like, huh? So that must mean (Y/n) is a pretty good one, huh?"

Nobara: "Huh? Oh..." [Blushes slightly] "Well...Yeah. I mean, sure. He takes some getting used to. And he can be an idiot sometimes. But a loveable idiot, you know?"

Maki: "Oh, tell me about it!"

Nobara: "But...Yeah. Like, I always thought he was hot. But I truly realized just what type of guy he was when he told me something that clearly meant a lot to him, and was hard for him to say..."

The words that came from her mouth, enough to remind her of what (Y/n) told her the first day she met him.

"...All my life I felt like I was nothing but a shadow of a person. I saw all these people succeed in what they did. But me...I was always stuck behind. So, I-I just wanted to change. I wanted to be better. I wanted to be confident. Powerful. Someone everyone looked up to with smiles and trusted. Like Gojo...So, when I was trapped, I made a promise that I would change. I'd be a better me! But, I'm kinda struggling to keep it all together at times."

It was that moment that (Y/n) showed his true colours to Nobara, despite just meeting her. He was a guy that had feelings just like everyone else, and he was trying his hardest to get through them. He was passionate, yet he was human. He was powerful, yet he still had faults. Growing up, Nobara always wanted to be with someone who never forgot about who they were. And even after (Y/n) tried to do the exact opposite, he realized his mistakes. But instead of blaming other people, or ignoring them. He accepted his wrongs and went about changing them. That was the action that inspired Nobara's feelings to grow. 

And despite not saying any of this to Maki. The look alone that the girl with glasses could see coming from the face of Nobara was all it took for her to realize enough. And in the end, it was enough to get her smiling, and thinking. Unfortunately, she couldn't share those thoughts as a few seconds later, (Y/n) finally made his return. Though, it didn't take long for him to notice the strange aura surrounding the girls. But when he asked what was going on, they wouldn't tell him. When he asked why they wouldn't, both Maki and Nobara turned to each other and grinned. All before they turned back to the only male present and replied with one word...

"Sisterhood"

--A Few Days Later--

But whereas that question left (Y/n) with a raised eyebrow, one person who was free of such convoluted thought processes, which was surprising when the person was finally revealed. For as heavy rain fell down from the sky outside, causing more growth to a rapid stream running passed an entrance to an underground sewer system, it was within that sewer system that Junpei could be seen. 

A happy smile found his face as he built his Lego Ford Mustang. However, going along with the unusual location he currently found himself in, an underground sewer of all places, there was also something else at odd. Which was when the fluent grey-skinned leg of an unknown individual lying on a hammock dropped down. Only seconds later did his voice enter the air.

(???): "There are cursed spirits known as special-grade potential apparitions. Cursed spirits are a collection of the cursed energy emitted by humans. And a shared image of fear makes it easy for a powerful curse to manifest."

It was a particular part in that sentence that caught Junpei's attention, the young boy lifting his focus from the half-built Lego car momentarily to turn to this stranger.

Junpei: "A shared image of fear? You mean like famous monsters and ghost stories?"

(???): "Uh, huh. Like toilet-bound Hanako, the nine-tailed fox, and so on."

Junpei: "Toilet-bound?"

(???): "Jujutsu sorcerers have registered such cursed spirits as special-grade potential apparitions and keep an eye on them. Though the fact that they often categorize powerful, unidentified curses as potential apparitions makes it feel like that's all they're focused on."

Junpei: "It's not?"

(???): "Ha! Of course not! People constantly fear more than just those fairy tails, right?"

Junpei: "Hmm...Oh! Like natural disasters?"

(???): "Yup! But sometimes natural disasters bring more than the disaster at the forefront of it all."

Junpei: "Oh, so kinda like when someone someone steps on Legos?"

(???): [Tilts head] "Huh?"

Junpei: "Haha. Nothing. Nothing. That just sounds like something (Y/n) would say."

(???): "(Y/n)?"

It was the mention of that one name that caused the unknown figure in front of Junpei to tilt his head. But the eagerness to learn more only caused Junpei's smile to keep growing with excitement.

Junpei: "Yup! (Y/n)'s funny like that. He'll just come up with jokes out of nowhere. They always make me laugh."

(???): "Oh? But I thought you said you didn't have any friends?"

Junpei: "Well..." [Lowers head] "...I don't--I mean, I didn't...B-But I met (Y/n) a few days ago and..."

Just a mere memory of the moment was enough to make Junpei smile. After all, he had gone so long without having a proper friend, that to finally be given one, and one that he already felt so much enjoyment being around, in only just a few days was something he was extremely thankful for. And it was with all of that, that he proudly lifted his head and smiled once more to the person before him.

Junpei: "...But we've hung out a few times since then, and it's been really fun! Though...I sometimes think he's too cool for me."

(???): "Oh...I see."

 It was clear that Junpei was confused at the way the response sounded. But when he turned toward the figure in front of him, all he did was offer a wicked grin as he slowly rolled out of his hammock and stood up. In doing so, his entire figure was revealed. And it was safe to say that his appearance was the least odd thing about him. For the person standing before Junpei appeared to be nothing more than a regular human, besides his skin colour, of course. After all, this man had hair, eyes, arms, and legs. The only thing that really stood out was the stitching over his face, but even then, that could appear normal. And his clothing wasn't much different, with purplish loose clothes that hung off his body slightly all were natural. 

But it wasn't what was on the outside that set this person apart from humans. It was what was within him. But Junpei was yet to properly see this, despite after the situation that led him to come into contact with this person. After all, just as he met (Y/n) a few days ago, he also met this stranger. A stranger who went by the name of Mahito. And for Junpei to come into contact with Mahito came when the former decided to go to the movies. It was one he was eagerly waiting for, but was left bewildered by what happened outside the film. As a simple flashback revealed the sight of a silent Junpei watching in the corner of the dark theatre as Mahito did nothing but touch three high-school students who were yelling in the centre of the room. 

Junpei previously held anger towards them for ruining the movie. But now all he could do was watch in horror at their disfigured, and distorted bodies. All of which were caused by Mahito. Now, whether or not it was the right decision, upon seeing Mahito leave, something none of the workers outside seemed to notice, Junpei decided to follow after him out of the theatre and into a dark ally. It was this very moment where Junpei first came into contact with Mahito, and what led him to where he was now. Because whereas most people would have been horrified by what Junpei had just witnessed. 

Junpei had grown so tired of life, that seeing people he believed were nothing but a waste of air actually die just like that, it left him intrigued. And seeing as he held no relation, or care, for those high school students, he found no reason to fault Mahito. Little did Junpei know who just who Mahito was. But even if he did, perhaps he wouldn't have changed his mind nonetheless. Because Junpei saw Mahito just like he did (Y/n). Someone who understood him. And having someone who could seemingly understand him made Junpei happier than he had ever been before. Such a feeling was only doubled as Mahito smiled at him once more and spoke softly a few seconds later.

Mahito: "You know, Junpei...I love that we became friends."

Junpei: "Y-You do?"

Mahito: "Of course!" [Smiles innocently] "You bring so much great information with you!"

That last part definitely left Junpei confused. Such was confirmed by the way he looked at Mahito. But all the grey-skinned male did was continue to showcase his teeth in a smile before he silently sat down and joined Junpei on the ground to build his Lego set. Something which Junpei was more than happy to attend to, despite the lingering thoughts he had going on inside of his head. Though, if Junpei had noticed Mahito's innocent smile take on a wicked grin, he perhaps would have thought otherwise. 

But seeing as he didn't notice, his smile remained. But this one moment right here would set off the after-effects for what was to come. But neither Junpei, or (Y/n) knew of such a thing. Especially the latter, who could currently be seen chilling in the living room area of the First Year dorms at Jujutsu High. It was in this living room that (Y/n) sat at one of the couches placed in the centre of the room looking at his phone. 

Just a little lower, Maki could be seen reading a book. The girl with green hair and glasses using the stomach/abs of her boyfriend as a comfortable pillow as she laid out on the rest of the couch. But they weren't alone in this time, as just across from them on another couch, both Panda and Inumaki could be seen. Though, instead of preoccupying their minds with their phones or a book, the duo could be seen in the process of an arm wrestle. One which seemed to see Panda struggling to win.

Panda: [Whilst struggling] "So-Ugh-(Y/n)...I haven't seen you much around the school lately-Argh-What you been up to, dude? Ah-Ah--Ugh!"

Slam!

The groans of Panda came accompanied by the sound of a heavy object slamming into wood. And that wooden surface was none other than the coffee table set between the three couches, and the heavy object was Panda's arm. After he was once more delivered defeat.

Inumaki: "Salmon roe."

Panda: "SON OF A PANDA! I LOST AGAIN!"

Maki: [Whilst reading] "Quiet."

Panda: "Argh! How?!" [Looks at Inumaki] "HOW?! How do you keep beating me?!"

Maki: [Whilst reading] "Because you're weak. Now quiet."

Panda: [Gasps Loudly] "Maki! You...You don't mean that, right?"

Maki: [Whilst reading] "I do. You're weak. A weak Panda."

It looked at, by this point, that Panda was about to cry. A single tear building up in his left eye as Inumaki simply nudged his shoulders whilst (Y/n) smiled softly as he patted Maki on the head. Thankfully, Panda was soon broken from his sorrowful ways when he suddenly turned to look at (Y/n), smiled brightly, and repeated his previous question.

Panda: "So, (Y/n)...Where ya been?"

(Y/n): "Huh? Oh, just--"

Maki: [Whilst reading] "He's been hanging out with his new friend."

Finally, Maki made to move her head. By leaning it backwards, further onto (Y/n)'s chest, to look up at her boyfriend with a still expression.

Maki: "...And has been ditching me."

(Y/n): "Ditching you? When did I ditch you? I've hung out with Junpei twice, and both times we weren't even doing anything!"

Maki: "Yeah, but I wanted to."

(Y/n): "Why didn't you say anything?"

Maki: "...Because I was waiting for you to ask me."

Such was said as Maki returned to reading her book. Though, she didn't get a verbal response. Instead, (Y/n) just shook, managing to smile before his focus was once more directed to Panda, who now had his hands in his lap as he rocked back and forth on the ground. Behind him, Inumaki sat on the couch.

Panda: "Oh. You got a new friend. That's cool. What's his name?"

(Y/n): "Ugh...Junpei! Yeah, he's pretty cool. He likes the same stuff as me."

Maki: [Whilst reading] "They bought lego together the other day." [Glances at Panda] "You should have seen them. They were so cute."

Maki said all of this with the straightest look on her face. No smile. Nothing. Such made her words seem sarcastic, and maybe for the last part, they were. But once more (Y/n) just laughed it off before continuing.

(Y/n): "Yeah. We bought and built some Lego. But we also watched a few movies at his place. You'd like him actually, Panda. He has the same taste as you."

Panda: "He's also into Panda's?"

(Y/n): "W-Wha--What? N--...No? I-I don't think..."

Panda: "Oh..."

Panda proceeded to drop his head in sadness.

Inumaki: "Tuna mayo."

(Y/n): "Huh? You think so?"

Panda: [Gasps loudly] "Yes! Yes! Yes! You should do that, (Y/n)! Invite your new friend to come with us to see, uh..."

A noticeable pause quickly filled the room. Now, Maki wasn't really paying attention to the conversation. After all, she would much rather focus on her book whilst cuddling up to her boyfriend. However, it wasn't long before she too noticed the silence, and upon offering even the slightest glance toward the other side of the room, she was greeted by both Panda and Inumaki avoiding eye contact with everything. This was quickly something that Maki found weird.

Maki: "Uh...What's going on?"

She spoke out. However, her confusion only grew when her gaze just so happened to glance up at her boyfriend, in doing so, she saw that (Y/n) was doing the same thing. This was enough to make her slam her book shut and sit up on the couch.

Maki: "Alright! That's it! I know something is going on now." [Turns to you] "What is it?!"

(Y/n): "H-Huh? Oh, nothing. Just...Guys weekend plans." [Smiles] "You know?"

Maki: [Narrows gaze] "No...I don't."

All (Y/n) could do for a response was chuckle nervously as Maki continued to narrow her gaze at him. Now, as much as (Y/n) found this sight very attractive. He would have fumbled sooner or later. Thankfully for him, it wasn't long before out of nowhere Panda reached out and managed to pull the young boy off the couch with a single hand showcasing his strength. It was enough to knock Maki back slightly, before she finally turned to look at the others. Panda, now with an arm over the shoulder of (Y/n), keeping him in place, smiled brightly with a peace sign as Inumaki silently stood opposite him.

Panda: "Haha! What funny conversations we all have. Anyway, I'm going to steal (Y/n) for a moment that is completely unrelated to anything just mentioned. Okay?"

Maki: "Wait! What are you guys do--"

Panda: "Alright! Cool! Thanks, Maki!"

She went to say more, however, it was already too late. Panda and Inumaki had managed to steal her boyfriend right out from underneath her. This left the girl with glasses to aggressively cuddle a pillow as she sat on her knees on the couch. Her glare remained on the group of boys who now stood across the room in the corner, where they were presumably talking about something stupid.

(Y/n): [Chuckles nervously] "Hehe...Come on, guys, relax. It'll be fine."

Panda: "How is it fine, (Y/n)? She is clearly expecting something."

(Y/n): "That's just Maki being Maki."

Panda: "Exactly! That's what I'm worried about! She's going to ruin everything!"

(Y/n): "Okay, now, come on. Be serious. How is she going to ruin it? We're just going to see a movie. Can't she just come with us?"

Panda: "No! Because if she comes, she's going to ruin GUY TIME! We are going to see this movie...as boys! Not girls!"

Inumaki: [Nods] "Tuna mayo."

(Y/n): "Alright. Fine. Just...At least let me explain it to her that we're just going to see a movi--"

Panda: "No! Because if you tell her that much, she'll ask to know what movie we're seeing. And then she's going to find out and won't let you go with us!"

(Y/n): [Chuckles] "Come on. She wouldn't do that..."

Panda: [Blankly stares] "(Y/n), you know full well about this movie we are seeing, correct?"

(Y/n): "Yeah. I watched the exact same trailer with you and Inumaki when it came out."

Panda: "Exactly! So you would know that this particular movie has certain moments that show...certain parts of the body that make us boys happy in the brain."

(Y/n): "You mean boobs--"

Panda: "Sssh! Sssh! Sssh! Ssh!" [Leans in and whispers] "Don't say it too loud. She'll hear you..." [Looks into the distance] "...She hears everything."

As he whispered, Panda cautiously looked over (Y/n)'s shoulder. In doing so, he was greeted by the narrowed glare of Maki that was still present.

Panda: [Turns back to you] "(Y/n), you know full well how girls get when the person they like sees other girls naked. They get jealous. So if Maki knows that there is...boobs...in this movie, she will not let you go--AND RUIN EVERYTHING!!!"

The loud soundwaves of Panda's voice flooded the air, even to the point it caused (Y/n)'s hair to shift due to the wind. Once Panda was done, (Y/n) turned back to look at him blankly.

(Y/n): "Okay, dude. I think you're overreacting. Sure, Maki may be a little...displeased with me seeing another girl's boobs--" [Mumbles] "Even though I haven't seen her own yet--" [Out loud] "But she'd still let me go to see the movie. Besides, it's not like we're only going to see the boobs, right?"

Panda and Inumaki did not respond. They simply stared at (Y/n), though Panda's was slightly molded into a narrowed gaze similar to that of Maki. However, unlike Maki currently, Panda decided to go above and beyond once more.

Panda: "OF COURSE THAT'S WHY WE'RE GOING! We are boys, (Y/n). That means we like boobs. I like boobs. I know for sure you like boobs. Heck! Even Inumaki likes them!"

Panda gave nothing more than a signal over his shoulder. When (Y/n)'s gaze followed, he was greeted by the blank expression of Inumaki who proceeded to offer two thumbs up. For a moment this caused (Y/n) to raise an eyebrow, all before he regained focus and turned back to Panda.

Panda: "It was as soon as we saw that this movie would show boobs that we made a pact to go see it in theatres together."

(Y/n): "Yeah, but...I have a girlfriend now." [Chuckles] "So it's not like I have to go to a movie theatre to see those."

Yet again, Panda and Inumaki stared at him blankly.

Panda: "You haven't even seen them yet, have you?"

(Y/n): "Welllll...Not...Totally--I felt them! I did do that! Though...That was before Maki told me she wasn't ready to take it to that step. B-But, um...I did see her wear a sports bra once...and that...was cool."

Following his words, (Y/n) proceeded to snap his fingers before offering finger guns towards Panda and Inumaki. Though, just like before they just simply stare at (Y/n). Eventually leaving him to drop his head in shame.

Panda: "...Lucky son of a bitch. BUT THAT DOESN'T MATTER RIGHT NOW, (Y/N)! You must keep the pact alive!"

(Y/n): [Head still hangs low] "Yeah...Yeah. I'll go to the movies with you..."

Panda: "Excellent! You made the only choice! Oh! And be sure to ask your new friend if he wants to join...Though...Only if he likes boobs. That's a requirement."

All (Y/n) gave was a raised eyebrow toward Panda, who just smiled. However, (Y/n)'s attention was soon drawn elsewhere when the sound of notifications going off alerted the young boy to his pocket. A few seconds later he retrieved his phone to see a message from Nanami. Which caused (Y/n) to grow even more surprised, after all, he didn't think Nanami liked him much. But if that was the case...Why was he texting him to meet up with him and Itadori?

[Your POV]

--An Hour Later: 12:30 P.M.--

Walking into Nanami's office in the city, it was immediately followed by a wave of sterness that I felt every time I was around the aforementioned Jujutsu sorcerer. Though, it was weird to be in a place like this. After all, it was a room in a small building Nanami owned that he ran his Jujutsu life out of when on the clock, and where he lived when off. Maybe the thought of that made me feel uneased as I followed the aforementioned blonde up the stairs to the second floor. But if it wasn't this strange feeling that was killing me, it was the silence. He had said nothing but my name after opening the door to his home. 

All before he began to lead me upstairs. The walk up the flight of stairs was rather quick, even so, it felt like forever thanks to the silence of it all. Now, I thought that would all finally end, when we finally entered the actual office within the building on the second floor. I was made to think this thanks to seeing Itadori sitting on the couch a short distance into the room. But all it took was a single glance to see that he seemed to be distraught, deep in thought. Something clearly was making him sad, and that only confused me more. However, before I could even say a word, Nanami had beat me to it.

Nanami: "(Y/n). Please. Sit down. We have something to discuss with you."

(Y/n): "Oh. Um...Right."

With not much else to do, I simply did as Nanami said. I was quick to find my place on the green couch Itadori already was placed on. But even when I sat down next to him, his still gaze was focused on nothing in particular. It just remained in a forward motion, his mind taking control. My own focus was only brought back to the moment when Nanami took his place on a small, single-seated, brown car to my left. It was as he took his spot that he turned his emotionless gaze to me.

Nanami: "(Y/n), we received a call from Shoko earlier today giving us some details on the two beings we fought last week on the rooftop of the theatre. Do you remember that?"

(Y/n): "I do." [Thoughts] "It was the time you cracked the shits at me."

Nanami: "Good. Then you will have no trouble recalling the events as we play back what Shoko told to us."

It was only at this moment that I noticed a voice recorder had be placed on the glass table set before myself, Itadori, and Nanami. As soon as I noticed it, Nanami proceeded to lean forward and pressed the 'play' button. The voices of Shoko, Nanami, and Itadori echoed from it seconds later.

Shoko: "I'll say it again. The creatures you fought which you were able to take a photo of were not curses."

Itadori: "Wait. They weren't?"

Shoko: "No. Cursed spirits cannot be taken a photo of. But these creatures were able to. Because they're not curses... They're humans."

An audible pause filled the recording of the recorder, whilst my eyes widened in shock. It wasn't long before the voices continued.

Shoko: "No. I guess you should call them former humans. They're the same as the three from the Theatre. The structure of their bodies were forcibly altered by a cursed technique."

Nanami: "If that were all, I would have noticed from the start. The two we fought were full of cursed energy, like a cursed spirit."

Shoko: "You'll have to ask the culprit about their cursed technique to explain it. Though there is evidence that their brain stems were tampered with, most likely to create a state of confusion and impaired consciousness. If they can tamper with the brain, it might be possible for them to modify someone to be able to use cursed energy. The relationship between the brain and cursed energy is still a mystery to us. Oh, right, is Itadori listening?"

Itadori: "Oh, yeah..."

The sound of Itadori's voice on the recorder was enough for me to pull my own head back to turn to him once more. But just like before, Itadori's focus was directed on nothing in particular, but his brain seemed to be full of thoughts. It made me feel sad for him, and wonder just what he was thinking about.

Shoko: "To sum it up, these guys died of shock from having their bodies modified. You didn't kill them."

And then, just like that, I came to realize just why Itadori was so quiet. It only made me feel sadder for him. My confused look had now formed into one of sympathy, as I searched Itadori's gaze for any emotion other than sadness. However, before I could find anything, the recording ended. Nanami proceeded to eject the tape before turning to me.

Nanami: "After all of this, I've come to the conclusion that the residuals that we found at the theatre were nothing but a trap to lure us toward those deformed humans. Our foe is quite skilled. It looks like this will take more than moderate effort."

(Y/n): "Which means...?"

Nanami: "Let's go all-out. That's why I asked you to come here today, (Y/n)."

(Y/n): "Huh?"

Nanami: "I have noticed you feel confused in the way I treat you. I have only seemed to acknowledge Itadori in training, correct?"

He...He was reading me like a book. I didn't know what to think or do. Yet, Nanami didn't wait for me as he continued to speak. 

Nanami: "You probably presumed I thought low of you. That I shouldn't bother teaching you anything. But in that assumption, you would be wrong. I don't think low of you, (Y/n). In fact, I think rather highly of you."

(Y/n): "You...You do?"

Nanami: "Indeed. I have asked Gojo a lot about you before you were assigned to me along with Itadori. The mere fact you went from someone with no skills, no heart, yet you stand before me with the capability of using over fifty cursed techniques is beyond incredible. So if I was to trust someone with my life who wasn't Gojo, based solely on cursed energy, it would be you."

This only added to my confusion. My brain was practically thrown all over the place to the point I didn't know what to say. But before long, my mind set itself on to one thing in particular.

(Y/n): "But, wait...If you trust me that much. How come you've been ignoring me when it comes to training?"

Nanami: "Simple. You do not need my training. You have clearly shown you are capable of wielding a cursed technique in the battlefield. So my words to you would be pointless. Itadori on the other hand is still new. Thus, I shall place my full focus onto him whilst believing in you to handle your own self. And so far, you have not let me down in that regard."

(Y/n): "But...If that's the case, how come you didn't bring me back into this sooner? You've just been with Itadori for a few days now?"

Nanami: "Because I saw no point in wasting a powerful sorcerer's time. At least, not until we found out some concrete information."

(Y/n): "Oh, I see..."

I couldn't help but secretly smile at myself upon hearing that. Though, I couldn't remain like that for long before something came sparking to my mind.

(Y/n): "Wait...So that means you have new information?"

Nanami: "Indeed, we do. In fact, we have more than that. You see, we believe we have found the cause for why this has happened."

(Y/n): "You do?" [Stands up] "Really?"

Nanami: "Indeed. We have searched through multiple cameras and other sources of information and we've come out with the identity of the person we believe had caused all this."

With each word he said, my heartrate grew quicker, as did my smile. It finally seemed like we were getting somewhere with this. I could finally bust out my skills and put an end to this problem, and in the process, hopefully, get Itadori some much-needed happiness in his life. Honestly, if I could, I'd ask him to come to the movie with me and the others. 

He definitely deserved to be happy, and I'd want him to share the moment with us. I seemed pretty determined on that idea, and the idea of finally kicking some asshole's butt when I finally met the guy who was behind all of this. However, this was the part in the story that a twist was made. And that twist was laid bare on the table in front of me when a photograph was presented to me. Instantly, my eyes widened in shock when I saw who the photo was of.

Nanami: "This is the person we believe may have a part in all of this. His name is--"

(Y/n): "...Junpei."

The shock that escaped my mouth did little to hide the real shock deep inside. Though, it did seem to surprise Nanami. All the while, I couldn't take my eyes off the photo of Junpei presented in front of me. 

Nanami: "Wait. You know him?"

(Y/n): "Yeah. I do. He's..."

"...He's my friend."

******

Those were the words that continued to play through my head over and over again as I stared directly at the photo of Junpei before me. Currently, I found myself in a separate room within Nanami's office building. In it, a corkboard with a map of a particular district within Tokyo, and a TV could be seen. To the side of the map was Junpei's photo. I was suddenly pulled back from it, however, by the voice of Nanami.

Nanami: "After organising the reports from our windows, on recent residuals, unnatural deaths, and disappearances. This was able to help us narrow down suspicions on everything that has gone on revolving around the incident at the theatre. Such has led us to--"

(Y/n): "--Junpei." [Lifts head] "He's the one you think did this, right?"

Nanami: "That, I cannot confirm. But I am not going to disregard the possibility your friend may play a part in this."

(Y/n): "But that's the thing, Nanami. I don't think Junpei is behind this. I mean, after all I know about him, he doesn't seem to be the type of guy to want to hurt people."

Nanami: "That may seem so to your mindset. But you said you have only known him for a few days, correct?"

(Y/n): "Well, yeah..."

Nanami: "Which would leave a high chance that there is still a lot you don't know about Junpei. It is often, in situations like this, that someone with the least knowledge known about them is higher up on the suspect list."

(Y/n): "So, what? We're just supposed to think he did it?"

Nanami: "There is clear evidence that he has at least some connection to it all. After all, he goes to the same school as the victims. And based on the surveillance footage, and the way he carries himself, I believed it was unlikely that he could be a curse user."

A single tap of his finger against the remote in his hand was all it took to turn the TV screen on. In doing so, the footage of Junpei running out of the theatre room where the bodies of the high school students was found could be seen. And honestly, just seeing it now after knowing Junpei, it was a rather hard sight to take in.

Nanami: "However, despite himself not carrying himself like a cursed user, the fact he is related to the victims, changes things altogether."

(Y/n): "Yeah, but..."

Itadori: "Um, Mister Nanami, sir?"

Nanami: [Turns to Itadori] "Yes?"

Itadori: "What's a curse user?"

(Y/n): "It's an evil jujutsu sorcerer."

Itadori: [Gasps] "...There's evil Jujutsu sorcerers?"

The childish exemption of shock in his voice was enough to make me smile. It was only helped by the fact I found myself happy that Itadori no longer seemed to be down in the dumps. But still, despite what I felt now, it was still hard to look past what was painted in front of me.

Nanami: [To you] "Now, I have other matters involving the situation to attend to. Now, despite your connection to the suspect. I am...Going to do something I wouldn't normally do, and allow you to handle this matter in whatever way you deem fit."

(Y/n): "Huh? Really?"

Nanami: "Indeed. Think of it as a way of me...proving my earlier words."

I couldn't help but smile myself after hearing what Nanami was saying.

Nanami: "Though, in saying that, please...Don't do anything reckless where I will have to offer you the same doubts that I have for your cousin."

That reply only caused my smile to shift into a grin. But in the end, that's all I offered to Nanami. Though, I think in doing so, I kinda scared him. Because it probably wasn't the best act of confidence to showcase the confirmation he seeked with his previous sentence. Even so, it seemed enough that he soon allowed me to leave. And that's where I finally reached the point I'm at now. Twenty minutes after leaving Nanami's office, I find myself sitting in the back seat of Ijichi's car, the aforementioned male driving towards Junpei's house. But with each meter, we grew closer, the look of concern on my face only grew. To the point, I think it was starting to become quite noticeable.

Itadori: "You alright, (Y/n)?"

(Y/n): "Huh? Oh. Uh, yeah. I'm fine..."

Itadori: [Tilts head] "You sure? Because you've kinda been staring at nothing for a while now."

A part of me wanted to tell my thoughts to Itadori. After all, he seemed willing to listen. However, there was a hesitation inside of me that kept what I wanted to say inside. But after a flash of the sorrowful face Itadori had earlier, it instantly made me not want to put any pressure onto him. And with how passionate Itadori was when it came to those close to him, I knew showing any sign of concern would only hinder his behaviour. Even more so if he saw it come from someone he considered to be one of the strongest. 

But even with me wanting to keep this emotions inside, it wasn't anything new, for any teenager for that matter. After all, what is a teenager's life if it wasn't filled with doubtful, anxiety-inducing thoughts? So, in the end, I simply did the same thing to Itadori as I did to Nanami. I offered him a smile. Thankfully, it seemed to be enough for Itadori, who smiled back before returning to his old self once more. For the next five minutes, the car ride was filled with the normal energy Itadori and I shared whenever we were together. 

However, deep inside, there was a part that was holding back from enjoying the fun. And it'd stay that way until I could do the one thing that needed to be done...Prove Junpei's innocence. That one thought was what continued to motivate me as we neared Junpei's home. And it was what pushed me forward when we finally came to a stop at the corner just around from where Junpei lived. Without any hesitation, I exited the car. Followed shortly by Itadori. Before long, we both stood at the edge of Ijichi's front door window.

Ijichi: "Are you sure you two can handle this fine?"

(Y/n): "Yeah. We'll be fine, Ijichi. Despite what Nanami says, I still don't see Junpei having any part in this."

Itadori: "Yeah! And if (Y/n)-Senpai thinks that, then it's true!"

(Y/n): [Chuckles softly] "Thanks for the support, Itadori."

A mere thumbs up was all that was placed on display from the goofy boy standing next to me. My smile managing to remain as I looked back at Ijichi, who was still clearly hesitant about the whole thing.

Ijichi: "Whilst I trust you, (Y/n), I still wish for you to be careful. This boy may not be a curse user, but you must remember that even those who are outside the world of Jujutsu sorcerers, there are still great evils lurking in the shadows."

(Y/n): "Ha! Don't worry, Ijichi. If there are any shadows lurking around here, I'll just do to them what I do to every single other bad guy that comes my way-- I'll punch them!"

Ijichi: [Mumbles] "You really are a Gojo, aren't you?"

Ijichi thought I didn't hear that part, but I decided to ignore it. So after a wave goodbye, both Itadori and myself took off for Junpei's house just down the street. However, little did I know, as Itadori and I ventured off down the footpath along the front of the houses, Ijichi's soft smile took a hesitant form before dropping altogether. Instantly, a sigh escaped his lips before he closed his eyes and spoke a set of words he clearly didn't want to say. But knew he had to, nonetheless.

[3rd Person POV]

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

Regret could be felt throughout Ijichi's words until the very end. As he finally did finish his sentence, however, his regretable gaze slowly lifted to focus on (Y/n) as he walked further into the distance. Now, at point blank, it seemed like nothing had happened. But Ijichi knew otherwise. After all, it was due to the higher-ups that he was forced to speak such words whenever he went on a mission involving (Y/n). 

Now, up to this point, confusion definitely would have resolved around why these words were spoken whenever (Y/n) went on a mission, or even through his childhood. But the reason for why such a thing happens was because whereas those words were often used in exorcisms to hold back curses from getting to the outside world beyond the curtains, the exact same could be said for (Y/n). Those words were used to cast a vail not over (Y/n)'s body, but his soul in general. All so, in the end... the curse within (Y/n) could be kept at bay. 

Because if (Y/n)'s true Cursed Potential was released onto the world, the Higher-ups, and those in the know-how, feared that if anything like that happened...No one would be able to stop him. The thing that caused such a thing to go over the edge, however, was the fact that no one knew what would happen if (Y/n)'s true powers were revealed. Would he still fight for those he cared about? Or would the monster within corrupt him like plenty of others have been corrupted? Only time would tell seemingly. 

But it was up to Ijichi, who spoke these words in the name of the higher-ups, in hopes that such words would hold back (Y/n)'s powers enough that he'd hopefully end up dying against curses. For if that happened, then with his death, perhaps the beast within would also die. But that was all a mystery for another day. And one (Y/n) had no idea about. Yet, even if he did, there was enough suggested that he probably wouldn't even worry about it right now, especially as he found himself and Itadori slowly walking up the stone steps towards the front door of Junpei's home.

[Your POV]

Itadori: "Hehe. I'm so excited to meet your friend, (Y/n). I bet he's as cool as you if you know him personally!"

(Y/n): [Chuckles] "Yeah. Junpei's pretty cool, I guess. Though, let's just say he's not as...Outgoing, as you are, Itadori."

Itadori: "Outgoing?"

(Y/n): "Yeah. So how about we just take the introductions a little more slowly, huh?"

Itadori: "Oh...Okay!"

Thankfully, Itadori didn't seem to take any offence to the fact I was kinda referring that he had quite the wild personality when first meeting people. And with him acknowledging such with a happy attitude, it gave me hope that everything from this point on would go smoothly. And so, with such, that brought me the courage to finally lift my hand up to the door and began to knock.

Knock!

Knock!

Knock!

The sound echoed three times, one for each collision between my fist and the door. It was only a few seconds after the third knock, however, that the door to Junpei's house finally opened. But instead of Junpei standing at the door, I found in his place was none other than his Mother.

"Oh, (Y/n)! You're back again so soon? I'm so happy!"

Instantly my eyes widened in shock when my gaze set itself upon Junpei's Mom, Nagi Yoshino. Now, my eyes didn't happen to widen because I found her overly attractive or anything. But more so due to he fact, I wasn't really expecting her here. And in a way, I was kinda hoping she wouldn't. Not because I didn't like her. But just after remembering the last time I met her. You see, the last time I was over at Junpei's house, I just so happened to come over when his Mom was getting back from work. And, to her surprise, when she saw her son was hanging out with someone his age, just like any mother, she was beyond happy and excited to see her child having friends. 

However, that excitement soon took a much stronger form when she started bombarding me with questions and also choosing to continue to stick around whilst Junpei and I hung out. Now, once more, I didn't find this bad whatsoever. But I knew Junpei didn't like it much. So seeing that his Mom was currently home, it'd definitely make my mission in which I was brought here with, a little more difficult. Especially when, during this entire time I was stuck in thought, she had started babling on about something already. I was unable to fully take in what she was saying, however, before the voice of Junpei sound from behind her.

Junpei: "Mom, who are you talking to--"

His words were abruptly cut off, however, as soon as he saw it was me she was talking to. In the end, all I could offer was a smile and a wave of my hand, before Junpei's mom stepped in the way with a large smile on her face, one she offered her son as my view was blocked by the back of her head.

Nagi: "Oh! Junpei, dear! (Y/n) has come back to play Lego's with you! Isn't that great!"

Junpei: [Incredibly embarrassed] "Mom! What did I tell you! When you're my age it isn't called...playing...anymore. E-Especially with legos..."

Nagi: "Oh, right..." [Fake mocking tone] "...It's called hanging out--Even though that's really just playing together nonetheless."

Junpei: "Mom--You're embarrassing me! Stop it, please!"

Nagi: "Embarssing you...?" [Suddenly smiles] "I have no idea what you're talking about, Jun-pea!"

It was at the mention of Junpei's nickname that his Mom called him that his left eye began to twitch. And, as much as I shouldn't, I couldn't help but chuckle silently to myself as Nagi went about making her own laughter a little more noticeable compared to mine. All the while, Itadori just watched in confusion. However, his confusion quickly shifted elsewhere when the sound of the front door slammed shut. But upon suddenly glancing back at it, I found Junpei was now standing in front me, with the door pressed against his back after seemingly slamming it shut in front of his mother. This caused both Itadori and myself to simply blink rapidly as Junpei groaned in annoyance.

Junpei: "I swear, if she wasn't my Mother...I would..." [Sighs] "...I'd do nothing."

I don't know why, but in a weird way, hearing him say that somehow brought about a whole new wave of confidence that Junpei really had nothing to do with what went down in the Theatre. Enough to the point that I, for just a moment, managed to forget all about what was going on, and instead left me to merely picture the moment as just another time of me and Junpei hanging out. But this time even better, because Itadori was joining us. And I had a feeling Junpei would like the idea of having another friend. It was that and so much more that pushed my smile further. A smile that remained even as Junpei finally lifted his head and gave me a questioning look. But like before, I didn't respond. I just smiled. 

Happy with the moment I had in front of me. And little did I know, that not long from now, it was moments like this that I'd come to miss most. Now, by the time I truly felt such a way, whilst not being too long, still had some time between it and now. However, that wasn't to say my life wasn't about to go through yet another trial. For as I stood right now before Junpei, elsewhere, in the underground sewer that Junpei was earlier this very day, Mahito, along with Jogo, the Curse with one arm and branches for eyes, and the tiny squid, could be seen standing before the aforementioned pale skin curse. Mahito, himself, wearing a smile as he gave off the latest bit of information he had received. And by the look on Jogo's face...He was very much happy to hear it.

Jogo: "And you're sure about all of this, Mahito?"

Mahito: "Yes. Yes. I already told you, Jogo, the boy who has become friends with me told me clear as day. The Silly sorcerer you are so riled up on is friends with me."

Jogo: "So you're saying that (Y/n) (L/n) has gathered himself a weakness then?"

Mahito: [Groans] "Yes!" [Mumbles] "Why do I have to keep repeating myself."

Mahito's annoyance went unnoticed, however, as Jogo simply allowed a grin to spread across his lips as he looked toward the ground. As he did, evil sprung up in his eye, as the volcano atop his head began to boil. It all came together once the fingers of both hands touched.

Jogo: "So this is it. I'll finally be able to use the information Geto gave to us."

Mahito: "Huh? Information?"

Jogo: "Finally, we'll be able to defeat the strongest sorcerer there is." [Grins] "...And with (Y/n) (L/n)'s death, all of us curses shall rise up...And become the true humans that we are!"

Jogo's sentence was directed at no one in particular, enough that it caused Mahito to tilt his head in confusion. But Jogo didn't notice. Instead, he simply kept his grin, and allowed it to continue to grow. Which, was kinda odd. For right now, if (Y/n) and Jogo was position side by side, it'd appear like the two sides of one coin. Yet, just like a game of heads and tails, one side would deliver victory, and the other...Would bring nothing but defeat.

[But which side will win? Well, you'll have to read the next chapter to find out! And as stated above, I'll try my best to bring you all a chapter within the next Ten days or sooner. I have two other books I need to catch up on, but we'll see how it goes. Nevertheless, I hope that what I was able to deliver to you all today ended up being to your enjoyment. And hopefully, even with the wait, it won't hinder any of you from continuing to read the book. Now, if you did like it, feel free to vote and comment, that'd be much appreciated. Now, as for this chapter, a lot went down in it despite maybe not seeming so. I used this one to showcase future plot points and progressing character development. 

Now, I wanted more than 16.5k words for this chapter, but at the end of the day, that's what I got. And besides, this chapter, unlike others, really felt like a Part 1 to a 2 part story. I don't normally like doing 2 parts, but with at least a somewhat consistent upload scedhle for this book, it shouldn't hurt it too much, hopefully. Especially with how there's going to be a lot of action coming in THE NEXT CHAPTER! So, hopefully you all are excited for more. And hopefully receiving a chapter nonetheless will still make your day. Because getting it out made my. So, just like always, thanks for reading everyone, and I'll see you all again soon~]