[So after a month we return. I didn't mean to be thiiiiiiis long away, but honestly, as a lot of you know, I've been in a slump. With books, and irl. I only mention it again so it's clear as to why I was away. But I'm back now to hopefully deliver you all a chapter that makes that wait worth it. At least, that's what I intend to do. So if you're ready for an exciting chapter, get ready. Because whereas '13' had action; and '14' had emotion; '15' is a perfect blend. It's the chapter that, to me, rounds up the first part of this story. So get ready everyone, because the return of Cursed Potential is finally here!!!]

[...20K words...Twenty thousand words...All for you guys...made in the span of a five day span...I hope you guys realize how much you mean to me lol]
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[3rd Person POV]

In the language of Japanese, there are many words that make up many things. Some words bring stability, whilst others bring doubt. Some are reassuring, whilst others waver. But in the conflict of the unknown that many people go through on the daily, there is one word that people can live by...

"Shin"

The word 'Shin' means true or genuine. And in a world like today, where people try to become someone who they believe will benefit them in being seen in a better way by other people compared to their actual self, its a word more need to remember. You don't have to be like someone else to be liked. You have to be your true self. In other words, take the word 'Shin' into a deeper meaning. But for many in today's world, the word 'Shin' has completely overseen them. The sorrow and distaste that this world brings souring the emotions of everyday life for people who deem theirs to be anything but fruitful. 

It's in these dark times that the weak will do anything to become a person they believe will be seen in a better light. In some cases, some people will even try and become a person they deem to be the perfect person. Normally the person they wish to become has been a shining light in their dark, little, world. It's because of this shining light that this figure offers them, that makes them believe that if they act like their light, their life will be better, just like it is for them. First, it'll start out small. The sorrowful man will take on small aspects of their shining light. Perhaps it's the way they talk, or joke around. 

It can also come in the form of making connections with the friends of their shining light, hoping that they just haven't been around the right people to truly be happy. And for a while, this strategy will work. The sorrowful man will become happier because their life seems to be more like the life that their shining light carries. But after a while, simply being around the lights friend groups, and acting as they do isn't enough. Their life will fall back into turmoil, leaving the sorrowful man to cling to even more of their lights life. It's at this point they'll go even further before. They'll start acting exactly like their shining light does. 

They'll copy their morning routine, the way they dress, the activities and skills in which they have. They urge to be a one-for-one copy of their shining light, believing that will make them truly happy. But the sad reality of life is, no one can ever truly be happy when they're not themselves. It's in that moment that we must remember the word 'Shin'; and adopt the meaning of being 'true' and 'genuine'; because in the end... The true form of anything will always come out on top in life.

[Your POV]

I've heard stories about how people on house arrest can go crazy even within the span of a few days. Something about how the freedom they once unknowingly sought only to suddenly be taken away causing a massive decline in the mental state of the chosen few forced to go through such horrors. At least, that's how Megumi chose to describe it when I asked him about whether people go insane from being locked up whilst on house arrest. But Megumi's exact words didn't exactly register with my mind right away. Thankfully Panda wasn't too far away, and when I asked him the exact same question, he basically compared it to this...

(Y/n): "Hey, Panda, do you think I'll go crazy being locked up in this place for too long? Because Megumi said it's possible. But I couldn't really understand what he meant."

Panda: "Oh! I can explain it for you, (Y/n)!" [Suddenly grins and clenches fist] "Alright, (Y/n)! Think of yourself as a cool and powerful main character in a video game--Can you do that?!"

(Y/n): [Blankly Blinks] "I'm pretty sure every teenage boy has considered the possibility of them being the main character before, Panda."

Panda: "Right. Right. Of course. My bad. But of course, I want you to think of yourself not like a normal main character from a video game...but the main character of an open-world game instead!"

(Y/n): "Oooh. An open-world video game character, huh? That sounds cool!"

Honestly, it did. I mean, that's basically what you are in real life. But when you actually start to think hard on the idea, it really ignites something in a guy. Especially when you begin to compare your previous life experiences to sidequests of a character in an open world video game made my life sound really cool! It got me even more excited to hear what else Panda had to say.

(Y/n): "Okay! Cool! What else, huh?"

Panda: "So you're picturing yourself as an open-world video game main character, right? Well... Now think of it like you're just a regular main character from a normal, structure video game! And that's basically what you are now!"

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

Panda: [Nods Approvingly] "Uh, huh. That's about it! You understand now, (Y/n)?"

(Y/n): "Um...Yeah, I-I think."

Panda: "Alright! Cool! Well, good luck with being locked away? I'm rooting for you!"

Panda proceeded to give me an energetic fist pump to the air before turning around and returning to whatever he was originally doing.

(Y/n): "...And, so, yeah! That's about what made me come to understand that my once amazing life has simply become that of a generic NPC. So, sorry Maki, but your once wild boyfriend is no more..." [Sighs] "...I hope you can handle the loss better than I can."

Of course, my response came rather quicker than I expected, thus showcasing Maki was handling the loss quite well. Because before I even knew it, the straightened hand of my amazing girlfriend came falling out from the sky above and landed right atop my head. Of course, it only seemed like it came out of nowhere because I currently found myself lying on my bed, where I used the soft stomach of my woman as a pillow. So I couldn't exactly see much else of Maki that laid on my bed like a normal person. But her brute response was enough to show she cared...

And honestly, despite the minor pain that my head now carried, at least it was something different. Because whereas I was already warned that the life of something locked away would make me go crazy, I didn't realize how quickly it would happen. I'm just lucky that Maki decided to stop by earlier to comfort me. And since then I've been telling her everything that has happened during my imprisonment. Though I don't quite think Maki understands the pain I'm going through right now. At least, the pain that wasn't brought upon me by the strike my girlfriend delivered moments ago.

Maki: "I just want you to know that I understood absolutely nothing about what you just said. But I'm here, so I'm still a good girlfriend."

(Y/n): [Slightly looks up at her] "Huh? How could you not understand what I just said? It's way clearer than what Megumi said."

Maki: "Uh, I'm not so sure about that, babe. See, I understood what he said. But everything Panda said was completely lost on me."

(Y/n): "How? He basically compared my imprisonment within the walls of this dastardly school to that of a main character from a regular videogame, where said character has to wander through the crowded walls of the world created by the overseeing overlords to create the very thing we call life. How is that not easy to understand?"

Maki: "Um...I'm not sure. But that should be my point enough to show that I'm really lost."

(Y/n): "Oh! Well, okay!" [Mumbles] "Huh...Guess Video Game terms is just a thing boys can understand. Hmm, weird..."

It was once that this darkened truth came to my realization that I had nothing else to do with my life. So what did I do? I immediately began to groan in annoyance and act like a little kid in front of my girlfriend all in search of the desperate head pats any guy so desires from the person he calls his woman. Thankfully, unbeknownst to everyone else, Maki was actually a very loving person, so she was more than willing to give into my desperate need for attention. Though it was as she gently stroked my head that she decided to also bring out the more common characteristics of Maki Zenin.

Maki: "So, what...? You've been locked up here for a day or whatever, and you've already given up on life?"

(Y/n): [Sighs] "...Indeed, I have. That's why I want to apologise because I probably won't be as fun as I usually am." [Slowly Rolls Over; Goofily Smiles] "So you better get used to the single life, Maki, because even if I do become so boring that you break up with me, I'll still be twice as cool as any other guy you'll find!"

Maki: [Chuckles Lightly] "Yeah, well, luckily for you I'm not exactly in the mood to look for another guy right now. I guess you could say I've grown rather attached to your annoying antics that if I do leave you, it would have been a waste."

(Y/n): "Oh..." [Grins] "So you're saying I'm not a waste, huh~"

The playful rise in my voice should have been warning enough. But if it was, well, Maki would have soon been thrown off her game when I quickly moved from my position of resting my head on her stomach and began moving my body until it was right over her own. It was with Maki now being gently pressed down onto the bed, and our faces a few inches apart, that all that beautiful girl I fell in love with could do was simply try her best to not blush. However, that became somewhat more difficult for her when I slowly began to remove the only thing blocking my perfect view of those amazing eyes she called her own.

(Y/n): [Speaking Softly] "You know...As pretty as I find you with these glasses on, you should really think about wearing them less. Because somehow you get even more stunning when you don't have pieces of glass blocking my view from your gorgeous eyes~"

Maki: [Blushing Madly] "Buh-Buh--I--Argh...Idiot."

(Y/n): [Smiles Goofily] "What was that sweetheart? I couldn't hear you quite?"

Maki: [Grumbles] "...You're an idiot." [Out Loud] "Ugh! Give me my glasses back already! Besides...You know I can't fight curses without them."

The way her words grew softer near the end was all I needed to hear to know my charming antics were 100% working, even with the adorable way she tries to go against them. But no matter what Maki had to say to me, I was always ready with a slew of poetically sowed words to return to her.

(Y/n): "Well, that's alright. Because if any curse, no matter how strong they are, dares to come near you, they better watch out..." [Leans in Closer] "...Because I have no problem removing them from this earth entirely if they dare make my Maki upset~"

As soon as my words had fully registered themselves to Maki's mind, I knew they impacted her right away. Not only had her blush now tripled in size. But instead of actually responding to me, it seemed like any words she wanted to say only got to her throat before being blocked from going any further. I honestly think Maki sometimes forgets that I've got a way with words when it comes to telling her how beautiful I think she is, and the lengths I'll go to keep her happy. When she does get through the nervous stages and manages to ask me just how I got so 'cocky' as she liked to put it, I simply told her that I spent three years thinking about nothing but her. 

So obviously I had a lot of time to come up with all the smooth things I wanted to say to her. That's another thing. I know for a fact that Maki likes it when I tell her during my hellish trials whilst trapped within that void all I could think about was her. It made her have butterflies in her stomach and act, well, girlier than I have ever seen her. That's for sure. Though as I've noticed lately, even when I get Maki in this way of being completely thrown off by my actions, sooner or later she likes to get even with me. Or to at least smooth out the conversation so we're both on equal terms once more.

(Y/n): [Grins] "Still think I'm not a waste?"

Maki [Confidently Smiles back] "Hmm, I guess you're pretty interesting to not be a waste."

(Y/n): "Enough to keep me around for a while longer? It'll be worth it!"

Maki: "Is that so? Oh...I don't know, (Y/n), there's some pretty interesting people around this school. I mean, I think I heard Inumaki has a stamp collection. That sounds interesting. He might just steal me away from you~"

(Y/n): [Tilts Head Slightly] "Huh? Stamps is what you're into...Is that so?"

Maki: "Maybe~"

(Y/n): "Well then, let's see if this can beat boring old stamps?"

And then the time for action came. Without another word, nor a warning, I wasted no time in slowly lowering my head down closer toward Maki's face. As we neared, the both of us closed our eyes, allowing the sensation of the moment to take over. The next thing I knew, my lips had finally made contact with Maki's own. It was a feeling unlike anything else. It felt like when you're dreaming, and instead of it cutting off at the good part, it just keeps on going. And that's exactly the same mindset I carry whenever I kiss Maki. 

Because after spending three years away from her, to be back in her arms, with my lips pressed against hers, it reminds me of all the pain I went through during that time...and how now it was completely worth it. And I wanted to showcase exactly that to Maki by making this kiss just as good for her as it was for me. That meant not slacking on using my other means to showcase my feelings rather than just with my lips. With my hands, I slowly lift them up to cup her cheeks gently. The soft flesh a welcome feeling to the firm skin cells that made up my palms. 

Even with us lying in a cool room in the middle of the day, my hands alone were enough to feel the raging heat growing inside of them. That was my signal that Maki was enjoying herself, and if that wasn't enough, the way she began to bring her arms around my neck, all so she could keep me close, was another signal that gave me the means to believe the current time was being well spent. My mindset on that was only doubled when something which I don't even fully know myself happened whilst we were kissing which eventually forced us apart with an abundance of laughter. 

Again, I didn't know what happened, but whatever it was was enough to make Maki laugh, and with how adorable her laughter is, I couldn't help but laugh. Honestly, I sometimes forget just how funny and ridiculous Maki can be when it's just the two of us, and not when we're in the shadow of everyone else at this school. And honestly, I'm glad that out of everyone, I spent this time with her. Because with all the contemplated thoughts and worry filling my spirit these last few days, it was really nice just to have the comfort of the one person who could keep me sane through it. And the more I think of that, the more I can confidently say these next four words.

"...I love you, Maki..."

[3rd Person POV]

Unbeknownst to (Y/n) in the moment, however, this was where the roadblock in the happy memory showed up. Because whereas those words were easy for him to say, he never once fully thought about just how hard it was for Maki to say the same. Now, it wasn't like Maki didn't love (Y/n), she knew she care for him very much. But after everything she had been through in life, saying you loved someone wasn't an easy task, even when you felt like you did love them. Add in the fact that saying you love someone wasn't a very common thing in Japan itself, and that only made everything so much more complicated for Maki. 

It made her feel terrible that whilst (Y/n) could easily say those words whilst looking down at her with so much love and care, that she even struggled to do the same. It made her crumble when she began thinking that he deserved better than her. It ended up that this thought process was enough to ruin the entire moment for Maki, though, not wanting to leave (Y/n) heartbroken when he was already going through so much pain, she decided a more 'left field' response was enough for such a sensitive moment.

Maki: "...Pfft! Ha! You don't have to tell me that! The fact you basically begged me to spend time with you now is enough for me to see that, (Y/n)."

(Y/n): "Oh..." [Grins] "Is that so, huh? Well then, I'll show you, Maki!"

Without another word, (Y/n)'s grins only grew as he launched his head back down toward Maki's own, where another trail of making out began leading off the rails. However, unlike before, Maki found herself unable to show nearly any passion in the process of it all, at least compared to how much passion (Y/n) made her feel right now. It eventually led Maki to feel so bad that after another fifteen minutes of kissing and spending time with her boyfriend, she excused herself with a, well, excuse. And as much as (Y/n) tried to get her to stay, after some convincing, and the notion that she was going to get a surprise for him, (Y/n) reluctantly allowed his girlfriend to leave. Though, probably not as willingly as Maki would have hoped.

(Y/n): "Come on, Maki! Come on!"

Maki: "No, (Y/n)! I'm not telling you!"

(Y/n): "...But Pookie...I'll miss you if you don't tell me..."

Abruptly spinning around Maki was quick to offer a glare and a blush to her boyfriend, who was trying to give his best set of puppy dog eyes...Which unfortunately didn't work.

Maki: [Glaring & Blushing] "What did I tell you about calling me 'that'?!"

(Y/n): [Goofily Smiles] "...That only I can say it?"

Maki: "That I hate it! Argh! Idiot!"

(Y/n): [Chuckles] "Okay, fine! I won't call you it again for the rest of the day...if you tell me!"

Maki: "No!"

(Y/n): "But you said you had a surprise for me! So come on, tell me!"

Maki: "If I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise, now would it? So let go of my arm and let me get it ready!"

In that moment, (Y/n) proceeded to repeatedly blink at himself before lowering his line of sight to see he indeed had his hands latched onto Maki's arm. Something (Y/n) had unknowingly been doing since Maki meant to move off the bed, though with her boyfriend's reluctance to let her go, she was forced to drag him all the way over to the door where they now stood together. But it was in the moment of letting her arm go that (Y/n) began to question just what his surprise could be. And then, it suddenly hit him like a girl on prom night!

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "No! It can't be! Maki isn't going to surprise me with... Herself dressed in that yoga outfit she owns, right?!"

That thought alone instantly flooded the young boy's hormonal mind with images of his girlfriend dressed in the grey yoga outfit she wore when doing the aforementioned activity. And as (Y/n) and every other teenage boy has come to realize, if a girl was already hot beforehand when they put on anything to do with yoga, they're immediately buffed with 10+ Hottness. Realizing (Y/n) could potentially be getting the sight of a lifetime almost made him unable to let Maki go now. However, he managed to push through, shaking his head free from the thoughts before turning to his girlfriend with an eager smile.

(Y/n): "You know what? You're right! This is a surprise, I should stop asking questions! Hahaha!"

Though it was fair to say his response definitely left Maki questioning more things now than she did before.

Maki "Um...Okay? That's not weird at all."

(Y/n): "Uh, huh. You know it. Nothing weird here, my amazing girlfriend!"

Maki: [Narrows Gaze] "Hmm..." [Leans in Closer] "(Y/n), are you thinking perverted thoughts?"

(Y/n): "Hu...Huh? What? Noooo! How dare you, Maki! I am more than a teenage boy that can find even the curviest of logs attractive, thank you! I'm simply...Just excited for the surprise is all! It's got me curious."

Maki: "...Oh! Well, okay then...I'll go get it ready."

(Y/n): "Okay! Cool! Totally! I'll be waiting right here! Haha! Bye!"

Maki: "Uh, okay...Bye?"

The confusion didn't once leave Maki's face as she watched her boyfriend close his bedroom door behind her. But even when that task was done, Maki still found herself pondering why he was asking weird. Though, she didn't have a lot of time to contemplate it, after all, she now had to come up with a surprise to give her boyfriend after using it as an excuse to get her out of a situation that made her feel like a terrible person. 

So, in the end, all Maki could do was release a sigh and wander off down the hall of the first years' dorm building within Jujutsu High. Meanwhile, back inside (Y/n)'s room, the aforementioned male slowly turned around and leaned against his bedroom door. A completed sigh of relief soon left his parted lips as he closed his eyes for a moment. At this time, a simple smile and chuckle came from him further as he thought over how silly he just acted. 

Sure, seeing Maki all hot and imagining her surprising him with it was amazing, and enough to make any guy act like that. But after it all, he couldn't help but picture how different he was now compared to when he first came to this school. A thought that continued to stay with him as he pictured just how much his life had gotten better in the year/years he spent in this new world. And one of the things he had to thank for that was Maki, not only was able to make him feel sane in a crazy world whilst free, she also managed to make him feel sane in a crazy world when locked up in it. Wait--

(Y/n): "Hang on, if Maki was the one keeping me sane whilst I was locked up in this room, now that she's gone...Am I going to go crazy?"

A moment of silence past by rather quickly as (Y/n) contemplated the serious action. It seemed his fears of being alone...alone like he was in the void...were slowly coming back to haunt him...

(Y/n): "...Haha! Who am I kidding? This is nothing like the void! I'm not alone! I won't go crazy! It'll be easy to stay sane in my bedroom...

--One Hour Later--

"Bored." "Bored." "Bored." "Bored." "Bored." "Bored."

Over and over again that one exact word came from (Y/n)'s mouth. Each time he spoke it, his head would lean forward and connect with the wall in front of him. An easy task when the young boy was curled up on the very back of his bed, where his body faced the wall and the darkened corner of this small world (Y/n) had now become trapped in. The process of all this had now been going on for some twenty minutes now. It was the longevity of such a weird routine that caused the other students of Jujutsu High to begin to grow worried. Well, Panda and Inumaki were mainly worried. Megumi was more so in between and Nobara had freely gone off to the shops with Maki five minutes ago.

(Y/n): "Aarrgghh!! Come on, guys! Let me out! You know I didn't do it!!"

The voice of (Y/n) once more ringing through the air as it managed to linger it's way out from under the door of his bedroom and into the hallway outside, where the previously mentioned Panda, Megumi, and Inumaki could be seen all carrying different expressions from the pitiful cries of their friends.

Panda: [Sighs] "Poor (Y/n), this So isn't fair! He would never hurt Junpei's mom!"

Inumaki: [Confidently] "Mustard Leaf! Spicey Cod Roe"

Panda: "You're right, Inumaki! (Y/n) is innocent! We've gotta prove it!"

But just before the best friends of (Y/n) could race off to save their friend, they both were brought to a sudden stop when a pair of hands took hold of their shoulders. Upon turning their heads, the once confident disciples that were Panda and Inumaki came face to face with the less-than-confident expression of Megumi.

Megumi: "Hold your horses, guys. Don't just rush off blindly into the matter until we get the full picture."

Inumaki: "Tuna Mayo?"

Panda: "Yeah, Inumaki's right. Don't you think (Y/n) is innocent as well, Megumi? You're his friend, right?"

One prolonged sigh later after hearing that remark, Megumi finally responded.

Megumi: "...Whilst I do not believe (Y/n) is capable of doing such an act, nor do I find reason for the matter of friendship to be brought up in an irrelevant situation right now, we also must look at the obvious red flag here."

Panda: "Red flag? What? Like in dating?"

Megumi: "What?! No, I--"

Inumaki: "Tuna Tuna!"

Panda: "Inumaki is right. Because whereas (Y/n) may be a little tardy on how much time he takes in the shower, I wouldn't exactly call it a red flag--"

Megumi: "I'M NOT TALKING ABOUT DATING RED FLAGS, OKAY?!"

The sudden outburst was more than enough to make both Panda and Inumaki suddenly stand in place as they processed the angry Megumi standing before them.

Panda: [Leans over to Inumaki; Whispers] "...I think someone has some clear dating red flags if you ask me."

Inumaki: [Leans over to Panda; Whispers] "...Tuna Tuna."

Megumi: [Thoughts] "Why do I even bother staying in this school? Maybe Kyoto would be better?" [Out Loud] "Look! That doesn't matter! What I'm talking about is, whilst you know (Y/n) as this idiotic goofball who you're friends with--"

Panda: "Correction...Best friends with, thank you."

Inumaki: "Tuna Mayo."

Megumi: "Yeah. Yeah. Whatever! The point that everyone here seems to forget is that (Y/n) isn't just some normal sorcerer. He's half curse remember?"

As soon as those words left Megumi's mouth, the dark-haired male shifted his gaze over to the pair in front of him to see both Panda and Inumaki were just repeatedly blinking. As if they had completely forgotten that (Y/n) was half human, half curse. But there's no way that was possib--

Panda: "(Y/n) is a half curse? ...Huh? Cool!"

Megumi: "No! Not cool, you idiot! It's the opposite of cool!"

Panda: "...I'm an idiot?"

The heartbroken Panda mumbled as his eyes grew deeper. This was the final straw for Megumi to take.

Megumi: "Argh! Whatever! Look! All I'm saying is, (Y/n) is a half curse. Curses are evil. Now I'm not saying your little man crush is evil! But there's enough doubt surrounding the whole concept of being a half-curse that we don't know what could come out of it. So...Just keep your thoughts clear, okay? We can't have 'friendships' getting in the way if we have to fight (Y/n) one day."

Once his words finally came to an end, Megumi walked passed the stunned pair of Panda and Inumaki without muttering anything else. But even with Megumi taking his leave, the presence of his words could still easily be felt. To the point that both Inumaki and Panda couldn't help but slowly turn their heads toward one another. When eye contact finally was made, the pair allowed a few seconds to pass before they brought up the biggest issue that Megumi had just made.

Panda: "...You don't think I have a man crush on (Y/n), right?"

Inumaki: "Tuna Mayo."

Panda: "Yeah. I know. I know. At least he said I didn't have a 'big' man crush on him, but (Y/n) and I are bros."

As the conversation took the unthought-of route, the pair began walking off further down the hallway of the first year dorm building.

Panda: [Whilst Walking Away] "I mean I love him, for sure, but a crush? I wouldn't go that fair!" [Shakes Head] "Besides, Maki is already hellbent on the potential gay love triangle she supposedly has with Megumi."

Inumaki: "Salmon Roe?!"

Panda: "Yeah, man! Apparently, Maki is worried that, like, Megumi has a crush or something on (Y/n) and wants to steal him from her." [Looks down at Inumaki] "You didn't hear about that?"

Inumaki: "Salmon."

Panda: "Huh...I wonder why I'm always the one to find out these things first?"

At last, that would be a question for another day. But as the students of (Y/n) went off in their separate directions, unbeknownst to the three of them, that within the room of the locked-in male, (Y/n) was going through a whole lot more than just boredom. For as he sits on the floor with his back pressed against the wall, he sends his gaze toward the only window in his room. Looking through the glass, the bright sun and blue sky could be seen. But despite all the beauty and peace that filled the world outside, (Y/n) couldn't help but lose the strength to find some peace in it all. After all, how could he be happy...When he knows Junpei must be going through a world of pain right now?

(Y/n): [Sighs] "I'm sorry, Junpei... I wish I could be there for you right now. I just hope you're doing okay."

In a strange way, (Y/n) hoped that once his sentence was done, he recieve some kind of signal that Junpei really was alright. Or, at least, as alright as anyone could be after dealing with the death of a loved one. But unfortunately, no signal of such came (Y/n)'s way. Such became enough that all the young boy could do was sigh before lowering his head downward, he planned to keep it that way for a while longer. However, his head was suddenly forced upward when the sound of his door opening caught his attention.

(Y/n): "Maki?"

He said with hesitant glee and a smile as he twisted his head. Unfortunately, that glee was soon lost when he saw the person standing at the door was not his girlfriend... But Nanami instead.

Nanami: "Um...No. Sorry." [Coughs] "The Principal and I are ready to conduct our interrogation if you would please follow me?"

(Y/n): "Oh, uh...Right."

And just like that his head was lowered once more. This time around, though, he couldn't just keep it on the same blank spot of his bed that rested beneath his current position on the mattress. Instead, he was forced to keep his gaze on the move as he proceeded to slowly get out of bed and follow Nanami out of his makeshift prison cell. Unfortunately, the walk toward one of the empty classrooms on the school grounds where the interrogation would be placed was not much better than being alone in his room. 

Even when (Y/n) tried to break the awkward silence, Nanami could clearly be seen as not wanting to talk much until they reached their destination. But even then, when they finally did reach the empty classroom where the Principal of the school was waiting for them, it still seemed that (Y/n) was being kept from something. And that annoyed him beyond anything, but he didn't have the strength to lash out like he wanted to. All he could do was take the seat set out for him and lazily turn his gaze toward the eyes of Nanami and the Principal who sat a desk's length across from him.

Masamichi: "(Y/n), how are you?"

(Y/n): "Oh, you know, trying not to cave my head into the wall! Haha! I actually think I understand now why parents tell their kids to get out of their rooms more. The place is a hellscape when you can't leave!"

Masamichi: "Oh, um...Well, it's good to see you haven't lost your sense of humour."

(Y/n): "Yeah, well...It's hard to lose anything when you're stuck in the same place all the time."

This time around there was very little sense of (Y/n)'s humor. The stray look on the young boy's face was very noticeable to both the Principal and Nanami, who offered a brief glance at one another before the latter took over the conversation.

Nanami: "Yes, well, while we both disagree with the higher-up's decision to keep you restrained to the school premises, unfortunately, there is not much of a case that we can make right now."

(Y/n): "Pfft! Please! Even if there was a case to be made, it wouldn't matter much to those old fartheads. They haven't liked me from the very first instance I came back here. Heck! If it wasn't for Gojo fighting for me, I'd probably be dead now."

Again, a brief glance was shared between Nanami and the Principal, clearly, they were not expecting to see (Y/n) in such a manner.

Masamichi: "Whilst it is unfortunate that Gojo has not yet returned from business to assist us in this situation, I assure you that Nanami and Itadori are trying their best."

Nanami: "Correct. I have been having Itadori continue to monitor Yoshino Junpei, and so far things have seemed rather normal. Whilst I'm still trying to find the location of the curse who attacked me. So please put your trust in me and Itadori for a while longer."

(Y/n): [Sighs] "...Junpei..." [Looks at Nanami] "Is he really okay? I mean, his Mom died, and all I wanted to go see how he is and--"

Nanami: "Yoshino Junpei seems to be copping. He has mainly remained at his premises for the last forty-eight hours. However, that matters very little in this current moment. Right now, (Y/n), we need you to tell us everything you can about the night Yoshino Nagi died. Any memories, interactions, anything that could help us understand what happened better."

(Y/n): "I...I don't know what else to say? I've already told you everything about that night, and that day! Heck! I've told you everything I remember since meeting Junpei!"

Masamichi: "Yes, we understand that, (Y/n). But in such a confusing situation as this one, the more information we have the better it can help get it over and done with quickly."

(Y/n): "Are you sure you really understand what I've said though?"

Masamichi: "I'm..." [Glances at Nanami] "I'm sorry?"

(Y/n): "You guys, you say you understand, but I don't think you do. Because if you did you wouldn't get me to repeat the same shit I've already said seven times now! I don't know who killed Junpei's Mom! And I don't know who would want to kill her! All I know is I didn't kill her and she was alive when I left! So why do you not believe me?!"

Masamichi: "No! No! (Y/n), Of course, we believe you! We just--"

(Y/n): "Just what, sir?! If you believe I didn't do it, then why am I still locked up here like some monster when the real monster who killed her is still out there?!" [Jumps to his Feet] "I'm starting to think that whatever you guys are doing isn't enough! So maybe I can do something that will be!"

The outburst came suddenly. The way (Y/n) stormed to his feet, slightly forceing the table forward, pressing further against the stomaches of the principal and Nanami, came even more suddenly. Either way, the pair found no comfort in the anger behind (Y/n)'s eyes. But whereas Masamichi was hesitant to push the moment further, Nanami was not.

Nanami: "...Do you honestly believe that?"

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

Nanami: "What you said. Do you honestly believe that? That you could find the real person who killed Yoshino Nagi?"

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

Any words he once had were suddenly lost, along with the anger building up inside of (Y/n). For some reason, the sight of Nanami just looking at him was enough of a throw-off that he couldn't think straight. But Nanami was an expert in tight conversations like the one he was currently in.

Nanami: "Because if you ask me, (Y/n), whether your fighting skills may be unmatched by everyone except for Gojo, you still have a lot to learn when it comes to the real world. Now, I understand you were gone for some time, and that must have felt horrible, but at the end of the day I instructed you to stay away, and you didn't, and whilst I believe you did not kill this woman, I do believe that the fact you visited her that night did play into the reason why whoever did kill her did."

In this moment, (Y/n) didn't know what was worse. That Nanami said all of this in such a tone that was made even worse with how the businessman of a sorcerer didn't break eye contact once; or that he outright spoke the exact thing (Y/n) feared most. He was so thrown off from it that all (Y/n) could say for a response was silent mumbles, before realizing the only course of action he had left was to reclaim his seat and lower his gaze once more. It seemed to become clear that the rough tension built up in the room was beginning to become too much to handle, it was only thanks to the steady voice of the Principal that things were able to get back on track.

But from this moment on, any passion or desire, or even humor for that matter that (Y/n) once had was now completely gone. He just sat there and blakly replied with the truth to any questions Nanami or the Principal had for him. About twenty-five minutes past by before (Y/n) gave everything he could, once the pair interrogating him realized as much, they proceeded to escort him back to his room. But whereas on the way there (Y/n) tried to make conversation with Nanami, it was on the way back that the Principal tried to lift (Y/n)'s spirits. 

But it soon became clear that hardly any spirits were there to lift. When they finally reach their destination, (Y/n) silently entered his room without a single word offered to either the Principal nor Nanami. All he did was enter the room, close the door behind him, and head straight for his bed. But instead of crawling up into a ball like earlier, he simply made the notion to lie down flat on his stomach and allow the sweet embrace of sleep to fill his soul. Hoping it'd take him away from this dark spot the world had recently placed on him. Then again, even if he wanted to do something else...What could he really do?

******

It was as (Y/n) felt the four corners of the world slowly closing in on him, that elsewhere in the city of Tokyo, there were two particular people looking to make (Y/n)'s life a little bit easier. Those people were, of course, Maki and Nobara. Both of which could currently be seen walking through the baking section of a supermarket. Both wore casual clothing, with Nobara eyeing the various items they walked passed whilst Maki pushed a shopping cart beside her. 

Now, the very reason both girls were in this particular spot of the supermarket was so Maki could finally deliver on that surprise she mentioned to (Y/n) earlier. And whilst it was hard at first to come up with something to give her down-on-his-luck boyfriend, she eventually realized what she needed to make him happy. It's something that she should have thought of from the very moment the word 'surprise' popped into her head. It was so obvious that the thing (Y/n) wanted most was

Nobara: "--Cake?!"

Maki: "Yeah, cake."

Nobara: "You're seriously making a cake to cheer (Y/n), up?"

Maki: "Um, yeah? What's the matter with that?"

Nobara: "Nothing. Nothing at all..." [Mutters] "...If you wanna be a bore, that is."

However, as Nobara muttered these words to herself, Maki continued to travel further down the shopping aisle as she did, she continued to go about placing the necessary items she needed into her shopping cart. Something Nobara just couldn't believe!

Nobara: "Hold on! Hold on! You're still going along with this plan?"

Maki: "Huh? What plan?"

Nobara: "To make the damn cake for (Y/n)!"

Maki: [Annoyed] "Well, duh! Why else would I still be here?" [Scoffs; Mutters] "Honestly, I think you've put too much shampoo on your head that your brain is starting to slow down." [Shakes Head] "Wait a second! Why do you even care? Fuck! Why are you even here?"

Nobara: "...Because I had a feeling you'd screw this up!"

Maki: "You didn't even know I was here for (Y/n) until you asked just before!"

Nobara: "Yeah, well...I had a hint." [Mumbles] "A hint you'd screw it up, whatever it was."

Something Nobara made double clear by crossing her arms and looking to the side. This, of course, only ended up making Maki double as confused as before. But the sight of Maki just staring at her in annoyed confusion only made Nobara more annoyed herself. Thus, it led to the current topic of conversation...

Nobara: "You seriously don't see it, do you?"

Maki: "See what?"

Nobara: "The opportunity you're missing right now!"

Maki: "Opport--Argh! If I knew you were going to be this idiotic coming along with me, I would have rather asked Panda to come shopping with me."

Nobara: [Groans] "The only idiot here in this aisle right now is you!" [Sighs] "Look! Right now, (Y/n) is back at school, depressed, because he's being blamed for something he didn't do. Add in the fact that he's got a so-called friend he wants to see, and he can't, leaving his mind to be full of negative thoughts that are clearly getting him down! And your idea to make him feel better is getting him cake?!"

Maki: "...Yeah, so? (Y/n) likes cake."

She cautiously stated as she reached for a box of cake mix and placed it into her shopping cart.

Nobara: "That's not the point! The 'point' is this moment right here is clearly the biggest opportunity of your entire relationship with (Y/n), and you wanna waste it by giving him cake! Don't you see what I'm talking about?!"

Maki: [Blankly Stares] "...I feel jealous of the friends you left behind in your childhood town."

Nobara: "Wha--Huh?! What does that even--"

Bonk!

Maki: "Enough talking from you."

The gentle words of Maki came rather quickly, which seemed odd after the fact that the girl with glasses literally gave a karate chop to the front of Nobara's head moments ago, an action Nobara still couldn't quite fully process. The agitated wave of confusion was quickly subsided to Nobara just forgoing the whole 'easy approach' to what she was trying to say and just blurting out what she was talking about. An action which Maki would come to know in mere seconds when the shopping cart she was pushing suddenly came to a holt.

When she turned to see what was stopping her, she was greeted by a grinning Nobara, who had both of her hands clenched around the metal railings of the cart's frontal area, whilst her body from the waist up was leaned right over the rest of the moving object. As time built up, the grin on Nobara's face only grew further as Maki stared blankly. But as the jealousy she felt earlier slowly returned, Maki was soon given a set of words that'd send her entire cold persona into overdrive.

Nobara: [Grins Wickedly] "I now understand that you do not see this situation as I do, Maki, so I shall explain it for you nice and clearly. Right now, your boyfriend is sitting in his room, alone, needing to desperately to clear his thoughts of the troubles in his life. And do you know what is really going to help him cheer up?"

Maki: [Blankly Stares] "Cak--"

Nobara: "No! It's not cake! I don't know how man--Argh!" [Forcefully Smiles] "It's not cake, okay? It's...Sex!!"

There! It was finally said! The relief that came flooding through Nobara's body as she finally said it felt incredible! Like, she knew Maki had no idea about anything when it came to relationships, but still, Nobara didn't think she'd be this bad. Honestly, in Nobara's mind, Maki was lucky to have her here with her to help. Because if it wasn't for Nobara, Maki would never be able to take this step she clearly wanted to--

Maki: "...I'm going to kill you now."

Nobara: [Grins] "See, I know you're not exactly experienced when it comes to dating guys so I--Wait...Huh?!"

Immediately opening her eyes and connecting them with Maki, Nobara was stunned to see the girl with glasses still blankly staring at her. That wasn't the thing that stunned the ginger. What did stun her was the sight of the taller girl cracking her fists and beginning to step out from behind her end of the shopping cart. When Nobara saw this her body froze and her eyes widened, immediately was the sass and annoyance from moments ago gone, but now it was replaced with regret and deathly levels of fear. Made worse by the cold nature surrounding her still gaze.

Nobara: "No! No! No! No! Maki! Hold on a second!"

Maki: "I'm going to punch you now, okay? So try not to move otherwise things might get...messy."

Nobara: "No! Please! Alright! I can explain!"

Maki: "Nah, I'm good."

Nobara: "Come on! Seriously! Just stop and give me a--JUST LET ME EXPLAIN, PLEASE!"

The desperation in Nobara's voice must have been amusing enough to Maki. For after a few seconds of clenched eyelids and a rapid increase of her heart went on, Nobara finally managed the strength to slowly open her eyes to see Maki had stopped in her approach, though the cold glassy look her eyes gave off showcased Nobara only had a few seconds to prove her case...or die.

Nobara: [Chuckles Nervously] "Um, can I..."

Maki: [Dead Serious Tone] "Speak."

Nobara: "...O-Okay, look, I-I know it might sound weird for me to say it so suddenly. But I'm really just looking out for you and (Y/n)!"

The way Maki shifted her gaze and tilted her head slightly seemed to suggest otherwise.

Nobara: "I'm serious! Look! I know you've been struggling with telling (Y/n) that you love him lately, right? S-So...So I suggest that, um...You know...Sleeping with the person you really care about is an emotional environment that might help you--"

Maki: "--What do you get out of it?"

Nobara: [Smiles Cautiously] "Huh? Me? I-I get nothi--"

Despite no sound being made, the heavy presence that came with Maki narrowing her gaze was definitely felt by Nobara in the moment it happened. Enough of a threat to make her push past the barrier of embarrassment.

Nobara: "Okay! So I get something out of it...Kinda!"

Maki: "How so?"

Nobara: "Well...I don't know." [Smiles to herself] "I mean, y-you know I like (Y/n)--B-But he's made it abundantly clear that we can't get together! So, i-if I can't be with him...I might as well help you--who is my dearest friend--"

Maki: [Places Hand on Hip] "Uh-huh. Uh-huh. To the point?"

Nobara: "...I might as well help you to get the fullest out of dating a guy like (Y/n)!" [Sighs; Shakes Head] "Look, Maki, I know he may not seem like it...But (Y/n) is a really great guy. He may not show it all the time, but he's caring, and understanding, you don't get that a lot from guys these days--Heck, people in general these days. So...I don't want to see you hold back from going for moments that you clearly want, just because you're afraid of what he might think is all."

As Nobara's sentence came to an end, a wave of silence filled the lone aisle the pair found themselves on. Nobara could barely muster the strength to make eye contact with Maki, whilst Maki was doing the exact opposite. The cold gaze in which the girl with glasses offered the ginger did little to showcase any truth that may have been hidden behind them. The emotions in that Maki had on the inside were left for only Maki to know. It was the prospect of answers that eventually led Nobara to confidently lift her gaze.

But as she did, she was greeted by the silent figure of Maki simply walking past her, the clacking of the shopping cart wheels going along with her. That reaction alone was enough to make Nobara drop her head for the second time. Though, it quickly lifted when the sound of the clacking wheels suddenly stopped. Meanwhile behind her, the shopping cart, and all movement from Maki had frozen. Turning her head around, in hopes the moment could be salvaged, Nobara was soon given a brute force reminder from reality as Maki finally replied.

Maki: "I'd appreciate it if you'd butt out of my relationship with (Y/n). It's really none of your business." [Goes to leave but pauses] "...And honestly, it's starting to look desperate."

Now those were the words in which Maki decided to end the conversation. With the ending of it came the return action of Maki continuing to push the shopping cart down the rest of the aisle, eventually leaving Nobara to aimlessly watch as the girl with glasses turned the corner. But as soon as Maki disappeared out of view, Nobara returned her focus back down to the ground beneath her. A shallow sigh escaping her lips as a wave of emotions and contradicting thoughts plagued her mind. The funny thing was, however, Nobara wasn't alone in feeling a wave of emotions flood her system.

For not far away, Maki was soon left with the same contemplating thought process. Something that struck her as soon as she turned around the corner and entered the next aisle of the shopping mall. At first, Maki tried to avoid all such thoughts revolving around anything Nobara had just brought up. After all, it was weird to think about sex, and telling someone you love them when you're a person like Maki...At least, that's what she thought anyway. But as much as she tried to fight it, Maki couldn't ignore everything that was brought up by what Nobara had just said. A wave of emotions flooded her system at once.

There was anger! At both herself, and Nobara. There was guilt! Like she wasn't sure if what she was doing was truly the right choice or not. But whether Nobara thought so or not, the idea of telling someone you love them, or...sleeping with them... it was such a foreign idea to Maki. Like before (Y/n), she never thought she'd ever be in a relationship! But then she met his adorable idiotic self and she began to think otherwise. But never once did Maki believe that having a relationship with someone would lead her to so much stress and worry. She didn't know what to do! But in the end, the anger and guilt wasn't the only emotions that rocked her core.

The one that made her concerned the most was fear. She was afraid that through all of this that she was currently doing, she was afraid that the person she was hurting the most...was (Y/n). And she didn't want that. She loved him! She just...She just wished she could say it so easily out loud as she could say it inside. But the fact that she struggled to do such a simple thing left the young girl wondering, out of everything and everyone, was she the person holding him back from being happy? That...She didn't know. But her guilty thoughts were soon ejected when out the corner of the eye she spotted a set of items that made her realize just what aisle she had walked into. An aisle that just so happened to be where the store placed their...um...Condoms.

Maki: [Sighs] "Son of a--"

"Oh! Hey, Maki! Didn't think I'd see you here!"

Maki: "Huh?"

As soon as she heard her name, Maki instantly flung her head upward to see who was talking to her. Now, automatically she thought it was Nobara, who decided to push past everything and chase after her. But, no. It was't Nobara who stood before the blushing girl right now, instead, it was the one person Maki didn't think it would be... It was Junpei. And he was...Smiling? Something that wouldn't be normally weird, but when said smiling person just lost a parent, you wouldn't really expect them to be happy about it.

Maki: "Oh, uh..." [Stands up Straight] "...Um, h-hey, Junpei? I, uh...I didn't think I'd see you here either."

A thought that was made abundently more clear when Maki remembered she was on an aisle with condom, which immediately made her mind go to a place she didn't want it to go. 

Maki: "Uh, anyway! What's up?!"

The suddenness of it all definitely caught Junpei's attention, who just tilted his head slightly in confusion. Though after a few seconds he just shook whatever he was feeling off and smiled back at Maki once more.

Junpei: "Um...Yeah? [Chuckles] "Uh, nothing much. I just came to buy some deodorant and some other stuff."

Maki: "Oh..." [Thoughts] "Well, that explains why he's down this aisle." [Shakes Head] "I, um...I-I just wanted to say I'm sorry. I, uh...I heard about what happened. That really sucks."

Junpei: "Oh, um...Yeah. It really does suck, huh? Haha!"

Maki: [Thoughts] "He's...Laughing?"

Not only was he laughing, he was outright smiling. More than before. If Maki was being honest, it was definitely creepy. But as to not resume something, nor be mean in a time like this, Maki simply ignored it the best she could. Or at least she was about to. But before she could, something caught her eye. The way Junpei laughed and smiled...It reminded Maki of (Y/n), and the way he smiled and laughed when he first came back from the void. 

You see, during that time, no one else may have noticed it about the young boy, but Maki knew for certain that despite him smiling and laughing...He was actually really broken inside. Of course, she didn't know that right away, and it wasn't until the pair actually started dating for some time before (Y/n) revealed just how broken he truly was in that moment. He was trying so hard to be someone else, to be the person everyone else wanted him to be, that he was slowing losing himself inside to the point he didn't know what to do. 

When Maki first heard that, she admittedly started to break herself. Not only from seeing the boy she loved feel such a thing. But the overarching fact that she might have helped in making him feel like he should be someone else. When Maki realized she, she declared to herself right then and there that she'd always be there for (Y/n) whenever he felt sad again. And right now, he felt sad because he couldn't see Junpei, and had doubt that he was hurt. 

And going off how he acted in the exact same way (Y/n) did back then, it made her want to help her boyfriend now more than ever. So if seeing Junpei happy made him happy, Maki would do whatever it took to see (Y/n) be happy again, and what better way then to truly get to the heart of someone...then getting to your own first? So you could only imagine the surprise Junpei felt when during his parade of laughter and smiles that he found Maki speaking so softly to him in a way she never had done before.

Maki: "...You don't have to lie, you know?"

Junpei: [Pauses Laughing] "Huh? I'm sorry, Maki?"

Maki: "The laughing and smiling, you..." [Sighs] "...You don't have to act like you're happy when you're not. I mean, you can...And it's really none of my business, but... It's okay to be sad. Honestly, sometimes it's good to feel that way, right?"

Junpei seemed proned to say more, but he found the words that had previously built up suddenly gone when Maki lifted her head and smiled at him. It was a smile that Junpei had never seen before...From anyone actually. He was so shocked at what he was seeing that the silence he replied with was enough to make Maki continue speaking.

Maki: "I know this might sound weird for me to say...Especially cause we hardly know each other, but...I've gone through some stuff with family in my past. Not death, not...really anyway--Argh! The point is, I know what it's like to feel alone, Junpei, to feel sad and without people there for you. It eventually led me to push my only family away to the point we don't really see eye to eye on anything anymore. And...It sucks, it really does."

Junpei: "Ma...Maki...?"

The shock on Junpei's face only double, but this time around, it wasn't just from the words Maki spoke. It was far more deeper than anyone knew. You see, unbeknowst to Maki, Junpei had been following her the entire time since she and Nobara had reached this supermarket. He managed to shake off Itadori, who Mahito warned would be following him, all so he could go up to Maki when she was alone and use his new powers to kidnap her. That was the original plan all the way up until Maki started smiling at him and looking at him in a way that made him feel...Just like (Y/n). But right now, honestly, Junpei cared very little for (Y/n). 

He was solely focused on how nice and caring Maki was being to him...Him! Such a pretty girl actually taking the time out of her day to tell him him something she clearly wouldn't say to just anyone, it...it made him feel special. It made him see Maki in a light he hadn't before. Honestly, he could have continued to watch her for hours on end with how beautiful she looked right now. It really felt weird to think of her like that, but, in this moment she really was. In the end, he was only pulled away from her beauty when she made this adorable smile as she shook her head like a girl questioning everything when talking to...Her crush?

Maki: [Shakes Head; Smiles Awkwardly] "Argh. What am I saying? I haven't even said stuff like this to (Y/n) before, I...I guess I get so nervous when I--" [Shakes Head Again] "T-That doesn't matter right now." [Thoughts] "Honestly, the only reason I'm telling Junpei this is because I'm basically imagining I'm talking to (Y/n), because I want to tell (Y/n) so much and yet I just can't...I get so nervous around him when we're alone that I can hardly think straight."

Junpei: [Thoughts] "You're right...He doesn't matter right now..."

It was clear that there were two different opinions and mindsets on this conversation. For Maki, she was imagining that she was talking to (Y/n), as she wanted for so long to talk to him about things like this, but with him...someone she loved...she struggled to speak from the heart because she was scared she'd look weird and he'd lose the image of a strong person she was. But for Junpei, he saw this moment as Maki subtly signalling to him that she didn't want to be with (Y/n)...She wanted to be with him! Junpei! Even if she didn't know it herself yet, Junpei saw this as confirmation that Maki actually liked him. And made him recognsider the entire plan.

Maki: "Anyway...I just wanted to say that because there are people out there who do care for you, Junpei. Like (Y/n)!" [Thoughts] "Actually, now that I say just him, it sounds kinda pathetic." [Out Loud] "...B-But there's also other people! Like Panda! And Inumaki!" [Thoughts] "I can't really say Megumi and Nobara, because I know for a fact if Junpei sees them in public he'll go straight up to them and they'll completely ignore him and prove I'm lying about the rest of this."

Junpei: "Is there...Anyone else?"

Maki: "Um...Well..." [Thoughts] "Shit! Way to go, Maki! Now you've back yourself into a corner! But you can't tell him shit now, you've got his hopes up! You'll just have to take responsibility for it all!" [Out Loud] "Um, yeah! I mean...Me?"

She made it sound out like she was asking whether she was enough, hoping that she wouldn't have to name off more people. Unfortunately for Maki, the matter of naming off more people wasn't the problem anymore.

Junpei: "Oh..." [Smiles Creepingly] "...You're all I'll need."

Maki: "Um...What?"

Junpei didn't respond, he just kept smiling as he grew closer to Maki. At first, she didn't know what was going on. But when close enough became close enough, she went to knock his lights out, but before she could do anything her entire world went black as if she was struck from behind. Whatever did happen, though, remained unknown to all. The fact that no one even came near that aisle for a good minute or two didn't help. But when someone finally did...It was already too late.

Nobara: [Cautiously Looking at the Ground] "Um...Hey, Maki, look, I'm sorry okay? But! To make it up to you, I went to the entire other side of this store to get you...Chocolate! Because I know you love that stu--"

The apologetic ginger was suddenly cut off, however, when she found no sign in the aisle that Maki was previously in. In fact, the only reason she knew Maki was in this aisle was because her shopping cart was still there. But Maki...There was no sign. This caused Nobara to grow worried, little did she know just how much she needed to be. It was as this happened, however, that an unbeknownst (Y/n) was slowly being pulled into this very source of action himself. The only question was...Would he find out about Maki before he saw Junpei.

--Back At Jujutsu High--

Blam!

Pow!

Bang! 

Crack!

The sound effects from the fighting video game on his phone was all (Y/n) could hear as he concentrated on the most important moment of his life...For now. He had woken up from his ap about half and hour ago, and since then he had been straight into playing games on his phone. After all, there wasn't really much else he could do when stuck in his room, so playing games was the way to go. Unfortunately for (Y/n), however, for the entire time he has been playing this game, he was yet to pass this particular boss that somehow kept defeating him. 

Basically the fighter he was going off against had this magical ghost squid creature in front of him the entire time, meaning (Y/n)'s character couldn't even land a single punch on his opponent because this creature just kept getting in the damn way. But this time around...(Y/n) was going to win. He was now five minutes into this bout, the longest time he's reached into the level yet! The button mashing on his phone was insane! That alone suggested how desperate (Y/n) was trying to win, and the way he cheered himself on as he finally pushed to get rid of this stupid ghost squid for good!

(Y/n): "Come on! You got this! Get that fucking ghost squid out of here!"

Boom! 

Whack!

Another combo of attacks, and the squid was down to four health. This was it! He was finally going to do it!

(Y/n): "This is it! I'm finally going to do it! I'm finally going to--"

BLAM!

The squid did its stupid airial attack and (Y/n)'s player died suddenly.

(Y/n): "SON OF A PANDA!"

What's even worse was the game decided to remind (Y/n) of his fate.

"You Died"

Bang!

...That time the sound didn't come from the game, but by (Y/n) throwing his phone against the wall on the opposite side of the room. Meanwhile (Y/n) immediately crossed his arms and swung onto his side so he was facing the wall, the same direction in which the only window in his room was also located.

(Y/n): [Grumbles] "...Stupid fucking game...Stupid Magical Ghost Squid that cheats..."

Clearly embracing the antics of a child, (Y/n) was prepared to stare angrily at the wall for the rest of eternity due the wave of emotions he suddenly felt. However, just when he got prepared with such...A strange sound caught his attention. At first,(Y/n) ignored it. But when the same sound kept repeating (Y/n) slowly sat up onto the edge of his bed. It sounded like mumbo-jumbo coming from somewhere in the hallway outside. 

But when (Y/n) got off his bed entirely and poked his head into the hallway outside, there was no one there, no sound either. After a few more seconds of contemplating what was going on, (Y/n) eventually relucted and turned around and closed his door. 

But this was where things grew the odd. For as (Y/n) turned around, door already closed, fully prepared to pick up his phone off the ground and rage once more, (Y/n)'s entire body paused when he saw the sauce of the strange noise. But it wasn't in his room, but outside. Through the window (Y/n) saw the figure who had caused the strange sound, now revealed to be loud whispering, silently make their way through the grassy area of the school grounds that were just outside. But the shocking bit of it all, the person loudly whispering was...

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

The name felt so foreign for someone who was in the small list of people who actually knew that Itadori wasn't dead, but alive. But what caused (Y/n)'s shock was that he was seeing Itadori in the open, somewhere he wasn't supposed to be when everyone else didn't know he was alive. Even more confusion rose up when (Y/n) realized Itadori was here...when he was supposed to be looking after Junpei's position. As soon as he realized that, (Y/n) hurriedly rushed towards the window and opened it. Only then did he realize what Itadori had loudly been whispering.

Itadori: [Loudly Whispers] "Nanami! Are you here?! Nanami! Nanami!"

(Y/n): "...Huh? Nanami?"

Immediately (Y/n) began to fear that if Itadori was looking for Nanami, something bad must have happened to Junpei. That was all it took for (Y/n) to clear his mind enough to the point he knew what to do.

Itadori: [Loudly Whispers] "Nanami? Are you arou--"

(Y/n): [Loudly Whispers] "Itadori! Hey! Itadori!"

Itadori: [Loudly Whispers] "Huh?!" [Looks Around; Spots You] "Oh! (Y/n)! Hey, have you seen Na--"

Itadori's loud whispers were suddenly cut off, however, when a foray of other voices suddenly entered the air in the distance. Though they weren't yet seen, it was obviously the voices belonging to Panda and Inumaki. And seeing as they didn't know Itadori was alive, and that right now wasn't the best time to showcase that he was, both Itadori and (Y/n) knew upon eye contact what needed to be done. So that's why no words were said when out of nowhere Itadori started racing towards (Y/n)'s window. 

When he grew close, just as the voices of Panda and Inumaki did the same, the young boy launched off the soles of his shoes and jumped straight through the narrow space that was (Y/n)'s bedroom window. It was just as he landed on the bed inside, that Panda and Inumaki turned the corner and began walking through that particular part of the courtyard. All the while (Y/n) and Itadori made sure they were out of sight from any wayward glances from the pair. Only once they were certain did both the boys slowly lift their heads and begin to speak.

Itadori: "Whew...That was a close one. Huh, (Y/n)?"

(Y/n): "Ha! Yeah, you know i--Wait a minute! No! We're not going to talk about that now!"

Itadori: "Huh? We're not? But it was cool, right?"

(Y/n): "Yeah, it was, but I've got more pressing matters right now. Like, why are you here? I thought you were supposed to be watching Junpei?"

Itadori: [Smiles Brightly] "Oh, I am!"

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

Itadori: [Continues to Smile] "..."

(Y/n): "..."

Itadori: [Continues to Smile] "..."

(Y/n): "...So you're not with him, why?"

Itadori: [Smiles] "Oh! That? Yeah, I lost him!" [Realizes; Stops Smiling] "Oh..."

As soon as (Y/n) heard Itadori had lost Junpei, he immediately grew worried that something bad happened. It didn't take much more for (Y/n) to quickly turn to Itadori with the shocked stored up right now.

(Y/n): "What do you mean you lost him?! How did you lose him?!"

Itadori: "Well, I mean, I-I was...I was tired! I-I was watching him for so long, a-and...and..." [Shakes Head] "It doesn't matter now! Because I found Junpei, I know where he is! But I tried to call Nanami and he didn't answer his phone, but he told me he was coming here to see you earlier so I came here and...I'm here now?"

(Y/n): "...Uh...Um...O-Okay? Ugh--Wait! You know where Junpei is?"

Itadori: "Uh, huh!"

(Y/n): "So where is he then?"

Itadori: "That's why I needed to see Nanami! He's headed for some school, and I have a bad feeling about it. I wanted to do something myself but..." [Lowers Head] "...I'm not cool like you to do things on my own yet..."

From that one sentence alone, there was a lot for (Y/n) to comprehend. He wanted to support Itadori, but he was also worried about Junpei. (Y/n) knew that when loved ones were involved people can go...wayward. He knew that from personal experience. So it made (Y/n) worried about what Junpei intended to do when he reached this school, a school (Y/n) feared was the one home to the bullies of Junpei. And whilst not saying they deserved to get off scotfree for what they did to his friend, (Y/n) still didn't want Junpei to step over a line he couldn't return from. 

Itadori: "...What should I do, (Y/n)?"

It was in this moment, (Y/n) realized what he was going to do.

(Y/n): "It's not about what you should do, Itadori. It's about what we should do...and what we should do."

"...Is go help our friend."

And such a decision that was made not a moment too late. For as (Y/n) came to this conclusion, Junpei came to a conclusion of his own. Though this conclusion would only lead him down a darker path than the one he was already on.

--With Junpei--

"...When I asked Mahito what type of clothing sorcerers wear, he said black clothing was the normal, casual type. He said it's what (Y/n) had worn when he fought curses. I didn't have any black clothing, so I opened my Mom's closet and found an old black leather jacket she had. It caught my eye instantly. It definitely seemed like something (Y/n) would pick out. Not that I needed to be like him anymore. After all, when all of this is done, he'll be the one no one takes a second look at. But for me..."

"...I'll become the strongest in the world."

At least, that's what Mahito had told Junpei, and due to his shallow mind state, the young boy believed the cursed being. After all, in Junpei's eyes, Mahito seemed to be the only one telling him the truth. He seemed to be the only one wanting Junpei to make something of himself. In the end, he seemed to be the only true friend Junpei had left after being seemingly betrayed by (Y/n). But Junpei knew he couldn't simply just ignore that betrayal and the death of his mother, something Mahito had made to seem like (Y/n) had caused, which only led Junpei down a more broken path. 

Which made Junpei urge more and more to become the strongest in the world. The thing was, however, if he wanted to be the strongest, he'd have to defeat the strongest already. It didn't take Junpei long to realize who that was. And after witnessing how effortlessly (Y/n) took care of Jogo, Junpei knew the target at the end of all of this could be no one else. But, in a way, it only seemed poetic that (Y/n) was the one deemed to be defeated by Junpei in order for the young boy to truly become the replacement of the Jujutsu Sorcerer. Only once he defeated (Y/n) could Junpei truly be happy. 

But instead of simply causing chaos anywhere in Tokyo and luring (Y/n) out, he wanted to strike two birds with one stone. He wanted this final showdown to be personal. Just like how (Y/n) made it personal when he killed Junpei's Mom and made the young boy see just how pathetic he was for allowing someone so twisted and fueled by jealousy into his life. But not anymore! Junpei was convicted on avenging his mother and making it right! Not only was he going to take everything from (Y/n), he'd take everything from everyone who ever wronged Junpei. 

And what better way to go against those very people... Than by striking the fucking school that made him feel this way in the first place? There seemed nothing wrong with that in Junpei's eyes. So as the familiar-looking teachers and students went about their day in the packed school gym hall, where over a hundred people were gathered as the yearly awards ceremony was being held, unbeknownst to any of them, a storm was brewing outside. But whereas the grey clouds suggested such, a more prominent figure was edging closer to making more than a simple storm a reality.

--Tokyo Suburbian District | Satozakura High School--

Satozakura School Principal: "...And the certificate of commendation and the prize for finest work in the national book report competition goes to Itou Shouta!"

As the voice of the Satozakura High School Principal sounded from the stage toward the crowd of a hundred students and teachers before him, the aforementioned Itou Shouta rose from the crowd and began to make his way toward where his principal stood. But as the young boy, marked with a smile and grateful expression, found himself walking up the stairs to reach the stage, his gaze was pulled to the side by a group of girls who were cheering him on.

"One, Two... Shouta! Congratulations!"

The loud voices brought on by energetic smiles was something that quickly caught the attention of many of the other students standing on the ground before the stage. The out-of-nowhere reaction left Shouta to simply smile and wave his thanks. Obviously, he seemed like a genuinely nice person. Though as one particular student within this school had come to know, many people who showcased one side of themselves, often had a more sinister one hiding deep below the surface. And if any of those girls could read the mind of Itou Shouta, they definitely wouldn't be cheering him on. 

Shouta: [Thoughts] "Stupid bitches, embarrassing me like this."

Nevertheless, just like most other people like Shouta, he didn't allow people to see this other side of him. At least, not when in front of teachers and faculty that could make his high school life not nearly as fun as it already was. So, in the end, he decided to keep his smile as he turned to the principal and accepted his award. It was after he did so, that the Principal returned to praising his student for the accomplishment as Shouta made his way over to the left side of the stage area where other students could be seen standing. Though what no one in the crowd, nor the principal on the stage noticed, was that as Shouta stood there like the perfect student, he unknowingly was revealing his true self as he slowly leaned over to the nervous boy standing next to him and began muttering silent words that only the two of them could hear.

Shouta: [Muttering] "What the hell were you thinking, huh? I told you just to write whatever, but you made me win top damn prize." [Secretly Grins] "...Do you want to die?"

Those words were enough to spark a wave of fear through the nervous boy standing next to Shouta, to the point all he could do was keep his widened gaze focused on the ground below as he repeated the word 'sorry' over and over again. Yet what was shocking most of all about this wasn't the words given, but the lack of response given. As no one, even in a room of over a hundred people, a room filled with teachers and the damn principal, not a single person saw the fear in this young boy's eyes as he now feared for his life. 

Well, there was one person that noticed. But they weren't amongst the crowd, no. They were positioned near a window outside the very gym hall where everyone was gathered in currently. This person was Junpei, who found his blood boiling from the sight only he seemed to notice. One could only think of just how angry he could have gotten if he were to hear the words that soon came from the unsuspecting students amongst the crowd that cheered on this bully. Cheered on a person who had once been a part of the living hell that was Junpei's life.

Male Student: "Wow, Shouta really is so cool!"

Short Female Student: "Right?"

Taller Female Student: "That so? Well, I give him props for being rich!"

Short Female Student: "I give him props for being so damn hot!"

The taller female student could only roll her eyes at the notion brought on by her friend. However, it was as this action took place that this young student saw a strange black substance beginning to build up in the grey clouds outside.

Taller Female Student: "Hey, what's that black stuff in the sky outside?"

Short Female Student: "Huh? Where?"

Taller Female Student: "Outside! Why? Can't you see it?"

When the taller girl turned to her short friend, the confused look she made was enough to get an answer. But whereas to the untrained eye, this black substance seemed to be unknown, to anyone who knew anything about sorcery, they knew this black substance was merely the beginning of a veil being formed in the sky above the school. And, of course, there was only one person present who could perform such a task.

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

As the words came to an end, the black substance in the sky only grew at a tenfold rate. Within the blink of an eye the entire grey sky was consumed by an even darker shade of the same color. Though what made anyone who could see such a sight know it wasn't just the same sky, was the fact they could no longer see anything from the outside world. It was like a wall had completely sealed everyone off from the world they once lived in. In the end, all was caused by none other than Mahito, who stood on a different rooftop within the school grounds, with Suguru Geto at his side. Only once the completion of the veil was made, did Mahito smile justly.

Mahito: "Hey, I did it! Those words you told me to say actually did something.

Geto: "Thanks for that, Mahito. I can't afford to leave any residuals of mine behind."

Mahito: [Confused] "Huh? You can't? Why not?"

Geto: "Let's just say that sooner or later that young (Y/n) fellow will be on the trail of what's about to go down at this school, and when he, or any other sorcerer of importance arrives, it's best they know nothing about me being here."

That statement alone was enough to make Mahito raise an eyebrow. But with Mahito still being a newborn curse, his free mind was soon pulled away from the serious subject and more onto the fun that was about to be had in this school zone.

Mahito: "So... What exactly are the effects of this veil?"

Geto: "Well, anyone inside can't escape unless you deactivate the veil. Some can enter from the outside, but only those with weak cursed energy."

Mahito: "Huh? But I thought you wanted to lure that (Y/n) kid here? How will he get through if he's got a lot of cursed energy?"

Geto: [Smiles] "That's where you'll let him in, obviously. After all, the reason for doing this in the first place is because of him. He's the key to everything to do with our plan."

Mahito: "He is? But he's only a kid?"

The notion of confusion on Mahito's face as he tilted his head toward Geto only made the well-dressed male to smile back. There were definitely a lot of questions which Mahito had in mind, but eventually found himself just going along with what was said. After all, as Geto stated...It was a part of the plan.

Mahito: "Are we even sure they'll know what's going on here?"

Geto: "It's an unannounced veil in a residential area. The Windows will spot it right away and report it. So it won't be long before someone shows up."

Mahito: "But didn't we make them wonder if (Y/n) killed Junpei's Mom? Why would they let him come here?"

Geto: "They won't. But as you and I are both aware, this human who have taken under your wing has chosen a rather...unique way of drawing out the boy."

The smile on Geto's face only seemed to double down. Meanwhile, back down in the school gym, the students and teachers gathered could now be seen lying on the ground, unconscious. Amongst the sea of bodies, Junpei stood with a deranged smile on his face as he took in what had just happened moments ago. Meanwhile, behind Junpei, the tied up and restrained body of Maki could be seen leaning against the wall, a vicious glare rocked what parts of her face could be seen. With her mouth covered with tap, and her body still unable to move, all the girl with glasses could do was showcase her anger towards Junpei through eye signals alone. 

But Junpei seemed to care very little for that right now, as he instead began to make his way through the unconscious bodies around him, slowly walking by them all, until finally reaching the only person beside Maki and himself that wasn't unconscious. That person, of course, was the Science Teacher who did nothing when Junpei was being bullied... Mr Sotomura. But whereas back then Mr Sotomura had shown no interest in Junpei, all he could do now was show interest in the boy, as fear consumed the overweight teacher's face, at what he had just witnessed.

Mr Sotomura: "Wha...What happened? W-What did you do to them? Yoshino! What did you--"

Junpei: "Ugh! Relax, will ya, fatty? They're not dead, okay?"

A twisted grin quickly followed Junpei's words onto his lips, a similar image which (Y/n) performed when facing off against Jogo previously.

Junpei: "Geez, old man! You show so much care for these students when something bad happens to them...Yet you couldn't be bothered with me?"

Mr Sotomura: "Yoshino? What...What are you talking about? What's going on here? What happened to you?"

Junpei: "What happened to me? Did you hear?" [Grins] "...I've become the strongest in the world."

Immediately as his words came to an end, Junpei, with his grin still present, proceeded to flick back the part of his hair that had always covered the right side of his face. Earlier in his life Junpei did what he could to keep it in place, and not make him seem depressed or emo, as some bullies had teased him with when he entered junior high. But after his Mother's death, Junpei just couldn't be bothered with fighting the truth...He was depressed. But now he was going to fight this lifeless feeling inside with a means gifted to him by Mahito. And that very gift was soon revealed when Junpei pulled back the hair that covered the right side of his face to reveal about half a dozen small holes in his head. 

Mr Sotomura: "Yoshino? Those marks? What happened to yo--"

Before Mr Sotomura could contemplate anymore what had happened to Junpei, out of nowhere he felt the energy to even speak beginning to fade. It was at the same moment that his energy was stolen, that his eyes dropped down to his arms to see strange purple marks beginning to appear rapidly. They seemed to come out of thin air, but to Mr Sotomura, it felt as if tendrils were wrapping around his arms and inflicting him with some poison. Little did he know just how right he was. For whereas the school teacher didn't see it, Maki definitely did, and all thanks to the special glasses she wore. 

It was through these glasses that assisted people in seeing curses, that Maki was able to witness the horrifying sight before her. What made it worse, she could do nothing as Junpei enjoyed the amount of pleasure he received from seeing his teacher be tortured through so much pain. And that very pain only got worse as the trail of purple infect marks continued to rise up Mr Sotomura's body until finally reaching his face, by this point, he could no longer groan due to the pressure building up inside him. This disappointed Junpei immensely. This left the young boy with only one thing left.

Junpei: "You bore me...You really are no match for the strongest."

Punch!

The attack came swiftly and without hesitation. The hardened fist from Junpei struck cleanly with Mr Sotomura's puffy cheek. The pain from the strike sending the teacher straight to the ground, and all Junpei could do? Simply roll his eyes in disgrace. But his eyes found new life when his gaze landed on the one female presence he cared about right now. With eagerness like never before Junpei quickly raced over to Maki, who still remained restrained in the corner, where a fierce glare seemed little to dislodge his interest in her.

Junpei: "Maki! Maki! Did you see that? Did you see how strong I was?"

Maki: [Tiredly Blinks] "Bruh brgn rgrgh grhag."

Junpei: "Huh? Oh!" [Chuckles] "My bad, I forgot you had the tape over your mouth still. Let me remove it!"

All it took was a few seconds for Junpei to remove the tape over Maki's mouth, though he made sure to be extra gentle with his 'new girlfriend' as he liked to unconsciously think of Maki as. For Maki herself, however, when the tape finally was removed she decided to wait a few seconds before giving her response to not only Junpei's earlier question, but his unconscious thoughts about what he considered her as.

Maki: "...I've seen more strength in a one-finned goldfish."

Junpei: "Aww!" [Giggles] "Come on, Maki! Don't be like that!"

Maki: "Don't call me by my name, asshole! Now hurry up and let me go!"

Junpei: "Okay, okay...You're right..."

Maki: "Huh?" [Thoughts] "What's he going on about? Did I insult him enough that he's given up already? This kid really is weak."

Unfortunately, the prospect of letting Maki go was not what Junpei was referring to. But something much more distasteful.

Junpei: "You're right! I can't be calling you by your name if we're dating! Couples need to have cute nicknames for each other! I know, I'll call you Pookie!"

Maki was so thrown off by one part in Junpei's sentence that she completely disregarded what he had called her. The volume in which her next words came goes to show just how shocked the young girl was in the moment.

Maki: "WHAT THE HELL?! COUPLE?! WE'RE NOT DATING, YOU MORON!"

Junpei: "What? Yes, we are! Oh! Haha! I see! You're still being silly! It's okay, Pookie, you don't have to act that way arou--"

BLAM!

Out of nowhere, Junpei was suddenly cut off when Maki smashed her forehead against the young boy's face. The headbutt was not held back in any way whatsoever, to the point it caused Junpei to stumble backwards and land on his ass. Only once the ringing in his skull stopped did he slowly look up to face Maki, though as he did, she was greeted by the sight of Junpei's nose surrounded by redness, whilst a dark shade of red slowly ran down his upper lip. All Junpei could show in his reaction was shock, as for Maki, she showed nothing but distaste.

Maki: "Don't...Call me that name again." [Narrows Gaze] "...I only like it when (Y/n) does it."

Hearing the name of (Y/n) seemed to strike something deep inside of Junpei. Enough that it caused his shocked expression to drop as he replaced it with a look of dismay and a sigh. Something that came before the boy slowly dropped his head and shook it slightly.

Junpei: "I see you still need some showing then."

Maki: "Huh? What the hell are you talking about now?"

Junpei: "I'm talking about who the strongest is! You continue to side with that...user...because you think he's strong! But he's not, Maki! I'm the strongest now! I...I have been given powers that not even (Y/n) can use!"

Maki: [Rolls Eyes] "Pfft! Yeah, that's unlikely. That boy can do anything by the looks of it."

Junpei: "B-But it doesn't matter! Watch! I'll prove it to you...I'll prove it to you and everyone that I am the strongest in the world. I'm stronger than (Y/n)!"

Maki: [Glares] "Look, Junpei, I don't know why you're suddenly going crazy. But picking a fight with (Y/n), that isn't something smart to do."

Junpei: "Trust me, Maki! I can do it!"

Maki: "No! Trust me! No one is stronger than (Y/n), and if you think you have any chance of beating him...Then you've already lost."

Despite the truth that came from Maki's words, it did not seem to have any good effect onto Junpei whatsoever. All the boy could do was stare at the girl in front of him in disbelief. In the end, he didn't say another word to her. All he did was suddenly put the tape back over her mouth, leaving Maki to scream through it the best she could. But Junpei didn't care, he just continued to look her straight in the eyes as he spoke his final words to her.

Junpei: "Well, then...I guess we only have a short while left to go before we find out who really is the strongest. Why don't I move you somewhere more comfort until then?"

Again, all Maki could do was scream through the tape over her mouth, but it was because of the damned object over her mouth that her screams weren't much different to loud groans. All the while, Junpei easily picked up the restrained girl off the ground, tossed her over his shoulder, and began taking her some place unknown. All the while he waited for the moment when (Y/n) would ultimately show up to see which one of them truly was...the strongest.

--Ten Minutes Later--

That same blank look Junpei carried earlier could be seen still in place ten minutes later as he stood atop the stage of the High School's Gym hall, his focus aimed a little higher up than where his headline reached. It wasn't long before the thing he was looking at was revealed to be the body of Itou Shouta. Just like Mr Sotomura, Shouta could be seen covered in the purple poisonness markings also. But along with these markings, fear could be seen spread across the young boys face, as he seemingly hovered in thin air right before Junpei. 

It was like the force from Star Wars, or some strange power of the mind that Junpei now possessed to keep his bully hovering in the air. But Junpei's focus wasn't on his bully for long when out of nowhere the doors to the gym slammed opened. Junpei didn't need to advert his gaze to tell who it was, he already knew. But even so, the people who had just made a sudden entrance into the school's building did not take much to make their presence known further.

"Junepi! What the hell are you doing?!"

Junpei: "Huh? What am I doing?"

He charasmatically asked as he eyed his bully. Though not for much longer. Slowly, Junpei began to turn his head, as he did a smile found its way to his lips. A smile that only grew further when his eyes finally met those of (Y/n) (L/n). The boy Junpei wanted to get revenge against most of all, now standing before him at the entrance of the gym hall with Itadori by his side. Both boys carried looks of concern, especially when they saw what Junpei had done to the student before him. But just like with Maki earlier, both (Y/n) and Itadori were able to see the cause for these strange purple marks, nor the hovering body, was caused by Junpei alone, but by the power given to him by Mahito. The power...To summon a very powerful Shikigami.

As soon as (Y/n) and Itadori saw the sight of the Shikigami behind Junpei, the pair gasped in shock for two different reasons. Itadori was shocked that Junpei was even able to summon quite a creature, especially after Junpei had no ability in his brain to do such a thing. And (Y/n), he was shocked that Junpei was able to summon a Shikigami...That looked exactly like the stupid ghost squid that kept killing him in his videogame! But that was only a brief thought he quickly dislodged from his brain when out the corner of his mind he spotted the Shikigami letting go of the bully's body, allowing him to drop to the floor of the stage with a loud thud. That was enough to get (Y/n) to focus up, and return to calling out to Junpei.

(Y/n): "Junpei, whatever you're doing, you need to stop!"

Junpei: "Stop? Why should I stop, (Y/n)?"

(Y/n): "Uh, because it's not like you to hurt people!"

Junpei: "I could have said the same for you, no?"

(Y/n): "Huh? What? What are you talking about?"

No response came, Junpei just looked down at (Y/n) with a smile. It was...unsettling to say the least. Nevertheless, (Y/n) shook that from his head and cleared his mind, all before he began to slowly approach the stage alone after signalling Itadori to stay in place near the door for now.

(Y/n): "Look, Junpei, I know you must feel horrible right now. And everything you're going through, I'm sure it's making you feel angry. Angry at everyone that's ever wronged you. But trust me--"

Junpei: "Trust you? Why would I trust you...After you betrayed me?"

(Y/n): "Betray you? Seriously, Junpei, I don't know what you're talking about! I--Is this because I didn't come to visit you after your Mom died?" [Sighs] "Dude, I would have but I could--"

Junpei: "DON'T SPEAK ABOUT HER!!"

Suddenly, out of nowhere, Junpei sent his right hand forward through the air in the direction of (Y/n). It was as his hand went out, so did three of the tendrils from the Shikigami. They were so fast that all (Y/n) could do was widen his eyes in shock before those three tendrils struck him in the chest and sent him flying backwards until he hit the wall right next to Itadori.

Itadori: "(Y/n)! Are you okay?!"

He asked in shock as he crouched down beside his friend. A strained look formed on (Y/n)'s face quickly as he was helped to his feet.

(Y/n): "I'm fine...Argh...That thing should packs a punch."

Itadori: "What should we do? Should we...Should we fight hi--"

(Y/n): "No! Junpei's just upset. He feels like the world is against him, and this is the way he's getting back at it. But I think I can reach him and end this without hurting him."

Itadori: "But what about that thing he made? It's just like what Megumi summons!"

(Y/n): "Shikigami's...Yeah...I noticed it." [Sighs] "I don't know how he got it. He...He should have it! His body won't let him, but...Grugh...That matters little right now. I need to stop this!" [Glances at Itadori] "Can I get you to get these unconscious bodies out of the building and into the yard? Others will eventually arrive and get them to safety."

Itadori: [Immediately strikes Pose] "You got it!"

Once his energetic words were done, Itadori proceeded to offer a reluctant glance toward Junpei. But when the boy only stared right back at him with a look of frustration on his face, Itadori knew there was nothing he could do for him right now. So with that Itadori went to clearing the bodies, as for (Y/n), he slowly began approaching Junpei once more. As he did, he began cracking some of his knuckles.

(Y/n): "Listen, Junpei, I'm not going to hurt you, okay? But if you're so angry that you can't see sense right now, we're gonna have to take this fight elsewhere so Itadori can make sure none of these innocent people get hurt."

Junpei: [Thoughts] "Tsk! Innocent? These people aren't innocent! They all allowed my suffering to go on without doing anything about it! Not that I can expect you to think any different, (Y/n)...You're just like them." [Out Loud] "Sure. Sure. Whatever. I'm bored with these people now...It's you I want to fight anyway."

[Your POV]

...It wasn't unnatural for someone wanting to fight me. Heck, it happens to me almost every week I get asked to fight by someone! Whether that be a curse. A sorcerer whose strayed down a dark path. The sever at the KFC closest to the high school. They all want to fight! But never before have I been asked to fight by a friend, at least, not as serious as Junpei was right now. And honestly, I didn't like it. 

The dark aura behind his eyes was something I had never seen in Junpei before. It scared me. Not to the point I didn't believe I could win if we did fought, but it scared me because I was worried that maybe I wouldn't be able to get through to him before it was too late. In the end, I guess I had to fight. And not just fists, but also in the sense that I had to fight to bring Junpei out of this wayward path.

(Y/n): ...Alright then, Junpei...If it's a fight you want, it's a fight you'll get."

Junpei: "Ha! Ha! You can try your best, (Y/n), but you're gonna lose! I've been reborn! I'm the strongest now!"

(Y/n): "Strongest? What are you talking about, Junpei? What's gotten into you?"

Junpei: "Nothing, (Y/n)! Nothing's gotten into me! Something's come out! My potential!"

"...My Cursed Potential!"

In this moment...I realized it all. From why Junpei was acting so crazy and unlike himself, and why he was even wanting to fight me in the first place. I realized it all. I realized...That in the end...Junpei just wanted to be like me. He acted in a way he thought I would. He even spitted out the very words that others used to describe me as! And he wanted to fight me because he was angry that I wouldn't teach him to become a sorcerer. That's why he was doing all this. I couldn't understand why he suddenly snapped now, but then I also realized that the death of his mother must have been the final straw for him. 

He now seemingly had nothing, at least, that's what he thought in his own eyes. He had nothing...and now he was trying to take things from others. I couldn't believe it, even when I was staring at it with my own eyes. All I could do, as Junpei continued to laugh before me, was try and think of a way to bring some sense back into him. But before I could find an idea, I was forced to return my focus back to the moment at hand as the Shikigami Junpei had control off sent a wave of tendrils in my direction. I was forced to jump backwards to avoid the attack, but it didn't seem like Junpei intended for those strikes to hit me, but simply grab my attention.

Junpei: [Grins Wickedly] "Come on, (Y/n)! I need you to fully focus when we fight, okay? I wanna show everyone that I beat you when you were at your strongest!"

(Y/n): "I really don't wanna do this, Junpei!"

Junpei: "Why? Are you scared~"

Honestly, if I wasn't so overflooded with different emotions right now I would have told groaned and made a joke that that line was so cliche. But I pushed past the natural instinct to do so and simply focused up. It was in this moment I clenched my right fist as hard as I could and launched off my feet to face off with Junpei.

Junpei: "Yes! Finally! Finally we can fight and I can become the strongest!"

******

...Those words felt like they were spoken an eternity ago. Though, in reality, it was no more than a few minutes. In that time, the fight between myself and Junpei had travelled away from the gym hall and into a narrow hallway on a second floor walkway. There was nothing but stone walls and glass windows surrounding us, giving me a good view of the veil that still surrounded the school. 

But my focus was once again pulled away from the outside world when Junpei pulled me back into the fight. He did so by using his Shikigami's tendril to send it flying through the air and go for my head, but I was able to narrowly avoid the attack by fling my back as far backwards as I could. It was a pose straight out of a movie, either way, it was enough to make Junpei cackle yet again.

Junpei: "Hahahaha!! That was a close one, (Y/n)! You're really trying your hardest, huh?"

(Y/n): [Silently Groans; Thoughts] "Not really..."

Those two words quickly filled my mind before I flung my back up straight and returned to chasing Junpei and his Shikigami to the end of the stone hallway. Now, whilst the fight had been going on for a few minutes, I could have honestly ended it sooner. But I didn't want it to end through violence, I wanted to try and get Junpei to see he wasn't thinking straight. I wanted to save my friendship with him, that's why I prolonged it and mainly put my focus to dodging the attacks of the Shikigami. 

Though, if I'm being honest, it was rather frustrating going up against this thing. Because just like my video game, Junpei just seemed to be using it to get between myself and him, so even if I wanted to end the fight quickly it was still a pain in the ass. It annoyed me to the point when I actually did start trying, I stored up a bit too much Cursed Energy into my right fist that as I sent it flying, it was so close to striking Junpei right in the head. 

The amount of shock that flooded through his system instantly quickly stored itself into my mind. To the point I went to pull back on my punch. However, that probably wouldn't have matter. Because just as my fist was about to make contact with Junpei, the Shikigami he summoned quickly enveloped Junpei's body, so the force of my punch instead struck the beast instead. Though the attack was weaponed up to this point that no manger damage was done. This only seemed to fuel Junpei's ego more.

Junpei: "...Ha...Hah...Th-That was a close one, wasn't it? But I guess my friend here is a still stronger than you, huh, (Y/n)?"

(Y/n): "Argh! Junpei would you just shut up with that talk?!"

Junpei: [Smiles Creepily] "Why? Does it bother you?"

(Y/n): "Yes, it bother me! It's not like you! You don't trash talk peopl--"

Junpei: "--But you do. You do it all the time. So why can't I be like you in this case?"

(Y/n): "Because Junpei! ...Argh...Because...You don't have to be like me to be cool, okay? I already think--"

Junpei: "You think of me as a fool!!!"

With the roar of his voice, Junpei launched both his arms toward me. In that same movement, all eight tendrils of the jellyfish Shikigami came at rapid speeds. They came so fast that even I couldn't block them. In the end, those tendrils completely swallowed my body until none of it could be seen. It was only at this moment that Junpei's anger slowed slightly, instead turning into rough pants as he approached the large blue ball of the Shikigami's tendrils before him.

Junpei: "...I was perfectly content with my shit life before you showed up, (Y/n). It was crap...But at least I still had my Mom with me. Someone who actually cared about me...But you couldn't accept that, could you? YOU JUST HAD TO GET INTO SOMETHING THAT WAS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS! It's...It's because of you, that she died...Because if you taught me Jujutsu, then...Then I could have killed the curse who actually killed her."

...What? Junpei...Thought I killed his Mom? And even if he didn't anymore, he still...he still blamed me for her death. Never before had I felt such a heavy weight smash down onto me in the blink of an eye. I didn't know what to do. I almost gave way to the poison slowly surrounding my body as I became trapped by the tendrils of the Shikigami...I was ready to give up with it all...No! I wouldn't give up!

"Junpei! Wait!"

Junpei: "Wha--"

Out of nowhere, Junpei's words and movement instantly came to a pause, all as a hand was revealed coming from within the ball wall made up by the Shikigami's tendrils. That hand...was mine. Upon realizing such, Junpei slowly began to turn around, where I got a proper look at the shock spread across his face. Meanwhile, he witnessed my heartfelt expression that I couldn't help but offer upon hearing his true thoughts. In this moment, I didn't want to even fight with him at all. I just wanted to be there to help my friend...

(Y/n): "Who are you making excuses for, Junpei?"

Junpei: [Shocked] "Hu-Huh? What? How?! How are you alive?!"

(Y/n): "Because I'm not done with you yet, damn it!"

And just to prove how serious I was in the moment, I finally used my true strength to rip off the surrounding tendrils from the Shikigami from my body. In this moment, Junpei witnessed the rage on my eyes as I stormed forward, grabbed him roughly by the collar of his shirt and pulled him close. So close that all he could focus on was the sorrow behind my eyes.

(Y/n): "Listen, okay?! I would never hurt your Mom, but even more I would never hurt you! It's not that I didn't want to teach you Jujutsu, it's that I couldn't! I couldn't teach you it no matter how much I wanted to!"

Junpei: "Wha...What?"

(Y/n): "You don't know how bad I wanted for you to become a sorcerer! The idea of having another friend at school was amazing to me. I so desperately wanted you to be there, to be around the others, but...I knew from a single look into your soul that you just wouldn't be able to reach it. Your brain just wouldn't let you, that's why I didn't want to teach you...I'm sorry."

Junpei: "...No...N-No. That's not true! I-I have potential! I'm not a screwup in this as well! You're just lying to me! I was able to become what I am now because Mahito did something! So why couldn't you just do something, (Y/n)?! Why couldn't you just make me like I am now so I didn't have to relay on the FUCKING MONSTER WHO KILLED MY MOM?!"

...I had felt a lot of pain before in my life, in many different ways. But nothing...And I mean absolutely nothing...ever felt this bad. The pure dread and sorrow behind Junpei's eyes as they filled with tears was a sight I never wanted to see...ever. But here I was, put between a rock and a hard place, left to see nothing but sorrow. I was pulled so much in every direction of my mind that I could barely manage my own sentence. But I knew I had to say it in the end. Even as tears began to fill my own eyes before I even knew it.

(Y/n): "...I...I could do it because I don't have the ability to do that. I couldn't do it even if I wanted to...Really..."

Junpei: "No? No! You're lying!"

(Y/n): "No, Junpei, I'm not really. I don't have the ability to--"

Junpei: "Fuck that! You can do anything, (Y/n)! I've seen it! Fuck! Even Maki herself said you have every ability earlier today!"

In this moment, a spark went off in my mind.

(Y/n): "Wait...What did you just say?"

Junpei: "H-Huh? Say what?"

(Y/n): "Maki, you...You just said she said I have every ability earlier day. Why...When did you talk to Maki?"

The fear that had slowly been rising up from the first moment I heard it, only expanded more when I saw the very own fear of Junpei build up in his own eyes. The fact he began to slowly let go of me and try to walk backwards didn't boost my confidence much at all. All I could do was just watch as Junpei took one fearful step after one fearful step backwards, each time looking around frantically as if his mind couldn't focus entirely.

Junpei: "Uh, I...I don't know what you're talking about, I...I..."

(Y/n): "Junpei...What did you do?!"

The sudden rise in my voice was all it took to cause Junpei to stare right at me. But before either he or myself could say anything more, we were both suddenly silenced when a loud bang came from the end of the hallway. It was at the end of this hallway that a storage closest was located. Up to this point, I had contemplated why Junpei had been leading me all the way through this maze of a school. But when I saw who came falling out of the closet...I now understood why. 

All my eyes needed were to fall onto the sight of a restrained, and struggling, Maki tumbling from the closet after presumably fighting to escape for who knows how long. As soon as the echo of her body falling to the ground went off, Junpei turned around and witnessed the same sight I did. But when Maki noticed his gaze, her own quickly formed into a glare. That was enough to spell out what I needed to do next, as for Junpei, it spelt his doom.

Junpei: [Suddenly Turning To You] "N-No. No! (Y/n)! Look, I didn't hurt her! I didn't! I just--"

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

Junpei: "Wh-Wha--"

(Y/n): "RUN!!!"

This time around, Junpei didn't waste a second. Not a moment passed before he turned around and dashed for the end of the hallway, the same direction as Maki tied up body. But I wasn't going to let him get anywhere near her. About half way through the hall, Junpei picked up on my frantic footsteps closing in on him from behind. He was in such a panic, one doubled when he looked over his shoulder to see the emotionless glare on my face, that he screamed from the top of his lungs at his Shikigami.

Junpei: "Stop (Y/n)! Stop him before he kills me!!"

Without a second of thinking otherwise, Junpei's Shikigami suddenly turned around and head right for me. With his tendrils all extended toward me, ready to strike, it must have thought that the outcome would be just like it was earlier. But unlike earlier, I wasn't playing around. That's why, when the Shikigami grew close, I didn't wait a single second more to clench my fist and activate my first cursed technique. One that created a golden aura around whatever part of my body I planned to strike with. 

A few seconds later and I sent my right fist flying through the air, as it did so, a mirror image of it, though only larger and created by golden aura, came following after it. It was this golden fist that collided with the centre of Junpei's Shikigami. One punch alone was all it took to defeat the beast, its form immediately disappearing in a wave of smoke. That meant only Junpei and his unarmed self remained to be hunted down.

Junpei: "No! (Y/n)! Please! Please, I'm sorry! Don't hurt me! Just don't hur--Ugh!"

He seemed so focused on screaming for pleas that Junpei didn't notice where he was going, which meant it was easy for Maki to spin her restrained body around on the ground, enough that when Junpei came running past he was able to trip over her legs and fall to the ground with a loud thud. But even with the pain coursing through his body, he didn't have enough time to concentrate on it, as he knew fully well that I was right behind him. And sure enough, when he turned around, the first thing he was greeted by was me.

Junpei: "...(Y-Y/n), you...you can't hit me. We're...We're friends, remember? Please...d-don't hurt me. I'm sorry...I'm sorry..."

(Y/n): "You know what...So am I."

At first, all Junpei could do was look up at me in confusion. But that confusion quickly turned to shock when I proceeded to pick him up by the crop of his black leather jacket and send a single, hard, punch right across his face. No cursed technique involved, just a simple punch. Because in the end, that's all that was needed to bring about an end to an emotionful Junpei. But even after that was done, as I went to stand back up straight, I couldn't help myself from looking down at his unconscious body and giving him one final piece of advice.

(Y/n): "Trust me, Junpei, you can get force feed all the power you want. But at the end of the day, the true power of sorcery will always come out on top. That's why you lost today...and that's why you'll always lose to me in a fight like this."

...In the end, that's all I could say. There was so much adrenaline and emotions coursing through my brain right now that I didn't know where to focus it. Eventually, I did realize where to focus it...on Maki. Without a moment more I swung my body around and desperately began untying her. First I went for the ropes around her arms and legs, but just when I went to undo the tape around her mouth, Maki suddenly pulled the tape off herself and suddenly blurted out a trio of words I hadn't heard from her once before.

"(Y/n), I love you!"

[Twenty thousand words done and dusted, well, I shouldn't say it like that because twenty thousand words is A LOT OF WORK. And honestly...I wasn't sure about doing this. Because if I can be truthful for a moment, what I'm getting back lately after doing constant 15k plus word chapters isn't really worth it. But I wanted to try it one more time, to see if effort and a good chapter can get a good response, and I hope it can, because I'm really on the fence lately about putting so much effort into chapters if they're not going to do well. But it'll be really interesting to see how this one does seeing as I haven't updated for a month. Again, sorry about that. 

But it won't happen again! For the next update will be out in two weeks! No matter how this chapter goes, two weeks you'll see the next chapter! Could even be sooner depending on how good this one goes. The only thing that will matter if this chapter doesn't do well is the length of those chapters. I'm not even talking ten thousand, it could be less, and then chapters won't be as full as they are now. So if you do like how this big chapters are, then feel free to leave your opinions and thoughts in the comments, leave a vote, and hopefully we can get a good chunk of people to read this one despite being away for so long. Oh, well, I guess there's only one way to see...