[You know, people told me that the MHA fandom were bad. But honestly, with my time with this book so far. I've gotta say...The JJK Fandom is WAY WORSE! Even little things I do in this book can't seem to please some people. And honestly, like I told someone the other day, it makes me not want to write this story. But, I'll tell you all like I told people on one of my other books. Give me time. Let me tell the story I want to tell. In other words...LET ME COOK! It'll be worth it!]

[Alright, here we are once again with another chapter of JJK! Hopefully, this one only comes out a week later, hence why I'm beginning to write it four days after the previous chapter's release. Speaking of which, the last chapter has been the weakest in being received. With 225 votes in 24 hours, which is still incredible! And has managed to rise to 266 votes as of writing. But it has been the weakest received chapter as of writing this book, not a bad thing, as it's still high, but still a factor nevertheless. But that isn't a bad thing, it only makes me push further to get another, even better, chapter out for you all this week. So sit back, relax! Because the action starts now! After all, one of the main focuses of this chapter is showing the readers powers!]

[Also: I've got a free week ahead so...IF THIS CHAPTER REACHES 275 VOTES IN 24 HOURS...YOU GUYS GET ANOTHER 15K WORD CHAPTER NEXT WEEK!!!]

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[Your POV]

When I was stuck in the void, I felt empty, without hope. My entire body felt like I was an embodiment of waves being crushed against a rocky wall in the middle of the ocean. For the time I was trapped there, I felt impending doom waiting for me around every corner. It made the fact that whenever I did get a break from the onslaught of curses and things such like it, that I could barely enjoy the peace given to me. Whenever I closed my eyes, I felt so close to goodbye. To my life. To my family. To my friends. To Maki. The things I really treasured in my life, now that I was nowhere near them, I realized just how much I missed them. 

It was like bad news given to a cancer patient. I felt sick every single time I woke up from an abysmal sleep, wishing that the previous events of the day before were nothing but a dream. But for me...They were real. Too real. I often hoped that one day I'd wake up to see a light at the end of this dark void. But every day I'd wake up to darkness...And that's exactly what I felt right now, as my body once more travelled through a void of complete black, nothingness. All the while I chase after the body of Nobara, who was suddenly pulled through the ground like rapid quicksand. 

Looking around as my body was pulled by this unknown gravity into the darkness, I contemplated, did I just get myself trapped in yet another endless prison? I barely survived the first one, so how would I go in a second? But then I remember, when I was trapped that first time, I made a promise. That I would help those who needed my help. Until every last bit of life was taken from me. So I shoved the thoughts of fear and miscalculations to the side. If I was doing this, I'd do everything in my power to forget about myself, and simply rescue Nobara from any sorts of dangers that would await her. I just hope that Megumi and Itadori will be right in the world above.

[3rd Person POV]

But in the world above, Megumi and Itadori found problems of their own. Their in-house fighting revolved around what to do with the dead body of Tadashi, the son of the crying woman they witnessed outside, the pair soon found themselves unable to move. And with the fact that the severed head of Megumi's Demon Dog was still imprinted into a nearby wall, both knew something was up. They soon received the confirmation needed when out of the corner of their eyes they spotted the blank gaze, and open toothy mouth, of the very thing they were sent into this Juvenile centre to take care of. 

The cursed womb, which now had the upper body of a normal human. Well, normal if you thought having a body with a twelve-pack of abs was normal, anyway. Add in the pale white skin and black ridges that popped out the top of the curse's head, where a row of eyes could be seen running along the centre of black ridges, and this thing was clearly different from any human you may have met before. 

What sealed the deal, was the strange enclosed cacoon that wrapped around the curses lower body, where his legs normally would be. It had a similar appearance to the lower half of a snake, but lacked the one long muscular movement the animal had. Even so, despite these differences, it didn't stop Megumi's shocked face from clawing to life for Itadori to see. The pair were left motionless, all they could do was stare at each other as the curse stood to Megumi's right. The sense of it all brought a wave of silence through the room, but from the inner thoughts, neither one could barely stop talking.

Megumi: [Thoughts] "There's no mistake. It's a Special-Grade. I...I can't move..."

Itadori: [Thoughts] "Move...Move! Move! Move! Move! Move!"

The words processed through their heads as sweat continued to run down their faces. The straining of it all forced Itadori to remember his Grandpa. The old man's final words relayed through his mind. 

'Help others'

All the while Megumi was left with a thousand thoughts. Whereas (Y/n)? Did he find Nobara? How would they get out of this? Was this the end? Eventually, he managed to find rest in these thoughts when he noticed Itadori's hand somehow finding the strength to move. Megumi's eyes widened upon noticing where the young boy's hands were reaching. It was the metal machete-like item that Gojo had given to him previously when on their field test in Roppongi. By the time his fingers had fully enveloped the handle of the blade, the following became much easier.

With all the strength he could manage, Itadori whipped the blade free from its prison around his waist and went to swing it at the curse's throat. It all happened so fast that Megumi didn't know what happened. All he could see was a flash of red blood appear before his eyes. The next thing he knew...Itadori's hand, still holding the blade, was flung through the air. Travelling some twenty meters behind the two males, before colliding with the ground and shattering. Revealing Itadori's hand severed from the rest of his body. Thus, the cause of the fountain of blood.

Megumi: "It...Itadori?"

He asked through a strained throat. So tight that he could barely swallow. Yet, he managed to get the words out. All the while, a shocked Itadori was left to look at his wrist, where his hand once was. Now replaced with squirting red blood.

Itadori: "...Huh?"

As this happened, meanwhile in the void, Nobara could be seen silently walking around. As far as the eye could see, was nothing but thick, darkness. It left her confused as she searched for a means of escape. But after five minutes of travelling, she eventually came to a stop in a random part of the void.

Nobara: "Damn it. Where am I? It's so dark, I can barely see a thing."

But Nobara was given little time to concentrate on her words when an unworldly presence suddenly washed over her body. Immediately she spun around, her cursed tool, a hammer, and a trio of nails, resting in her hands. Upon turning around, Nobara was greeted by a horrifying sight. For in front of her, filling the void, were a seamlessly endless amount of hover white faces. Each carrying red eyes and open mouths. The sight was disgusting. But if this was the curse they were warned about, and there was no hope of running away, Nobara only had one option left.

Nobara: [Thoughts] "Seriously? How can there be so many?!"

"Need a hand?"

The words came with a confident chuckle, leading Nobara to quickly spin around. Upon doing so, she was greeted by the sight of (Y/n) walking her way. No fear or hesitation appeared to be seen on any part of his body. Which left Nobara speechless momentarily as the young boy walked passed her. It wasn't until he was standing in front of her did Nobara find the strength to speak.

Nobara: "(Y/n)? You're here? But how?! I got sucked into the ground and--"

(Y/n): "Yeah, and I came running after you."

Nobara: "You...You did?"

A brief blush formed on her cheeks upon hearing this. As for (Y/n), he could simply be seen doing some stretches as he relayed his story.

(Y/n): "Yeah. I mean, I was a little worried that jumping in after you head first would either leave me with half a body, or I'd be falling into a pit full of death. But thankfully it wasn't too bad."

Nobara: "Huh? Wait. Not too bad? You call this!" [Refers to the curse] "You call this, not too bad?!"

(Y/n): "What? These guys?"

He also refers to the curses before him, whose hovering faces remain unchanged.

(Y/n): "Pfft! Please! These are child play!"

From the earlier feeling Nobara got, she didn't exactly think that, and began questioning (Y/n)'s sanity. However, she was given a moment of rest from such thoughts when (Y/n) looked over his shoulder and smiled at her. It was a goofy smile. One that wouldn't really bring comfort to anyone. Normally, it'd leave people to question if that person was crazy or not. 

But when (Y/n) gave her such a smile, Nobara was immediately reassured. And that reassurance only grew when she witnessed in silence as (Y/n) turned back around to face the hovering faces, only to drop his smile and narrow his gaze toward them. A wave of seriousness washed over him. But it wasn't long before a grin found his lips, seconds before speaking.

(Y/n): "Cursed Technique. Number Forty-Two. Scatter!"

At first, it seemed like nothing had happened, leaving Nobara confused. However, that confusion soon turned to shock as (Y/n)'s smile began to widen and widen until suddenly it popped right off his face, in two separate directions. In the blink of an eye, it all happened. When Nobara next realized what was going on, two identical clones of (Y/n) now stood on either side of him. But it didn't stop there. 

The same process he went through, of his body basically splitting into two, continued with his clones until over a dozen of identical (Y/n)'s could be seen. Well, identical besides the numbers printed on their forehead to showcase the order of clones created. Another thing noticeable about the clones was the fact they all seemed to carry a distinct emotion that a person would showcase in life. Such as anger...

Angry (Y/n): "Would you guys hurry up and attack us already? I'm bored over here and wanna punch something!"

Then there was laziness. Who instead of of standing like the others, was seated on the ground, crossed-legged, with his chin resting atop his fist.

Lazy (Y/n): "Do I have to fight?"

Confidence...

Confident (Y/n): "Come on! You can do it! I believe in you!"

Lazy (Y/n): "I know I can do it...I just don't wanna."

Scared...

Scared (Y/n): "Uh, g-guys? T-They look pretty scary. Maybe we should..." [Gulps Loudly] "Maybe we should do something else."

And rounding off the group, egotistical.

Egotistical: "Ha! Do what you want! As for me, I don't need anyone's help to end this quick and easy!"

These were just a few of the dozen emotions that spawned in their own body of (Y/n). All the while, the original (Y/n) stood in the centre. With so many alternate versions now standing around him, (Y/n) looked over his shoulder once more and offered a grin to Nobara. The young girl could only blink as best her widened eyes could possibly do. All the while, a chuckle sounded from (Y/n)'s lips.

(Y/n): "Enjoy the show, alright?"

Nobara could only respond with a simple nod, her shocked face remaining. Such was enough for (Y/n) to return his gaze back to the countless hovering faces before him, each one taking a certain spot in the black void that made up the background. But (Y/n) didn't care how many there were...Neither did his clones.

(Y/n): "You guys ready for this?"

Confident (Y/n): "You know it! We can do this!"

Lazy (Y/n): "Do I have to?"

Angry (Y/n): "Yes! You do! If I have to do it, so do you! Now shut up and get to it!"

Sleepy (Y/n): [Yawns] "Wake me up when it's over."

Egotistical (Y/n): "Haha! I'm gonna kill way more than anyone else!"

Scared (Y/n): "Y-Yeah. Go...Ahead. I'll just...watch..."

With each sentence that rang, Nobara was left more and more confused. All she could do was silently mutter to herself as the various clones of (Y/n) with ranging personalities launched to their feet and into the air to combat the various white faces that hovered around. As all of this went down below, up above, a different tale was being told...

--With Megumi--

But as this went down, back with Megumi, the aforementioned male could be seen falling down an endless pit of his own. Though, whereas the one (Y/n) went through was full of darkness, Megumi's seemed more like an endless hallway going downward. With the familiar brown colour scheme of the sewer-type setting the rest of this labyrinth had to offer. The noticeable move in scenery from where he was previously with Itadori and the Cursed Womb wasn't hard to see. 

But Megumi's sole focus right now was not falling to his death. So as his body continued to descend into the world of the unknown, Megumi quickly brought his two hands together and locked in a few of his fingers. It was hard to tell what shape Megumi was going for. But off a quick glance, the image of a bat-like creature could be made out of it. Little did anyone know...It wasn't far off.

Megumi: "Nue!"

Seconds after, a pair of talons appeared out of nowhere and attached themselves to Megumi's shoulders. Not long after, the sight of a Shikigami in the form of a bird could be seen. The creature with light brown feathers and a face only a mother could love, quickly attached itself to Megumi's body, and continued to carry him down the dark pit before eventually reaching a point where gravity was in the boy's favor. Once on his feet, the Shikigami disappeared as Megumi put his speed into a whole other fear. The young boy zoomed through the identical halls as he processed what he left behind.

Megumi: [Thoughts] "Don't die on me, Itadori, Nobara, (Y/n)..."

--Five Minutes Earlier--

"...I can't escape after it's gotten this close!"

The words fell from Megumi's mouth as his shaking gaze faced the Cursed Womb that stood before him. The creature's towering figure, with a toned white stomach and a sickening smile on its contorted face, it made Megumi want to vomit. But he didn't have time to be sick. He had to focus. Especially with Itadori just having his hand sliced clean off. Something the young boy was processing the best he could, using his belt to wrap around the wound just above his wrist. All the while his gaze never left the Curse.

Itadori: "Hey, Sukuna! If I die, you die too, right? If you don't want that, then help me out!"

"Nope."

The word came quickly and easily from the miniature mouth that formed from Itadori's cheek.

Itadori: "What?! Why?"

"Even if parts of me inside you die, there are eighteen other fragments of my soul. Still, irritatingly enough, I don't have control of this body."

Megumi: [To Itadori] "Why would you want that?!"

Itadori: "Uh...To get us out of here, Megumi!" [To Sukuna] "Just help me out!"

"Nope."

Itadori: "Why not?!"

Megumi: "Are you even listening to me?!"

Immediately Itadori's focus switched back to Megumi, who offered him a look that was mixed with frustration and fear.

Megumi: "Look, even if he did want to help. It'd only cause more problems. You think a special grade is bad! He'll be far worse!"

Itadori: "Yeah! But then someone like Gojo or (Y/n) could deal with it!"

"Oh, yes, bring out the one they call (Y/n)! I want to feast on his blood after a glorious battle!"

Megumi: "NO!"

Once more, Megumi's words came without hesitation. Which only caused the mouth of Sukuna, which was plastered on Itadori's face still, to frown. It wasn't long before Megumi looked past this and returned his sight to Itadori.

Megumi: [Sighs] "You have too much belief in (Y/n)! We don't even know the full extent of his power!"

Itadori: "Yeah, but he's clearly strong right, so why not get him to help? He could even kill Sukuna probably."

"Pfft....Debaitable."

Megumi: "It's not if he can kill Sukuna or not. It's what he'd do after he kills Sukuna."

"Hey! Human! Stop saying it like it's something random! Defeating me is no such easy task."

Megumi just shook off the words, as he did, he sent his gaze to the ground. Along with this, his right hand was quick to clench into a fist. Itadori noticed this, and watched on with pondering eyes. However, he said nothing. Even when he thought about it, he remained silent. Clearly, there was something effecting Megumi, which Itadori was unaware of. It was in this time of silence that Sukuna spoke up once more.

Sukuna: "Hey, boy!"

Itadori: "Huh?"

Sukuna: "If you want to switch out, go ahead and do it. But once you do, I'll kill that brat before the cursed spirit even can!" [Grins] "Then I'll go for that woman~ She's a lively one. I'll have fun with her." [Grins wider] "And then...And then I'll go for the grand prize. The strongest of them all. I will go for the one that will bring me the greatest battle imaginable."

Sukuna's grin only grew the more he thought over it. But for Itadori, the more he thought about his friends, the angrier he got.

Itadori: "Like hell! I'm not going to let you do that!"

Sukuna: "Ah, hell...My favourite place~ But as for what you said, tiny human. You'd be surprised what can happen when someone loses concentration."

Itadori: "Huh? What do you mean?"

Sukuna: "If you're too focused on me, your friends are gonna die."

And just to prove Sukuna's words were valuable. Just as the King of Curses said as much, a great explosion went off between Megumi and Itadori. All caused from the Cursed Spirit, who launched some type of brown energy from his mouth. It blasted through the air before colliding on the ground between the two humans. Thankfully, it didn't seem to affect either one as they jumped a far distance back to avoid the attack. But as the smoke cleared, Itadori was greeted by a shocked expression resting on Megumi's face.

Megumi: "...It can't be."

Itadori: "What?"

Megumi: "I-It's not Jujutsu. This creature...What it just did...It wasn't Jujutsu."

Itadori: "Then what was it?"

Megumi: [Turns to Itadori] "...It just unleashed pure cursed energy."

Such a thing left Itadori confused, even so, he knew it was bad. And, it seemed, that despite being in another world altogether, (Y/n) could still sense what was going on. In the void of darkness, (Y/n) could be seen looking up toward the darkness above him. Meanwhile, in the background, (Y/n)'s emotional clones could be seen fighting the various curses. 

Angry (Y/n): "Come on you pieces of trash! Put up a fight! ARGH!"

Angry (Y/n) screamed as he picked up the discarded pbody of one defeated curse and launched it at three others. Meanwhile, Lazy and Scared (Y/n) were to the side dealing with their own mess. Well, Lazy was sitting on his ass, whilst Scared scrunched himself into a ball.

Scared (Y/n): "I can get through this. I can get through this. I just need to breath! Yeah, breath!"

Lazy (Y/n): [Yawns] "Is this over yet?"

Scared (Y/n): "Ha! I-I wish...Oh, how I wish!"

"You two can leave at any moment. I've got this handled."

The two alternate (Y/n)'s were quick to look up, well, one was. Even so, both were soon greeted by the sight of Egotistical (Y/n)...Who had now lost his shirt for some reason. Reavealing his abs to all watching.

Egotistical (Y/n): "Man, this shit is EASY! I was expecting something more!"

As he said this, a trio of curses charged his way. Though, it wasn't much of a problem. Launching just a few feet into the air, Egotistical (Y/n) preformed an array of kicks charged with blue energy, enough to send each curse flying back. He landed on the ground seconds after, where he proceeded to flex.

Egotistical (Y/n): "Hey, you two losers. You know if that hot chick saw me do that? I'm hoping to get her number!"

Lazy (Y/n): [Yawns] "I don't know..." 

He proceeded to blink slowly as Scared (Y/n) looked around earnestly.

Scared (Y/n): "I-I-I don't know. I'm too scared! Argh! Why did the original had to use this Cursed Technique?!"

Egotistical (Y/n): "Obviously, because he knew how awesome I am!"

Angry (Y/n): "Ha! You? Awesome? You're nothing but a twig! I've killed way more curses than you!"

Egotistical (Y/n): [Agressively Flexes] "Yeah, right! I've slayed way more than you."

Angry (Y/n): "Watch out. Don't flex too much. Your fake muscles might pop!"

Egotistical (Y/n): "Fake--WHAT?!"

All such went down in the distance, something that caused (Y/n) to smile whilst standing a top a mountain of defeated curses. However, (Y/n) was suddenly reminded of his current predicament when the sound of Nobara's voice suddenly exploded to life.

"(Y/n)! Look out!"

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

Turning his head, (Y/n) was immediately greeted by the sight of one of the hovering faces charing his way. But whereas Nobara carried a scared expression, as she held her own against a few smaller faces, (Y/n) just smiled as he faced the curse.

(Y/n): [Smiles] "Oh...Right."

A loud scream wailed from the creature's mouth following (Y/n)'s words as he finally reached the Jujutsu Sorcerer. But whereas Nobara's heart dropped in the moment, (Y/n) decided to restore it by reeling back his right fist. As he did, a golden aura formed around it. Sealing itself airtight around his fist, as if creating a glove of pure golden energy...

One which was sent directly into the centre of the cursed spirit that collided with him. The attack was enough to destroy the being right down to its very cells. But whereas Nobara was awestruck by such a sight, (Y/n) simply looked down at her with a confident grin. It took Nobara a few moments, but she was quick to regain her own confidence. Bringing a hand to her hip as she grinned up at the boy.

Nobara: "Got to admit, that was pretty cool..."

(Y/n): "Oh, yeah? Ha! You haven't seen anything yet."

Nobara: "That so?" [Crosses arms] "Maybe you can tell me about it sometime? Maybe go get some sushi or something?"

(Y/n): "Oh?" [Smiles] "That actually sounds pretty co--"

"I hate you."

The words of Maki, including her stern face, immediately spawned in (Y/n)'s head, bringing him away from the current moment. As soon as he remembered Maki, his smile dropped. But, he couldn't really help it. He had never had a girlfriend before, and he was still trying to get used to it. Which brought down a weight of an unknown substance, one that was far more dangerous than any curse...The life of a teenager.

Nobara: [Smirks] "So? Wanna do something sometime?"

(Y/n): "Oh...Uh...Um...S-Sometime? Uh, maybe...?"

Nobara: [Raises eyebrow] "Maybe?"

(Y/n): "Uh, yeah! Maybe! It's just, um...I-I only just got back to this place, you know, and--I-I know I said I was going to help you with your friend but--"

"DIE! HUMAN TRASH!"

The voice roared from a large curse with anger printed all over its body. However, all (Y/n) did was swipe his head around, which caused a pink tint to cover his eyes. Seconds later, giant love hearts appeared in the curses eyes. Along with a smile. Clearly, (Y/n)'s Fourth Cursed Technique: 'Love Haze'; was quite effective.

"AH~ (Y/N)-SAMA! LOVE M--"

Angry (Y/n): "Get beat on, you fucking bastard!"

Egotistical (Y/n): "As if!"

Though...The curse was ultimately defeated by Angry (Y/n) and Egotistical (Y/n), who were in the middle of fighting themselves when they just so happened to crash into the giant face. However, the original (Y/n) was quick to turn back to Nobara. Though, he was certain to not use such a technique when talking to the ginger-haired female.

(Y/n): "--Like I was saying. I know what I said, it's just, right now, I-I'm not allowed out of the school for much. But, um...As soon as I am, we can totally do something!"

Nobara: "Oh, okay." [Smiles] "Cool!"

(Y/n): "Yeah...Cool."

As he turned around, (Y/n)'s smile faded. He didn't know what else to say. But to save him in the moment, he decided to just say what he did and hope something in the future would help him. But it was as all this happened, that back with Itadori and Megumi, the pair were still left trying to avoid the attacks of the Cursed Spirit. Who was now on a full rampage. Clearly, the pair were finding it difficult. So much so that Megumi was forced to focus entirely on his opponent. Almost to the point he completely disregarded Itadori calling out his name.

"Megumi!!!"

Megumi: "Huh?!"

In the brief pause of peace the pair got from the curse, Megumi quickly shifted his gaze to Itadori, to see the aforementioned boy, breathing heavily, looking his way.

Itadori: "Get out of here! I'll try and hold this one off until you're out."

Megumi: "What about (Y/n) and Nobara?"

Itadori: "(Y/n) went after her, so if she's with him. I have faith that she'll be okay, and that they'll be able to get out of here safely. When you're out, give me some kind of signal. Once you do...I'll switch with Sukuna!"

Megumi: "What?! This again?! You know you can't do that! Especially not with only one arm against a special grade!"

Itadori: "Look closer..."

Confusion dawned Megumi's face following Itadori's words. But upon turning back to the curse, he was greeted by the abnormal creature extending its smile, whilst twisting its body and flowing his arms up and down into the air.

Itadori: "It's having fun. It's obviously toying with us. I can at least buy us some time." 

Megumi: "No! You ca--"

Itadori: "Megumi!"

The sudden scream of his name was enough to freeze Megumi in place. But what caused such an action to double was when Itadori slowly turned to him. But the boy did not offer a look of anger, or any such action. Instead, he simply smiled at Megumi before offering one word...

Itadori: "...Please."

--Present--

Back in the present, Megumi scrunched his face as he remembered the memories. As he did, he brought his hands together to summon a black demon dog. One which pounced from his shadow to lead him in the direction of the entrance to the Juvenile centre. As for Itadori, he was left back with the Cursed Spirit. His body stood there, barely able to stand. Though he managed to keep himself balanced as he watched the cursed spirit tear off the black substance that previously made up the area where his legs were. 

When first seeing such a thing, Itadori questioned whether the being even had legs. Which made him presume he had something over the creature. But now, it was revealed that the creature did indeed have legs and the black substances, similar to the lower body of a caterpillar, was simply covering them. Though, with the substance now gone, Itadori was given a clear vision of the curses toned legs, and the stray piece of fabric that covered his lower area. Something that seemed to cause the creature's smile to grow further, the same could be said for Itadori.

Itadori: [Smirks] "Trying to tell me it's easier to move around in your underwear?"

But on the instead, Itadori had no time for quips.

Itadori: [Thoughts] "What do I do, though? I have no clue how to use cursed energy." [Sighs] "But for now, that's fine. I just have to buy ti--"

But before Itadori could even finishing thinking, he was suddenly interrupted by a great explosion of this brownish/golden cursed energy. This time, launching from a mere swipe through the air by the clawed hand of the cursed spirit. The attack was enough to send Itadori flying, before crashing into the nearby brick wall some twenty feet off the ground.

Itadori: [Coughs] "What was that? A cursed energy barrier?"

Whatever it was, he was given a second taste of it not long after. Itadori was only barely able to lift his head whilst stuck in the wall. As he did, the bright golden light from the curse's palm appeared mere meters from his face. Seconds later, another shockwave of energy forced Itadori further into the confines of the brick wall. This time around he was outright blasted through the opposite end of the wall, shattered bricks flying everywhere as Itadori's body tumbled through the air. His screams were barely heard due to the blood clogging up in his throat. 

Eventually, the prospect of not knowing where he was to land soon came to an end as Itadori's body was flung to the ground by the curse grabbing his leg. A lunatic wail escaped the mouth of the being as Itadori was tossed onto a narrowed bridge that hung suspended in the air above a bottomless pit. All signs of life were now gone from the young boy's eyes as the creature landed about ten meters away from him. Tilting its head, whilst keeping the perched smile, as he examined Itadori's body in silence. 

But it seemed to grow tired of that very quickly. The creature's smile remained as it began to approach Itadori. His lifeless body left for the taking. It all seemed to draw to the end. Game Over. No restarts. Yuji Itadori's story was closing in on his final moments. Even though he couldn't move, he could tell that his life was being taken from him. With his eyes closed, the young boy sensed a tall looming shadow drawing over him. The gates of heaven seemed to be opening within his mind, the voice of his Grandpa speaking out to him. When suddenly...A new voice joined in.

"You alive or what?"

Itadori: "Huh...?"

Immediately Itadori's eyes snapped open to see a large smile inches from his face. But it wasn't one from the curse.

"Oh, thank goodness. I thought you were dead...That'd be like, totally not cool. Right? I could only imagine what Ijichi would think of me if he heard I let someone die on my watch..."

Itadori: "Huh?!"

The words escaped his mouth once more, this time, Itadori outright shifted his head to look past the smile to see who was speaking, and, by a wave of surprise, the person was revealed to be (Y/n). Who kept looking down at him like a hero in a manga or something?

(Y/n): "...Dude's totally my biggest fan."

Itadori: "(Y/n)? You're...You're okay?"

(Y/n): [Grins] "You sound shocked? I'm rather hurt..."

Itadori: "But we--Argh!" [Tries to sit up] "But we saw you go after Nobara?"

(Y/n): "What? Oh, yeah...I saved her ages ago."

Itadori: "Y-You did?"

(Y/n): "Yeah. It was pretty easy. Anyway, after saving her, I brought her back to this jolly face and carried her outside. Thankfully my cursed dog was still alive, so he led the way. When I got outside, I ran into Megumi, who told me all about how you wanted to be a little hero you!"

He jokingly poked the nose of Itadori. The action left the boy confused as he struggled to his feet. He went to clutch his ribcage, but as he did, a sudden hiss escaped his lips as he was reminded of the lack of upper fingers he currently had. It wasn't long before (Y/n) noticed such.

(Y/n): "Ah...Fuck! That is one nasty wound!"

Itadori: "Yeah. It happened when the--" [Gasp] "The cursed spirit!"

Immediately Itadori noticed a lack of attacks from the enemy, causing him to scan the surrounding area for any sign of the being. But, he came up trumps every time.

Itadori: "The...The cursed spirit. It was just here a moment ago--" [Turns to you] "(Y/n)! If it got away it'd--"

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

Itadori: "T-The cursed spirit! It was just here and--"

(Y/n): "Oooh. The cursed spirit...Yeah, I punched it."

Itadori: "I'm--" [Blink, Blink] "...I'm sorry?"

(Y/n): "When I came through that hole in the wall to save you. I punched it."

To further prove his words, (Y/n) proceeded to point behind Itadori. When he turned around, he was greeted by the sight of a crater in the wall, almost completely opposite the one he came flying through. Though, this one still held the Cursed Spirit's body in it. But upon seeing this, Itadori's eyes were left frozen in shock, whilst (Y/n) just placed both hands on hips as he chuckled.

(Y/n): "Ha! Ha! It was funny. He totally didn't see it coming..." [Sighs] "...Yeah. Oh, well! Let's go!"

Itadori: "Huh?! Wait! What? Go?!"

Upon saying the final word, Itadori turned around to see (Y/n) was already going to leave which...Shocked him! To the point, he was forced to chase after the male, who was already moving onto the next subject.

(Y/n): "Man, I tell ya. Fighting curses sure works up an appetite. I wonder what I should get? Sushi? Ramen? Multiple bowls of Ramen...?"

Stomach Grumbles!

(Y/n): "Haha! Yeah, that's what I thought."

But before (Y/n) could picture just how many ramen bowls he'd get, his thoughts were suddenly blocked off when out of nowhere Itadori pounced in front of him. Stopping him in his tracks.

Itadori: "Wait!" [Panting] "Wait....How...How?!"

(Y/n): [Tilts head] "How what?"

Itadori: "How did you defeat the Special Grade so easily?"

(Y/n): "Wait! That was a special grade?!"

With his head remaining tilted, (Y/n) turned his body around to glance at the lifeless body of the Cursed Spirit once more. For a few seconds, he was silent, as he examined the creature's body. But he seemed to grow tired of that quickly, such became known as he turned back to Itadori.

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

Itadori: "Cool? You can just say that after defeating it so easily?"

(Y/n): "Yeah, I guess..."

Itadori: "B-But Megumi and I could barely even see it move. A-And you just...DID THAT!"

(Y/n): [Smiles] "What can I say? Get good?"

Itadori: "H-Huh?"

(Y/n): "Nah. I'm just joking." 

Itadori couldn't respond due to how confused he still was. But (Y/n) seemed to either not care, or simply ignore it, as he instead chose to toss his arm over the male's shoulder and began walking off with him. Itadori's confusion remaining as (Y/n) spoke about the most important topic ever...Food.

(Y/n): "Hey, so, what Ramen you into?"

Itadori: "U-Uh, um...I don't know. I like them all?"

(Y/n): "Ha! Great! Me too! Anyway, I know a really great place down near the dock. Great view. Great food. Pretty girls--Uh, actually, don't tell forget I said the last part. I don't need to be getting in trouble with a certain someone~"

That certain someone remained anonymous. Yet, even so, Itadori had little to no idea who it could be even if he guessed. So, he simply just went along with it. Allowing (Y/n) to lead the way towards the hole in the wall that would take them to their exit, and back to the world above. It seemed like the day had saved, and even better, Itadori didn't even have to turn into Sukuna. All seemed swell in the world...When suddenly--

BOOM!

A thunderous explosion flooded the air. One so powerful that even people in the outside world could hear it. Causing Megumi, Nobara, and Ijichi, who all remained outside of the protective barrier, to turn in the direction of the noise. It wasn't long before a wave of worry crashed onto their faces. And, Itadori was the same. His own face hung low as he witnessed in the distance, the cursed spirit, seemingly unphased by (Y/n)'s earlier attack. 

Slowly it dropped to the ground after freeing himself from the prison in the wall. As he landed, a dented fist mark in the centre of his chest could be seen. Which caused Itadori to be even more shocked that (Y/n) could perform such a powerful strike. But, when he turned to (Y/n), he was sent through the wringer of shock once more when he saw the aforementioned male's expression to be...Boredom?

(Y/n): [Sighs] "Man! Seriously? You're not dead yet? I totally used four per cent of my power when doing that earlier strike..."

That remark immediately caused the Cursed Spirit to pause, as if regretting his next step. The same could be said for Itadori, who slowly turned to face (Y/n) once more.

Itadori: "You...You only used four per cent...of your power...To do that?!"

He exclaimed with newfound levels of disbelief as he pointed at the chest of the Cursed Spirit, where the imprinted fist mark could still be seen. Though, immediately following his words, (Y/n) suddenly shifted his head toward him with a grin and began to whisper.

(Y/n): [Mutters] "Oh, hell no! I just said that to intimidate the curse. I mean, look! Dude's totally second-guessing his actions right now."

Following his words, (Y/n) and Itadori proceeded to turn back in the direction of the Cursed Spirit. They weren't sure, but they could have sworn they saw the being beginning to sweat. Though, before Itadori could even confirm it, (Y/n) was already preparing for a fight. His grin, and crack of knuckles, alluding to as much.

(Y/n): "Well then, I guess there's still one thing standing between me and my eighteen bowls of Ramen. So...You're gonna have to die now, bro."

The Cursed Spirit tilted its head out of fear. As it did, (Y/n) turned back to look at Itadori with a grin.

(Y/n): "As for you, you just chill, okay? No going Sukuna or anything."

Itadori: "B-But what's if you need help?"

(Y/n): "Pfft! Me? Help? Dude! I went four years in a void with nothing to do but fights curses. This guy's gonna be a piece of cake."

Itadori: "I thought you said it was three years for you?"

(Y/n): "Huh? O-Oh. Right. Yeah! But, like, three doesn't sound as cool as four. So...Yeah! Anyway, the point remains. I got this. You just sit back and watch..." [Begins walking away before stopping] "Oh! Maybe film it on my phone! I wanna show Maki how awesome I am now. I wanna see if it gets me any brownie points for--"

But just as (Y/n) was about to reach into his uniform pocket for his phone, his arm suddenly became frozen in place. However, upon glancing down, he found that his arm wasn't frozen...It was merely being held. And upon lifting his head slightly, he found that the Cursed Spirit was the cause, holding his wrist so it couldn't reach any further into his pocket...This angered (Y/n). Such became known as he dropped his head, a realm of shadows blocking his gaze as he dawned a serious expression.

(Y/n): "You really going to stop me from getting my friend to film me be a badass so I can show my girlfriend how cool I am now? Not cool bro. Not cool at all. It's for that reason...That I'm going to defeat you..."

"...IN ONE PUNCH!"

His words ripped apart his lungs like nothing else, as (Y/n) clenched his left hand into a solid fist and flung it through the air. The strike was so powerful that the golden energy around it seemingly broke the sound barrier, all before smashing into the cheek of the cursed spirit. The attack alone enough to free him from holding (Y/n)'s wrist, and sent him flying through the air. Once more he collided with the wall, but on ground level, so he was easily able to step out and shake his head free of the dust that covered him. 

However, things were only going to get worse when the sound of metal colliding with the ground echoed. Soon revealed to have been caused by (Y/n)'s phone, which had fallen on the ground and shattered the screen due to him having to attack the cursed spirit. Once he saw the damage, (Y/n) laid his item to rest on the ground, all before lifting his head to narrow his gaze at the dead curse walking.

(Y/n): "You realize now I'm not going to be able to text a very particular person back now when they text me? Which means, she's gonna start yelling at me and thinking I'm up to something because I didn't text her back! You know what's worse? She probably won't believe me when I say that it broke because of a Curse. It's that very reason...THAT YOU'RE DEAD!"

Without hesitation, (Y/n) launched off the ground at great speeds. Before even a second passed, he appeared right in front of the Cursed Spirit, his fist already launched back, as he sent a foray of attacks to the forefront.

"One punch!"

"One punch!"

"One punch!"

"One punch!" 

"One punch!"

He kept screaming the word with every punch delivered, after all, (Y/n) felt it necessary after saying he'd defeat the creature in one punch. And seeing as his first punch didn't do that, it left him annoyed. So all that (Y/n) did was use his amazing cursed energy to stay on the front foot against his opponent, who could barely tell where (Y/n) was headed before an attack came his way. 

All of this went down as Itadori watched in awe and wonder. Though, as he did so. He failed to notice the eye of Sukuna appearing on his cheek, who watched with a gleeful smile as (Y/n) fought against the Curse. As this happened, outside, Megumi, Nobara, and Ijichi were left to stand there in silence. The two males standing next to Ijichi's chair, as Nobara sat on the grass, cross-legged, her chin resting on her closed fists, not far away.

Nobara: [Sighs] "Is this really all we can do? Just wait here for them to come out? If they come out at all?"

Megumi: "What do you expect us to do? Go in there and potentially get hurt?"

Nobara: "Well...I wouldn't. But you could."

Ijichi: "Megumi is right. All we would do by going in there is risk getting hurt."

Nobara: "So, what? We just wait here for (Y/n) to come out? What's if he gets hurt?"

Megumi: "Itadori's there as well."

Nobara: "Yeah. Him to. But I'm talking about (Y/n)! He could totally get hurt...Maybe. I'm not entirely sure just how powerful he is. I wasn't really paying attention when Gojo explained it."

Such a remark caused Ijichi to chuckle abruptly, altering both Megumi and Nobara in the direction of the male. 

Ijichi: "Oh--" [Chuckles] "I'm sorry. It's just...If anyone has a chance of ending this, it is (Y/n)."

Nobara: "How so?"

Ijichi: "Well, the higher-ups aren't exactly sure yet. But they believe when it comes ot ranking, (Y/n) is classified as a Special Grade."

Megumi: "A special grade?!"

His eyes widen in disbelief.

Megumi: "Are you saying he's just as powerful as Gojo?!"

Ijichi: "Well, I never said that. But, if I'm being honest...The Special Grade title really doesn't fit either one of them. As they both seem to show qualities that excel them beyond that point."

If Megumi's eyes weren't open wide enough before, they definitely were now. And this time, he was joined by Nobara in the action.

Nobara: "But how is that possible? I thought (Y/n) could barely fight before he disappeared?"

Ijichi: "He couldn't. That was one of the reasons why he was kicked out of Kyoto's school. But, after coming back, (Y/n) has shown abilities unlike any other sorcerer before."

Megumi: "Especially with the fact he has fifty Cursed Techniques. Which, I still don't understand." [Turns to Ijichi] "Do you or the higher-ups have any idea as to how (Y/n) got so powerful? Ijichi?...Ijichi?"

But no response came. It seemed that as soon as Megumi brought up his question, Ijichi's mind went blank. At least, that's what it seemed to those watching. But for the male himself, such a question brought him back to a moment just earlier this day, before he took (Y/n) and the others on this very mission. Where he found himself standing in a dark room, where the clouded faces of the Higher-Ups of Jujutsu High could be seen.

--Earlier That Day--

"This (L/n) boy is unlike anyone we have met before. Somehow, in his time gone, he had able to master such things that no sorcerer has been able to do in the history of this business. Not even Satoru is capable of such things."

Ijichi: "What are you saying, sir? That (Y/n) is stronger than Gojo himself?"

"I'm saying that this boy is a danger. He has been all his life. After all, he is created from Curses themselves. Even before he got cursed energy on these levels, we were cautious about him. But now that he is capable of such...Monstrosities, who knows what he can do. That's why we're forced to place up a barrier for every mission he goes on. Just in case those Curse genes inside of him decide to activate."

Such news brought a disheartened look on Ijichi's face. One which remained as he dropped his head and fixed up his glasses.

Ijichi: "Sir, if I may...I have known (Y/n) for quite some time. He seems perfectly on our side. He has never wanted to hurt a person before. So I believe that--"

"That this is a waste of time? That it's not necessary? May I remind you, that even this boy's own mother had to perform a protective barrier every night before he went to bed out of fear of what he could do. He's an anomaly. We can't control him. That's why...Today is the day."

Ijichi: "The day? For what, sir?"

"The day we truly see if (Y/n) (L/n) of the Gojo clan is on our side. We've got word about a Cursed Womb, potentially a special grade, in the city. We want you to take the first years to the location, and let them deal with the incident before it becomes too much."

Such news was more than enough to cause Ijichi's eyes to widen in shock.

Ijichi: "B-But sir...Such a situation. It could be incredibly dangerous for them. Especially if it's a--"

"To be honest, I don't care what you think. Neither do any of the others. You have a job. And your job is to take (Y/n) (L/n) to this location. If he survives and kills the curse, good. If he dies. Even better. Do you understand?"

Ijichi: "Y-Yes, but--"

"Do you understand?!"

These words were far harsher than any others. Enough so that Ijichi's body shook out of fear from the tone offered to him. In the end, he didn't respond. Instead, he kept his head low and turned to leave. So many thoughts rushed through his mind as he went to leave. However, just as he was about to, he was stopped by the voice once more.

"And I'm sure I don't have to mention this, but I will anyway. Do not speak a word of this to Satoru, understood? Because if he finds out that we're not exactly fond of his cousin's return. Well...It's safe to say that no one is safe. Including you, Ijichi."

Ijichi: "Yes...Sir."

His words were weak, and without fight. Ijichi's body remained in the slumped position as he exited the room.

--Present--

"Ijichi...Ijichi...IJICHI?!"

Ijichi: "H-Huh?! Yes? What is it?"

Popping back to reality, Ijichi found concern plastered on the faces of Megumi and Nobara, who looked at him in concern. As for Ijichi himself, he simply looked back at them before shaking his head.

Ijichi: "Uh, sorry, children. Um...Yes. (Y-Y/n) will be okay. I'm sure of it...I really am..."

Nobara: "Gee. That's really encouraging."

With her words filled with sarcasm, Nobara crossed her arms and returned her gaze back to the building in the distance, where below it, a wave of chaos could be seen. With the creature's smile remaining for the entire time, the curse soon proceeded to lift its arms high into the air, as it did, the bright golden light from before began to appear in the centre of the chest. Just above the dented area which (Y/n) had inflicted earlier. Blood now stained the creature, and so did (Y/n), who, held his shoulder in pain some twenty meters away. All the while his body slunched forward as he panted heavily.

(Y/n): [Panting] "Okay...So...You've got a few tricks. That's fine. That's fine. I can still...end this...In one punch..."

With those very words, (Y/n) lifted up his blooded fist and charged toward the curse as a powerful explosion of light went off in the distance. As this happened, not far away, Itadori watched it all go down in silence. At first, things seemed fine. (Y/n) was winning the fight with ease. But the more he watched, the more he noticed how every few strikes (Y/n) would land, the cursed spirit would land one about every ten attacks. 

At first, they weren't much, but over time they built up until (Y/n) was left covered in blood and his body was clearly injured. Though, there seemed to be more going on that Itadori couldn't seem to put his tongue on. It seemed after every time (Y/n) used one of his Cursed Techniques, he grew fatigued. Definitely a question to ask the boy in his free time. But right now, Itadori was left to watch it all from a distance. Alone. Well, until a familiar voice echoed from the side of his mouth.

Sukuna: "You're seriously just going to sit here and watch? Pfft! You really are more pathetic than I first thought. I feel filthy just being in the same body as you."

Itadori: "Shut up. You don't matter right now."

Sukuna: "Really?! I don't matter..." [Smirks] "Yet I'm the only one who can truly stop this."

No expression found itself on Itadori's face following Sukuna's words, even as the being's grin widened. But despite his best intentions to ignore the King of Curses, especially after (Y/n)'s warning to not switch with Sukuna, the young boy couldn't help but question what Sukuna meant. Eventually, the confusion of it all become too much, causing Itadori to crumble.

Itadori: "...What do you mean you're the only one to truly stop this?'

Sukuna: "Huh? Oh...I thought I didn't matter right now?"

Itadori: "You don't. But seeing as we're just sitting here. Might as well quench my boredom somehow. So...What do you mean?"

Sukuna: [Chuckles] "Isn't it obvious? Look at my rival before you. He is clearly becoming more human by the moment."

Again, such a remark confused Itadori. But when he looked up, he kinda understood why. Now, what Sukuna meant by 'becoming more human'; he didn't mean that in the literal sense. He basically was referring to the weaker state (Y/n) was getting. Because whereas beforehand, the Cursed Spirits attacks got one through every ten times, now it was two getting through every ten times. 

Whilst (Y/n) was still in control, it was becoming clearer that something was up with (Y/n). Such was further proven when the male threw another punch embedded with golden energy and sent the cursed spirit flying backward. As it did, however, (Y/n) suddenly dropped to a knee and coughed up some blood. The sight alone was enough for Itadori to pounce to his feet in worry for his friend.

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

(Y/n): "H-Huh?" [Turns head around] "Oh! Yeah, I'm fine. Just--" [Coughs] "--I think the amount of Cursed Techniques I've used today is finally catching up with me. Plus...This guy...He struck me in the ribs when I wasn't concentrating. It...I-It kinda hurts."

The sharp hiss of pain that followed as he stood up signalled as much to Itadori, causing the boy to blink in silence for a response. Such an act continued as (Y/n) pushed past the pain to face the Cursed Spirit once more, who seemed to only get faster with each passing second. Before long, three out of ten strikes managed to land on (Y/n).

Sukuna: "This is what I mean by only I can help, boy. If this charade keeps up, your friend will not be able to last longer."

Itadori: "B-But how?! (Y/n)'s so strong! Why is he struggling now?"

Sukuna: [Chuckles] "Maybe he just isn't as strong as you once thought he was. Which...Would be a shame, I suppose." [Frowns] "I was so looking forward to having a good fight."

But Itadori didn't believe for a second that (Y/n) wasn't as strong as he thought. There was clearly something wrong. Which brought him back to what (Y/n) said moments ago.

"I think the amount of Cursed Techniques I've used today is finally catching up to me."

Such a sentence clouded by mystery left the young boy processing what exactly (Y/n) could mean by such. Sure, there were a few guesses, but none he could properly land on. Nevertheless, with the continuous words from Sukuna, Itadori's guilty conscious from just watching the fight grew with every second. Something that only skyrocketed when about a minute later, (Y/n) was backhanded by the Cursed Spirit. 

The strike, one of four that now landed out of every ten attacks, colliding with the side of his face. A chunk of spit launching from his mouth as his body flailed through the air. However, the young boy was able to catch him. Landing safely on his feet some thirty meters away from the cursed spirit, who, just like (Y/n), took the moment to catch his breath. But the lack of breath wasn't the only thing holding back (Y/n), as another shard of pain coursed through his rib. Forcing him to clutch the sore spot immediately.

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "Argh...Fuck. That Curse was able to strike me directly with another barrier of pure cursed energy. ARGH! I was foolish to let it happen."

Looking down at his side, removing his hand, (Y/n) saw a pool of blood starting to creep through his uniform.

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "Shit. If a potential broken rib wasn't enough, now I'm bleeding..." [Sighs] "And after the energy I used rescuing Nobara, all my strength is starting to leave me. I'm...I'm still so weak...If I would have just fought the Cursed Spirit first, I could have defeated it easily and--"

But his thoughts were immediately cut off when an image of Nobara appeared before his mind. Instantly, his eyes clenched shut as he grits his teeth together.

(Y/n): "What am I saying? I couldn't just leave Nobara. I made a promise when I was trapped in that void...That I'd protect my friends. And that's what I did..." [Panting] "I've just got to find the strength to take care of this guy now."

Seconds after his words were finished, (Y/n) lifted his head, only to be greeted by the clenched fist of the Cursed Spirit some inches away from his face. Yet, even with the close distance, (Y/n) was able to dodge the attack. Narrowly as a beam of the golden energy from the Cursed Spirit flashed passed his face to shatter a large chunk in the wall behind him. As for (Y/n), his body tumbled to the ground. He was barely able to lift his head once more before the shadow of the Curse loomed above him.

(Y/n): "BRIDGE!"

But just before the creature could strike him, (Y/n)'s body disappeared, thanks to the use of his thirty-third Cursed Technique, Bridge, which basically swaps the room around him, like it was in a mirror. So, whereas the curse struck the spot (Y/n) previously was, all he hit was the ground, as (Y/n) basically reversed his position. To the point, he was never in that spot in the first place, instead, he was in the exact same spot just on the opposite side of the room. Such a technique enough to bring about some distance between him and the curse. But it wasn't long before the creature zoned in on (Y/n)'s latest location. But (Y/n) was prepared this time for his defence.

(Y/n): "Cursed Technique...Number Forty-One...Shikigami Fusion!"

The familiar word was enough to pique Itadori's interest, his eyes never leaving (Y/n)'s body. But they did suddenly expand when out of nowhere the males right arm was swapped out with a snake Shikigami, one that launched like a tendril from (Y/n)'s body. With ease, it wrapped itself around the Cursed technique as it grew closer to (Y/n). Immediately causing its attack to come to a pause. It was in this light pause that (Y/n)'s other arm could come flying around to finish off the attack. 

Though, instead of an arm, it was replaced with the head of a shikigami that resembled a moose. And with such a creature carrying massive antlers, the force brought along by (Y/n)'s punch was enough to shatter the extended appendages right in the face of the cursed spirit. A loud scream echoed from the being before (Y/n)'s feet were swapped out with rabbit's feet, allowing him to pounce into the air as black wings sprouted from his back so he could continue the onslaught from the air. 

But the noticeable look of pain and discomfort on (Y/n)'s face only grew, and with it now being accompanied by a pool of sweat that rushed down the boys face with every use of a Cursed Technique that he uses, it appeared all was not going to be as easy as ending things with a single punch. Which only allowed Sukuna's smooth words to have a bigger effect on Itadori.

Sukuna: "Please tell me you see this too?! You may have hope in your foolish friend, but even someone who wants the best out of him, it is clear that he is on his final steps."

Itadori: "N-No! That can't be true. (Y/n), he..."

"Help others."

Suddenly he was interrupted by the words of his Grandpa once more. The one man who was really the only family he ever had, offering his final words he gave to Itadori before dying, even from the afterlife. But it was these added words that made Itadori see the current moment in a whole different light. The sight of (Y/n) struggling through pain, in hopes of defeating this Curse, all so he could protect so many people was inspiring to Itadori. But that inspiration was soon washed away by the guilt he felt from just standing back. He knew he could help (Y/n), even if he didn't want to admit it, he was worried about the potential of (Y/n) losing right now, which would seal the end for everything. 

Now, if situations were better, Itadori wouldn't even bother about switching with Sukuna in hopes of helping (Y/n). But with the tips of his fingers gone from one hand, and his hand outright missing on his other, it was clear that in his current position...He could do nothing. But there was a way to change that. Sukuna seemed to have sensed as much going off the growing grin he offered. It was as this happened, however, that (Y/n) was suddenly flung to the ground, all thanks to the Curse who clutched his throat tightly as gravity took its place. 

With (Y/n)'s body now lying in a crater in the ground, with the creature looming over him, his clawed fingers digging into the sides of his neck as he held him in place, all (Y/n) could do was weakly shift his head to look up. As he did, the shikigami's that appeared from his body slowly began to retract before returning to his normal body. By this point, (Y/n)'s school uniform was tattered all over the place. His sleeves were non-existent, with scratch marks and other various tears appearing all over his body. All the while, blood painted (Y/n)'s face as he offered a weak smile up to the deluded face of the special grade cursed spirit.

(Y/n): "...Wo-Would it be too much to ask if we could take a five? I'm worried my girlfriend texted me on my broken phone...I-I wanna see if it still work--"

He was abruptly cut off, however, by the cursed spirit lifting (Y/n)'s head a few inches off the ground before slamming it back into place. Such caused a small crater to appear in the already massive crater in the ground. Yet, (Y/n) still found his smile, even as blood trickled out of his mouth.

(Y/n): "I-I'll tell her you said no..."

The creature didn't respond. Instead, it simply looked down at (Y/n) and smiled. As it did, the cursed spirit reeled back its arm, ready to deliver one final punch to end (Y/n) once and for all. However, just as he was about to, a sudden voice called out.

"HEY, UGLY!"

Immediately, both the Cursed Spirit and (Y/n) turned their gaze to the right as the voice called out. To the surprise of both, they saw the person yelling was none other than Itadori himself. With his right hand clenched into a fist the best he could, an aura of red energy, as if a living fire caught ablaze on his fist, the young boy used all his strength to run as fast as he could to deliver a powerful strike toward the curse in hopes of doing some good. But...in the end...It was pointless. Itadori's eyes soon widened as everything froze in place. All the while his eyes slowly travelled toward his clenched fist, which was now trapped in the hand of the grinning curse.

Itadori: "N-No...Damn it!"

His face dropped as the words left his mouth. Such caused the curse to chuckle immensely as (Y/n) looked up at Itadori from the ground. However, his once confused perception quickly switched out for shock when he saw that Itadori was sad. Instead...He was grinning?

"You know...You're a really stupid curse if you believed I was going for a weak punch like that."

The curse immediately tilted its head, but it wasn't long before its eyes widened in shock when Itadori lifted his head to reveal that Itadori was no longer in control...But Sukuna. Despite the lack of differences due to being in Itadori's body, the curse seemed to sense some change in presence as immediately he pulled his hand away from Sukuna's own and stumbled backwards. Almost to the point that it tripped over (Y/n). But was barely able to together himself, as he went on the defence against the being of Sukuna who had his fist still raised as he eyed the curse.

Sukuna: "What a thoroughly annoying brat. I would have much rathered to have some other humans here to destroy..." [Looks down at you] "As for you, I'm rather disappointed. I thought you were stronger. I guess you're just a fluke."

(Y/n): [Rolls eyes] "Oh, gee. The King of Curses is disappointed in myself. How will I ever live...I said, sarcastically..."

Following his words, (Y/n) looked up at Sukuna and smiled. Such caused the king of curses to roll his eyes before beginning to walk toward the cursed spirit. Of course, he did so by stepping directly onto (Y/n)'s body, which caused a sharp hiss of pain to escape the boy's mouth. But Sukuna didn't care.

Sukuna: "You just wait there for a moment, disappointment. I'll destroy you nice and slow after I cast aside this annoyance."

Of course, he said such just as he narrowed his eyes toward the Special Grade, who just stood there in complete shock and slight fear. Such a sight only caused Sukuna to smile toward the creature who didn't know what to do.

Sukuna: "Now...What should I do with you?"

"AAAAAHHHHH!!!!!"

A thunderous wail thundered from the Curses mouth abruptly as it creatures a large ball of pure cursed energy in the centre of its body. The orb of light was even bigger than its head, and only continued to grow before the creature realized another wail and launched the attack directly at Sukuna. But even with such a mighty attack coming right his way, Sukuna didn't drop his smile. Instead, he merely lifted his decapitated hand upward. As he did, a new hand regenerated in its place. In the end, it was enough to cause the powerful attack to travel around him. Doing not a single inch of damage to the king of curses whatsoever. 

Sukuna: "Ah, shit! I healed this hand as well? I didn't want that..." [Frowns] "I wanted that brat to struggle in life." [Sighs before looking at the curse] "See what you've done now? You've made me do a good thing?" [Chuckles] "But...It's okay. There's only one thing left to do now..."

Sukuna smiled brightly as the Cursed Spirit lifted his hand up in both defence, and shock that his previous attack did nothing to Sukuna. But he was soon given a newfound wave of shock when in a flash Sukuna's body disappeared, only to appear at his side seconds later. Time seemed to slow down, allowing the Curse to witness as Sukuna hovered passed him with his hand stretched out just inches from the special grade's face. 

Of course, the creature was only given a few seconds to notice this before time caught up, as it did, so did Sukuna's attack, which allowed him to clench his hand around the face of the Special-Grade, sealing it tightly, before plunging him deep into the ground like he did to (Y/n) moments before. But whereas the Curse relented in the attack earlier, Sukuna did not. He kept his hand wrapped around the curses head and continued to apply pressure to it.

Sukuna: "Hey, what's the matter?" [Grins] "You're not finished already, are you?"

Releasing his hold of the curse finally, Sukuna got to his feet and proceeded to place his hands into his jacket pocket. As he did, he began to walk around the curses struggling body, until he stood directly in front of him, where he proceeded to bend forward and smile down at the being.

Sukuna: "Come on, that's it. You still have more in you. You can keep fighting."

Of course, before the creature could even get any further off the ground, he was suddenly booted in the face by the powerful right foot of Sukuna. The strike was so powerful in fact that it was enough to crack the ground beneath them, causing Sukuna, the Special Grade, and even (Y/n) to begin falling through the crumbling ground into the dark abyss below. The trio fell through suspended animation, as they did, (Y/n) brought his arms behind his head and closed his eyes.

(Y/n): "Hey man, did you have to destroy the ground?" [Yawns] "I was trying to get some sleep."

Sukuna: "Huh? You're still alive? Ha! I expected more from a powerful sorcerer like you!"

(Y/n): [Without looking] "Huh? You're still trapped in the body of a teenage boy? Ha! I expected more from the king of curses."

Sukuna's eyes narrowed in the direction of (Y/n). However, his focus was suddenly directed elsewhere when he felt something reach out and grasp Sukuna's leg, going for a sneak attack to launch him into the distance. However, it seemed in the split second that the creature let go of Sukuna's leg, was more than enough for him to avoid the attack altogether. Sukuna now could be seen seated on a discarded piece of rubble that was falling to the ground. With a bored expression on his face.

Sukuna: "Even a cursed spirit...would miss their arm, right?"

The only response that came from the cursed spirit was a splurt of purple blood launching from his mouth, before the severed arm was revealed to almost be splurting even more of this purple blood. All the while the creature continued to fall into the abyss. But, just like most abyss, there was eventually an end. And this end came about when the curse crash-landed into a massive pool of water below. Seemingly the point of the sewage system where the majority of the water met. It was enough, at least, that it gave a smooth landing to Sukuna and (Y/n). The former landed expertly on some concrete, whilst (Y/n)'s body disappeared in the pool of water. 

******

A short while later, the sound of Sukuna whistling could be heard as he walked up onto a separate piece of concrete where the body of the cursed spirit could be seen. However, this time, it was unable to move. The creature now being free of any arms or legs. All of which rested by the side of its body. Speaking of his body, it was perfectly imprinted into the ground, as if becoming one with the concrete that surrounded it.

Sukuna: "Hey, did you know? We're both classified as Special-Grade, apparently. Both you and me, man."

The curse didn't seem to like this as it proceeded to use all its strength to free himself from the makeshift prison. As it did, it quickly regenerated its arms and legs. 

Sukuna: "Haha! Good job, Special Grade. Keep trying."

Only a few seconds later and the curse was fully healed, enough that it launched out of the ground entirely and landed on its feet some distance from Sukuna. Who just continued to smile.

Sukuna: "You look happy, hey? Want me to praise you? But healing with cursed energy isn't that hard for cursed spirits, unlike humans." [Chuckles] "Neither you nor this brat really understand what curses truly are." [Sighs] "I was hoping my rival would. But it seems he still hasn't woken up from his nap."

Sukuna said as he glanced to his side to see (Y/n)'s suspended body in the water, face first, lifeless. But Sukuna only spent a second to glance at (Y/n) before he turned his focus back to the cursed spirit. 

Sukuna: "But, oh, well. I guess this is a perfect opportunity for you. So I'll show you... What real Jujutsu is."

And Sukuna proceeded to do that by bringing his two hands together, about a meter from his face. Once they were that far away, the first two fingers of his hands proceeded to touch, whilst the other two folded and rested against each other. Once the process was done, Sukuna's eyes opened as he muttered two words.

Sukuna: "...Domain...Expansion..."

"...Malevolent shrine!"

It was unknown how much time had passed following Sukuna's sentence. But whatever did happen, it seemed to be in a flash of a second. One moment the cursed spirit was standing, the next, his body was sliced into five pieces, with his arms and legs shattered into dozens. All hovered in the air. No movement came from the creature whatsoever, even as Sukuna boredly approached it with his hands in his jacket pocket.

Sukuna: "I was planning to cut you into three slices, but you're really weak."

It was at that moment that he noticed something in the centre of the creature's chest.

Sukuna: "Oh, yeah, and then there's this."

Reaching his first two fingers into the chest of the creature, Sukuna proceeded to retrieve a severed finger of Sukuna's original body, just like the one Itadori had already eaten. 

Sukuna: "I'll be taking this now."

With a final smile offered toward the cursed spirit, Sukuna then turned around and began walking away. As he did, the sliced body of the cursed spirit was suddenly engulfed in powerful purple flames. But Sukuna offered such a thing no second glance. Instead, he simply continued walking away, as he did, he examined the finger of his old body. His eyes casting over the moulded piece of flesh.

Sukuna: "Well then, the brat was going to eat this anyway. So I might as well--"

"Oh, I don't think so~"

Immediately Sukuna's eyes widened upon hearing the familiar voice. Instantly he cast his gaze toward the pool of water in search of (Y/n)'s body. But he found no sight of it anywhere. That's when out of nowhere something flashed passed his side. Sukuna's reflexes were so slow that he couldn't tell what it was. But what shocked him even more was the fact that when he turned back around, the severed finger he was previously holding...Was gone.

Sukuna: "What?! The finger?! Is was just--"

"In your hand? Ha! Boy, do I have a story to tell you..."

Instantly Sukuna's frustrated gaze snapped to directly in front of him, as he did, he was greeted by the sight of a grinning (Y/n) leaning against a pillar of concrete as he examined Sukuna's finger for himself.

(Y/n): "So this is what Itadori ate, huh? Yuck! I mean, who'd want this on their body? Let alone swallow it?" [Glances at Sukuna] "Oh...Right. Sorry."

The sound of (Y/n)'s chuckles only echoed further, fueling the rage inside of Sukuna more. The king of curses clenching his fist and glared at (Y/n), but this frustration soon withered as a smile returned to his lips.

Sukuna: "So you did survive, huh?"

(Y/n): "Of course!"

Sukuna: "But I thought you were hurt? How could you possibly move so fast in order to steal that?"

(Y/n): "Uh, well, that's because...I wasn't hurt."

Sukuna: "Huh?"

(Y/n): "Wait. Haha! Did...Did you actually think I was hurt to the point I couldn't fight that cursed spirit? Haha! Oh, boy!"

Sukuna just tilted his head, feeling the frustration begin to build up inside of him once more as (Y/n) continued.

(Y/n): "I was playin' ya, ya fool! I was never hurt! Well, I kinda was. But not to the point I couldn't fight."

Sukuna: "But...But the brat! Because you couldn't fight, he gave me control!"

(Y/n): "Well, yeah! Because that's what I wanted him to do!"

Sukuna: "You...You wanted him to give me control, why? Are...Haha...Are you really that crazy? Do you have a death wish?"

(Y/n): "No. I don't."

He said with a smile as he shook his head, placed Sukuna's severed finger into his pocket, before turning to face the curse himself. However, upon lifting his head, (Y/n)'s smile was replaced with a full on grin. One that was accompanied by a confident look in his eyes. One that did fail whatsoever as he looked Sukuna directly in the eyes as he delivered his next sentence.

(Y/n): "I wanted you to be in control...So I could beat you so bad you'd never want to be in control ever again. Because, you see, around these parts, you may be the King of The Curses. But me...I'm something so much more."

Sukuna: "Ha...Haha...Hahaha! Is that so?! Hahaha! And what exactly are you?! Hahaha! The King of the Sorcerers?!"

Sukuna's grin only grew, but he wasn't alone, as (Y/n)'s eyes narrowed in. His own smirk grown as he stared the curse before him down with confidence unlike any other.

(Y/n): "No...I don't think that. I'm not the King of the Sorcerers. I'm something far better!"

Sukuna: "And what's that?"

(Y/n): "Simple..." [Grins] "I'm (Y/n) (L/n)~"

It was in that every moment (Y/n) launched off his current position. All in an attack so powerful that Sukuna could barely process it. The next thing he knew he was being punched right across the face by a glove of golden energy that surrounded his fist. The attack was so powerful that it sent the King of Curses not just through the roof above them, but the one above that, and above that, and above that. 

This process continued, all from a single punch, until Sukuna's body went crashing through the final roof and into the cold air of the evening sky. The sight was even witnessed by Megumi, Ijichi, and Nobara, all from outside the barrier. The group witnessed in shock as Sukuna's body was flailing through the air before crashing down in a field of trees about a hundred meters away from them. It was within this clearing of trees that Sukuna's body rose from the rubble.

Sukuna: "Argh! Son of a--"

"Carrot! You're still alive?"

Lifting his head, Sukuna is greeted by the smiling face of (Y/n) once more. Somehow, in the time it took for Sukuna to get in this very position, (Y/n) was also able to get there. Unphased and full of health. So much so that he easily ripped off the top half of his school uniform, leaving himself with his chest free to the cold air as Sukuna smirked.

Sukuna: "You know...I feel like I should be mad. But I can't help it. Seeing this gets my blood pumping for our battle. Now I know for certain you won't disappoint."

(Y/n): [Grins] "Well then, if it's a fight you want..." [Cracks knuckles] "I'll be more than happy to give you one. Though, before then...What's up with Itadori? How come he hasn't switched back yet?"

Sukuna: "This is what he gets for trying to use me without any kind of pact. Feels like he's having trouble switching back."

(Y/n): "But he's still in there?"

Sukuna: "I'd presume so. Still, though..." [Rips off jacket] "It's only a matter of time. So...I thought about what I could do for now. So...What do you think?"

It was as Sukuna asked that very question that (Y/n)'s eyes widened in shock. All because, without hesitation, Sukuna pierced his own chest and grabbed at the beating heart inside. As he did, blood poured from his mouth as (Y/n) watched on in horror. But that feeling only spiked when Sukuna outright removed the heart from his body entirely, leaving a gapping hole in the centre of his chest. 

 (Y/n): "W-What are you..."

Sukuna: "Isn't it obvious? I'm taking this brat hostage. Haha!"

(Y/n): "Hostage?!"

Sukuna: "Oh...Haha! You...You should see your face! Haha! You thought you were in control of this whole situation, and yet...haha...and yet you've failed!"

(Y/n) could only look on in silence.

Sukuna: "Don't you get it? I can live without this heart, but that ain't true for the brat." [Tosses heart aside] "Switching out with me means he dies. Now, why don't you hand over my finger and beg for your life?"

But (Y/n) didn't beg...He didn't say anything. Instead, without a moment's hesitation he launched at Sukuna with a fierce catalogue of attacks ready to be used. Now, whereas Sukuna didn't know this, (Y/n) was unable to use any Cursed Techniques. As despite it seeming like a bluff earlier, the amount of techniques he had already used drained a lot out of him. But, thankfully for him, he still had enough energy where he could harness some of it to strengthen his attacks and keep him faster than Sukuna. 

So just because (Y/n) was unable to use any of his cursed techniques right now, he was no easy task as Sukuna was about to find out. The first trio of attacks came rather quickly. Filled with an amount of force expected from an angered individual. They all came in union, striking Sukuna in the face multiple times, sending him back quite a distance. When the final one came, it simply shifted Sukuna's face to the side. But as he turned back, he began his own foray of attacks. 

But whether it be kicks, punches, or anything in between, (Y/n) was able to dodge them effortlessly with his hands remaining in his pockets the entire time. To some, it may have seemed like a feat to show how powerful he was. But in reality, he was doing so so he knew for a fact that he didn't lose Sukuna's finger. So, his hands remained in his pocket for the most part as Sukuna attempted to land any attack on (Y/n). But all seemed to fail. The king of curses sending a final kick to the back of (Y/n)'s head, only for it to be caught by the male.

(Y/n): "Too slow, Turtle. Got anything else?"

Instantly following his words, (Y/n) launched his head forward, smashing it into Sukuna's. The attack, whilst powerful, only caused a nosebleed to erupt from Sukuna's nostrils. Something he wiped away with ease as he grinned at (Y/n).

Sukuna: "Interesting. Even without using cursed techniques, you're rather strong." [Cackles] "This just keeps getting better and better."

And that was something Sukuna continued to search for as the pair continued to face off. It was as they did that (Y/n) only placed half his focus on Sukuna. Meanwhile, the other half was left wondering what to do with Itadori.

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "I could end this all quickly with a Cursed Technique. I know for a fact that this Sukuna isn't strong enough to beat me. But I don't wanna kill him. I want a chance to bring Itadori back. But then I--"

That's when a sudden idea struck (Y/n)'s mind. It was when this very idea became available that (Y/n) returned all focus to Sukuna, and by focus, he meant by applying so much force to the king of curses that he wouldn't be able to stand any more. So (Y/n) began to go into overdrive with his attacks on Sukuna. As he did that, however, the trio of Megumi, Nobara, and Ijichi raced toward the edge of the barrier.

Nobara: "(Y/n)'s fighting Itadori! But why? What's going on?"

Megumi: "That's not Itadori. It's Sukuna..." [Sighs] "So he really went through with it? Idiot..."

Nobara: "But...But...If (Y/n)'s fighting Sukuna. He's going to be okay, right?" [Turns to Ijichi] "Right?"

Ijichi: "Um, yes, he very well should be..."

He said with a smile. But as he turned away from the students, that smile was quick to drop. Back with (Y/n), the young male could once more be seen avoiding and adding strikes to Sukuna. But his main focus was to now wear him down. And he went about that by letting Sukuna go all out. But, of course, (Y/n) didn't just want him to use some of his energy. He wanted him to use it all. So with each strike that (Y/n) was able to dodge, the male began taunting the king of the curses.

(Y/n): "Come on, you can do better than that, right? Give more strength!"

Sukuna went to punch (Y/n), only for him to dodge it...

(Y/n): "More power!"

Sukuna went to kick (Y/n), only for him to dodge it...

(Y/n): "More cursed energy! MORE!"

Sukuna: "AARRGGHH!! STAY STILL!!"

With a fierce scream Sukuna unleashed all his strength, sending various amounts of punches, kicks, and any types of attacks that he could. But just like before...They all missed, until eventually (Y/n) had enough to dodging and offered a single boot to Sukuna's chest. One so powerful that it sent him flying back through various trees bushes, and even crashing into the ground itself. Eventually, Sukuna did come to a stop in the middle of the ground, covered in dirt leaving him with a dazed expression on his face. He was in the process of looking around to see what was going on when his eyes landed on (Y/n), who stood before him with an emotionless face.

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "I'm sorry, Itadori. This is the only way I know how to stop Sukuna." [To Sukuna] "You ready to give up control yet?"

Sukuna: "Ha...Haha...Never. But...I'm not done yet...Our fight isn't over..."

(Y/n): "Maybe not for you. But for me...It is."

With those words (Y/n) proceeded to take in a deep breath before lifting his hands up until they were out in front of him. Once done, he then brought both thumbs and pointer fingers together before a small rectangle was formed. With it, (Y/n) looked through to see the confused face of Sukuna. And whilst Sukuna was not fully defeated, nor as tired out as (Y/n) would have hoped. He grew tired of waiting, and just wanted it to be over. So, he decided to end it with a set of familiar words.

(Y/n): "Domain Expansion...Cursed Potential."

In a blink of an eye...It all happened. Sukuna found himself in a void of completely darkness. Just like the one (Y/n) found himself in for three long years. Within the void he currently found himself, Sukuna was alone, with nothing. All he could do was look around in confusion before laughing.

Sukuna: "Hahaha! What is this? A domain expansion? It's the sloppiest one I've ever witnessed!"

"It still does the job."

The voice of (Y/n) spoke softly. Sukuna was about to reply when suddenly he was cut off when a single raindrop fell from the void above and landed on his nose. At first, he was left confused. Byt within seconds, he was left with nothing. For as soon as the raindrop landed on him, its ripple effect, the true power of the Domain took place. Just like before, (Y/n)'s domain was able to revert all such things weaker than himself to their weakest forms. 

And in the case of Sukuna, who at this stage was weaker than (Y/n), his weakest form would be Itadori. However, the only problem with this was the fact that Itadori was without a heart. So reverting him back would seemingly kill him. Something (Y/n) didn't want to do. But there was something unknown inside of him that drove him to do it. Unknown to everyone else, but known to (Y/n). 

Sukuna: "So you're actually going to go through with it, huh? What a surprise...I didn't think you had the guts to kill your own friend. But don't worry, sorcerer, this pain you feel now. It's nothing compared to the pain I'll bring you when I see you next. Because trust me, the next time we face...You'll be the one at my mercy."

Those were the final words Sukuna got to offer before the droplet effected his body, causing it to ripple apart, like a droplet striking a still stream. Before long, the sights of Sukuna's fangs, claws, and extra eyes all began to fade. As they did, so did the anger he carried, and the smirk he offered. The final thing heard from Sukuna, however, was not anger, but laughter. Laughter that carried over as the domain dropped. As it did, (Y/n) opened his eyes to see the smiling face of Itadori looking his way.

Itadori: "...Thanks, (Y/n)."

--Seconds later, Itadori Yuji dropped to the ground...Dead. But it wasn't long before he was joined by (Y/n) (L/n). The effect of using his Domain on Sukuna was no easy feat. Whilst Sukuna was weaker than him, he was still powerful enough that it took extreme amounts of energy out of (Y/n)'s body. Add in the energy he used for previous cursed techniques, and it brought him to an end. So, on this day...Two sorcerers died. When the action was over. Ijichi dropped the barrier, allowing Nobara and Megumi to rush to the scene in order to check up on their friends. But both were horrified to find both with no pulse. It seemed the worse had happened...--

...For one of them.

--A Few Days Later--

The sound of birds chirped as the sun shined through an opened window at Jujutsu High. It just so happened to shine on one bed in particular, where a familiar face could be seen. It wasn't long before the eyes of (Y/n) (L/n) slowly began to open, allowing him to greet the world once more, something he didn't expect after everything that went down. Now, what exactly went down? He wasn't quite sure. It was all a blur to him upon waking up. 

But his thoughts on the matter were soon shunned when he sensed movement next to him. Upon turning his head, he saw a loving sight. That sight was, of course, none other than the gentle sleeping face of Maki resting on a chair nearby. He didn't exactly know for sure, but he was guessing she had been there for a while. Yet, despite the happiness he felt upon seeing her peaceful face. 

He immediately felt a wave of regret when he remembered everything with Itadori. Such brought a bad taste in his mouth, to the point all he could do was look out the window, up toward the sun, and wonder if Itadori was looking down on him with a sour face. Even after Itadori's final words, it still was a heavy feeling to handle. Thankfully for (Y/n), whether he deserved it or not, he was able to find some peace when the sound of someone yawning awake echoed by his side.

Maki: [Yawns] "Wha...What time is it?"

Upon turning to her, (Y/n) realized that Maki had not yet opened her eyes. When she finally did, Maki was greeted by many things. The bright sun. The surroundings of the school's infirmary. (Y/n)'s smile. The alarm clock offering the time. The--

Maki: "(Y/N)?!"

(Y/n) was rather surprised with how Maki reacted to himself being awake. But before he could comment on it, Maki launched out of her seat and pulled her boyfriend into a powerful hug. It was referred as powerful solely due to the fact that (Y/n) felt like he couldn't free himself from it no matter how hard he tried. All he could do was simply accept the emotions on offer as Maki whispered sweet nothings that clearly she needed to get off her chest. All (Y/n) could do was smile before suddenly he was shoved back by Maki.

Maki: "Wait a minute!"

(Y/n): "Huh?"

His confused face was reflected by a narrowed glare by Maki. One which grew as she completely drew away from (Y/n) altogether, stood up, crossed her arms, and shifted her gaze elsewhere.

(Y/n): "Uh...M-Maki? Everything alright?"

Maki: "I'm mad at you."

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

Maki: "...You didn't answer my texts."

As her words were spoken, Maki offered a brief glance to her boyfriend. One that hovered around as (Y/n) was left to chuckle nervously after remember exactly what had happened to bring him into such a situation. So for the next thirty minutes, (Y/n) explained to Maki how he couldn't text back, whilst Maki acted like she didn't buy it. But, she did. She was just happy to have (Y/n) back and didn't know how to play in with the emotions properly. 

But (Y/n) knew as much, so he simply played along. Both just taking in the moment at hand to be happy. Though, as they went back and forth, just outside, the lone figure of Nobara could be seen watching everything go down. A look of dismay forming on her face as she lowered her head before walking away. Leaving both (Y/n) and Maki unbeknownst to what was going on.

******

But that was not where the day ended. For later that night, after (Y/n) had been reunited with his friends...Minus one, of course. The disheartened (Y/n) made his way back to his dorm room. Of course, Maki asked if he wanted company, which (Y/n) declined for now in hopes of just having a shower and getting his head straight. Maki understood as much and left her boyfriend to it. Now, (Y/n) found himself in his dorm building bathroom, still wearing the lower half of his school uniform which he wore whilst fighting Sukuna. 

It was as he remembered that, that he proceeded to reach into his pocket and retrieve the severed finger of the aforementioned king of curses. A sigh of relief escaped his lips upon seeing it was still there. Worried that someone like Ijichi or Megumi happened to find it. But seeing it still in hs possession brought (Y/n) some peace. However, that peaceful look he carried soon shifted to one that was a hundred per cent serious as he eyed the appendage. Eventually his gaze lifted off the finger to look at his reflection in the mirror. So many thoughts flooded his mind.

But there was one in particular that drove him to do what he did next. The thought of Maki, and how he felt when he was alone in the void. All he wanted was to return home...and he did. But whilst he was trapped, he made a promise to keep those he cared about safe. But today, he failed. But he wouldn't fail again. That's why, without hesitation, (Y/n) placed the finger of Sukuna into his mouth and swallowed it. Not a single word came before or after this moment (Y/n) simply allowed his body to handle the effects the finger offered him before he found enough strength to enter the shower. From that point on, water running from a drain was all that could be heard...But clearly...There was something else in the works.

[If this chapter reaches 275 votes in 24hrs, NEW CHAPTER NEXT WEEK!!!]

[Something indeed! Hey everyone! I hope you enjoyed today's chapter and that MASSIVE cliffhanger! Now, before moving on. I originally had this chapter as two. Bur decided you guys deserved it to be finished here. So I did the best I could to deliver one massive chapter that's over 15k words! But I kinda had a purpose this week. Because in this chapter, I basically wanted to show how Powerful the reader has become, whilst showing that he's not completely OP. There was a lot of action so it took some energy out of me into writing all this. Especially writing 9k words in one day. But, I feel its worth it. Especially with the mystery plotline I've laid down with this chapter. Because not everything is as it seems. So if you all enjoyed it, feel free to vote and comment as those really do help me understand if you guys want it continued, and with as many words! So, yeah, thank you everyone! And I hope to see you all again next week for another chapter!!!]