[Alright, so we continue the grind. A lot went down in the last chapter, and we technically reach a new phase of this book. Now, during the time from last chapter to now, season 2 of the anime has ended. Now, despite with how many episodes I've still got left to cover, I more than likely will finish this book before season three even comes out. Now, as some of you know, I planned to end this book at season 2. But, I've come to a roadblock with two possible outcomes...

1.) I finish this book at season 2's end, being able to wrap up the story in my own way. [With no left over plot points. Basically, it'll be my ending to the story, with events from the show molding in with it]

2.) I finish THIS book at the end of season 2, then wait for season 3 to come out and I basically do another book continuing the story. [Kinda like how Naruto Shippudon is a continuation of Naruto. That way this book wouldn't be left for dead only to come back years later with a lesser audience.]

So, yeah, they're the ideas I have at the moment. We'll see how things go as we continue our journey through this book. But, for now, we have a lot to get through. So, get ready people, because a lot of fun stuff is coming your way!]
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[Your POV]

As of late my life has been...Pretty much all over the place. One moment I was happy as can be, joyish to be back in a world where I was with people I cared about, and the next, I felt like I being forced into the ground by the gravity of the world. But, like all great heroes in manga, I was able to overcome such circumstances...With the POWER OF FRIENDSHIP! Well, that and a serious case of situational depression. But it was mainly the first one. I know it sounds kinda cheesy hearing it, but in a way, it's the best choice to describe what happened. I mean, I was at rock bottom. I felt like nothing was going my way. I felt like I was when I was a kid. Alone, and without hope. But all it took was Gojo to have a heart-to-heart with me, and I realized the error of my ways.

Now, as much as I love Gojo, he's family after all, it wouldn't take much for people to figure out why a lot of others hate him. He was normally self-centred and had an overbearing personality. But deep down, he cared for those he called friends. Such was confirmed when we spoke. He revealed things I knew was close to him, add in the fact he used my name instead of his stupid nickname for me, and you knew he was serious. It was because of all these things that pushed me to start a revolution in the world. Without any fear, I walked into the sanctuary of my girlfriend's clan, and put them in their place. I wasn't normally one for conflict if I could avoid it. But I knew, this time, I'd have to get my hands dirty to protect those I care about.

So, one destroyed clan later, and a serious speaking to by the Higher up's, I returned to my life as a sorcerer who seemingly returned from the dead. Well, actually, I kinda did do that once. So, forget the 'seemingly' bit. I really am a sorcerer who returned from the dead. And it's because of this second chance I wasn't going to let anything go to waste. I didn't want anything holding me back from enjoying my life. And that's exactly where I find myself now, standing in the middle of Tokyo, right outside an arcade centre, a joyous smile on my face. But I wasn't smiling because I was within the vicinity of video games. Well, it wasn't the main reason. I am still a boy after all. But, no. It was not the main reason. 

The main reason I was smiling was because I saw this as the perfect opportunity to help one major part of my life to finally find some balance! And that thing, of course, was...

"(Y/n), why are we standing in front of an arcade?"

"Yeah. I thought we were going some place fun?"

(Y/n): "Uh, this place is fun. Duh."

An overabundance of confidence filled my words as a smile found my lips. A smile which didn't fade as I twisted by body around to see two people standing behind me. Those two were, of course, Maki and Nobara. Both wore casual clothes, along with me, something that was a little different from our usual school get-up. Maki wore a pair of short shorts, with a white and green striped top cover mostly by a jacket. Whilst Nobara wore a pair of black jeans with matching black high thigh boots, with a dark blue sleeveless top to finish it off. As for me, I was a guy...So I just chucked on whatever I found before coming here. Though, I was surprised to see both (Y/n)'s giving me looks that seemed to suggest that they weren't quite as happy as I was right now.

Maki: "You said you were taking me on a date..."

Nobara: "And you said we were hanging out..."

"...SO WHY IS SHE HERE?!"

The end of each sentence was finished by the other, all the while they turned and shouted in the face of the female opposite them. Now, it wasn't like Maki and Nobara hated each other. Surprisingly, they didn't. I just think they were slightly annoyed to see the other here when I didn't EXACTLY tell them that the other was going to be here. But I was quick to fix up the mess.

(Y/n): [Smiles nervously] "Haha! Come on, guys. No fighting. That's what the arcade games are for."

Nobara: "Speaking of arcade games, why did you bring us here?"

Maki: "Yeah. I hate video games."

(Y/n): "Uh...True. B-But I didn't bring you here to play video games. I-I mean, I did. But, I mainly wanted you two to...get along, you know?"

Maki: [Sighs] "Seriously? You're doing this again?"

Nobara: "Yeah. (Y/n), I understand you're coming from a good place. But face it, Maki and I just aren't the same."

(Y/n): "B-But that's where you're wrong! You both have a lot of things in common!"

Nobara: [Raises eyebrow] "Oh, yeah?"

Maki: [Places hand on hip] "How so?"

(Y/n): "Like, um...L-Like...Oh! Like how you both love yelling at people that you think are beneath you! Huh? That's why I brought you to the arcade! That's normal here!"

Maki: "Hmm...I suppose you are right."

Nobara: "I do enjoy putting people in their place."

(Y/n): "See! You guys are alike! I...I just want you both to see it like I do. If you got to know each other, I'm sure you'd be great friends."

For a brief moment, it seemed like they were contemplating what I was saying. A held breath of hope remained in my lungs as I watched the pair visibly think over it. Unfortunately, it seemed like luck wasn't on my side. 

Maki: "...But still. Bringing us both here without telling us isn't cool."

Nobara: "Agreed."

(Y/n): [Thoguhts] "They can agree over something like that and still not come any closer?" [Out Loud] "A-Alright, sure, I didn't exactly tell you the other was going to be here. But I didn't like it either."

Maki: [Suddenly turns to you] "Choose your next words wisely, or you're dead."

(Y/n): [Suddenly pauses] "H-Huh?"

Nobara: "Dead."

Yeah...Hearing the word 'dead' from a girl was something that brought about a feeling not everyone would be able to handle. But I was quick to regain my footing.

(Y/n): "O-Okay. Just hearing me out. I wasn't lying because--" [Turns to Maki] "This is a date..."

Maki: "How so?"

I could tell by the way Maki said such words with hidden vicious intent, a sharp glare, and the way she placed her hand on her hip...It was so hot. But such hot tactics weren't going to distract me...for long. I was quick to regain my composure. As I did. I slowly stepped forward, took Maki's hands into my own, and looked her right in the eye as I spoke.

(Y/n): "Because..." [Smiles] "...Everywhere I go with you is like a date to me. Even if it's with other people, I still find myself...getting distracted by your beauty~"

Now, I wouldn't call myself no Prince Charming, but I liked to believe I had some effect in making girls smile, or at least bubbly inside. And I seemed to reach my mark when I noticed Maki's body go completely frozen. Her eyes left wide, losing any sense of annoyance she previously had. Gone was the killer intent. Left over, was the mind of a girl, who now blushed, and seemed unable to stop. Of course, as soon as she noticed she was pushing, she was quick to drop her head. Though that didn't stop her words from revealing the smile that she couldn't help keep from her lips.

Maki: [Smiles and blushes] "Y-Yeah, well...I hope you feel like that. O-Otherwise I'd have to kick your ass, punk."

Even before we were dating, I knew Maki was someone who wasn't exactly that big on showing her emotions. Especially around other people. But this was all it took for me to know my charms had worked. And surprisingly, they also worked on Nobara as well. As the shorter ginger currently had her jaw dropped, her own blush crossing her face, all caused by what she had just seen.

(Y/n): "And you, Nobara..."

Nobara: "Y-Yes...?"

(Y/n): "I, uh...I know this might be awkward after, you know...everything. But you do mean a lot to me too. You're great. Honestly, you and Maki are two of the most coolest girls I've ever known."

That remark was enough to cause Maki to switch her gaze back to me, whilst Nobara still remained silent. Of course, it wasn't long before they realized as much and went about keeping their appearances in check. Both quickly striking a pose, whilst grinning. Doing their best to hide their blushes as best as they could.

Maki: [Trying to act cool] "I-Is that so, (Y/n)? Is that how high you think of me?"

Nobara: [Trying to act cool] "I-I can't say I'm surprised. Haha. A-After all...You've totally had a thing for me since we first met. Like most guys..."

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

I didn't exactly know how else to respond to the two of them trying to act like my words didn't have an effect on them. But, if I'm being honest, I wasn't exactly hating it. I mean...I was a kid who grew up with no one really liking me. SO YOU'RE DAMN STRAIGHT I WAS GONNA ENJOY THE FUCK OUT OF GIRLS ACTING LIKE THIS. Unfortunately...It did not last for long. As Maki's eyes suddenly opened upon picking up on something Nobara said.

Maki: "Wait a minute...What did you just say?"

A side-eye was immediately on offer from Maki, directed at Nobara. However, despite me having no clue, Nobara seemed to know exactly what had managed to tick Maki off. Going off the fact she was grinning with her head facing towards the ground, anyway.

Nobara: [Grins] "I said...He totally had a thing for me since we first met." [Turns to Maki] "What's the matter? Can't hear anything?"

Maki: [Turns to Nobara] "Oh, I can hear. I can hear the shit you're speaking!"

(Y/n): "Uh, um...G-Guys? What's going--"

But my words went unnoticed. I was simply left to stand awkwardly to the side as grinning versions of Nobara and Maki faced off against each other. Honestly, it looked straight out of a manga. With the pair seeming to have no focus on anyone but the other. Even with me being the main part of the conversation.

Maki: [Chuckles] "Honestly...The fact you think someone like (Y/n) would even offer you a second glance is worth laughing at. I mean..." [Grins wickedly] "How ridiculous can one be?"

Nobara: "Oh, plenty ridiculous, it seems. Going off what I'm seeing in front of me, anyway~"

Maki: "Oh, you can see? Good...I was getting worried you couldn't. Seeing as you haven't NOTICED that (Y/n) already has a girlfriend. So back off!"

It was at this point that the smirks were beginning to drop, and the real forces of nature behind these two girls was starting to be revealed.

Nobara: "Oh, right. You're the girlfriend who didn't have the guts to tell anyone about who she was dating. You really like (Y/n), huh? ...That was sarcasm by the way." [Smiles] "Just in case you didn't pick up on that."

Maki: "Oh, I did. But at least I can. You can't, by the looks of it. Otherwise, you'd leave and stop ruining this date between (Y/n) and I."

Nobara: "Please. You call this a--"

Maki: "And before you mention anything about me not wanting to tell anyone about (Y/n) and I dating. All I can say to that is..." [Grins wickedly] "...Did he destroy an entire clan for you?"

That final remark seemed to be quite the strike to Nobara, her eyes widening momentarily before suddenly inclining back into a narrowed glance. Once more, accompanied by a grin. It was at that moment I realized this thing was going to be a back and forth for quite some time now. And all the while, I was left to silently stand to the side as the pair exchanged blow after blow. It was as I just stood there, nervously waving to people walking past that managed to make eye contact with me, that the sound of my phone ringing echoed from my pocket.

(Y/n): "Huh?"

Upon reaching into it and pulling out my phone, I saw the same "Gojo" on the screen. In this moment, I realized anything Gojo had to say wouldn't be nearly as bad as what I was seeing in front of me. Which, kinda made it weird. These two were fighting over me, yet, they weren't even acknowledging me anymore. They were just trading verbals onslaughts like they were cursed techniques.

"Did (Y/n) kiss you?"

"Did (Y/n) save you from a bunch of Curses?"

"Did (Y/n) open up to you first?"

"Oh, that's right, I'm sorry, you were the one who was looking after his things while he was away, huh? I forgot."

"Hey, question, are you the chick who bullied him when you first met him?"

"Does (Y/n) cuddle you at night? Oh, wait...No...You sleep alone, don't you?"

All I could do was shake my head in dismay...Though, I couldn't be that mad, I mean...Girls were fighting over me. ME! It's kinda hard not to enjoy it a little. That's why I didn't find it very hard to smile as I brought my phone up to my ear. Turning my back to the arguing pair as I answered the call.

(Y/n): "Hey, Gojo...Yeah...Nah, I'm cool. Maki and Nobara are just fighting...Over me...Yeah... I do--No. NO! Gojo! You are not telling Panda about this! N...No! I will not call you back! Just...J-Just don't do--"

--Five Minutes Later--

~Ring~

~Ring~

~Ring~

(Y/n): [Sighs] "...Hello?"

Gojo: [Voice Only] "Hey, Babu. What's up? Girls still fighting over you?"

A simple look over my shoulder was all it took to confirm as much. The pair were now standing inside the arcade facing off in a game of Air Hockey. They made some deal about something involving the winner, wasn't entirely sure what it was.

(Y/n): "...It would seem that way."

Gojo: [Voice Only] "Cool. Cool. Hey! I'm gonna need you to put the love triangle on hold for a while though. Think you can meet up with me at the--" [Whispers into phone] "--At the secret spot. You know the one, right?"

(Y/n): [Sighs] "...Gojo. You realize you're the one at the secret spot already, right? You don't need to whisper about it."

Gojo: "I know. But that's not why I'm whispering."

(Y/n): "Then why are you?"

In the end, it seemed Gojo didn't even need to tell me why. For seconds after I asked him that very question, the voice of a familiar person echoed in the background on the other end of the call.

"Gooojoooo! When's (Y/n) getting here!! I'm boooored!"

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

Gojo: [Sighs] "Yep...He's been saying that for the past hour. It's honestly starting to drive me insane. And I had to babysit a twirp just like him when I was younger. But she wasn't nearly as bad as this!"

(Y/n): [Chuckles] "Well, what can you expect? He's gotta stay in some secret place underneath the school grounds without seeing his friends. He's bound to get bored eventually."

"I want (Y/n) here noooowwww!!!"

Though now that I think about it, he kinda sounds like that time Maki was on her, um...Time of the month. Hopefully hanging out with Itadori would involve less chokehold though.

(Y/n): [Chuckles lightly] "Anyway, yeah, I can be there in an hour. I just have to make sure everything will be fine with Maki and Nobara. I'll take them back to the school and then--"

"Yes! I win! I win!"

At first, I thought that was Itadori who was speaking. But when I heard Gojo's voice coming across clearly over the phone, I realized it was not him. It didn't long before I realized who it was, however, a simple twist of my head was all it took before my gaze was focusing through the glass window of the arcade behind me. Through it, I saw the sight of Nobara joyously bouncing up and down whilst Maki looked like she was about to break the air hockey puck with her bare hands.

Gojo: [Voice Only] "Um...Everything alright?"

(Y/n): "Uh, yeah...I think so. Um, hey, I-I'll see you when I get back."

Gojo: [Voice Only] "Alright. See you then. Bye, Babu!"

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

The final words weren't really directed to Gojo as my focus was already placed on the girls, something that didn't falter as I hung up the call and went to find out what was going on. Of course, to my luck, however, when I walked in and asked what was going on both girls refused to give me any hint. The same could be said as we headed on back to the school. Both Maki and Nobara just had their arms crossed, offering nothing more than sideways glares toward the other every now and again. 

So that was a new trouble in life. And here I was trying to fix those things. Even so, I managed to put such worries to the side as I found myself walking down a dark narrow stairwell in the back parts of the school grounds. It was a place that Gojo told me about when he first revealed the fact that Itadori was alive. Honestly, I'm not entirely surprised the Jujutsu School has secret pathways. Something that did surprise me, even after seeing it a few times now, was the still-alive body of one, Itadori Yuji. 

I was greeted by the living being once more as I reached the bottom of the stairwell to reveal a darkened room. One that was only lightened up by a large flatscreen TV. In front of the screen was a coffee table and a couch. The coffee table was covered with countless DVD cases and crushed energy drink cans. Whilst the couch was the home base for Itadori, who currently laid down on it. Resting his head against the armrest as he lazily opened and closed his eyes every few seconds. Though his eyes opened with newfound energy when he finally noticed me standing next to it. A large smile found his face as he sat up abruptly.

Itadori: [Smiles brightly] "(Y/n)! You're here! Gojo said you were coming!"

(Y/n): "Yeah. Thought I'd stop in and see how you're doing." [Looks around] "Where is my annoying cousin at anyway?"

Itadori: "Don't know. He was here a moment ago."

Itadori said as he lifted his head up further to look passed the couch. But, of course, no sign of Gojo could be seen anywhere. But instead of just standing about, I decided to take a seat beside Itadori and watch whatever he was watching. At least, until Gojo got here. Then again, it wasn't like I had dealt with anything different in the past few weeks since I was told about Itadori. Gojo called it "Special Training"; but in reality, it was really just watching movies. 

However, according to Gojo, it helps with Itadori learning to control his Cursed Energy. Of course, there's also the fact we had to do it with a cursed doll, one in the form of a teddy bear with boxing gloves, having to beat the crap out of us every now and again. Something I also didn't really understand. Yet, all in all, it wasn't so bad. I mean, I got to do it with Itadori, and he seemed to like that. And after everything I did...I feel I owe it to him to at least be by his side.

Itadori: "So, how's everyone else?"

(Y/n): "Hmm? Oh, yeah. They're fine. Still training for the Exchange-Sister School-Battle Dome-To The Death-Battle Battle-Thingy."

Itadori: "WHAT?! There's going to be a Exchange-Sister School-Battle Dome-To The Death-Battle Battle-Thingy?! That's so not fair! I wanna do that!"

(Y/n): [Chuckles hesitantly] "Oh, trust me. I'm sure it won't be as fun as you think..." [Thoughts] "Especially with the Kyoto students there--" [Shivers] "--Just thinking about Todo and the others gives me shivers. They were so mean to little (Y/n) when he was there..."

Like the time Todo forced me to be his bench press for four hours straight.

Todo: "Argh! Argh! Argh! Argh!"

(Y/n): "...Todo...Can I go now? I've got homework to do."

Todo: "HAHAHAHA!! Home work?! Sorcerers don't need homework! You've just got to be naturally skill! Like me! Ha! Ha! Ha!"

We actually did need to do homework. Todo just never did it. So he just kept lifting my body up and down...Along with the four stacked paint cans that rested atop of my chest. And, of course, there were other moments, like when Mai used me as gun practice.

(Y/n): "M-Mai...I don't think I feel comfortable doing this."

Mai: "Stop being a loser, (Y/n). Now, stay still...otherwise, I might hit something important."

I didn't really like the way she smiled after saying that. And I definitely didn't like the way she made me hold apples in both my hands and atop my head either. But when it came to Mai, you couldn't really say no. At least, that was the case for me. Honestly, other of everyone there, probably only Miwa was the nicest. But even then, is that really any good if she doesn't even know you exist? 

Heck! The only time she knew I existed was when she found out I was related to Gojo. From that point on, she'd only talk to me whenever she wanted to know something about Gojo. Add in the fact that I was someone who already felt lonely. So all together, my time at Kyoto definitely wasn't one I was fond of reliving. Though, as Maki said a month ago, I wasn't the same old (Y/n) I was back then.

Itadori: "Though...I'm just glad that they're alright. That you're all alright."

(Y/n): "Huh?"

I was pulled from my memories abruptly by the voice of Itadori. When I turned to him, I found his eyes focused to the ground. A soft smile finding his lips as he thought over something. It didn't take long to figure out what it was.

Itadori: "...I'm weak, and I couldn't save anybody."

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

Itadori: [Chuckles softly] "I couldn't even listen to you when you said not to turn into Sukuna." [Sighs] "I'm sorry, (Y/n). I should have listened to you."

I was already feeling the impact of his words. So when he turned toward me to offer a soft smile, the emotions I was feeling were only doubled. It was enough to bring back the bad memories of that day. But I wasn't willing to let them win. Not this time."

(Y/n): "Hey...We both made choices we'd rather forget that day, right? So let's do that."

Itadori: [Tilts head] "Huh? What do you mean?"

(Y/n): "Exactly what I said." [Smiles] "Let's forget them! I mean, what good is remembering them and being sad over them, right? Sure! We screwed up! But let's move on from it and forget them. Or, as Gojo would say...Let's start a revolution against those bad thoughts and prove them wrong, huh? What do you say?"

Honestly...I was surprised such words managed to come from my mouth. But, I guess, in a way, I really have grown over the last few weeks. Something I'm really only noticing now. But for Itadori, it must have been something seen rather quickly. Because not even a full minute had passed after my words had exited my mouth before a large smile spread across his face. I expected him to say something, but when he didn't, it kinda left me a little confused...and uncomfortable.

(Y/n): "Uh...Itadori? Everything all good, uh...Buddy?"

Itadori: "H-Huh? Oh, yeah! I'm fine! I'm just...I know I'll be able to get stronger now. Because I've got the strongest sorcerer helping me! Thanks, (Y/n)?"

(Y/n): "S-S-S...Strongest...Sorcerer? M-Me? You...You think I'm strong? P-Pfft! Y-Yeah right. I'm not stro--Well, I guess I'm pretty str--You think I'm the strongest?"

Itadori: [Rapidly nods] "Uh, huh! You're so cool! You're my favourite!"

Shatter!

The sound of glass shattering was all it took for Itadori and I to regain focus. Immediately our heads twisted in union, looking over the couch once more. This time, we were greeted by the sight of Gojo...Just standing there...Silently. A metal tray was placed in his hands with nothing on it. The still look on his face, masking any feelings due to the bandages around his eyes. Though, it didn't take long to realize what was going on when Itadori and I looked just a little further passed the couch to see a plethora of broken glass lying on the ground.

Gojo: "...I was bringing you guys juice..."

Itadori just turned to me in confusion, whilst I realized too well that for the next hour or so I'd be left to comfort Gojo's weak soul. Who knew, that someone so powerful as Gojo, broke so quickly when he was referred to as weak, or in this case 'not the strongest'. Yet, that just seemed to be the way he is. Then again, for everyone in life, we've all got a part of us that just didn't seem to agree with others. In the end, it's about how we deal with such moments like that. Little did I know of the change that was heading our way. Even so, about twenty minutes later and I found out that today's training wouldn't be like the others. For whereas Gojo ran all previous sessions himself. Today he was handing the reigns to someone else.

(Y/n): "Are you really sure about this, Gojo? I mean, you seemed pretty clear about keeping it in the dark that Itadori wasn't alive still."

Itadori: "Yeah, which sucks, by the way! Staying down here is boring!"

I could only imagine on that regard. Honestly, in a way, I'm glad I wasn't the one who died.

Gojo: "I understand your fears. But don't worry, Babu! I've called in a friend you can trust."

Itadori: "Wait. You have a friend?"

Gojo: "Uh...Ouch, Itadori." [Mumbles under breath] "I'll have you know I have plenty of friends."

Itadori: "Yeah. But, like, friends hang out on weekends. Go to movies. Talk about girls and stuff. You always seem to be away on work. Or whenever you are here, you're hanging out with us students."

Gojo: "And what's so bad about that?"

Itadori: "Nothing! Nothing..."

Though, the way Itadori turned his gaze elsewhere seemed to suggest otherwise. Gojo only ended up narrowing his gaze toward Itadori, before his focus was shifted to me.

(Y/n): "I think what Itadori means, Gojo, is that you may consider this person a friend. But do they see it the same way?"

Gojo: "What? Yes! They do!" [Shakes head] "Look, Babu, ever since you've found out Sukuna wants to fight you and you alone, you've gotten a pretty big head on yourself. Okay? Just because the ultimate curse in this entire existence wants to fight and kill you, and you alone, doesn't mean you're the most important person ever, okay? Because there are plenty of other people who want to fight me! But do I boast about it all the time? No--"

--A Few Minutes Later--

Gojo: "--And don't get me started on Shoko, who claims I have superiority issues whenever someone I know is more popular in a room than me. Because I don't! I simply find it highly ridiculous that a literal curse king would be interested in someone that only got powerful a short while ago. Whilst I ON THE OTHER HAND, have been powerful my whole life! It just doesn't make sense!"

By the time Gojo's little rant came to an end, Itadori and I were left to simply stare at each other. It was quite clear that Gojo got triggered when there was someone around him who seemed to garner more attention than him. Probably because it didn't happen to often. Even so, I couldn't help but silently laugh to myself as Gojo finally fell from his high of a rant to return back to the matter at hand.

Gojo: "Now after being rudely sidetracked after (Y/n)'s remark, let me return to my previous statement. I trust this guy. So you should trust this guy. Speaking of this guy..."

It was as his sentence began to trail on that we reached a set of large wooden doors, which I found ridiculous when remembering just how many of these doorways are around the school. And now that I was finding out that they were also under it, only made it more absurd. But any such thoughts about doors was soon obstructed when the doorway did open to reveal a man with blonde hair wearing small glasses that didn't have any sides, seemingly attached just to his face magically. Whilst the tanned suit he wore completed the look nicely. And going off his face, he wasn't exactly the fun type, as Gojo would put it. But did that stop Gojo from tossing his arm around this guy's shoulder? No...No, it did not.

Gojo: "This is Nanami Kento, the ex-salarymanjujutsu sorcerer!"

Nanami: "Please don't call me that."

Gojo: [Ignoring Nanami] "Isn't that cool?! He used to work in a boring office, now he fights curses!"

Nanami: "Please...Don't make my job sound unprofessional, Gojo."

Gojo: "Oh, come on, Nanami! Don't undergo yourself." [Turns to you and Itadori] "Plenty of jujutsu sorcerers are oddballs, but since he worked for a company, he's got a good head on his shoulders. He's a first-grade sorcerer, too."

Nanami: [Fixes Glasses] "I'm sure no one would want to hear you saying that about them. 

The more I witnessed the scene before me, the more I was beginning to think my previous assumptions about these two were correct.

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "Yeah...Going off these few seconds, I think Gojo is the only one to see the friendship here. That's kind of innocent, I guess?"

Itadori: [Thoughts] "His sunglasses are cool. I wonder where he got them from?"

(Y/n): "Haha! Now I can see why I've never heard about you before, Nanami! Clearly, Gojo is the only--"

Nanami: "We should greet each other first before speaking any further." [Proceeds to Bow] "It's nice to meet you, Itadori, (Y/n)."

(Y/n): "O-Oh, uh. Right. It's nice to meet you too."

Itadori and I proceeded to bow in union. Honestly, I wasn't expecting to be so formal today. Then again, most of the people Gojo calls friends are of a...higher class, compared to my cousin, so it shouldn't really be surprising. Oh, well, a simple bow wouldn't hurt. However, before I could return to my previous sentence, I was cut off by Itadori.

Itadori: [Raises hand] "Excuse me. But if you were an Ex-Salaryman, why didn't you start straight away as a Jujutsu Sorcerer?"

Nanami: "I studied at Jujutsu High, and one thing I learned... is that Jujutsu Sorcerers are shit!"

Itadori: "Oh!"

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "Was not...Expecting that one."

Nanami: "Then I worked at your typical company, and one thing I learned...Is that work is shit!"

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "Now that one seems more likely."

Nanami: "So if both are equally as shit, I'll take the one I'm more suited to. That's the only reason I came back."

Itadori: "O-Oh...I see. That's, uh...Nice?"

That was all Itadori could say as he nervously stood in front of Nanami. As for Gojo and I, we now stood to the side, silently whispering to each other, as we watched the scene before us.

(Y/n): "Your friend seems rather...Dark?"

Gojo: "Oh, tell me about it. You should have seen him when we went to school, Babu. He wouldn't even come out partying with us...It was so weird."

Now, that wasn't entirely weird. As I had heard a few stories about what Gojo was like when partying. And, let's just say, he's Gojo, times like...Twenty.

Nanami: "Hey. What are you two talking about?"

Out of nowhere, Nanami appeared right in front of us. Causing both Gojo and I to suddenly stand up straight out of fear. 

(Y/n): "Ah! Nothing!"

Gojo: "(Y/n) said you were weird!"

(Y/n): "Wait! What?!"

The look of rage and anger on my face right now as I turned to Gojo was all it would take to part a sea. As for Gojo, he just giggled nervously. And so he should. Because I was about THIS close to punching him across the face. Actually, you know what? I wasn't THIS close...I actually did it.

(Y/n): "Gojo! You idiot!"

BLAM!

The strike was all it took to send Gojo to the ground. I would have continued further, if I was preoccupied by making sure I didn't offend Nanami with Gojo's lie.

(Y/n): "Mister Nanami, sir. I swear, I didn't say anything like that. I wouldn't! I mean, I may be a Gojo, but I'm not a Goj--"

Nanami: "It's fine."

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

A simple raised hand was all it took to silence me. Nanami's expression remained as blank as ever as he looked down at me.

Nanami: "I understand Gojo can be difficult. So I shall look past this all, if you would kindly not believe that I am of the same mindset as Gojo."

(Y/n): "O-Oh, uh...Alright. No problem!" [Chuckles nervously] "Honestly. I was a little worried you wou--"

Nanami: "Now, Itadori. Let us get on our way. I have an assignment waiting for us."

Itadori: "R-Right!"

It was in this one moment that I didn't know what to do. I was left in a blank state. After all that just happened, the only thing I could focus on was the fact that Nanami had seemingly ignored me. Did he really forgive me for what Gojo said? Or was he just saying that? The fact he was now walking off with Itadori without even thinking of me left me second-guessing. To the point, for a short while I was left standing there alone questioning it all. Until Gojo slowly rose to his feet with a bump on his head. 

Gojo: "G-Good job, Babu. He t-totally forgave us..."

My eyes remained on the image of Nanami and Itadori going to leave the room...Even as I unconsciously sent my fist flying back down to Gojo's head, once more returning him to the floor. It was this that ended the scene as I kept questioning...What exactly just happened?

[3rd Person POV]

--Log - September 2018/Kanagawa Prefecture/Kawasaki City--

--Location - Kinema Cinema--

Dark, dreary clouds hung over the seemingly dead location of Kinema Cinema in Kawasaki City. The dark surroundings outside, however, seemed to perfectly complement the inner walls of the building. Hardly any workers could be seen. Complete silence ran through the outer layers of the building. The only loud coming from one of three rooms currently broadcasting movies. In Cinema 1, the credits roll for a movie that had just finished playing. But the movie wasn't the only thing that ended in this moment. A few rows into the centre of the room, three dead bodies could be seen. 

All from teenagers, coming from a nearby high school. Their bodies had seemingly been corrupted and twisted. Like they had been decayed from the inside. Their once vibrant skin, turned dark grey. Their necks extended. One body was outright upside down, with his legs hanging over the back of the chair. Whilst the head hung close to the ground. Another course head had been split in half. The third was outright missing the top of his. For something so gory, it seemed straight out of a horror movie. Which, in a way, kinda made it poetic that they had just finished watching a horror movie with gore unlike any other. 

--After the showing, three high school boys' disfigured corpses were discovered by staff. Cause of death was later identified as increased cranial pressure and respiratory paralysis due to cranial deformity--

But unbeknownst to any at this point, the three boys were not the only ones in the room at the time that this horrifying proclamation was made. Somewhere close by, in an alleyway made even darker due to the grey skies, a young, skinny boy with hair covering one side of his face could be seen standing alone. At least, that's what it would have appeared like to anyone who may have walked by at that moment. But truth be told, he wasn't alone. A little further down from his current position, a slender figure with grey hair running down passed his shoulders could be seen standing. A weird smile crossing his lips as he stared back at the boy.

(???): "I'm sorry...Could you repeat what you just asked?"

"Did you...Did you do that? In the theatre?"

The voice of the boy was shallow, yet, despite the brief hesitation at the beginning, he showed no fear. Something that caused the smile on the stranger's face to grow.

(???): "...And what would you do if I said I did?"

No response came straight away, but within time...One would.

--A Few Hours Later--

BLURGH!

The sound erupted from the bottom of (Y/n)'s stomach and all the way out of his mouth as he hunched over a cinema seat. Well, it was clean. Now it was covered with his vomit. Who could blame him? He had just seen the disgusting sight of three twisted and deformed bodies who had their stomachs explode from the inside. Even after vomiting up his lunch, he remained hunched over, trying to garner the courage to pick his head up. But when it took him a little longer, the voice of Itadori sounded from behind.

Itadori: "Are you alright, (Y/n)?"

(Y/n): "Huh? Oh...Yeah. I should be fin--"

BLURGH!

But it seemed getting his lunch up wasn't enough. His breakfast soon joined his mess on the cinema seat after even the fleeting glance he gave just seconds ago. This time around, (Y/n) remained hunched over. Itadori's soft face growing concerned for his friend. That was until perplection crossed paths with it, as the voice of one, Nanami Kento, a first grade sorcerer, entered the air.

Nanami: "If you aren't capable of seeing a sight such as this. Maybe it would be best for you to wait outside."

(Y/n): "No. No. I'll be fine. I just--Eck--" [Swallows] "I-I'll be fine. Thanks."

Nanami: "...I wasn't asking out of concern."

The remark was all it took for (Y/n) to send his gaze passed Itadori to look at the man he and the aforementioned boy were asked to accompany today. It was all in hopes of helping Itadori progress more with his training. Of course, (Y/n) only found out about it after spending a good forty-five minutes comforting Gojo after his heart was shattered. But still, he had already spent forty minutes with this man named Nanami. 

And so far, (Y/n) didn't exactly know what to think about him. From what he did know, the man, dressed in a tan-coloured suit, with a blue buttoned-up shirt underneath, held together by a yellowish tie with black spots on it, was someone Gojo knew. Though, like most, Namami didn't exactly seem to be a fan of him. And so far, (Y/n) was beginning to wonder if the dislike for Gojo's was directed to all from the clan.

Nanami: [To Itadori] "Can you see it? This is the residual taint of curse energy."

Itadori: "No, I can't see anything."

Nanami: "That's because you're not trying to see it. We typically see curses as if it's perfectly natural to. When a cursed technique is used, it leaves traces behind. That's what residuals are. But residuals are much fainter than curse spirits. So look closer and focus your vision."

Of course, Itadori took such words quite literally. Doing so by bringing the edges of his hands up to the side of his face. As he did, he narrowed in his eyes and leaned in closer. The sight was fairly awkward for (Y/n), who just slightly leaned his head forward to witness the funny expression on Itadori's face. 

But funny or not, in the end, this exact sequence managed to help Itadori do what Nanmi had tasked to him. Before long, the young boy was able to see what Nanami was referring to. On the ground, leading out of the theatre, footprints marked by a purple-coloured aura could be seen. As soon as he realized such, a joyous expression spawned on Itadori's face.

Itadori: "Oh! I can see them!" [Turns to you] "(Y/n)! I did it! I did it!"

(Y/n): "Haha. Nice, Itadori."

A joyous smile of his own was offered by (Y/n), such a sight seemed to excite Itadori further. It was as the two smiled at one another, that Nanami stood to the side silent. His mind reflects him back to a moment before he met the pair earlier today.

--Flashback--

Nanami: "So you want me to babysit them?"

Gojo: "No! No! Nothing like that! Haha! I just want you to show Itadori the ropes. Get him more intuned with his curse energy--" [Smiles brightly] "--you know?"

No expression was made back by Nanami, who stood in his office with Gojo. Just outside the room, Itadori and (Y/n) silently sat on a pair of chairs. They were currently preoccupied with a Rubix cube left on a nearby coffee table. Nanami offered the pair a wayward glance before turning back to the smiling Gojo.

Nanami: "And what about the other one? That's your cousin, right? The one that attacked the Zenin clan?"

Gojo: "Haha! You heard about that, huh?"

Nanami: [Blinks] "Everyone of importance has heard about it, Gojo. Look--" [Sighs] "My point is, the two of them aren't like other sorcerers. One has Sukuna inside of him, who everyone thinks is dead; and the other is...We don't even know entirely. But it's safe to say they're not like others."

Gojo: "Haha! I know, right?"

Nanami: "So why bring them to me?"

Gojo: "Why bring them to you? Ha! Isn't it simple?"

A genuine smile soon took the place of Gojo's previous toothy grin as he said his next words.

Gojo: "I brought them to you, Nanami, so they can find purpose, and to move on from what holds them back. So...You think you can take care of them for me?"

No response came right away, but Gojo didn't need one to know Nanami's answer.

--Flashback Over--

But even so, back in the present, Nanami still contemplates why exactly he accepted such a request from Gojo. Either way, however, it was too late to turn back now. Especially when he saw Itadori continuing to celebrate in seeing the residual taint.

Nanami: "I'd hold back on the celebrations."

Itadori: [Turns around] "Huh?"

Nanami: "A proper sorcerer can sense them before seeing anything. Now. Come on. We're moving on."

Perplex looks immediately crossed the faces of (Y/n) and Itadori, who momentarily looked at each other before they were forced to follow after Nanami. As they did, they ducked under some police tape and stepped into the empty hallway outside. However, not much time passed by before Itadori spoke up.

Itadori: "Hey, couldn't you give me a little more praise or something? I've never done something like that before."

Nanami: [Without looking] "I don't praise or disparage anyone. I adhere to facts and judge on that basis. That's who I am."

(Y/n): "Yeah, but praise is good too, right? I mean, Gojo asked you to teach us, right? Praise can--"

Nanami: "Praise is nothing but a tool which is used to mould people into puppets."

(Y/n): "E-Excuse me?"

A confused look immediately found (Y/n)'s face as he tried to take in what Nanami had just said. It was as (Y/n) tried to process such that the man with glasses continued.

Nanami: "There was a time when I mistakingly believed society operated the same way as I do now. But enough about that." [Turns to you] "You want to learn? Be quiet and take in as much knowledge as possible. Now...Let's follow the footprints."

Itadori: "Right! Let's do this! All out!"

Nanami: "No, where moderate effort will suffice, use moderate effort."

Itadori: "O-Oh. Uh, right..."

A disheartened look found Itadori's face as he slowly walked off with Nanami. As for (Y/n), he remained where he was momentarily. He didn't expect Nanami to be rude. Sure, he may not be a big fan of Gojo, therefore sending it to the rest of the clan, but still. He didn't know (Y/n), so why was he acting like this? It was a question (Y/n) would have liked answered, but seeing as right now such a task was easier said than done, there was only so much (Y/n) could do. So, in the end, he decided the best way to show Nanami what he was made of was by doing the mission at hand and completing it with ease. And when it came to (Y/n), it normally wasn't long before he got into some action. Little did he know just how right he was.

******

Itadori: "There wasn't anything on the surveillance cameras, right?"

Nanami: "Right. There was only one young man aside from the victims."

Itadori: "Then a cursed spirit was behind it?"

Nanami: "Well, most likely."

The sound of distant rain echoed from just beyond the wall at the end of the stairwell, a stairwell the trio of Jujutsu Sorcerers could be seen walking up. Thirty minutes had past by since the original discovery of the bodies. In which, (Y/n) hoped for something to come up to showcase his potential to Nanami. Though so far, nothing had brought about such an opportunity. Honestly, he was starting to get tired of it.

(Y/n): "Wait!"

Nanami: "Hmm?"

The sound barely made it past Nanami's lips as he stopped at the end of the staircase and turned to (Y/n) alongside Itadori.

(Y/n): "If there was someone else there, can we not just go and check in on him? Normally in cases like this, it's better to take the obvious suspect, right?"

Nanami: [Raises eyebrow] "Cases?"

Itadori: "Haha. (Y/n), you're trying to be a detective."

(Y/n): "W-What? No...I'm not." [Shakes head] "I'm just saying, if someone was there, shouldn't we check in on him instead of just walking around aimlessly?"

Nanami: "Whilst I understand where you are coming from, it is proven that in most cases involving cursed energy, people around the area have nothing to do with the matter at hand. So, taking in all accounts, it would be better to follow the residual footprints left behind and see where they leave."

(Y/n): "I-I get that. But if that's what we should do. Wouldn't it be better if someone goes to check on him, and the rest stay--"

Nanami: "That is illogical."

The statement was quick and sudden, enough to cut (Y/n) off immediately. All he could do was look up at Nanami, who seemed to offer him nothing but a blank glance due to the glasses that covered his eyes.

Nanami: "In this circumstance, there is three of us here. For one, we do not know where this person lives. And it will take some time before we get that information from any source. And secondly, both of you are not full-fledged sorcerers. So leaving one of you unsupervised, or worse, both, would be the most illogical thing to do in this situation."

(Y/n): "I...I-I guess I get that. But--" [Chuckles nervously] "Come on, Nanami, I mean...I understand I haven't been in the business as long as you. But I'm still a special grade sorcerer, so doesn't that give me any breathing room to--"

Nanami: "--A special grade sorcerer who not only recently returned from who knows where. Something I am still skeptical on myself. But you are also the person who, despite claiming to be a sorcerer, attacked the entirety of a sorcerer clan in recent days. Something you are lucky to still be kept alive for, if I am to be honest..."

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "Wow...He, uh...He really doesn't hold back, does he?"

(Y/n) didn't know what was work. That he just received a verbal beatdown from someone he doesn't even know properly, nevertheless also having it done in front of his friend; or the fact that he was being ridiculed for something that he did out of the kindness of his heart. Those Zenin clan members were not good people. One proper, unphased look, could tell anyone as much. But despite the heavy weight he felt after Nanami's words were placed upon him, (Y/n) never once regretted anything he did for Maki. 

Because he, unlike some, realized that sometimes things needed to be done if it was for the better good. And what he did was for the better good. Because it put every single big nose, over-the-top, sorcerer in not only the Zenin Clan but everywhere, that being a dick didn't pay well. It was this pride of work inside that kept (Y/n) from saying anything else, and only pushed him further to prove his worth to Nanami. 

And that showing of worth wasn't far away, as the trio of Sorcerers stepped out onto the rooftop of the cinema building, where heavy rain could be seen pouring down onto the tennis court that was located there. The popping of umbrellas was the only sound made once the trio stepped outside and began carefully maneuvering through the slippery landscape. Nanami and Itadori kept their heads high as they walked, whilst (Y/n) kept his hands in his jacket pocket, still reeling over what Nanami had said, when suddenly a strange sound entered his ear.

"Lu, lu, lu, lunchbox!"

(Y/n): "Huh? What's th--"

He was in the process of looking around when he suddenly bumped into the back of Nanami. He went to apologise to the older man when he looked up to see Nanami's gaze was already focused elsewhere. A few seconds passed before (Y/n)'s eyes followed Nanami's, he witnessed the origin of the noise. A strange human-like curse with green skin, and ranging about ten meters in length. The only thing that resembled it to a human, besides the arms and legs, was the noticeable human style haircut that covered one side of the creature's face, and a watch locked around one arm of the curses body. Though (Y/n) didn't take much time to picture what else it resembled like, as he and Itadori quickly got into fighting positions ready to attack.

Itadori: "A curse! That must have been what caused what happened in the cinema!"

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "Finally! I can really show Nanami what I'm made o--"

Nanami: "Stop."

(Y/n): "Oh, come on. It looks pretty easy. I can handle this one and--"

Nanami: "No. I'll take care of this one. You two handle the one over there."

(Y/n): "Wha--What do you mean the one over--"

"Good detergent."

The strange sentence, at first, only got caused (Y/n) to raise an eyebrow in confusion. It wasn't until he looked over his shoulder to see the curse. Who appeared to be nothing but an extended white blob, whose head was a tinier version of its body. Yet, nothing made it appear like a head, as it was without eyes or a nose. The only thing working in its favour was the sideways mouth that ran up the centre of the head. 

Nanami: "If you decide you can't beat it, Itadori, please call me."

Itadori: [Groans] "Aren't you taking me a bit too lightly?"

(Y/n): [Thoughts] "At least he's actually acknowledging you."

Nanami: "It's not a matter of underestimating you or not. I am an adult, and you are a child."

(Y/n): "Ha! Yeah? Well, just you watch. Cause this child is--"

But when (Y/n) went to look over his shoulder toward Nanami, (Y/n) came to realize that the adult was no longer standing next to him and Itadori, having already gone off to take care of his own curse. This, however, immediately caused (Y/n) to be flooded with a mixture of annoyance and self-grief. His head dropping as a sigh escaped his lips. All the while, Itadori was getting pumped up to fight.

Itadori: [Jumps up and down] "Don't worry, (Y/n), just cause you and I are kids, doesn't mean we can't handle this one, right?!" [Thoughts] "I'm so excited to be fighting alongside (Y/n). I can finally make up for letting him down last time."

The thoughts only added more confidence to Itadori's small jumps as he continued to pump himself up for the battle at hand. Though, it seemed like (Y/n) had other ideas in mind.

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

Itadori: [Turns to you] "Hmm?"

(Y/n): "...Can you let me take this one?"

The final words (Y/n) offered as Itadori tilted his head in confusion. As this happened, back with Nanami, he was already in the thick of his battle with his curse. Currently, the sorcerer could be seen wielding a large knife wrapped in a tanned cloth with black spots patterned all around it. The cursed tool, despite its size, seemed unable to hold Nanami back in anyway as he avoided attack after attack from his curse. The deformed human-like being charging all over the place on all fours, running at great speeds, but not fast enough to strike Nanami, who even managed to march learning notes to both (Y/n) and Itadori at the same time. Even as he's constantly left to dodge and strike himself.

Nanami: "My cursed technique allows me to forcibly create a weak point on any opponent." [Dodges and strikes] "Seven to three. Striking the point at that ratio when you draw a line along the targets length causes a critical hit. That allows me to deliver a fair amount of damage to those ranked higher than me, and if their cursed energy is weak, I can cut them in two, even with a blunt blade. Are you listening, Itadori?"

Not far away Itadori could be seen just standing about, blinking tiredly as he responded.

Itadori: [Yawns] "...Uh, huh. Yep. I'm listening..."

It was clear by this matter that Itadori was taking no point in the fight with the second curse whatsoever. Though, what (Y/n) was doing with it was yet to be seen. As for Nanami, he was forced to dodge multiple quick attacks from his own curse. The final strike that came his way, he quickly dodged to deliver a slash with his cursed tool to the back of the curse as it rushed passed. Such gave him enough time to respond.

Nanami: "Good. Now, another thing revolving around cursed techniques. It is okay to reveal such things. But all the better if revealing it causes to mislead your opponent."

Itadori: "...Yep...Gotcha..."

Nanami: "There is merit to it. 'Revealing one's hand' is a pact that increases the effectiveness of one's technique. Such as everything I just mentioned about my own. Therefore allowing me to--"

Nanami was in the process of using his own cursed technique to finish of his curse, who had, by this point, turned around, ready to charge back at him. A blue aura had begin to rise around Nanami's body, his grip on his blade tightened, ready for the impact of attack...When suddenly...

"Look out!"

Nanami: "Huh?"

The familiar voice was all it took to take Nanami's focus away from his curse, and in doing so, the older man witnessed as the other curse--the one tasked to both (Y/n) and Itadori, was launched through the air and tackled the green curse headed for Nanami. At first, Nanami questioned if the curse had just been thrown in his direction, but when he pondered a glowing green chain collar wrapped around the white curses head, he began guessing otherwise. And such a thought only grew as he witnessed the two curses begin to fight each other. Well, the white curse was mainly doing the fighting. Attacking his own kin as if he had been ordered to do so. 

"Detergent!!!"

The attacks delivered from the curse with the glowing green chain collar were quite powerful, enough to through the green curse off his footing and sending it flying off the edge of the building and presumably crashing into the ground below. As for the white curse with the glowing chain collar, it formed a large sideways smile on its face as it turned around and rushed over to (Y/n). Yet, instead of attacking the smiling male, the curse simply did laps around him, like a puppy. Something (Y/n) seemed at least acknowledgable about as he patted the creature on the head before finally turning his gaze to the perplexed Nanami.

(Y/n): [Smiles] "Curse Technique Number 21, apparently I can control a weak curse just by putting a collar around them!"

At least, that was the basics of this technique. (Y/n) didn't really want to get into the overabundance of it all, as he wanted to keep it simple so Nanami would have an easy way of understanding whilst still being able to see that (Y/n) was powerful enough to take out two curses on his own. However...The smile on his face soon started to fade when Nanami showed no sign of emotion after everything that just happened. To the point, (Y/n)'s smile dropped completely when Nanami instead turned his focus to Itadori.

Nanami: [To Itadori] "I hope you were able to pick up good pointers in that matter. Of course...I wasn't able to showcase things clearly due to certain distractions."

He didn't even look at (Y/n) when he said that last part, but even so, (Y/n) knew Nanami was speaking about him. Though, not long after this, when Nanami finally did turn to him, (Y/n) wished he kept things ominous. 

Nanami: "Why don't you return to the school. Clearly, you do not need training from me. Itadori and I will continue with the mission."

(Y/n): "W-What? You want me to go back?"

Nanami: "Correct. Clearly, you have shown here today that you do not need teaching from me. After all, you took out both curses whilst simultaneously managing to control one. Whereas Itadori was unable to do anything during the matter. So, I shall continue with his training." [Turns to Itadori] "Come, Itadori, we have work to do."

Itadori: "Oh...Uh, r-right."

(Y/n): "Wait. I can come along. I can help out if you need--"

Nanami: "No thank you. Making the task more difficult will help Itadori further with his training. Good day, (Y/n)."

The final remark given without even looking at (Y/n). The process followed by Nanami turning around and walking away. As for Itadori, he didn't know what to do. He looked between Nanami and (Y/n), before he was eventually pulled by his body in the direction of the former. The sound of Umbrella's popping open was all that could be heard as (Y/n) lowered his head and stood in the rain on the roof alone. Well, not entirely alone. The chained curse that was still under his control ducked its head slightly to glance up at (Y/n). 

But the young sorcerer did nothing but sigh as he reached out and placed his palm on the head of the curse. The action all that was needed for the glowing chain around the creature's neck to tighten before eventually getting so tight that the curse bursted from the pressure. But (Y/n) paid no attention to such a thing. He just kept his head lowered as he nonchalantly followed in the direction Nanami and Itadori went. All the while, he couldn't help but question why Nanami seemed to hate him. After all, he was just trying to show the man what he was capable of.

--Later That Night--

Eventually, nightfall fell around the Jujutsu High School. Itadori had presumably returned to his secret home below the school after his further training with Nanami...Something (Y/n) was not a part of. Speaking of (Y/n), the young boy found himself currently lying on his bed with Maki curled up next to him. The young boy's head rested atop his arm, whilst the other held Maki close. She, of course, using her boyfriend's chest as a pillow as they lay together whilst discussing (Y/n)'s day of training with a proper Sorcerer.

(Y/n): "I just don't know what I did. I've never met him before but he seemed to just hate me. I was only trying to show him what I could do."

Maki: "I'm sure he doesn't hate you. He's probably just a dick."

(Y/n): [Chuckles softly] "That could be it. But, I don't know...Something about the guy, feels kinda like he's holding something against me. You know?"

Maki: "Maybe he's jealous."

(Y/n): "Hmm?"

The sentence was enough to raise an eyebrow from (Y/n), who looked further down his body to witness Maki turning over so her stomach pressed against his side, and that her head was directly facing him. Allowing (Y/n) to get a front-row seat to the grin that stained her face.

Maki: "I mean...You are pretty cute."

(Y/n): "Oh, yeah?"

(Y/n) couldn't help but smile as he looked down at his girlfriend, whose face was inches from his own. Even after a shitty day like today, being able to spend time with Maki was something that could always lift his mood. His growing smile only proved that as he leaned in closer to her.

 (Y/n): "You're not so bad yourself."

Before long the pairs grins met in the form of a soft kiss. One they shared for a few moments before eventually pulling away. Though Maki kept her face close. Her chin resting on her boyfriend's collarbone as he looked down at her softly. For a brief period, the pair remained in silence. There was so much more he wanted to tell Maki. From the fact Itadori was alive, to the emotions he felt in general. But as of late, he felt like all he was thinking about was his life. And didn't even consider what Maki may be going through. So, he decided to just forget about his shitty day for the moment, and focus on someone he cared about instead.

(Y/n): [Sighs] "...So! What about you, huh? How did your day go? Still training hard for the school play?"

Maki: [Chuckles] "It's not a play, (Y/n). It's an exchange event."

(Y/n): "Exchange event. School play. Both have people spectating and judging your every move. Sounds the same to me."

Maki: [Smiles] "Mmm...I suppose. Still, I just wish this whole thing wasn't happening." [Rests chin on your chest] "I'm not in the mood."

(Y/n): "What? But Maki loves punching people."

Immediately Maki narrowed her gaze and looked up to her boyfriend.

Maki: [Narrows gaze] "I can hear the tone in your voice, (Y/n)..."

(Y/n): [Chuckles] "Oh, yeah?"

Maki: "[Sighs] "I guess you're not wrong, though. Still! I don't wanna do it. Everyone at the training is so annoying!"

(Y/n): "How so?"

Maki: "Well...Now that everyone knows we're dating, I keep getting teased by Panda." [Grumbles] "Annoying oversized bear. I should really teach him a lesson."

(Y/n): "Oh, come on, he's just happy. You know what he's like."

Maki: "Exactly. I know what he's like. That's why I want to kick him in the head."

(Y/n): "Wow. That's, uh...Violent?"

Maki: [Sits up on bed] "Yeah, well, that's not even the worst part. I've still gotta deal with Nobara and her pathetic claims about getting with you. It's driving me insane! Argh!"

(Y/n): "O-Oh...Well, I-I'm sure she's just, uh...Doing her own thing?"

Maki: "It's--" [Sighs] "It's not just that..."

(Y/n): "Hmm? What do you mean?"

A questioning look found (Y/n)'s face as he asked such a thing. This look only grew, however, as he sat up himself on his bed. It was as he did so that he witnessed the frustrated face of Maki. But it didn't carry the usual frustration she had. Instead, it seemed to be a type of frustration that was more so directed at herself. And when (Y/n) realized as much, he started to get a little worried.

(Y/n): "Hey. What's going on? You know you can talk to me, right? I mean...I kinda did fight a whole clan for you. A guy goes to that kind of lengths for a girl, you know they're gonna do a whole lot more."

A brief laugh came from his own sentence. One which (Y/n) originally gave in hopes of soothing the seriousness that was filling the scene. He seemed to help a little bit as Maki smiled down at the ground. All before she sighed and proceeded to drop her face into her open palms. A sharp groan echoed from within seconds later.

Maki: [Grumbles] "Argh! I made a mistake..."

(Y/n): "Mistake? What kind of a mistake?"

Maki: "...A really big one."

Such words escaped her mouth as Maki pulled her face free, turned to her boyfriend, all so she could reveal the pouting lip that he couldn't help but find adorable in the moment. The sight alone was enough to make him smile. One he kept carrying as he tossed an arm around Maki's neck and held her close.

(Y/n): "Hey, now, whatever it is...I'm sure we can fix it."

Maki: "...Even if it has to deal with the fact I kinda gambled on our relationship?"

(Y/n): "Huh?! I...Huh?! Wait...What?!"

It took multiple moments of on-again, off-again, restarts before (Y/n) could finally turn to face Maki, who now carried a guilty smile similar to that of a child who just got caught out stealing. It was this look that remained as she went about explaining.

Maki: "Before you panic, it's not totally bad. It's just...I might have...agreed to verse Nobara to a game of air hockey at the arcade earlier today after she kept going on about how she'd continue to charm you until you eventually fell for her."

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

Honestly, (Y/n) was pretty lose by everything he was hearing.

Maki: "Look! I know! It was stupid! But she wouldn't shut up, and she kept saying that you and her would be great together. I kept telling her to shut up, still, but she said she wouldn't. So then she challenged me to a game of air hockey at the arcade and that if I won, she'd stop flirting with you. But if she won...she..."

(Y/n): "She'd...What?"

Maki: "...She would get to go on a date with you...Alone."

That final word was the nail in the coffin that cemented everything that was just spoken to (Y/n). To put it simply, Maki was pressured by Nobara into a game of Air Hockey, all so they could bet on whether or not (Y/n) could go on a date with another girl. Honestly, it all sounded so confusing, and a little...dirty. Like, sure, it was one thing to have girls fighting over you. Which, was admittedly nice at first. But now, after hearing this, (Y/n) didn't know what to say, or do. Maki seemed to realize as much, and went about showing her own frustrations right away.

[Your POV]

Maki: "I regret even taking the bet! Especially because I care about you and I don't want to lose you..."

(Y/n): [Smiles softly] "Aw~"

Maki: "...But I also care about the fact there's some ginger haired tramp out there that's looking to take you away from me. Honestly, I should really just punch her so hard in the face no one would stand to look at her." [Scratches chin] "Maybe then she'd get the message? Hmm...Maybe I should do that?"

(Y/n): [Smiles fades] "Um...Aw?"

Maki: [Sighs] "I'm sorry, (Y/n). Really. I just...I'm not used to relationships and things like that. I thought it'd be easy, and that I wouldn't have to deal with people trying to steal you from me every day." [Mumbles] "I mean, I expected it at least a few times...You are really cute, so it's bound to happen eventually."

(Y/n): [Smiles softly] "Aw~"

Maki: "But even then, I could still beat the shit out of them and they'd get the message."

(Y/n): [Smiles fades] "...Aw?" [Shakes head] "Maki! Maki!"

Maki: "Hmm? Yes?"

In a split second her adorable face turned to look at me. Honestly, a single glance at it was almost enough to cut all circulation to my brain. Not that it was any different from other times I looked at her. But with the sudden importance of the matter, I was forced to focus up rather quickly.

(Y/n): [Sighs and smiles] "...I never thought coming back from the void would leave me with something like this to worry about."

Maki: "...I know. I'm sorry, (Y/n), I am, I just--"

The sound of laughing was all it took to cut Maki's sentence short. A wave of surprise found her face, nonetheless, when she suddenly turned to me. I don't think she was expecting me to laugh, which led into her next question.

Maki: "You're not mad?"

(Y/n): [Chuckles softly] "No. Why would I be mad?"

Maki: "Because..." [Lowers head] "...Because I bet on you with another girl."

(Y/n): "Oh. That? Nah. It's cool...I mean, sure! It's a little surprising. But I know you, Maki. You like actually doing something to fix a situation you don't like, and given the circumstances you were given with, you saw an opportunity to fix it. It just didn't work out."

Maki: "Yeah, but, I still shouldn't have done something like that. I should have just ignored her instead of being an idiot and letting her get to me! Argh! I'm an idiot!"

(Y/n): "No, you're not." [Smiles brightly] "You're Maki! You're tough head! You won't let yourself get pushed around! Those are just some of the things I love about you..."

It didn't take long for Maki's head to be lifted. A hopeful look filled her eyes as I stared deep into her eyes. Now, sure, I could be a little annoyed by what Maki did. But in the end, I felt I couldn't really be mad at her. She was only doing what she thought was right. And Maki herself has admitted countless times, in private of course, that she sometimes let her aggressive nature get the better of her. But out of it all, there was one thing that held me back from going over the top.

(Y/n): "...I know you were just doing it because you care. I mean, you didn't have to do any of it, because at the end of the day, I get the big choice. Like, not to brag or anything, but I'M the one being fought over. And, whether Nobara realizes it or not...I'm a high-maintenance bitch! You want me! You're gonna have to be on high alert!"

Maki: [Suddenly chuckles] "...You're an idiot."

(Y/n): "Yeah, well..." [Leans in closer] "...I'm your idiot, right? And, as your idiot, I'm here to tell you, Maki, that you have nothing to worry about. Because no matter what, I will always be there for you. So you don't have to be afraid of anything, okay?"

A simple set of silence followed my sentence as Maki and I, resting under the dark night sky that crept through the window behind us, looked into each other's eyes. Despite the dark setting, there was enough light that we could see each other's faces. And honestly, every time I saw hers, I couldn't help but realize just how lucky I was to have her. And I wanted Maki to know that just as much. And I think she did because, whereas she did not use many words, probably from feeling embarrassed, Maki simply proceeded to allow her head to rest on my stomach once more. All the while a soft smile and hug came from her.

Maki: "I love you..."

(Y/n): "I love you too, Maki."

Maki: "But..."

(Y/n): [Looks down at her] "Hmm?"

Maki: "...You can still go on a date with Nobara."

Okay, now that...I was not prepared for. To the point, I outright was forced to sit up after hearing it. Such caused Maki's head to kinda go flying off my chest momentarily, though she was quick to catch herself from the sudden movement so she could look up to me with a smile.

(Y/n): "What? You sure?"

Maki: [Smiles] "Yeah, I mean...I don't like it. But I got myself into this mess. So I've gotta deal with it. Besides, I know you're friends with Nobara, and I don't want her to hold anything against you, so...I'm fine with you going on a date with her--Just no kissing!" [Blushes slightly] "O-Or hand holding. Cuddles. O-Or gifts...Only I get those things."

Now I was thrown off even more, and I'm not talking about the fact Maki looked so damn cute right at this moment. I was more so referring to the way that I couldn't believe she was saying stuff like this. She realized her mistakes and knew she'd have to deal with it. Now, she could have fought it, and honestly, it wouldn't have been hard, but she pushed through with it just because she knew I wanted to be friends with Nobara still. So, in the end, I didn't really know what to say right away. I was thrown off by something I wasn't even expecting that I had no words to use. However, as more time went by, I realized that there was only one thing I could do...

--A Few Days Later--

Nobara: "Seriously?! Again!"

The sound of Nobara's voice was louder than anything possible in this one moment. The girl wearing a short cut off purple dress that reached her thighs, who also carried a matching coloured leather purse, couldn't help but showcase all the rage possible as she stood outside the same arcade she had been standing outside of a few days ago. And just like those days, both Maki and I were there with her.

Nobara: [To Maki] "You did this, didn't you! You know I won the bet and you just couldn't handle it!"

Maki: "I did no such thing." [Crosses arms] "(Y/n) wanted me to come."

Nobara: "Ha! Yeah, right! Like I would--"

(Y/n): "She's right."

Nobara: "Huh?"

The perplexed Nobara was quick to turn to me, an innocent smile on display, as she now looked around in confusion.

Nobara: "B-But...I don't get it?"

(Y/n): "Yeah. That's the same way I felt when I found out you two made a bet over me."

That was a lie. I was kinda excited when I first heard it. But neither one of the girls needed to know that.

(Y/n): "...Speaking of such bet, I know that you and Maki did it to see whether or not I'd go on a date with you, Nobara."

Nobara: "Y-Yeah, well..." [Stands up straight, crosses arms] "I won. So...Why is she here?"

Maki: [Scoffs] "Stop acting so full of yourself. As if (Y/n) would want to go on a date with you anyway."

Nobara: "Excuse me?! I'll have you know plenty of guys have wanted to go on a date with me. It's me who didn't want to go on a date with them."

Maki: "Oh, right. Totally..."

Following her words, Maki made sure that Nobara saw the roll of her eyes. Such a thing caused the ginger-haired girl to narrow her gaze. It seemed she was seconds away from snapping before I abruptly jumped in between the pair.

(Y/n): "Girls. Girls. Come on, please, don't fight. Let me explain..."

After a few seconds of silence with both girls looking up at me, I slowly stepped out from in between them, and offered the best explanation I could.

(Y/n): "Look...I know you both had a silly bet over me, and whilst I'm flattered that you two would do something over a guy like me, I don't want you guys to fight. I want you to be friends!"

Nobara: "Yeah, like I could be friends with her."

Maki: "You're the one trying to steal my boyfriend from me!"

Nobara: "Yeah! Because I'd actually treat him rig--"

(Y/n): "GIRLS!"

It wasn't often I'd snap like this, and honestly, it wasn't really a snap. Just me raising my voice just a little bit higher. But in the end, it did the job. Both girls, including a few people walking by, were now focused in on me. Finally allowing me to finish my sentence.

(Y/n): "...Again...I know you had this bet and everything. But I don't want you to fight with each other. That's why, I've come to a compromisation."

Maki: [Narrows gaze] "...I don't like the sound of this."

Nobara: [Narrows gaze] "...Me neither."

(Y/n): "Yeah, well, you're both gonna have to suck it up this one time, okay? Because I got a lot going on elsewhere that I really don't want another thing to worry about. Anyway! You both have two different sides! Maki doesn't want me to do anything with you, Nobara--"

Nobara: [Scoffs] "Of course, she doesn't."

(Y/n): "--And Maki doesn't want me to go on a date with you, even though you won the bet."

Maki: "Duh!"

(Y/n): "So, I've come to a middle ground." [Turns to Nobara] "Nobara, I agreed to take you on this date because you won this stupid bet. But I don't want to hurt Maki, so I brought her along so I could treat you both with a good night out, okay?"

Nobara: "What? So you're like...Going to take us both on the same date?"

Maki: "That sounds stupid."

(Y/n): "Yeah, well, stupid or not, it's the only way I can figure out to make you both happy and keep my life in tact. So, I'll take you both on the same date, and offer you both the same amount of attention. That way you both can feel looked after and I can not worry about having two friends hate each other. Sound cool?"

Nobara: "Mmm...I suppose."

Maki: "This seems the best option so...Whatever. One question though."

(Y/n): "Yes?"

Maki: "...Why'd you have us meet outside the same boring arcade?"

Nobara: "Yeah. Like, I like games, but this place is tacky."

Maki: "And it smells weird."

Nobara: [Turns to Maki] "Thank you! I thought I was the only one!"

Maki: "Ha! Yeah, right! The only one who couldn't smell anything is (Y/n)."

Nobara: "Haha! Right, because boys' rooms and this place smell the exact same."

Maki: "Eh. (Y/n)'s room actually smells pretty nice."

Nobara: "Oh, yeah? How so?"

Maki: "When he was gone. I was started using some lavender spray to get rid of the odor. Though, I just told the others I was cleaning his legos. The only way they'd let me in there."

Nobara: "Haha! Sounds about right for a boy's room."

...Yeah, I don't know what was weirder. The fact they both now seemed to be best friends, forgetting about all the tension they once shared as they walked down the street speaking about boys' rooms and odors; or the fact that they were talking about my room with me in front of them. Either way, I was left to just stand there for a brief moment, left to contemplate where exactly this came from. I was suddenly brought back to reality by the voice of Maki soon thereafter.

Maki: "Hey, (Y/n)! You coming or what?"

(Y/n): [Lifts head] "H-Huh?"

Nobara: "Yeah! You gotta take us on a date, right? That was the deal!"

(Y/n): "Oh...Uh, r-right!"

I didn't really know what to think about as I chased after the girls, who now held each others arms like best friends and smiled at each other. One such thought was how it now seemed the bet that originally brought me into this mess, was now forced because I lost it. Even though I didn't. I didn't even know about it until a few nights ago! But in the end, I realized focusing on it was a waste. I just decided to move along with it, as I tried to do with a lot of things lately. But out of it all, there was one thing I came to realize that I think every other male on earth could agree with me on. 

And that one thing was... Girls are fucking complicated as anything! But even so, I did care about these two in particular. So, I couldn't help but put it aside for now. And that's what I did. I put on my best smile and raced after the pair who continued to talk and laugh with each other, kinda like how I pictured it from the very beginning. But would they admit that I was right all along? Probably not. Remember...Complicated. Still, I went along with it all. Unbeknowst to me of the other unforeseen complications that were slowly coming my way...

--Elsewhere--

The sound of distant voices fill the air at a packed train station in Tokyo. Countless people getting ready to board a train as it pulls into the station. But before they can hop on, the people aboard have to get off. Countless people do so. But none draw the attention other than two people in particular. One a girl, with short, black hair, and a smirk that can kill. The other was a towering young man, with pecs that seemed bigger than his face. His own smirk made claim to his lips as the two stepped off the train and walked through the crowd of people who were left in awe at the two's arrival.

"So this is the place we're gotta fight those losers from the Tokyo school, huh? What a pathetic place."

The girl amongst the pair stated with a confident tone filling her words. The towering male next to her could only laugh before speaking.

"I don't give a crap about those Tokyo dweebs. I'm just here to put them in their place and deal with some personal business of my own."

"Yeah, well, don't let it get in the way of our goal here. You remember what that is, right?"

"Haha! Of course, I do!"

As the two finally exit the train station, they stop in the very middle of the crowded walkway, with the towering male tossing his arms into the air.

"...We're here to see that nerd, (Y/n)! And make him our pathetic bitch once more!"

[And there we go, another MASSIVE worded chapter done and over with! I hope you all ended up enjoying it! This chapter was basically used to set up events that'll carry over into coming chapters. The main one, of course, coming at the end with a few arrivals from a certain school the reader has been before. BECAUSE IN THE NEXT CHAPTER, IT'S THE SHOWDOWN YOU'VE ALL BEEN WAITING FOR! THE REUNION OF THE CENTURY! IT'S (Y/N)! VERSES TODO AND MAI! But how will they take in the reader's new change? What will Mai do when she finds out that the reader is dating her older sister? And will Todo be able to handle the fact that the reader isn't a wimp anymore? Find that out AND MORE! NEXT TIME! ...On Cursed Potential. Thank you all for reading and I'll see you again soon~]