Star | Jujustu Kaisen

speed

With cautious steps, [Name] entered the building, trailing behind Itadori and Kugisaki. Their grip tightened around the Aries key held within their hand, prepared to summon the celestial spirit for assistance. As they advanced further into the dim interior, [Name]'s mind was focused on the potential challenges they might face and determined to survive, but also make sure their two classmates get out of this alive.

Observing their fellow classmates, [Name] couldn't help but notice the apparent ease with which Itadori carried himself. There was a part of them that wondered if he viewed this as some sort of game, a coping mechanism perhaps. It wasn't uncommon for those with exceptional abilities to develop eccentric behaviors as a way to navigate the harsh realities they faced. After all the strongest are the most eccentric, Gojo-sensei being an example of that.

A distinct aroma wafted through the air, invading [Name]'s senses as they navigated the building. The abandoned structure emitted a musty smell, a testament to its prolonged neglect. Their nose wrinkled in response to the unpleasant scent, a reminder of the decaying nature of their surroundings. They are starting to hate being inside this building, but they doubt Gojo will let them sit this out.

"Ugh, this is such a hassle. Just my luck to be dealing with curses right after arriving in Tokyo," Kugisaki complained, a noticeable frown marring her expression as she voiced her displeasure.

"Perhaps we can find something enjoyable to do afterward?" [Name] offered with a hopeful smile, attempting to lighten the mood. The gesture seemed to have a positive effect, as Kugisaki returned the smile with a small one of her own.

"But didn't you come to Jujustu High to exorcise curses?" Itadori asked, genuine confusion evident in his expression.

"That might have been your motivation, but it certainly wasn't mine," Kugisaki retorted, her tone holding a hint of frustration. Without providing a further explanation, she headed upstairs, tugging [Name] along with her as they ascended. [Name] briefly glanced over their shoulder at Itadori, conveying a sense of uncertainty through a halfhearted shrug before following Kugisaki up the stairs. [Name] hopes the newly formed group could get along especially if there are stronger curses inside the building.

As they reached the second floor, Kugisaki abruptly came to a stop, releasing [Name]'s wrist with a sigh. She turned to face Itadori, hands placed on her hips, and issued her plan. "Let's save time and split up. [Name], you'll cover this floor and the third floor. I'll take care of the fourth floor, and Itadori, you'll handle the basement. Understood?"

Itadori scowled at the directive, his brows furrowing in response. He couldn't help but think that Kugisaki was being rather reckless, not fully grasping that some curses were far more menacing than they seemed when acting "dumb".

"How about once we're done here, we treat ourselves to a meal? Maybe some sushi from Ginza?" [Name] chimed in, attempting to diffuse the tension that was palpable in the atmosphere. The suggestion was offered with the intention of lightening the mood, even if only momentarily.

"Shouldn't we be taking this more seriously? Curses are genuinely dangerous, you know?" Itadori countered, his voice tinged with concern. [Name] let out a resigned sigh, anticipating the brewing conflict between Itadori and Kugisaki.

The tension escalated beyond their expectations, however, when Kugisaki unexpectedly launched herself at Itadori, executing a swift sidekick. The air was filled with a yelp of surprise as Itadori stumbled back, collapsing onto the dusty floor and clutching his stomach in pain. The sudden altercation left [Name] taken aback, torn between intervening and observing the unexpected turn of events.

"What are-" [Name] cut off Itadori before he could finish his sentence, their commanding tone capturing everyone's attention.

"Both of you, stop it!" [Name] declared, their voice firm and authoritative. With the spotlight now on them, they pressed on, addressing the situation head-on. "We can't afford to be fighting amongst ourselves right now. Our primary objective is to eliminate the curses, not to bicker with each other. I suggest we follow Kugisaki's plan. I believe in both of your abilities to overcome any challenges here. Furthermore, we have Gojo-sensei stationed outside to provide assistance if needed. Let's focus on the task at hand and work together. Now, let's resolve this." [Name] extended their hand towards Itadori, a gesture of reconciliation and unity. After a moment of hesitation, he reluctantly accepted [Name]'s outstretched hand, his scowl reflecting his lingering frustration with Kugisaki.