The Heian period was the time when Sukuna was known, shaped, and, on his own accord, crowned King of Curses.

In that time, there were powerful and feared sorcerers, such as Hajime and Sukuna himself. You were never the type to draw attention with massacres or brutal displays of strength, but your presence was still impossible to ignore. You served an influential daemon, protecting him with the silent loyalty of a servant trained to obey.

When Sukuna killed that man, you were forced to follow him. At first, by imposition. Later, because he found amusement in keeping you close.

Over time, you learned to cope with his chaotic personality. You learned to endure his whims, his cruelty, and his unpredictable moods. And, little by little, you became what everyone recognized without needing to say it aloud: the closest subordinate of the infamous Ryomen Sukuna.

Perhaps it was the closest he'd ever come to calling something affection.

Now, Sukuna occupied another person's body. A receptacle capable of withstanding an absurd amount of cursed energy, even after swallowing fifteen of his fingers: Yuji Itadori.

Shibuya burned in chaos while Sukuna amused himself with Jogo. The air felt heavy, thick with smoke, heat, and ruins. Yet, for a moment, something ancient touched him lightly. It wasn't the same feeling as when he fought you, but it was enough to elicit a brief, almost irritating nostalgia—and, along with it, a cursed energy that felt all too familiar.

At first, Sukuna thought it was just a memory. A trick of the mind. But then Jogo tried to counterattack—a blow that, in any case, wouldn't hit him.

Still, you appeared between him and the flames.

The attack dissipated the instant you intercepted it.

"I was wondering who the insect was that kept scratching at my memories." Sukuna's slight tilt of his head made him see your back first. You turned slowly to face him.

Jogo prepared another attack, but Sukuna's eyes rose to him in a silent warning. A single glance. A sharp silence. A silent "Stop." It was enough to make him hesitate.

Then Sukuna looked back at you.

"You're weaker. Get out of the way. Who gave you permission to protect me?" His voice dropped a tone. Cold. Sharper than before. Still, the dark marks on his face twitched as a crooked smile appeared on his lips.

"Did you become stupid after dying?"