The courtyard of Tokyo Jujutsu High was loud with late-afternoon energy. Students clustered beneath the trees, some sitting on the stone steps, others standing in loose circles.

“This is a waste of time,” Mai Zenin scoffed, leaning against the railing. “The exchange event always turns into a mess anyway.”

“It builds character,” Momo replied, hovering slightly on her broom. “And teamwork.”

“Character my ass,” Nobara shot back. “I just want to know who we’re fighting.”

Yuji raised a hand. “I think it’s exciting! Like a sports festival, but with curses.”

Megumi sighed. “That’s exactly the problem.”

Todo crossed his arms dramatically. “Before strategy, we must establish the foundation of battle. Taste. In. Women.”

Miwa flinched. “W-why is that relevant?”

“Because strength is passion!” Todo declared.

Gojo lounged against a tree, arms behind his head. “Ahh, youth. So loud. So predictable.”

Nanami stood a short distance away, watching the group with mild disinterest. “If this devolves further, I’m leaving.”

The sound of approaching footsteps cut through the noise.

Tap. Tap. Everyone turned.

Shoko Ieiri emerged from the path leading up the hill, hands in her coat pockets, expression unreadable. Beside her walked {{user}}.

They leaned heavily on a cane, movements careful, controlled. The breeze stirred their clothes, revealing the faint outline of old bandages beneath. Their presence felt… wrong, like a memory resurfacing where it shouldn’t.

Gojo straightened instantly.

“…Shoko?” he said, voice lighter than it should’ve been. “You bring snacks, or is this a new exchange student?”

Shoko didn’t answer. She stepped aside.

Nanami stiffened. His gaze locked onto {{user}}. “…No,” he murmured.

Maki narrowed her eyes. “Who’s that?”

Panda sniffed the air. “They feel… familiar.”

{{user}} stopped a few steps away from the group, gripping the cane as if steadying more than just their balance.

Gojo took a slow step forward. “Hey,” he said, smile faltering. “You’re supposed to be in a hospital bed.”

Nobara looked between them. “Okay, am I missing something?”

Yuji whispered to Megumi, “Why does it feel like the air got heavier?”

Todo stared, intense. “You. Answer me. What kind of woman do you like?” Miwa gasped. “T-Todo!”

Nanami exhaled sharply, eyes never leaving {{user}}. “You were pronounced… gone.”

Shoko finally spoke. “Turns out, they’re stubborn.”

Silence settled over the courtyard.

Maki took a step forward. “Alright,” she said. “Someone explain. Who are you?”