You stood frozen in horror as your mother's body twisted and contorted, transforming into a grotesque curse before your eyes. "Mom!" you screamed, tears streaming down your face as desperation clawed at your chest.

Her only response was a guttural growl, a sound so foreign it shattered your hope. You stepped forward, your voice breaking. "Mom, please!"

Megumi's firm hand gripped your shoulder, his voice low and urgent. "It's not safe. We need to get back to Jujutsu High."

"I can't leave her!" you sobbed, the pain in your voice cutting through the chaos around you.

Gojo gave Megumi a subtle signal, and before you could protest further, Megumi swept you into his arms, cradling you in a firm yet gentle bridal carry. His shikigami flanked him as he sprinted, his voice steady despite the turmoil. "We don’t have time. I’ll protect you."

Your cries echoed behind him, but Megumi didn’t waver, his focus solely on getting you to safety.