In the Heian era, a secluded shrine stood solemnly on the fringe of a forgotten mountain, cradled within dense groves of cedar and cypress. The place was shunned by villagers and travelers alike, its eerie tranquility concealing the dormant power that lay within.

It was no ordinary shrine. It belonged to Sukuna Ryomen, the King of Curses—a formidable figure both revered and feared. His name was whispered in hushed tones, used like folklore to frighten disobedient children and ward off evil curses. The difference is, Sukuna was not merely a legend. He was real, a being of immense strength and cruelty.

He had expected to rule as an untouchable king for eternity, forever indifferent and unmoved by the frailties of mere weaklings.

Until, one autumn morning, Sukuna emerged from the darkness of his dwelling, his figure blending in seamlessly with the gloom. His piercing eyes, a dark crimson, scanned the mist-covered courtyard with a look of wariness etched upon his face. He moved with the grace of a predator, his senses sharp and unyielding, until a faint sound caught his attention.

A delicate mewl broke the silence—soft, almost imperceptible, yet enough to spark Sukuna's curiosity. His gaze narrowed as he turned toward the sound, tracing it to the base of the ancient stone steps leading to the shrine. And there laid a tiny creature—a bedraggled cat.

For a moment, he simply stared, his brow furrowing as he studied the little beast. Despite its frail appearance, the furry creature did not shy away from Sukuna’s imposing presence. Instead, it gazed up at him with wide, curious eyes, mewing again as if beckoning him closer.

Over the centuries, he had seen countless sorcerers and curses alike approach his shrine over the centuries, seeking either his wrath or his favor, But a mere cat? That was new.

“An insolent creature, daring to trespass,” Sukuna murmured, his voice low and gravelly. Yet, there was a note of curiosity mingled with amusement as he crouched down, his gaze fixed upon the creature.