Archive of Our Own

’Help as many people as you can, Yuuji, so you don’t end up like me.” 

Those had been the final words his grandfather had imparted on him that day, passing peacefully moments after in the sterile but lonely hospital room that had housed the elder man for the last few months. 

And in line with any grateful grandson, Yuuji had done his darn best to honour the man’s precious advice, always offering a helping hand to those around him in need. 

Thus, it is almost instinctive that morning, when his body dove head first into oncoming traffic to shove the quivering form of a frightened child and their tiny pet cat away from the fray - Yuuji successfully nudging the duo out of the way, only to take the brunt of the speeding truck himself, body smashing against the concrete road violently, like a sack of minced meat. Battered, bruised, and dead. 

At least, he was supposed to be dead. 

Yet, to Yuuji’s immense confusion, he doesn’t just pass on to some heavenly afterlife to meet his beloved grandfather. No, rather, Yuuji wakes up to find himself very much alive and well - if not a bit disoriented due the completely bizarre environment he found himself. A place that was neither his dingy hole in the wall apartment, nor the town’s local hospital, where one would expect to land after such a horrifying accident. 

‘Where the hell am I?” Yuuji mumbles groggily, glancing around curiously at the glamorous room currently housing him - the space packed full of trinkets, toys and treasures he’d only ever glimpsed in premium department stores or television shows documenting society’s top one percent. Whoever this room belonged to, they were clearly wealthy, if not a tad bit young and spoiled - the diamond encrusted teddy bear snuggled at his side merely proving his assumption further.

“Woah.” He whispers in awe, picking up the plush to admire its ruby embellished eyes, along with the tiny diamond buttons sewed onto it’s mini vest - baffled at the extravagant craftsmanship for such a benign child’s toy - only to jolt clumsily, bear slipping from his hands, when the door to the room abruptly slams open for a black blur to throw itself at his prone form. 

“Yuuji!” The unknown individual shouts, relief shining through their shaky voice - like they were witnessing a unfathomable miracle - as Yuuji is engulfed in a bone crushing hug, yelping.

“Oh you have no idea how worried we were! What were you thinking, playing so close to the lake! You know it is dangerous there!” The mystery man admonishes, leaning back to hold Yuuji at arms length as the teens stiffens in growing shock - disbelief and recognition flashing simultaneously across his face. 

“But I suppose we should simply be grateful you are okay.” He sighs, frowning minutely when Yuuji fails to deign him with an appropriate response, still too frozen in bewildered silence, mouth agape.

Not that he could be blamed for this admittedly stupefied reaction, since anyone would be baffled when confronted with the jarring realisation of what appeared to be a fantasy come to life. 

Because how else could he explain the sight of Kamo Choso, a key antagonist in the world famous BL series Cursed Love, standing before him. 

Just weeks ago, Yuuji had been binging the game at Sasaki’s behest, so there was no chance he could be mistaken. He’d essentially spent the majority of his weekends slogging through every available story route, where Kamo Choso had been a prickly presence in said play through. Yuuji could recognise those tired raccoon eyes and twin tail updo anywhere.

No, the real question here was how? Last time he checked, fantasy games were just that… fantasies, entirely fabricated as a medium to experience grand adventures and mythic tales. 

Yet the longer he stares at Choso, fingers even raising to pinch the other’s cheek incredulously, the more real the situation became. Somehow, this one fictional character had really come to life. 

Or perhaps, Yuuji thinks fretfully, glancing at the room around him with increasing familiarity - identical to that of the iconic setting he’d played through many times before - perhaps it was Yuuji that had come to life, specifically to life in the game itself. The various rants that Iguchi had often preached around Isekais and the wonders of world hopping conveniently crashing down on him in crystal clarity. 

“Oh shit…” Yuuji mumbles, garnering a mortified gasp from Choso at the vulgar language as another more unamused voice chimes in.

“I see not even an encounter with death has curbed your tongue, Yuuji.” The voice tutts in disapproval, giving the poor teen’s heart little respite as Kamo Kenjaku, the primary villain of series, struts calmly into the room to stand by the bedside - drawing a low grimace from a silent Choso, who subtly shifts to block Yuuji from the other’s view. 

“Father…” Choso greets, bowing half-heartedly in respect, even as the elder man proceeds to ignore him, far too honed in on Yuuji to acknowledge the polite gesture - gaze instead running across the bedridden teen in keen scrutiny.

“You are very fortunate.” Kenjaku then comments with an airy hum. “That you’ve avoided any lasting physical harm from this stunt of yours, and that our family is renowned in the art of medicine.” 

“Otherwise your little adventure would have ended much more tragically.  Just what were you thinking?” Kenjaku proceeds to sneer sternly, parroting the very same sentiments Choso had raised moments prior, except in a vastly harsher tone, his anger seemingly slipping to the forefront now that he had confirmed Yuuji’s improved condition.

“I’ve warned you time and time again that this carelessness is unacceptable. Not only did you send the house into chaos, but we are lucky the King did not take your absence at the Consort’s Initiation as a sign of treachery!” He chides harshly, fury fully flowing out in waves now that he’d started, prompting Yuuji to stare silently, too confused to even try defending himself.

“Father, he has only just awoken. There is no need to reprimand him so vigorously.”

“Silence!” Kenjaku fires back, shooting daggers at Choso’s well intentioned interference. “He needs to realise the gravity of his actions.”

“No! What he needs is -“ 

“I-I’m sorry.” Yuuji blurts out, head lowered in what he hoped was a remorseful display - since it was clear to him now, regardless how they expressed it, that both males had truly been concerned for him. Or, at the very least, this version of him that had gone and gotten into big trouble. He didn’t know exactly what had happened in the last few days, but seeing as he was one present in the moment, Yuuji supposed it was up to him to take accountability on his counterpart’s behalf. This abrupt but genuine apology immediately quelling the heated argument and earning Yuuji a minor break from the dynamic pair as Choso’s mouth dropped open in disbelief alongside Kenjaku’s furrowed brow.

“I don’t… I don’t remember what happened.” Yuuji starts, and that, Yuuji isn’t lying about, completely unprivy to anything prior to his accident.

“But I’m sorry I’ve caused so much trouble. Really!” He insists, fingers clenching into his silk blanket in fearful anticipation. 

Then, a sigh, Kenjaku pinching the bridge of his nose in restrained exasperation - far too reminiscent of a tired parent reining in their sizzling temper, rather than the heartless and scheming fiend he’d encountered so often throughout the story.

“No matter. You are well, and that is the priority.” He relents, to which Yuuji nods, rubbing at his lashes tiredly.

“You should rest.” Choso chimes in immediately, noticing his weary demeanour, and manuovring to help Yuuji back into the bed, blankets lifted up to his chin.

“Indeed. You will need the strength if you are to fulfil your obligations.” Kenjaku nodded vaguely, if not ominously, though Yuuji refrains from asking anything further, ready for the two men to leave him alone so he could figure out what the hell was happening. 

“Of course.” He agrees softly, left to his lonesome as the door closes with a deafening click. 

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Yuuji is given a full month to commit to recovery, where within that period, he spends much of it mulling extensively over his unusual situation. He’d previously read a few mangas centred on the adventures of world hopping heroes, but hadn’t exactly imagined himself to be in the shoes of said protagonists ever.

And despite his best efforts, Yuuji is unable to unravel the mystery behind his current predicament, nor a way to undo it, exhausting every method his brain could muster in doing so - whether that meant pinching his thigh until it turned red and raw, or throwing himself to sleep repeatedly in the hopes of waking back up in his original reality. 

He was effectively trapped, stuck in a life and world that was not his own - Yuuji retrospectively regretting his inattentiveness during the many times Iguchi had chattered about world hopping at their occult club meetings. 

Perhaps had he listened, he wouldn’t be as helpless as he was now, stuck clumsily sneaking around the Kamo mansion to assess his environment while peppering the unassuming servants with a barrage of awkward questions on the current world and its culture. Through which ultimately, Yuuji confirms he indeed had freakishly been transported into the setting of Japan’s most popular BL game, Cursed Love, insane as that sounded. 

The coincidences were far too frequent, from the numerous in-game characters that continued to pop up every so often, to the realm’s archaic and mystical atmosphere that was so far removed from modern Tokyo, it just screamed fantasy. 

Besides, Yuuji had played Cursed Love and its various romantic routes repeatedly enough to recall the finer details, and he was confident the setting and his current position aligned perfectly to its iconic plot - Yuuji without doubt representing, or should he say substituting, a key character within the game upon arriving here. 

Which was rather exciting, since the original story of Cursed Love followed the heartwarming narrative of Zenin Megumi - a lonely orphan turned bastard heir to the Zenin Clan - who had been unscrupulously sold off by his fellow clansman to become an unwilling concubine for the fearsome King of Curses.

After which, gradually, through many trials and tribulations, the spunky protagonist was able to overcome the challenges of high society and ultimately secure his happy ending from a selection of love interests - including the cursed king himself of course, to the master of the sorcerer’s order, or even the handsome scholar who often frequented the library the protagonist so deeply loved. 

All in all, it was the typical fairytale premise, cliched yes, but entertaining nonetheless - especially with Yuuji’s penchant for themes of unwavering characters and the perseverance of human love. 

So really, it should have been a dream come true to be able to witness his favourite game (and adored characters) before his very own eyes, and even actively play a part in the famous story - if only he hadn’t been incarnated into this world as one of the series’ leading antagonists, Kamo Yuuji, the Kamo clan’s youngest and brattiest son. 

And arguably Yuuji’s least liked character, the irony of the situation not escaping the teen as he groaned loudly into his pillow, legs kicking childishly at the injustice of it all. 

Because in hindsight, shouldn’t he have incarnated as Zenin Megumi? Since the dark haired male was the titular self-insert character every player navigated through. Why Kamo Yuuji, the villain of all people? Sure, they shared a name, but that was as similar as they got, since Yuuji didn’t have a single mean bone in his body, nor had he ever plotted someone’s demise so vehemently. He didn’t even look like the infamous antagonist, Yuuji still the same pink haired, golden eyed boy he’d been since birth. 

Yet, it was as if the script had been fully rewritten to replace the entire identity of Kamo Yuuji, the villain, with that of Itadori Yuuji, the boy, seeing as everyone in the game hadn’t batted a single eyelid at his clearly different appearance. They simply treated Yuuji as if he’d always looked the way he did, even the family’s many portraits miraculously including Yuuji’s very visage painted alongside the others to his pure disbelief. Like he’d always been present. 

It was truly a mind boggling set of circumstances. Though Yuuji supposed he should be grateful to avoid the conundrum that would have arisen had the malicious Kamo family perceived him as an imposter instead. They weren’t exactly the merciful type after all, preferring to settle their problems quickly and painfully for whatever obstacle stood in their way. 

No, Yuuji was rather fortunate in that sense, backed and housed comfortably by the Kamo. The only other real problem was….well… the plot itself. Or more specifically, their role within it.

Should things transpire as originally planned in the story, Yuuji and the Kamos were essentially screwed - all of them meeting a brutal end at the hands of the King of Curses (or every other love interest, depending on the route that was chosen) for daring to harm the beloved protagonist. 

This gruesome outcome one Yuuji refused to accept. Not when he’d already brushed so close to death once before, and not when he’d been blessed with the rare opportunity to embrace life once again.

And besides, just because the original Kamo Yuuji had been evil, didn’t mean he had to follow suit too. If anything, the fact he could step in to take someone else’s destiny, surely meant he could divert it too. 

So with that in mind, Yuuji locked himself away in his room for several days, determined to bolster his odds of survival by studying up on as many historical and political books as possible from their family’s private library, all while marking what useful knowledge he could against the plot points he recalled from playing the game. 

Based on previous playthroughs, Yuuji too would be offered to the royal family as a concubine for the King of Curses (far earlier than Megumi in fact). Since in this world, it was common practice for nobility to nominate their children for a spot in the imperial harem, most of them aware of the privileges and power on offer should the King favour a specific concubine, or even more tantalizing, marry one.  

Kenjaku hadn’t been immune to this temptation either, eager to secure a favourable relationship with the powerful King of Curses to elevate the scheming man’s sway in the noble court. Only to be thwarted by the unexpected arrival of the protagonist, Megumi, who had joined the ranks of concubines far later than most, but still managed to catch the eye of the King of Curses, along with multiple other high status suitors within the realm. The player subsequently overcoming many malicious attempts by the Kamo to prevent the budding romances, from smearing Megumi’s name within high society to planned assassinations at Kenjaku’s behest. 

It had always driven Yuuji mad whenever his progress was hindered by the villain’s ridiculous schemes, leading him to cheer joyously each time the dynamic duo inevitably met a brutal execution for their treacherous deeds. But now that such a gruesome outcome was written in for his own conclusion, Yuuji was understandably, far less thrilled. 

‘There has to be a way around this!’ Yuuji pondered with a concentrated pout. ‘But how?’

He certainly couldn’t pull himself out of his induction into the harem, despite his (or should he say Kamo Yuuji’s) recent accident stalling the inevitable as he recovered. Kenjaku had already confirmed the arrangements with the royal family, and backing out so abruptly now would be a deep show of disrespect that would end very poorly for them. 

Regrettably, Yuuji was fully tied to this commitment. But even so, that didn’t automatically translate to failure. He was still early enough in the game’s story to prevent any damaging progression. Starting with the main crux to all his troubles itself, Zenin Megumi, the protagonist. 

For by simply existing in opposition to the boy, Yuuji was in danger. Thus, the only logical solution was to utterly remove himself from the equation. If he didn’t challenge Megumi, or rather yet, if he didn’t even breathe near Megumi, then there was no reason for his love interests to target Yuuji either. 

All Yuuji needed to do was keep his head down, and bide his time in the royal harem until Megumi chose his final match and rode off into the sunset. 

‘Easy peasy!’ He hummed, nodding enthusiastically as he continued to messily jot down notes in preparation for his upcoming endeavours. 

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The day of departure for the royal harem came by faster than Yuuji anticipated, the young teen practically vibrating from nerves as maids and tailors carefully added the final touches to the elaborate junihitoe they’d spent all morning prepping him in. 

He’d been surprised at the time when they brought forth the range of beautiful outfits to his room, no two items the exact same, and all clearly sourced from highly valuable trades, going by the diverse designs across the selection - some inspired by western cultures, and others eastern. It was a subtle reminder that the world of Cursed Love was truly a mix of various cultures, allowing it to make such a captivating story setting in the first place. 

Though predictably, Yuuji opted for the junihitoe, comforted by the sight of a familiar item in the midst of the recent chaos. A choice he believed to be correct, as the image that reflected back at him from the mirror upon adorning the dress had him fully taken aback.  

Never before had Yuuji looked so refined, the soft hues of pink, purple and green across his junihitoe blending naturally to complement his youthful air, all without taking away from his intended grace. This visual further enhanced by the light layer of makeup dusted across his face, mainly focused on highlighting his large doe-like eyes, and the cute pout of his lips. 

“Oh… wow.” He mumbled, hardly able to process the sight. Just a week ago, he’d been sitting in his shoe box apartment in Tokyo, slurping away at instant noodles as he binged Cursed Love late into the night. Much too strapped for cash to dare and leave his apartment. And now here he was, dawning clothes that likely cost more than his month’s rent, all while being served hand and foot for the last month by a liege of servants. He truly couldn’t wrap his head around it! 

“Perfect…” Kenjaku purred at his side, looking more pleased than he’d ever seen him, his lips curling up into a sly smile that almost split his face in two. “You truly are my perfect boy, Yuuji.” He praised, sliding closer to fuss over the some final hairpins as Choso too stepped forth. 

“You look beautiful, brother.” He whispered softly, eyes wet with unshed tears as he grasped his hand. “I’m going to miss you so much. Please don’t forget to write. And if anything is amiss in the palace, just let big brother know, and he’ll come save you!” He spewed, breaking out into dramatic sniffles the longer he spoke, much to Yuuji’s silent respect. 

Because although he wasn’t the man’s real sibling, it was plain to see he was an amazing older brother, doting on Yuuji magnanimously over the last few weeks while his health recuperated. And even in the original Cursed Love storyline, Choso had stood by Kamo Yuuji until the very end, willing to dirty his hand on behalf of his beloved little brother, and eventually challenging the male lead to battle at the story’s end in hopes of sparing Kamo Yuuji’s life. If nothing else, he truly loved the boy. 

“He will be fine.” Kenjaku reprimands, inserting himself back into the conversation. “No other wench in that harem can equal to him in beauty, skill or pedigree.” He boasts, and for a split second, Yuuji almost could have believed he was actually proud of him, strange as that may be. The game never really delved into the pair’s dynamic beyond mastermind and pawn, so he hadn’t ever imagined there to be a hint of real familial pride between the two. 

“I trust you’ll do what is needed to secure your position alongside the King.” Kenjaku prompts. 

To which Yuuji nods half-heartedly, already dismissing the notion to the back of his head to be thoroughly forgotten. Sorry Kenjaku, he thinks wryly. I’m not doing shit. You’ll thank me later when we all still have our heads on our shoulders. 

Besides, Kenjaku could really benefit from curbing his greed. The man already wielded incredible wealth and power, being the head of the Kamo Clan, which had been established very early in-game as part of the Four Great Clans. Families so paramount and integral to the world order, that it included the likes of the Ryoumen Clan, currently occupying the throne, the Gojo Clan, overseeing the Sorcerer’s Grand Order, and the Zenin Clan of the Greater Guilds. He had more than enough status and treasures to enjoy 10 lives over! 

“Now then.” Kenjaku tutts, guiding Yuuji to the carriage parked patiently at their entrance. “The palace awaits.”

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Yuuji doesn’t expect much upon arriving at the palace gates, having missed the official induction ceremony for the year’s concubines due to his unusual circumstances, but still, even he is unsettled by the lacking amount of officials and servants that had come to welcome him as he climbed off his carriage.  

Rather, there were no formal officials present at all, merely a lone attendant and what appeared to be a royal guard at the helm - making for an extremely odd scene. At least according to the numerous societal books he had crammed during his time back at the Kamo manor. 

For despite his late entry, the identity of Kamo Yuuji was still that of a prestigious clan, and his initiation into the palace harem was a formal gift to the royal family, one that by societal standards, should have been politely received by the palace, if only for political appearance’s sake. 

So this outright neglectful welcoming committee must be deliberate. Purposely orchestrated by the madam of the harem, Mei Mei, if he recalled correctly, to send the unsuspecting teen a clear message. That being the King, and in turn, the wider palace, did not receive his presence with open arms.

Childish truly, Yuuji scoffed, almost rolling his eyes at the passive aggressive approach. Too bad for them, this aloof behaviour actually worked in his favour, providing Yuuji ample grounds to keep a reasonable distance from the King, and ideally Zenin Megumi too, in the near future. 

“Welcome, Lady Kamo.” Stuttered the quiet attendant, after finally mustering the courage to introduce themself to the pensive teen, who silently blanched at the formal title. It was still strange to hear himself addressed with such reverence, and even more so, as a lady, despite court etiquette dictating that all concubines be addressed in such manner- regardless of their gender. 

“Please forgive us for the lacking reception. Madam Mei Mei was left preoccupied with urgent duties from His Majesty, and is unable to personally come greet you today.” He explains nervously. 

“But I, Yoshino Junpei, am humbly at your service, and will be My Lady’s personal attendant during your time here at the palace.” The male rattles off shakily, clearly blurting out a long spiel he’d likely rehearsed for hours in fear of retribution from his new master. 

A fair assumption, considering the Kamo Yuuji that Yuuji knew would have definitely taken this political slight very personally, and had been infamous for striking palace servants for much less during the original game. 

Which obviously, was completely unreasonable, since lower staff like Junpei had no stake in these decisions. In saying that, Yuuji couldn’t help the slight sympathy that arose within him toward the Kamo villain, now that he had personally stepped into his shoes. 

After all, any sane person would be under heavy duress at essentially being sold off by their family to serve a mysterious king they’d never met, only to be explicitly shown by said king - the most powerful man in the nation - that their presence was not wanted or approved from the get go.

It was honestly a nightmare scenario, one that would likely encourage similar disrespect from other personnel within the palace if Yuuji were being realistic. 

In fact, he could imagine that some of the vicious outbursts by Kamo Yuuji were triggered by potential mistreatment, rather than pure malice. The game hardly delved into the background of any character besides the protagonist and their love interests after all, so there was no strong evidence to prove otherwise. If so, Kamo Yuuji had it rough, he mused silently, before turning to glance at the large man that stood behind Junpei in intimidating fashion.

“Ahem, this is Hakari Kinji.” Junpei explained, pointing at the beefy man who continued to outright ignore Yuuji with little shame, gaze pointed everywhere except the waiting teen. “He is to be your personal guard.” 

“Right…” Yuuji replies in acknowledgment, scanning the two with an awkward smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes. 

Unlike Choso and Kenjaku, Yuuji did not recall the pair being present alongside Kamo Yuuji in his playthrough of Cursed Love, the villain more often than not operating alone, or with his posse of concubine minions in the scenes he featured in. 

Consequently, Yuuji is unable to get a read on their stance, much to his anxiety. Though at a glance, Junpei came off polite enough, and Yuuji could picture them getting along reasonably. It was only the guard, Hakari, that appeared rather… cold… towards the young teen, the elder male’s expression denoting a desire to be anywhere else but there. Just based on his attitude alone, Yuuji wouldn’t trust Hakari to protect anything, let alone him, should a real threat arise. 

“Um… well, thank you. I’ll be in your hands from here on out, so I hope we get along.” He replies, bowing politely as Junpei practically yelped in panic, Hakari scoffing quietly in the background. 

“Please, Lady Kamo! Do not lower your head! It will be an honour to serve you!” Junpei insisted, nearly hauling Yuuji straight as the teen brushed off his frenzied fretting. 

“So where to next? A place to rest I hope.” He comments lightly, all too tired and sore from his long journey in the stuffy horse drawn carriage. 

“Oh yes! Right this way please.” Junpei squeaks, gesturing at Yuuji to follow his lead as they set off into the inner palace, Hakari trailing a distance behind them, watching the group trek their way through unending grounds. Where briefly, Yuuji swears he spots the dedicated harem’s quarter during their walk, recognising the cluster of lavish buildings all too well from his time playing the game. Yet Junpei does not halt, nor does he acknowledge them either, leaving Yuuji to frown in minute confusion as he continued along. 

Until finally, after a convoluted path into the most secluded and remote area of the palace, Yuuji arrives at an old but decently large pavilion, the layer of dust covering its entire vicinity an undeniable sign of its abandonment. 

“Here we are, My Lady.” Junpei mutters, wincing so apprehensively upon speaking the words that Yuuji feared the servant’s veins would burst from sheer stress, in turn confirming this to be yet another shrewd tactic employed by the Madam and King to remind him of his place. 

It was one thing to snub him of a welcome, but to so swiftly sequester him to what was essentially banishment in the palace was needlessly cruel, particularly since he had yet to do anything to defy or slight the King at all. Had it not been a blessing in disguise for his plans of survival, Yuuji would have been a lot more incensed. 

But with the sweet reminder that this was overall ideal for him - the further away he was from royal intrigue, the better - Yuuji swallowed his frustration, and smiled, thanking a flabbergasted Junpei before heading in to settle down. Too exhausted to spare much energy for anything else. 

At the very least, the main living quarters were clean, he noted to himself, meaning someone had tried to tidy up the place for his occupation. 

“Forgive me, My Lady. I’d hoped to have the room adequately set before you arrived, but time’s gotten away from me.” Junpei spoke softly, revealing himself to be the culprit behind the small but considerate gesture. “I’ll ensure your quarters are fully prepared by tomorrow’s dusk.” 

“It’s fine.” Yuuji cut off before the poor servant could grovel any further. After all, he’d stayed in worse conditions before, and in his humble opinion, if there was a roof over one’s head, and food on the table, then life wasn’t too bad.

Besides, he imagined the order for his residence was assigned quite last minute, minimal staff tasked with it’s coordination. There was no point in kicking up a fuss when the fault lay solely with the administration. 

“The place is a bit dusty, but nothing a little tender love and care can’t fix! And I appreciate the privacy. Not many can boast having such spacious quarters solely for themselves.” He declared cheekily, to which Junpei chuckled meekly, seemingly uncertain how to address his new master’s unique outlook, and visibly gauging whether Yuuji was aware of the ploys schemed against him. Though sensibly, he did not refute Yuuji’s attempts at self-comfort, opting to nod graciously. 

“That is fair, My Lady.” 

“We can take a proper look at everything tomorrow. For now however, I am quite exhausted.” Yuuji groans, prompting Junpei to rush forth to clasp at the many layers of his heavy robes. 

“Of course. Please allow me to assist you with your attire, My Lady, and a bath shall be drawn for you immediately.” 

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Laying on his bed that night, Yuuji finds himself unable to sleep, too preoccupied with reviewing the day’s events back in his mind over and over again

Miraculously, he’d managed to survive his fray into the lion’s den with minimal incident - an achievement worthy of celebration. Yet, he is unable to fully enjoy his successes, for the real challenges had only just begun. 

Because clearly, he’d underestimated the state of affairs within the palace when it came to clan tensions. He’d always known that the Four Great Clans were constantly at head, but he’d severely misjudged the damaging rift between the Kamo and Ryoumen clan despite having witnessed it unfold during his various playthroughs. 

From what he gathered, the royal family held a deeply personal grudge against the Kamo for a betrayal committed long ago by past ancestors, and had upheld this animosity to this day. Petty, yes, but unfortunately effective, simply due to the unquestionable nature of their rank. 

As a result, the Kamo clan’s position within the royal court was greatly diminished, and their sway on political matters undermined too. What’s more, without the backing of another major clan, such as the Gojo’s, who were tentative allies with the Zenin, the Kamo were often left to fend for themselves during these major council gatherings.

That was why Kenjaku had been so ready to volunteer his own son to the royal harem despite the sacrifices it entailed, desperate to earn back a slither of grace with the royal family through subtler means. And why Kamo Yuuji had ruthlessly pursued the King the second he stepped foot into the palace walls in the original game. 

Not that it did them any good in the end, since the King’s inherent bias left him too suspicious of Kenjaku, and entirely skeptical of the less than innocent intentions behind Kamo Yuuji’s dogged efforts too. A trait that seemingly carried over this early in the story, Yuuji mused curiously, nibbling his lips in avid concentration as he mulled over his potential paths.

From a technical perspective, the king was impossible to avoid. Yuuji was quite literally based within his vicinity, and it didn’t help either that he was an individual that was present in every game route - since it was only through joining the royal harem, does the main character get the chance to meet and interact with their selection of love interests. 

So realistically, the main question at hand was whether today’s antics was the extent of the man’s agenda against him. Because that Yuuji could handle with ease. 

However, if the King did have more nefarious intentions beyond just mere isolation and banishment, then he posed a greater threat to Yuuji than originally anticipated. Though surely that couldn’t be the case, for a king of his stature must have more important matters to handle over a measly concubine that had yet to even establish themselves within the harem. 

“The King of Curses… Ryoumen Sukuna….” Yuuji muttered quietly to himself, clicking his teeth in frustration the longer he thought of the troublesome man. He truly was a pain in the ass, and someone Yuuji could not see himself, and would not see himself, getting along with at all.

Even during his playthrough of Sukuna’s route, Yuuji had been unamused by the king’s dark and at times, malevolent personality. Sukuna’s storyline often touted by fans as the most difficult to conquer, and a jarring shift in tone compared to the other more lighthearted and even humorous routes. 

Mainly due to the underlying fact that Sukuna was quite frankly, unhinged, pursuing the protagonist character with a terrifying, almost rabid ferocity upon having his interest piqued - designed to fulfill the game’s quota for a domineering type, with a foul temper to match. All of which were specific traits that didn’t appeal to Yuuji whatsoever. Especially since Sukuna often leveraged his elevated rank to punish and dispose of any obstacles in the way of his love, including the player themselves. Yuuji frequently picking the worst possible decisions on his run, those that always ended with his character murdered in a jealous rage, locked in a gilded cage, or under some traumatic form of abuse. 

So no, he didn’t exactly have the best impression of, or track record against, the King of Curses. But Yuuji would be damned if he gave up now that the stakes were even higher. 

‘UGH, Ryoumen Sukuna!’ He repeated angrily, pulling his silk cover over his head to form a bubble like cocoon that fended from the depressing thoughts haunting him. “Just you bring it on!”

“You may have bested me in the game! But I’ll show you! I’ll be the most inconspicuous concubine ever, so that you’ll never find an excuse to axe me!

.

.

.

Nightfall in the royal palace is shrouded in a stillness that is borderline chilling. Without the rush of servants hustling and bustling throughout the grounds running their daily errands, or the mindless chatter of passing court officials, there is nary a soul in sight. All rightfully settled away to rest for the day that awaited them the next morning. For Hakari Kinji however, a knight commander of the royal army, the night is when he is at his most vigilant. 

Alert against the potential dangers that lurked elusively in the shadows, and poised to strike down the skulking enemies that conspired against their nation’s tentative peace. Though perhaps on this occasion, the threat may not be so distant, seemingly laid fast asleep in the very quarters he stood guarding at the moment. Hakari scowling fiercely the longer his thoughts lingered on their lord’s latest concubine.

Kamo Yuuji. The Kamo Clan’s precious princess. 

And his latest ward from Mei Mei, who had unceremoniously dumped the duty of overseeing the noble boy onto him under the guise of an urgent assignment much to Hakari’s displeasure. For menial guard duties were below a warrior of his current rank and skill, and realistically, a waste of the army’s already stretched resources.

Yet, when Grand Minister Jogo, one of his royal majesty’s inner advisors, had unceremoniously intervened -  reinforcing the order onto the baffled commander, Hakari was wise enough to concede, noting privately however, that the circumstances to this abrupt arrangement may not be as simple as they appeared. 

After all, ministers of Jogo’s importance only became involved in matters when it was a direct interest to the King, both good, and bad. Thus, Kamo Yuuji must have been a real special case, Mei Mei all but confirming his suspicions when briefing him on his mission. 

“You are to watch his every move very carefully.” She demanded, flashing that awfully creepy smile of hers his way as she spoke. “If he even breathes out of line, you are to inform me immediately.” 

“And where necessary, keep him in check. You’ve got the brutish build for it. I imagine a pampered princess like him may even be too scared to act out in your presence, which will make your job easier.” She explained pleasantly, as if partaking in an amicable chat with a companion rather than a serious discussion on the upcoming livelihood of another. The extent of which they were willing to go to monitor and control a single concubine slightly alarming to Hakari too. 

He couldn’t imagine how a prim little noble could warrant such adverse supervision, nor did he really like the idea of weaponising his strength to intimidate or harm an individual so much weaker than himself either. It went against everything he stood for with his moral code, along with the oath he took as a pledged knight to the nation.

But orders were orders, especially when they came from the King’s hands, so Hakari had no choice but to oblige accordingly, if not begrudgingly, rocking up the morning of the boy’s arrival to wait alongside a lone attendant. Mei Mei’s absence duly noted by the knight, along with the appalling lack of officials to welcome their latest addition to the harem too. Typically, there was a degree of formality to these inaugurations, particularly when it involved members of a major clan. A lacklustre reception of this level was practically unheard of in Hakari’s time at the palace.  

And had it been any other person, he’d assumed it was an egregious but inadvertent oversight. However, with Mei Mei involved, that was never just the case. She was a terribly conniving woman, and didn’t simply overlook little mistakes - not when it was her sharp intelligence that clawed her to the rank she was now. If nothing else, this barren gathering had to be deliberate. A pointed message that the palace housed no allies for Kamo Yuuji. Effective, but cruel, garnering a muted grimace from Hakari. 

He truly despised worthless stunts like these, often deployed by pretentious nobles and underhanded court officials too cowardly to face their foes head on. They were fortunate the King was both competent and supreme. He did not humour such frivolous games within his inner circle or presence, punishing the last batch of foolish nobles to try so by displaying their slain heads on the spikes that mounted the palace walls. 

After which, many opted to keep their penchant for provocation to the lower grounds, where the King’s gaze seldom touched. The Kamo boy would need to be quick-witted to survive in these walls then, Hakari mused coolly, though the rumours that surrounded him seemed to indicate otherwise. To most he’d spoken to, the Kamo’s youngest son held quite the notorious reputation for being an audacious, vapid and spoilt brat. More so than the average noble child.

Consequently, Hakari pictures a pompous, flamboyant and shrill voiced teen, adorned with the most ostentatious gown and jewels money could buy, to disembark the carriage that eventually pulls to a halt at the palace gates. 

What he doesn’t expect; is for a petite, bright eyed boy donning regal but modest robes to step out instead, gaze flickering curiously between the attendant, Junpei, and Hakari himself. Admittedly, he is pretty…Hakari observes reluctantly, incredibly so. Second only to his beloved Kirara-chan, who will remain the most beautiful in the palace as long as Hakari had a vote. 

But still, he’d be a fool to pretend that Kamo Yuuji wasn’t fair faced, the boy blessed with the rare kind of beauty that was simultaneously natural yet striking. Just his hair alone was enough to turn heads, a light lovely pink that was rather reminiscent of the palace’s precious cherry blossom trees, and his eyes a dazzling golden brown that reflected like gems under the light of the sun. 

There was no doubt in Hakari’s mind he would stand out even amongst the already stunning concubines of the royal harem. And for a brief second, Hakari wonders whether he’s been mistaken, and that he’d somehow misread the situation. It was hard to believe the mild boy before him was an issue Mei Mei, and by extension, Jogo, had been so concerned about. He didn’t look capable of harming a fly, let alone someone as powerful as the King, and if Hakari were being honest, fit the bill perfectly for what the court often sought for in their concubines. Pretty, prestigious, and at the moment, polite. In any other context, Mei Mei would have been slobbering at the opportunity to secure such premium talent for the harem. 

However, he supposed appearances were often deceiving, especially in the world of high society, where honeyed words frequently concealed nefarious intent. So despite his doubts, Hakari remains heedful, opting to linger back and watch quietly as Junpei rushed forth to greet the teen, who he half-anticipated to throw a seismic tantrum at the blatant disrespect to his person. Any nobleman worthy of his title would be immensely disgruntled at the unmistakable snub.

But, once again, to his surprise, Kamo Yuuji is relatively unfazed, smiling graciously through Junpei’s frantic apologies and introductions - and cheerful still when Hakari purposely ignores the boy, unwilling to engage with him until he could properly ascertain his true character and motives, beyond the narrative that Mei Mei had deliberately crafted.

Though a part of him does wonder whether this unshakeable calm is merely an elaborate ruse, orchestrated to lower their guard towards the teen. If so, he is certainly performing his heart out, hardly a sour dip in his mood even when they assign him a barely functioning and isolated pavilion as his chambers. Kamo Yuuji settling rather swiftly and comfortably into the subpar abode with nary a peep heard from him well into the night. 

Hakari left to stand guard listlessly atop the roof as the hours dragged on until…

“Show yourself.” He grunts aloud, leaping down into the courtyard with a soft thud, though he does not draw his sword, for it is Mei Mei that turns the corner, lantern in hand as she struts leisurely towards him.

“Attentive as usual.” She compliments airily, before shifting the focus to what she’d really been after with this late night visit. “So, how did our little newcomer fare?” She asked, glancing past Hakari to the room that currently housed the sleeping noble.

“Perhaps you should have been present at his arrival, if you were so curious.” He snarks back, unwilling to bend the knee without a bit of resistance. It was the least she deserved for dragging him into these troublesome matters.

“I was…preoccupied with business. A madam’s day is never without work.”

“Hmph, bullshit.” Hakari spits back, prompting Mei Mei to smirk, dropping her sickeningly sweet facade at the callous but honest retort. 

“How vulgar… I’ll have you know, I was handling the preparations for your brigade. You’ll need one, if you are to properly take on your duties as Lady Kamo’s official guard.”

At that, Hakari pauses, a slither of mild curiosity rearing its head, albeit short-lived, since it is promptly squashed when Mei Mei proceeds to sprout off the names forming this new unit.

Kaito Yuki and Saki Rindo. All fresh faced rookies recently inducted into knighthood, and another set of burdens for Hakari to manage. In a real emergency, they’d be all but useless, reaffirming to Hakari the farce that was this assignment. Mei Mei could position it as a prestigious designation as much as she wanted, but it is apparent that he is nothing more than a glorified jailor for Kamo Yuuji. There to confine him as Mei Mei (and Jogo) saw fit.

“What is the true purpose of all this?” Hakari states bluntly, his patience exhausted at the constant deception. 

“Hmmm, I’m not sure what you mean.” Mei Mei remarks, coyly obtuse. “This mission is rather clea-”

“Don’t try me.” He grounds out, and for the first time since this whole debacle started, Mei Mei pauses, visibly weighing her next statement carefully, before releasing a tired sigh.

“You generally don’t concern yourself with noble matters, Hakari.” She starts. “But the Kamo Clan haven’t been in good standing with the royal family for decades.” 

“They are a liability. One that is better kept in line, and disposed of if required.” 

“Then why bother with all of this?” He says, gesturing at the effort they’d expended to accommodate the boy. “Why even take on the Kamo’s son as a concubine if it’s hardly worth the trouble…”

“It’s unfortunate, but clan politics are not so easily navigated.” She explains gravely, her own gripe with the situation slipping through her near flawless composure. “Look… decisions have been made by the people above. All we can do is carry our duties out as instructed. So bear with it.” She commands curtly before slowly turning to leave - stopping just at the exit to issue one final irritating note.

“Oh, and I expect to receive weekly updates.” 

.

.

.

Life at the palace, Yuuji finds, is a pretty sweet gig despite the shaky start. Like his short stint at the Kamo manor, his living conditions could only be described as fit for royalty, where every need he could possibly ask for was meticulously handled by the staff that occupied the palace. From his meals, to the cleaning, to even his clothes and baths, everything was prepared and executed on his behalf in timely fashion. 

And on the few occasions Yuuji had tried to pitch in, guilt chipping away at him for leaving the heavy workload to Junpei and the small group of servants that would come in shifts to assist, the attendant had been adamant on him remaining idle. Mortified by the mere idea of a noble concubine lowering themselves to partake in house chores.  

So by default, Yuuji doesn’t have to lift a single finger for anything. It seemed all he had to do was simply exist and lounge around in the large pavilion dedicated solely to him. It was honestly inconceivable, that people were actually allowed to live like this. 

Back home, Yuuji had been balancing an endless stream of odd jobs only to barely make ends meet, drowned out by the debt that had accumulated from his grandpa’s prior medical bills. But now, it was as if he’d landed into a permanent holiday, this lifestyle further supplemented by the fact his duties as a ‘concubine’ were practically non-existent, mainly from a lack of enforcement. The Madam of the harem had yet to visit him once, let alone demand his services for the palace. 

He is essentially a freeloader, mooching off the palace funds without much effort required back on his part - Yuuji fully embracing this notion as he laid out in the yard, munching on some fresh strawberries Junpei had procured for him at his request. 

Speaking of his attendant, the poor boy would be absolutely hysterical should he catch Yuuji in such a dire state, splayed out across the dirtied garden grass in an utterly unladylike pose, and still very much in his loose nightgown. Turns out, his attendant was a real stickler about propriety, and had wholeheartedly dedicated himself to instilling the proper etiquette into Yuuji whenever the opportunity presented itself.

However, Yuuji had never been one for rules and convention, even back in Tokyo, so Junpei’s efforts have been for relative naught thus far, taking a back seat to the other pressing priorities that occupied Yuuji’s mind. Mainly his restlessness.

Because with nothing to do in terms of tasks, Yuuji is admittedly… bored. The servants are either too busy to cater to his whims, while his assigned guards are too serious to entertain him either. Not to mention absent, his primary knight Hakari, hardly present these days since acquiring a squadron to oversee. Today’s knight in fact, was a young lad around Yuuji’s age, called Kaito Yuki, if he had eavesdropped correctly. 

He’d recently been placed under Hakari as part of the wider unit dedicated solely for Yuuji, and like the household servants, they took rotating shifts in ‘guarding’ him. Yuki taking this duty with sincere dedication it appeared, since he hadn’t moved an inch from his position on the verandah, watching over Yuuji with a silent but disapproving expression. Similar to Junpei, he could tell his latest knight did not endorse his lax nature and unkempt attitude.

But without Kenjaku breathing down his neck about mindful manners, Yuuji felt no inclination to remedy his behaviour, resorting to picking childishly at the grass beneath him to toss at the air in pure dissatisfaction. 

Usually, concubines would be out and about, wandering the palace grounds in hopes of catching the King’s eye, should the man be roaming around. Or at the very least, networking with what minister or court official they could charm. Anything to secure their position in the harem, and elevate their influence within the palace. 

But considering that was the complete opposite of Yuuji’s own goal, the teen had been left too afraid to dare venture out from his abode, lest he accidentally bump into the King. He couldn’t afford to upset the man, or give him any cause to disrupt the tentative slither of peace he’d managed to secure by sheer luck. 

However, there is only so much Yuuji can do in his pavilion’s confined space, and he fears he’ll soon go stir crazy, groaning loudly at the injustice of it all. 

“My Lady!” Junpei squeaks, dropping the basket of potatoes he was carrying to dash toward Yuuji’s prone form - hands waving about in panic at the dirt and grim staining the precious silks of his dress. “Please, if you wish to rest, your chambers are readily available.”

“But it’s so stuffy inside. I want to get some fresh air, and see the sun.” He complained in return, curling into the ground to fend off Junpei’s feeble attempts at hauling him up. 

“But-“ Junpei splutters weakly, and it is clear he is truly befuddled by Yuuji, unable to determine the best method to manage his unruly new master. He’d likely anticipated a vicious vixen to arrive from the Kamo Clan, so rightfully had no idea how to deal with the maverick that was Itadori Yuuji. Though in Yuuji’s defense, he had been nothing but amicable to all of his servants in spite of their withdrawn fear, so he couldn’t grasp why Junpei was still so skittish around him. 

“If you wish to remain out here, then at least allow me to prepare a mat for your comfort, My Lady.” Junpei insists, gathering his composure to suggest some reasonable alternatives that ultimately fall on deaf ears. 

“Call me Yuuji.” Yuuji chirps back instead, hands propped up to cup his cheeks as his legs kicked back and forth leisurely behind him. “All these formal titles feel so distant. I don’t like it at all!”

“Wha-But- I could never!” Junpei squeaks, so taken aback by the ludicrous request that he genuinely tripped backward onto his bottom.

“Ehhhh, why not?” Yuuji whines, scooting closer with the most excessive pout he could muster. “We’ve known each other for weeks now! Surely that’s long enough to forgo formalities.” 

“Because you are a noble, My Lady! And a concubine to His Majesty! How could I ever dare to address you so freely!” He reprimands, reminding Yuuji so much of Kenjaku and Choso in the moment that he almost giggles. 

“Hmmm, then as your noble lady, I command you to address me by my name!” He orders in the most ‘authoritative’ tone he could muster. “There, now you have a good reason to call me freely!” Yuuji nearly patting himself on the back for the ingenious rebuttal. 

“I-you…” Junpei squawks, words trailing off into silence when he is unable to refute Yuuji’s unconventional rationale. 

“Then…Yuuji…” He barely whispers, voice shaking. “And… and only here, can I address you as such.” 

"Ehhhhh, I guess that’s fineeeee.” He concedes sourly.

“I mean it! If any other were to catch wind of this, there would be no end to the poisonous hearsay they’d whisper of you!” Junpei warned, revealing then, why he’d been so adamant in keeping Yuuji proper. All this time, he’d been concerned that Yuuji would face the harsh judgement of his peers, and further tarnish his already dismal standing within the palace. 

It was honestly touching, and proved that Yuuji’s initial impression of the boy had been spot on. Junpei did indeed have a good soul, and was someone he could genuinely trust. This heartwarming realisation further cementing his desire to foster their relationship, and perhaps earn his first real friend and loyal ally in this lonely place. 

“Then let them judge.” Yuuji shoots back, nose upturned at the meek mention of societal repercussions. He’d faced similar scrutiny in the past, his financial struggles a common topic of conversation at school and in the local neighbourhood, along with varying gazes of pity and distaste. As a result, Yuuji had developed thick skin to this behaviour, unbothered by petty words when regardless of the narratives, only he knew himself the best. 

“But… if words gets back to the Madam, or heaven forbid, the King…” 

“Then let it! Who cares what that big dummy and his cronies think!” Yuuji sulked, emphasising his declaration with an extra loud harrumph for extra measure.

“You / My Lady!” And this time, even the passive Yuki chips in, unable to contain his disbelief at the scathing remark. 

“Please don’t say such things! We’re lucky hardly anyone from the main house comes here!” Junpei reprimands, glancing around nervously, as if expecting an army to descend on the pavilion to strike Yuuji down for his slander towards the King. 

“The attendant is right!” Yuki inserts with a dumbfounded scowl. “Are you truly a royal concubine? Your etiquette is utterly atrocious!” He questions harshly, the limit of his tolerance for Yuuji’s antics apparently reaching its peak. Notably at a much faster rate than Hakari, Yuuji observed, the gap in their experience poignant in these small moments. 

Whereas Hakari is still an enigma Yuuji had yet to unravel, distant and aloof in a manner that only seasoned and accomplished knights tended to have the gall for, Yuki has been as easy to read as an open book. Evidently the type of soldier to rigorously follow the rules to a T, Yuuji humming flippantly as he twisted to face the young knight. 

“Hmmmm? Are you going to run to tattle on me?” He teases, lips twitching in amusement when Yuki immediately flinches, a bright red hue blooming across his cheeks at the abrupt accusation in dead giveaway.

“I-“

“If you do tattle… then I’ll tell everyone you heartily agreed with me, and in fact, laughed so loudly you farted!” He claims, Junpei’s head whipping back to gawk at Yuuji incredulously the second the absurd statement left his mouth. 

“I DID NOT!” Yuki screeches, and Yuuji can’t tell if he is angrier at the implied transgression, or the insinuation of flatulence. Though he supposed a knight so early into his career would be greatly concerned over credibility and reputation, a trait Yuuji would unashamedly yield to his advantage. 

“Yeah, but I think you’ll come to learn that I can be very convincing.” He bluffed airily.

“You-“ 

“Chin up, Yuki! Secrets are fun when we’re all in on it together! I won’t say anything if you don’t.” He cooes, leaving Yuki gaping open mouthed at the brazen impudence, and prompting Junpei to chuckle lightly. Both noble and attendant echoing each other’s amusement until they were both outright laughing, Yuki in turn slumping in defeat. 

“I can’t believe this is my life…” He mumbled petulantly as Yuuji stood with a hop, suddenly in a stellar mood. 

“Gosh, there must be something fun to do around here!” Yuuji declares, turning to gaze upon his pavilion stubbornly, as if the answer to his woes would appear should he glare hard enough. 

“Whatever do you mean?” Junpei asked curiously.

“Hmph, perhaps you could try working on your arts.” Yuki interjects snidely, already bouncing back from his earlier setback to try his hand once more at a battle of wits. A real fighter much to Yuuji’s relief. He liked people with a bit of spunk, and was glad the boy had not been cowered by his mischief.

“I don’t think I’ve seen you pick up a brush or fan or an instrument since coming here, and neither has Rindo!” He denounced pointedly, to which Yuuji ignored with a casual shrug.

“I said something fun, not tedious!” Yuuji moans, wincing at the mere thought of mastering the many intricate skills concubines of the harem were expected to upkeep. From dancing, to sewing and even poetry, he was technically required to hone these crafts to near perfection in order to entertain the King and the many guests he hosted. The original Kamo Yuuji had excelled at them, second only to the protagonist of course, but coming from the modern era, Yuuji is entirely clueless. The best he could do was some backflips, if they really needed a show. 

“Ahem, then how about a stroll?” Junpei suggests gently. “You haven’t once left the boundaries of the residence since settling here.” 

“The palace is stunning, I’m sure you’d love it.” He recommends, glancing at the walls that currently surrounded the pavilion, protective, but caging nonetheless.  

“Umm… I don’t know…” Yuuji murmurs, nibbling at his lips hesitantly. “They placed me here for a reason right? I wouldn’t want to overstep.” Because it was one thing to bend protocol with a handful of servants in the privacy of his chambers, but to openly defy orders was another.  

“Not at all!” Junpei insists, after a temporary and solemn pause at Yuuji’s frank admission. It’d been the first time he’d openly acknowledged the mistreatment he faced since arriving at the palace - spurring Junpei to double down on his comfort at the uncharacteristically subdued display. 

“I assure you, there is no restriction placed on any concubine of the palace.” He reiterates in full earnest, frowning however, when Yuuji turns away miserably - unconvinced. 

“Ahem.” Yuki coughs, seemingly determined to involve himself in all their business that day. “You should know better than to doubt your attendant. If you were really forbidden from leaving this residence, the measures to keep you here would not be this lax.”

“Besides, I doubt anyone will notice, they’re all too busy as of late. With the King away, there is much to maintain in his absence, and a glorious banquet to prepare for his return.” Junpei explains, casually dropping the splendid news without so much as a blink. 

“What!” Yuuji yells, gloom instantly dispersing as he clutched his attendant rabidly by the shoulders - a mad, near frenzied glint shining in his eyes. “What do you mean gone!”

“Eh-well… he left a week ago with his usual party for a hunting expedition.” He clarified slowly. “It’s hardly uncommon.”

“Eh! Why didn’t you say anything sooner!” Yuuji huffs, already scrambling towards the exit at the marvelous news, dress snagging at his feet amid his rush for freedom - messy. “Let us go!” 

.

.

.

With the King absent, Yuuji no longer concerns himself with the concept of untimely encounters, skipping happily along the path leading away from his quarters. Both Junpei and Yuki dutifully in tow of course, and somewhat a little worse for wear - the latter stewing agonisingly at the spontaneous outing, unapproved by Hakari, and the former lightly huffing from having wrangled Yuuji into a new clean dress in exchange for permitting him to embark on his desired stroll. Both ultimately acquiescing however, to his frivolous whims. 

It’s a good sign for their budding friendship, Yuuji thinks lightly, and considerable progress in transforming his life at the palace to be the slightest bit more bearable. This latest venture outside his residence another notable boon, prompting the teen to twirl happily, arms stretched wide as he dashed forward like a child in a playground. Unperturbed by Junpei’s air of apprehension, his attendant peering around anxiously in fear that his blithe behaviour would be witnessed by other passerbys. 

Honestly, the poor boy would develop a case of premature graying at this rate, if he kept stressing over such minor things. 

“The palace is hugeeeee!” Yuuji chirps, eventually turning to strut backwards to face his servants upon burning his fill of energy, thrilled by the various sights and scenes that he hadn’t quite had the chance to properly appreciate on his initial arrival. 

“Of course, My Lady.” Junpei agrees, a minor pant to his tone at being forced to keep up with Yuuji’s superhuman pace. “It is most magnificent.” 

“That goes without saying.” Yuki huffs. “This is the imperial palace! Anything less would be insulting to the King. “He declares, charging up for another long winded lecture that Yuuji would never hear - already distracted when he turns the corner into a massive garden, filled to the brim with colorful flowers, bright shrubs and towering trees. 

“Oh… it’s beautiful!” Yuuji gasps, captivated. Gardens of this scale and detail were rare in Tokyo, found typically at major historical sites and some central parks frequented more so by tourists than Yuuji himself. He just never really found the occasion to visit, but he imagined they would pale in comparison to the grandeur of the current palace’s gardens. 

“And this isn’t even the most impressive one!” Junpei boasts from his side, watching with great pride as Yuuji fluttered about to admire every inch of the garden grounds. “We must stop by the main garden. There is a lake at its centre that makes for a remarkable sight!” 

“Really!?” Yuuji asks, perking up curiously. “It’s hard to believe there is another more beautiful than this.” 

“Indeed!” Junpei agreed. “But if I recall correctly, this is the only garden where one can clearly view down upon the capital.” Junpei mumbles in quiet thought, pointing mirthfully to the north side of the grounds at Yuuji’s elated gasp.  

Yet, when they arrive at the designated lookout, the section is tightly corridored off - barring any wandering guests from passing beyond the wooden barrier. 

“Oh dear, the royal gardener must be conducting some upkeep.” Junpei laments mournfully. “I’m sure we can revisit at anoth - My Lady!” He screeches, causing Yuki to jump high as the knight clumsily reached for his sword, only to join the attendant in hollering moments later as the duo helplessly watched Yuuji scale one of the garden’s many large trees. 

“Oi- It’s dangerous! Get down from there!” Yuki yells angrily, but Yuuji does not heed the command, too determined now that Junpei had sowed the idea in his head. 

He needed to see the capital city. It was one of the most vibrant settings in the world of Cursed Love, and he’d be damned if he couldn’t witness it for himself, even if it were a mere distant glimpse. Yuuji stubbornly climbing the tree trunk until he was able to swivel himself onto a sturdy branch, where briefly, he sits, staring down into the cityscape that seemed to sprawl out endlessly in testament to the prosperity of the current empire.

Where even from his far off perch, Yuuji can tell it is absolutely bustling with life, exactly like the period dramas he used to enjoy with his grandfather on quieter weekends. Young Yuuji had often been mesmerised by those films, the scenes of busy markets, travelling tradesmen and crowded streetscapes all riveting for a child his age. 

And perhaps it is nostalgia, or a sentimental longing, but Yuuji is strangely filled with the inexplicable urge to explore. To get out into the fray and live his life instead of sitting listlessly in the palace walls like some caged canary. It’s the least he could do to honour his grandpa’s hopes for him living a meaningful life.

Though that is easier said than done. Because even Yuuji knew leaving was out of the question. Concubines existed to serve the King alone, and consequently, spent their whole lives housed within the palace. They rarely left its confines unless to accompany the King as per his command, or granted explicit permission to do so under unique circumstances. 

And no one would possibly allow him that privilege, at least… not knowingly - Yuuji suddenly struck with the most mischievous of schemes as he gave the city one last yearning look, before leaping down from his position on the branch. 

“Yuki! Catch!” He calls out cheerfully, dropping down towards the ground right into the flailing arms of his scrambling knight, who barely managed to cushion his fall, albeit at the cost of his own body, since Yuuji’s accelerated weight caused the poor boy to crumple - Junpei screaming all the while. 

“My Lady! Are you harmed!” He shrieks, as Yuki grunts, hauling the both of them upright as he too begins to examine the teen.

“Are you alright?” He stresses, immediately searching Yuuji over for any visible signs of injury as the teen blinks flusteredly - and guiltily.

He hadn’t actually expected the knight to dive for him like that. Rather, he’d been more than prepared to stick his landing in a boisterous display, ready to show off the physical prowess that had made him so famous in middle school. For Yuki to be so serious about his safety, it was surprisingly human, and a complete contrast to the annoyed and uptight attitude he tried to portray around them. It seemed his young knight was not as uncaring as he acted.

“What were you thinking?” Yuki asks again, this time, with a bit more irritation now that he’d confirmed Yuuji’s wellbeing, garnering a sheepish but gentle smile from the shamefaced teen. 

“You’re actually a real softie, aren’t you Yuki-pi.” Yuuji comments freely, giggling at the dumbfounded look plastered on the other boy’s face at the abrupt statement. “It’s cute! You’re cute!!” He praises, poking a dainty finger between the other’s lowered brows to smoothen out the wrinkles formed from his confusion. 

“I-what-“ Yuki stutters, apparently unused to high praise as his cheeks heated up rapidly, any and all notions of reprimand slipping away against Yuuji’s honest flattery.   

“My my… I didn’t realise the imperial palace housed apes.” A snide voice intrudes, cutting off the tender moment as Yuuji quickly swiveled to his feet to meet the (judgmental) gaze of a tall and indescribably beautiful woman. 

Like Yuuji, she was dressed in an elaborate gown, the soft silks and intricate detailing on its design, along with her gorgeous appearance - sharp, chiseled and elegant - outing her as a fellow concubine. One that must be highly favoured he realised, noting the expensive gold jewellery that adorned her entire body, complementing her silky black hair (tied into a messy spiky ponytail) attractively. 

“I don’t believe I’ve seen you around.” She went on to speak, circling Yuuji slowly as her eyes scanned him from head to toe, prompting Yuuji to subtly shift and straighten out his own disheveled gown, mindful in the presence of a fellow concubine. 

“Though they say the new Kamo princess has been lurking around these dreary parts.” She ponders, smirking at her obvious jab.

To which Yuuji nods, cautious. From his peripheral, he spots Junpei, who is unusually pale, lips twisted into a firm, guarded grimace, as if he’d swallowed a most sour lemon. 

She must be bad news then, Yuuji infers, dampening his instinctive disappointment at the sour turn of events. It had been less than an hour since his impromptu trip had started, and already they had attracted trouble. Because needless to say, this newcomer did not have the friendliest of demeanours or intentions, her stance and tone overtly off putting. 

But still, he’d rather not start off on bad terms with the first person he’d met since leaving his residence. And another member of the harem too, where Kamo Yuuji had once found useful companions to stand by his side. Mimiko and Nanako, if he recalled correctly. They had been rather helpful to the villain during his time at the palace, so Yuuji had hoped to maintain cordial relations with the rest of the harem - no point in making more enemies than required right? Though he supposed without the combined goal of outshining Zenin Megumi, and Yuuji’s less commandeering personality, there was no reason for them to be united. 

“Ahem, yes. I’m Ita- Kamo Yuuji.” He introduces, hand raised in a polite gesture that is not returned, the woman too busy inspecting his tousled form in disgust. 

“I heard the Kamo princess was an unmatched beauty. But I see now, that the whispers of the court are not to be relied on.” She snorts snidely. The attendant beside her - a girl with an oddly scorpion shaped braid - giggling just as nastily too, to Junpei and Yuki’s chagrin, their bodies stiffening in muted indignation. 

“Well, only fools believe in tales they haven’t seen for themselves.” Yuuji fires back, shrugging with a nonchalant tilt as the pretty woman flinches, her delicate features narrowing into a mean glare. Pointless, for it would take more than a few snarky jabs to intimidate Yuuji into submission. 

“How fitting.” She spits out evenly, after a tense and terse silence. “An uncouth tongue, for an uncouth boor. Such courage you show, for one who has yet to even greet the King.” 

“And yet here you are, gracing this lowly one with your company, rather than His Majesty.” He snarks back, unbeknownst to the woman, all too aware of the fact that Sukuna hardly engaged with the royal harem (and by extension, her too). She could deride his standing all she wanted, but it wasn’t like the rest of them were faring that much better either - this point an effective sore spot going by the concubine’s furious snarl.

“You-“ She outright growls, before ultimately catching herself, scoffing.

“The palace is peaceful only to those who know when to bow their heads.” 

“So I would watch my steps very carefully if I were you. You wouldn’t want to overstep.” She sneers, straightening to her full height to tower menacingly over Yuuji, much to his chagrin. Being petite never felt so unfavourable in this moment, though he refused to waver, chest puffing forward just as boldly in challenge.

“Duly noted.”  He smirked, the two concubines trading one last contemptuous glower before the woman flips her hair - strands slapping him in the face as she ambled away dismissively. 

“How rude!” Yuki admonishes, when the concubine is far enough from their range to hear, to which Junpei sighs forlornly. 

“That was Yorozu. She too, is an official concubine of the royal harem.” He explained. 

“I figured as much.” Yuuji says, frowning at the unsurprising revelation.

“She is deeply backed by Minister Jogo.” Junpei goes on to elaborate. “He believes her to be the best Queen candidate to wed His Majesty. So her… personality is rather… “ Junpei pauses, struggling to find the right words to describe the eccentric woman when Yuki rolls his eyes, jeering.

“Rather haughty, is she not?” He finishes for the taciturned attendant, less reserved with his choice of depiction. “Regardless of the current standings within the palace harem… you are still the Kamo Clan’s princess, she should mind her manners.”

“Awwww, don’t tell me you’re worried on my behalf, Yuki.” Yuuji cooes, earning him another flushed glare from the knight. “But it’s no big deal. She can say whatever she wishes, we shan’t let it ruin our day.”

“But-” Yuki starts, just as Junpei chimes up in agreement. “You don’t deserve to be spoken to like that.” His attendant mumbles sullenly. 

“Aw… you guys…” Yuuji whispers, eyes watering at the defensive display from his two servants, before he eventually caves to the gratitude fluttering in his chest, locking the pair into an awkward one-armed embrace. “You don’t have to worry about me!” 

“Truly, I am not upset by this at all. So let us go. There is still much of the palace to explore.”

.

.

.

A week has passed since Yuuji’s first foray out into the palace, and still; that all-encompassing desire to see the city has not once waned from his consciousness. It speaks to him persistently, a temptress of siren that whispers of packed stalls and winding streets, until inevitably, Yuuji’s curiosity is no longer able to resist, submitting himself to devising a plan to bring that wish into reality. Consequences be damned. 

But first, he needed to find the right opening. After all, the palace is heavily guarded, even in the secluded corners of his residence, and he couldn’t afford to be caught in the act by the squadrons on patrol. 

In saying that however, there are areas where their vigilance does thin, mainly around the service wings, where the palace staff conducted their duties out of sight from the other residents, whether that be the cooking or the laundry or whatever chore was required at the time. 

Yuuji discovers this on a whim, after tailing Junpei as the attendant scurried to grab him a snack on his morning stroll. But perhaps in hopes of avoiding obstructing the staff amidst their work, the guards do not circle the service wing as regularly as they do other parts of the palace. And there is even a brief window in the late morning, where a changing of shifts leaves the area behind the stove station wide open.

Yuuji is athletic, so he is certain he can scale the wall at that zone with little setback. It’d only be a matter of dashing into the thickened bushlands without being noticed, that is the concern. 

That, and his personal servants, who were practically glued to his hip. Junpei is a constant presence at his side, rightfully so as his personal attendant, and would be his biggest obstacle no doubt in sneaking out. 

As for his knights, Hakari is the most skilled, but mainly takes guard duty throughout the night (perhaps wishing to deal with Yuuji as little as possible), so Yuuji only really needed to contend with the remaining two - Yuki, who he is acquainted with rather well by now, and a stickler for rules, making him a tricky component. And Saki Rindo, the other novice knight, and one of the few women of that rank from what he’s heard. 

She is notably less earnest with her role, and has seemingly adopted Hakari’s hands off approach to her duties, likely perceiving her Captain’s attitude as a gauge to how important her duties watching Yuuji was. Which translated to hardly significant at all. 

Though that did work to his advantage in this case, since she often napped during her shifts, making her rotation on duty the best time to act. All that was left really, was Junpei, who was currently tending to Yuuji as he laid in bed ‘sick’.

“Oh dear, perhaps the morning chill has been too much on your body.” He frets, pouring Yuuji another cup of warm tea, sprinkled with a pinch of medicinal herbs.

From his mattress, Yuuji nods with feigned exhaustion, accepting the drink with shaky hands. 

“Perhaps.” He mumbles, before loudly gasping, purposefully twisting his face into an expression of deep sorrow - the kind that had Junpei leaping into action like clockwork.

“What’s wrong!? Is the tea too hot?”

“No!” Yuuji sobs, borderline close to tears. “My bracelet! It’s gone!”

“What? Which one?” Junpei gasps, already glancing at the bedside floors in hopes of spotting the wayward item.

“The one I’m always wearing! It’s a Kamo heirloom. I normally keep it under my pillow when I’m not using it, but it’s not there!” He cries, crawling to climb off his bed, and into his slippers. “I- I must have dropped it at the gardens! I need to go find it.”

“What! No!” Junpei rejects firmly, pushing Yuuji by the shoulder back to his bed. “You’re much too ill to be moving around.”

“B-but it’s all I have of my family right now!” He argues, adding in a few well placed sniffles in a display he was sure came off quite pitiful. “It’s just me here…I have nothing else of them.” 

And at the deliberate mention of his loneliness, Yuuji could see Junpei’s resolve crumbling like wet sand, his attendant’s demeanour easing up as he comforts Yuuji with a kind smile. 

“Let me go retrieve it for you then.” He offers - hook, line, sinker - and Yuuji is barely able to contain his relief at the successful ruse.

“Oh Junpei! Thank you! It’s imperative you find it for me.” 

“What does it look like?” Junpei asks, tucking Yuuji back into his blanket. “I apologise for my inattentiveness, but I don’t quite recall its appearance." 

“Oh-um… you’ll know the moment you see it!” He stutters, rolling away from Junpei’s perplexed stare. He needed the attendant to spend as much time as possible scouring the massive garden grounds, and a narrowed description would totally ruin that purpose. “I promise to rest while you do so. I’m actually feeling so very tired right now.”

“Oh of course. Please do rest, Yuuji. I’ll be back soon then.”

.

.

.

With Junpei gone, Yuuji immediately jumps into action, far too cognisant of the limited timeframe he had to operate in. Scrambling about, he immediately grabs the casual garbs he’d scrounged up earlier in the week from the laundry rooms, along with the rope and latch he’d use to climb the walls, and he is off. 

Dashing right to the servant’s wing to scale the one section he predicted would be barren - Yuuji able to execute the climb with relative ease due to his athletic predisposition, landing on the other side of the wall with a small and undetected thump. After which, he is darting like a rabbit into the bushline, leveraging the foliage to cover his trail as he began his descent towards the capital. 

Thankfully, he is able to hitch a ride with a pair of friendly farmers a short while into his journey. A rare stroke of luck, for Yuuji hadn’t really thought through the distance it would take to reach the townscape - a good 2 hours by foot, or slightly shorter due to his natural speed. So laying comfy in a haystack cart, Yuuji happily chatters away until their group eventually reaches the outskirts of the city, where he is dropped off with a heartfelt farewell from his short-lived friends. 

Unbelievably, he has pulled it off. Yuuji had actually arrived at the capital, against all odds.

It almost felt too good to be true, the smooth transition of it all. But he supposed his low stature in the palace was to be credited too in his success, for a discarded concubine of little significance to the King had no reason to be surveilled, and neither would he be missed within a palace so busy with other pressing priorities. 

What was designed to be a punishment, had turned into a real blessing in disguise Yuuji thinks cheekily, adjusting the hood of his tattered cloak higher as he slowly made his way through the streets of the city - entranced. 

It was everything he had hoped it would be, and more. Everywhere he peered, there were signs of life, of joy and of human living, whether it be the hearty jeers of raucous pub punters, or the heated exchange between vendors and their bargaining customer, the city is filled with personality. 

In some ways, it reminded him of home, of Tokyo, reminiscent through its bustling crowds and air of excitement - and is a complete contrast to the stuffy environment that permeates the palace at all hours of the day. Which is why Yuuji is so utterly jubilant as he trots to inspect every stall with uncontained curiosity, aware that his freedom is all but fleeting. 

“Interested, missy?” A vendor asks, after Yuuji spends a few seconds too long eyeing the bright red kernels before him. Flaming fire flakes, he reads on the signage, smiling in polite confusion. 

“Oh. Well, what are they?” He enquires back, bending over to peer at the dish in further detail.

“Well only the most delicious snack you’ll find out in these parts!” The man chuckles, hand rested casually on his plump gut! “And newly launched too! To celebrate His majesty’ glory.” He boasted, garnering an inquisitive tilt of the head from Yuuji, slightly thunderstruck at the devoted tribute to the King. 

“How so?” 

“My missy, you must surely have your heads in the clouds! Everybody knows His majesty wields crimson flames of the brightest intensity!” He jokes in good nature as Yuuji hummed in contemplation. He hadn’t really given much consideration to it, mainly due to Cursed Love being a romance story first and foremost, but there were elements of a mythical power system within its setting. 

The protagonist Zenin Megumi, had been touted as the rare user of the Ten Shadows technique, while the other great Clans had been cited to possess powerful abilities of their own, capable of flattening armies. Not that this was frequently showcased in the game. In nature with most otomes, the player was established to have no control over their unique abilities, and often required the male leads to come swooping in to save them for sticky situations. 

That was simply part of the appeal of these games. But that in turn left the rules around the power system quite vague. Still, it was handy to confirm the existence of such dangerous capabilities. If nothing else, Yuuji was at least comforted by the notion that even with powers, the clans and those who wielded them, would likely keep those abilities close to their chest. Unless he actively evoked their anger, Yuuji should be relatively safe. He just needed to stick to his guns and avoid the protagonist and male leads at all cost.

“Right, the King.” Yuuji nods, grinning calmly at the vendor. “Seems a bit much, doesn’t it?”

“Well, the Kingdom is thriving under his rule, is it not? There is none who dares to infringe on his territory, and trade has been booming ever since his ascension to the throne!” The seller boasts, proceeding to unleash his fervent opinions on the King that is nearly shared by every other person Yuuji would go on to speak with. 

Despite his poor reputation as a suitor, it appeared Sukuna was actually a highly regarded ruler. One that is tough no doubt, but fair, Yuuji comes to learn. For according to the common folk, Sukuna kept the typically corrupt nobles in line, reduced taxes across the lower class, and kept opposing nations at bay. There was not much more the average citizen could ask for from their kingdom’s ruler. 

It’s honestly rather humbling, if Yuuji were being candid. He’d been so entirely focused on Sukuna as a danger, that he’d completely painted the man as a monster in his mind, neglecting the reality that just like Yuuji, he was a human too. One that was just as multi-faced as the next person. 

It felt almost unfair now, to pass judgement on him so hastily considering the good that Sukuna had done for his people. Though at the end of the day, he was still Yuuji’s executioner, the cause of his demise. Was it so ridiculous of him to hold an aversion to the man that was his downfall? 

Torn, Yuuji shakes his head. There was no point in dwelling on such complicated matters now, he supposed, not when he had much better things to do - Yuuji resolving to distract himself further amongst the city’s wonders. Yet, just as he prepared to fully indulge in the pleasures that surrounded him, Yuuji is swift to realise one glaring blunder that he had mistakenly overlooked in his plan. 

That is, he is currently, penniless. 

In his hurry to escape, Yuuji had brought nothing, not even some jewels or gold that could be traded and bartered at the markets. The realisation is devastating, and bitterly, Yuuji glances back at the palace, partially inclined to cut his losses and return, though he does ultimately opt to persevere. He’d gone through all the trouble to leave, so might as well make the most of it, regardless of his current state of poverty.

Besides, window shopping is just as enjoyable - Yuuji observing a handful of children snatching fruit from a distracted stall owner with silent mirth, when suddenly, a rough tug has him stumbling back into a firm chest, and a bloodied dagger is raised to his throat.

Eh… EHHHHHHHH!

Instinctively, Yuuji attempts to break free, only to freeze at the dreadful shout that follows.

“Stay back! Or I shall slit his throat!” His crazed assailant yells aloud, swinging the knife at two charging individuals before bringing it back to Yuuji, who manages to puzzle the pieces together despite his panic. It is a chase scene, he processes in horror, straight out of the movies, except he has somehow landed himself in the position of hostage.

“What the hell!?” Yuuji screeches, while the man in front of him clicks his teeth, reaching out an arm to order his companion back as he examines them with an icy stare. They are dressed in all black, Yuuji registers, the type of outfit one wears when they wish to move unnoticed. Mercenaries perhaps? Either way, they seem more annoyed at the situation than anything else, and Yuuji couldn’t help but doubt their intentions.

Realistically, they could just cut their losses and take him down with this crazed bastard over expending the energy to rescue an unassuming bystander. 

But Yuuji couldn’t just die here! Not when he swore to live a good long life. So with a loud war cry unbecoming of a noble, Yuuji grasps his attacker by the arm with the dagger - preventing any chance at retaliation - before he is lunging forward, throwing his attacker over the shoulder into the hard ground with a loud slam. Disarming the bastard next as he twists their arm aggressively, keeping them pinned with ease.

Yuuji has always been physically stronger than the average individual, and had been in his fair share of fights too during his middle school years. He was no stranger to beating up a few punks, which had finally paid off in the long run, as those skills had just saved his life. Yuuji panting as more men suddenly surrounded him, quickly bringing his attacker into their custody. 

“Not bad…” A deep voice murmurs, and Yuuji glances back to the approaching form of the two males who had been first to arrive at the scene. Without his life hanging by a thread, Yuuji is able to better appraise them, cautious, though that does not deter the one who speaks from closing the distance. 

He is admittedly striking, Yuuji notes, with crimson eyes that almost glowed from the intensity of his focus, complementing the midnight black of his hair well, which he wore slicked back in a stylish manner. In any other world, he would most certainly be a model, or a popular actor, with his attractive face and towering figure. The muscles on his arms alone nearly larger than Yuuji’s entire head, and his bulk wide enough to cover his comrade, who had to step forth to speak. 

“Indeed. That was a most commendable takedown.” 

.

.

.

The Star Plasma Association. A pseudo cult, and notorious criminal organization that operated in the darkest underbelly of Sukuna’s kingdom, trafficking humans and contraband alike in a wretched network that spanned many a nations, weakening the constitution of their society, and undermining Sukuna’s royal authority that had long since outlawed such crimes. 

To put it frankly, they were an issue, one that had festered for far too long beneath the neglectful watch of corrupt lords while Sukuna had been preoccupied in the battlefront, seizing territories and fending off encroaching armies. 

But now that he had been back for a few years, and had… wiped his councils and lands clean of unsavoury influences, the Star Plasma Association could no longer be overlooked, lest they develop into a peskier problem that would require much more effort to squash in the foreseeable future. 

Thus, although it had taken months of covert espionage from his most elite squadron to uncover a fraction of their many hidden bases, and a few more weeks of spreading misinformation to lull the fools into a false sense of security, Sukuna had successfully laid his trap by announcing his intentions to partake in an official hunting expedition. Where he would ‘embark’ out of the kingdom with a few of his most trusted companions, who he often invited to these casual outings, only to circle back in disguise to meet his knights and close in on their real prey. 

For just the mere idea that Sukuna would be away from the palace for a considerable time would be ample opportunity for those bastards to act. Conniving rats could never resist coming out to play when they felt the time was prime. 

And like clockwork, they proceeded to gather a substantial number of their forces to an old warehouse for an underground auction that was never to be. Sukuna himself, and his select knights, personally raiding their base in a violent ambush that left majority of the gathering slaughtered, and a handful kept alive, merely as a source of vital intel.  

Only one slippery roach had managed to scurry away in the fray, but Sukuna was not the type to permit loose ends, chasing the fiend throughout the twisting turns of the city’s complex back alleys with Uraume in tow. Together, they divided and conquered, leading their target down a path for Uraume to cleanly intercept and detain. 

Yet, just when they believe they have him cornered, the bastard lunges at an unsuspecting bystander, dragging the squirming individual to hold against their blade.  

“Stay back! Or I shall slit his throat!”

“What the hell!?”

The scene is pure tomfoolery, and Sukuna nearly rolls his eyes at the pathetic ploy. A mere hostage would not save them from Sukuna’s wrath. Briefly, he signals at Uraume to stand down as he coolly assesses the situation. 

At a glance, it seemed the man had nabbed a young boy to wrestle captive, the teen a delicate looking thing with the most peculiar pink hair. Like peaches, Sukuna observes offhandedly, his gaze meeting that of the boy’s golden eyes, which remained transfixed on the dagger held right to his throat with an expression of sheer disbelief. As if the teen could barely process the conundrum he’d found himself in. 

And completely absent of fear, Sukuna noted with concealed fascination, since most people would be screaming bloody murder by now, begging for their lives, and for Sukuna to save them, even louder so, should they recognise him as their King. 

Fortunately for Sukuna, his current disguise, which he regularly donned on covert missions, kept his identity veiled during occasions like this, transforming the hues of his hair black, and the icy blue of his pupils into a crimson red that had him fully incognito. 

Therefore, the boy shows not a hint of deference, ignorant to the presence of his King before him. And far too busy glaring anxiously between Sukuna, Uraume and his assailant, as if measuring the danger each man posed in another interesting show of bravery. 

Because based on his robes, modest yet quality made, along with his rather tidy state, Sukuna assumed him to be of moderate status. Perhaps the child of a rich merchant? Or simply someone well cared for, who had never faced hardship in his life. Like the pathetic snivelling lower nobility that occasionally graced his palace. They rarely had the backbone to withstand any inkling of pressure. 

Either way, a pampered upper crest boy could complicate the situation, since his coddling parent would surely kick a massive fuss should the boy come to harm. And Sukuna loathed to dump his team with further ‘clean up duty’ when this mission was meant to be under the radar in the first place, and had already dragged on longer than he’d prefer.

So, peeved as he was to resort to it, this dilemma may be better solved with more… unconventional means - Sukuna raising two pointed fingers to summon his cursed energy, ready to cleave the culprit’s arm into mince for Uraume to seize the helpless hostage. 

However, just as he intends to act, Sukuna is brought to a screeching halt when he hears the most boorish and ungracious grunt - that crude noise being the only warning they receive before the assailant is being flung up and over the small boy’s shoulder like a sack of flour. The fiend nary standing a chance once smashed so violently into the ground, allowing the teen to wrestle their arms into a lock, heaving. 

After which, the rest of Sukuna’s forces arrive, likely receiving a call for back up from Uraume, and efficiently rushing in to take the apprehended man off the teen’s hands to join the other captured prisoners in chains. 

“Not bad…” Sukuna proceeds to praise, a rare case coming from him, but rightfully deserved, considering the impressive stunt the mystery boy had just pulled off. Not many people could boast about disarming a grown man nearly double their size so easily. Though in the moment, the teen appeared a lot less competent, staring at Sukuna in silent confusion as Uraume stepped forward in agreement.

“Indeed. That was a most commendable takedown.”

“Oh… um thanks!” The boy mumbles shyly. “Who was he anyways?”

“Just a troublesome pest, and nothing of concern for you.” Sukuna answers, shutting down the line of enquiry with a casual deflection. 

“Oh! So he was a bad guy then!” The teen chirps, ignoring Sukuna’s diverted topic to puff his chest forward in what could only be a show of pride, the gravity of his feat finally setting in on the rascal’s slow little brain. 

“Indeed.” Uraume concedes, nodding. “You should be pleased to know your efforts have taken one more miscreant off the streets of the kingdom.” 

“Oh!”

And like an imaginary lightbulb had gone off in the boy’s head, he leaps forth in excitement - arms clasped close to his chest, reminiscent of a child ready to plead their case.  

“So… there must be a reward for his capture then, right? Like some kind of bounty!” He chirps childishly, gold coins practically projecting off his russet pupils, drawing a tepid frown from Sukuna at the materialistic drive.

Typical, Sukuna thinks, glancing sideways at Uraume. Leave it to a merchant’s son to be so damn greedy, Uraume honing in on Sukuna’s displeasure to cease the boy’s assumption on his behalf, cold.

“No.”

“Eh!? Not even a little reward…?” The boy mutters, a petulant pout overtaking his pink cherub lips as he kicked at the ground peevishly with his feet. 

“Stingy…” He whines under his breath, yet just loud enough for Sukuna to catch, the King’s brow twitching in bewilderment at the sheer audacity being displayed in front of him.

This… this brat…

He dared to underestimate Sukuna’s affluence, and imply him incapable of affording due compensation when Sukuna could easily buy him and his family four times over. He didn’t need to honour any reward, for there never had been one on offer, but the affront to his person could not be permitted, Uruame too stiffening in astonishment at the brat’s blasé attitude. 

Normally, he would have the brat strung up and beat under the blazing sun, give him something real to complain about. But with the mission concluding so smoothly, and time spent away from the irritable pests that so often occupied the palace, his patience and temper is rather tame as of late.. 

With a grunt, Sukuna waves Uraume forward, the unspoken signal all Uraume requires to discern his intentions. 

“State your affiliation.” His chancellor proceeded to demand, causing the brat to jolt discomfort, as if he hadn’t just been throwing a silent tantrum moments earlier. 

“Your family. We can arrange for reasonable compensation to be sent to your household.” 

“Oh um… that’s- um in that case, no worries then!” The teen dismisses, suddenly singing a different tune now that his desires were to be met - sweating bullets all the while - and for a brief second, Sukuna finds his suspicions surfacing, only for it to be sunken just as quickly when the boy’s stomach grumbles so loudly it outright echoes. 

An awkward silence settling between them as the male blushes bright red from his ear to his cheeks, much to Sukuna’s hilarity, and Uraume’s bewilderment, unused to such foolish buffoonery.

“It’s- I don’t need anything that formal! How- how about lunch! Your treat of course!” He suggests casually, not at all mindful of how absurdly outlandish his request sounded. Here he was with two men of known allegiances, both of whom had been actively hunting a dangerous criminal, and he wished for them to take him out dining of all things. 

If the teen weren’t so earnest, blinking expectantly at them with his large doe-like eyes, Sukuna would assume he was merely jesting. No one could possibly be so oblivious to their circumstances, leaving him to wonder whether this was really the same boy that had efficiently disarmed a member of the Star Plasma Association. He looked about as sharp as a circle in the moment, with that foolish grin of his. 

“I heard there’s a spot that’s the best in the city!” He chirps again upon receiving no reply, advancing to tug at Sukuna’s sleeve in the perfect imitation of an insistent child determined to get their way. Uraume barely swallowing back a choked heave the longer the brat persisted with his appeal. 

His chancellor’s astounded expression, so vastly different from his typically icy demeanour, combined with the boy’s pure idiocy, enough to make Sukuna crack a smirk. Partially entertained, and impressed by the boy’s bold antics. Never in his rule, had anyone ever been so frank and demanding with him, let alone this bratty. It’s a novel departure from the insipid air of the harem, always slobbering mindlessly over him, or the cowardice of the nobles, too spineless to do anything else but bend over at his every word. 

“You-“ Uraume starts, ready to unleash his full anger that is swiftly quelled when Sukuna speaks.

“Hoh. Then lead the way.” He relents, cutting Uruame off from his reprimand to gesture the brat forward. With the mission done, there was no rush to return to the dull and stale company of the palace. They bored him like nothing else, and if this brat wished to be of entertainment, then so be it.

“Great! Follow me! It’s not too far from here!”

.

.

.

Sukuna has had his fair share of interesting meals, whether that be alone in the barracks on the war front, his food prepared solely with nutrition in mind for the long fight ahead, or hosted in the grandiose banquet hall of his palace, plates of exotic and exquisite dishes laid out in endless abundance, paired with fine wine to match. 

This however, is certainly a first for the mighty King, sat packed together in a cosy but slightly run down pub with Uraume by his side, and a vivacious brat right across from him - who happened to be merrily stuffing his face on the feast he’d shamelessly ordered for himself upon being seated. 

He is fortunate they are loaded, Sukuna grouses with a twitch of the brow, otherwise they would be left with a near impossible bill to pay off at the insane rate the brat was eating. It was like a pig had taken human form to sit across from them, the boy’s lack of regard for dining protocol causing Uraume’s temper to flare back up as his chancellor watched on in disbelief, ever the stickler for etiquette. 

Honestly, one would think a merchant’s child would be slightly more mindful. Most folk of that upper bracket were dearly desperate to prove their proximity to wealth and nobility, often emulating the refined behaviours that defined the greater circle of elites. 

For this brat to be so improper, perhaps he wasn’t of elevated status after all, despite his clean attire and prim appearance. That or he was some kind of runaway, fleeing his family in a bout of defiance, since he is evidently clueless and penniless. It is an intriguing puzzle, one that Sukuna is enticed enough to unravel. 

“This is delicious!” The brat exclaimed, eventually remembering the presence of his current company to belatedly gesture at the plate of dumplings closest to them. “Eat up! You two are missing out!” 

Sourly, Uraume takes a sip of his beer, his disgruntlement at Sukuna’s choice to humour the rambunctious child barely disguised as Sukuna chuckles lightly. 

“Is this not your reward?” He drawls. “You should partake to your heart’s content.” 

“Yeah… but good food is even better when shared!” The brat argued stubbornly, though was thankfully astute enough on this occasion, to discern the gentle rejection, since he does not insist further.

“So, how does a brat such as yourself learn to fight so commendably?” Sukuna asks, slyly kicking off his interrogation as the boy pauses, frowning at the nickname Sukuna had kindly bestowed upon him.

“Brat…? Hey! That’s rude! “He huffs with a frown. “My name’s Y- Itadori!.”

“And it’s not that hard to pick up a few things here and there on the streets. Grandpa used to hate it when I got into scuffles, but it wasn’t like I asked them to pick a fight with me. It just always happened…” He rambled on, trailing off in muted dolour however, the more he touched on the topic of his grandfather. 

“So you’re alone then?” Uraume chimes in, his observant companion also picking up on the solemn language used by the boy when speaking of his grandfather. “You speak as if your family is not around?”

“Oh… well, gramps’ not here with me any more. He hasn’t been for a long while.” Itadori explained quietly, the most subdued he’d seen the brat since they’d met, but radiating with a surge of fondness nonetheless. He clearly held the memory of his grandfather in high regard.

“Ahem, I’m sorry to hear that.” Uraume offers the condolence awkwardly.

“No, it’s fine! Besides, I’m not alone or anything! I’ve only come out here by myself today for a…change of pace, is all.” He brushes off. “But enough about me! How about you guys! That was some impressive stuff! Are you royal knights? I’ve never seen a chase like that before!” Itadori chirps, shooting off a barrage of invasive questions with a lack of hesitation that was almost stifling from the zeal at which he spouted them.

“I suppose you could describe it as such. We operate within the bounds of the royal family.”  Sukuna answers vaguely, unwilling to divulge much more on their activities to some unknown boy, not that it deters the damn brat. 

“Oh…woah. So you’re almost like special knights then?” Itadori surmises, incorrect, but presenting an easy out to his persistent curiosity. “I guess that guy must have been pretty bad news, for the royal palace to be involved.” 

“It’s nice though, that the King is taking the matter seriously.” He comments amiably. “The people will be happy, no doubt!” 

“Hoh? What makes you say that?” Sukuna prods, intrigued by the boy’s assured stance. There were many who would object to the state of his current rule. Sukuna was no fool to the rumours and vitriol that spread across the nobility of the demon king that sat atop the throne. And whilst he’d taken measures to keep their chatter at bay, lest it embolden mutiny, he was under no impression that the common folk didn’t share similar sentiment to the lords that governed over them, nor that they really kept up with political intrigue.

“Well, their lives are impacted the most by what happens in the Kingdom. It’s only right that they are attuned to the nation’s affairs. You really shouldn’t underestimate us little people! They are already quite fond of His Majesty, you know, so this will only flame their vigour.

“I see…” Sukuna murmurs raptly. It is a fresh perspective to hear, and one he rarely is subject to. A consequence of the recent gap that had formed in his understanding of the people, largely led by his many campaigns away from the capital, and the remainder of his duties consumed by squabbles of the nobility. The words of the common folk rarely reached his ears, though it was highly about time it did, especially should there be brewing loyalty that could be further built upon. Sukuna nodding subtly towards Uraume, ensuring his chancellor would note this particular detail for further action. 

“I must say…” Itadori rambles on, a contemplative ambiance on his face. “I’m surprised His Majesty would depart the capital at a time like this. For a hunt no less. Surely he is aware the impact of his absence on your efforts, as a symbol for justice.” 

“He’s never been the type to be so frivolous.” The brat mutters reflectively, theorising moreso to himself now, than the pair before him. Once again, surprising Sukuna with his keen insight. For all his carefree disposition, Itadori demonstrates flashes of sharp intelligence. 

Not a single official or noble of his court has expressed any concern or suspicion on his departure - beyond his handful of inner confidants - in a pathetic display that exposed how little, or lowly, they thought of their King. To believe him so frivolous that he would prioritise his own pleasure over duty. That, or they likely benefited in some conniving manner from his absence. 

Either way, it is a tiring reminder of the complexities surrounding the high court. Truthfully, it would be so much easier if Sukuna could simply behead them all, and rid himself of the constant headache. But alas, the nobility had their respective role to play in supporting and governing the expanse of his kingdom. And the Great Clans would not sit by idly should he attempt to dismantle the foundation of their society. 

“What a keen observation, brat.” He opts to comment instead, head resting coolly on his palm to watch Itadori with avid scrutiny as the boy flinched, dragged back from his deep ruminations. “I wonder how a young lad such as yourself can speak so confidently about the King. Do you perhaps know the man, or do you believe yourself an expert in the matters of the royal palace?” He purrs lowly, teasing of course, but curious too, on why the brat seemed so tuned in on royal affairs. 

“What? NO! I don’t know him at all! Nope! Never met that man in my life.” Itadori blurts out hurriedly, sweating bullets like he’d been caught nicking gold from the treasury with the way his eyes strayed about, unable to meet the gaze of Sukuna or Uraume. Yet, he does not lie, as despite his erratic behaviour, Sukuna has truly never encountered the boy. He’d surely recall someone so… eccentric…had he did. 

“They say he’s a monster.” Sukuna goads, prompting a confused side glance from Uraume. “A cold blooded demon that sits atop a throne of curses.”

“That’s not very nice.” Itadori interjects, firm.

“Coming from a knight too! Doesn’t he pay your wage?” The brat defends weakly, grimacing with the most conflicted of frowns. “Besides… as I too have recently come to learn, you really shouldn’t judge someone so unfairly.”

“If nothing else, the people seem pleased with him, and the kingdom is flourishing. A ruler should be measured on their capability as a leader, than some heedless rumours.” He lectured seriously, his words resonating with Uraume in a rare show of alignment between the unlikely duo as his chancellor nods along eagerly. 

And at that, Sukuna bursts into laughter, unable to contain his amusement at their peculiar scenario. To think he’d be getting reprimanded by a wide-eyed brat in defence of Sukuna himself. So passionately to boot. 

Not to earn his favour, or to divert from ill intent, but simply because Itadori believed in the good of Sukuna’s heart. It’s ridiculously quaint, doubly so when the brat resorts to his signature pout. Upset at being laughed at so openly. 

“Is that so?” Sukuna cooes, after settling down from his cackling fit. “You must be rather enamoured with our King then, to praise him so eminently.” Sukuna jeers with a cocky smirk, one that is swiftly wiped off his face however, when the brat stands, slamming his hands on the table in distress.

“No! Don’t even joke about that! I would NEVER!” Itadori yells, the speed and ferocity at which he shot down his attraction towards Sukuna drawing an irritated scowl from said king - Uraume traitorously turning to guffaw into his palms, bemused no doubt by the agitated outburst. 

Because it is ludicrous. After practically singing compliments towards Sukuna, the damn cheeky brat is now acting as if he wouldn’t touch the King with a ten-foot pole. Which is utterly absurd, for Sukuna is widely renowned as an attractive man. Not only is he royalty and head of the great Ryoumen Clan, but Sukuna is also powerful, with no other equal to him in strength besides the wretched six eyes. 

This snivelling little brat should be grateful at even the notion of being near Sukuna, let alone the chance to worship the ground he walked on! 

“‘May I ask why?” Uraume questions, dragging Sukuna from his silent seething as the King pauses, graciously giving the insolent brat the opportunity to rescind his foolish claims

“Why…? Well,I mean… it’s nothing personal….” He answers with a stiff laugh. “I just don’t think we’d be very compatible. I mean, the life of royalty hardly suits me.”

“Besides, there’s someone perfect out there for him…someone kind, capable and lovely… the ideal match for a great ruler.” Itadori asserts with a confident nod, before digging back into his food, the topic seemingly forgotten as he relishes once more in the flavours of his meal. 

As fickle as the wind, Sukuna grouses, undecided on whether he is entertained or annoyed by the carefree brat. The echoes of his earlier snub still stings, though Sukuna is begrudgingly soothed by the fact the boy’s aversion stemmed mainly from the belief he was not fit for royalty. A statement that is undeniably valid, for no official would allow his unruly temperament in the palace, but still, it is vexing nonetheless. For only Sukuna had the right to decide what and who was best for him, whether that was the most beautiful concubine in the harem, or some lowly street urchin. He alone, was privileged to that choice.

What a maddening brat, he grumbles internally, and yet… Sukuna can’t deny that this is probably the most uninhibited conversation he’d been able to enjoy in a long while, unbound by the restraint and rules of high society, and gratifying in how he can simply take the brat’s words for what they are, authentic. For that alone, he will spare the boy of any dire consequence. 

“That was delicious! Thank you so much for the meal!” Itadori squawks enthusiastically, after they wrap up with the food, and after Sukuna has forked over nearly a full bag of coins to pay their hefty bill. 

“Then the reward is to your standard, brat? Nothing else to whine about.” Sukuna mocks lightly, dodging Itadori’s retaliatory slap at the persistent nickname, the boy apparently comfortable enough in Sukuna’s presence to even dare raise his hand against the man - Sukuna catching Itadori by the wrist before he can land a single strike, and bringing him to a stop, where briefly, the brat meets his gaze, irritation melting away to exude a sweet softness that has Sukuna’s chest seizing for reasons unknown to him. 

“Mmhmm. Thank you! The food was just as good as they said.”

“And… and you were wonderful company.” Itadori compliments with what must have been the brightest smile Sukuna had ever seen, one that lit up his entire face, drowning out their surroundings until there was only the brat in front of him. 

Subsequently, Sukuna finds himself staring longer than intended, brain dissecting what it was about Itadori that was so… beguiling - leaving the brat to blink owlishly at him in a most a vulnerable expression that is only made more distracting by the small crumb staining his chin, just below his plump lips. 

“You’re a messy little brat, aren’t you?” Sukuna chides, shifting his attention from the discomposure that this brat seemed to inspire so effortlessly, to instead grip him by the chin. Sukuna leveraging this new hold to brush a finger across the supple skin under his mouth, wiping it clean of the food that marked it while Uraume openly gawked. Shocked by the brazen display from the normally distant monarch, even if he is wise enough to refrain from calling out the disregard in etiquette as Itadori gasps, eyeing the crumb on Sukuna’s finger with sheepish embarrassment.

“Oh!” He mumbles. Then recklessly, he brings the King’s finger to his mouth, lips wrapping around the stained digit to lick it clean in an utterly lewd display that has Sukuna stiffening in stupor, caught off guard by the brazen advance. 

This brat!

“Grandpa always said to never waste food!” He jokes, unfazed by the inappropriate transgression he’d just casually committed. 

“You-“ Uraume splutters, having hit the limit of disorderly conduct he could overlook that day as he roughly separated the pair - Itadori taking a step back in hurt confusion that turns cold upon spotting the town’s distant clock tower.

“Oh! I’m late!” He squeaks, intending to dash off without even a wave goodbye had Sukuna not yanked him back by the arm. 

“Itadori. Perhaps we shall cross paths again.” Sukuna promises, already planning a harmless little visit to the cheeky wretch, once he’d gotten Uraume to dig up every last crumb of information on the brat and his family. How befuddled he shall be, when it is the King that knocks on his humble doorstep. 

“Maybe.” Itadori utters, neither agreeing or disagreeing with his  declaration as he pulls away with a small smile, dashing into the crowd as Sukuna watches on until he can no longer track the brat’s fleeing form. Only then, does he turn to Uraume with a pleased smirk. 

“What a peculiar boy.” His chancellor mutters indistinctly.

“Indeed.” Sukuna purrs. “I want you to find everything you can on him the second we are back at the palace. Now, let us depart.”