The scene unfolded in a quiet, upscale restaurant. Gojo Mamoru sat across from a composed, middle-aged man in his forties.
Ordinarily, a meeting like this would feel out of place for someone who was technically still a child. But Mamoru showed no signs of discomfort. His upright posture and calm demeanor radiated a maturity that belied his age.
The man sitting across from him appeared equally unfazed. Despite the oddness of the situation, the two regarded each other with quiet confidence.
In the strangely tense but courteous atmosphere, the man was the first to speak.
"It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Sakayanagi, Chairman of Advanced Nurturing High School."
"Nice to meet you. I'm Gojo Mamoru."
"Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to come today."
A polite, formal greeting typical of someone in his position. His composure was admirable, though it felt slightly excessive given that he was speaking to a child.
"You don't need to be so formal," Mamoru said with a wry smile. "I'm still a novice—and a student, technically. No need to be so stiff with me."
"You haven't enrolled yet," the chairman replied. "You're here as a specialist, so I was treating this as business. But if it makes things easier, I'll try to loosen up."
"That would be appreciated. I'm not great with formal occasions. I was hoping we could just talk openly."
Despite this request, both kept their language polite—a minimum form of mutual respect. Still, the tension in the room seemed to ease slightly.
"I'd like to get straight to business, but first... I owe you an apology," Chairman Sakayanagi said, bowing slightly from his seat.
Mamoru blinked, caught off guard.
"Apology? For what? I'm not being sarcastic—I genuinely have no idea."
"Regarding this request… we're asking a lot. Honestly, we should've arranged to have you stationed here under more ideal conditions."
Mamoru looked upward, connecting the dots.
"Ah, I see. So this wasn't your original idea."
"No, it wasn't. Many of those in government and education circles still don't believe in curses. As chairman, my authority has limits."
Mamoru chuckled softly. "Sounds familiar. The higher-ups in the Jujutsu world are the same way—conservative and rigid."
"So you're aware of curses, then?" Mamoru asked.
"Yes. Years ago, your brother helped me during an incident. Since then, I've developed… a kind of sixth sense. I can't see curses, but I can feel when something is wrong. That's how I noticed something off on campus this time."
"I see. Well, I accept your apology. Let's move on to the job details."
"Thank you. As discussed, the assignment will last three years. You'll enroll as a student. If any cursed activity occurs, your job is to eliminate the threat and, if possible, prevent it before it starts."
"Understood. I'll do what I can, but we can't prepare for what we don't understand. And since I'll be working solo, I can't guarantee everything will go perfectly."
"That's fine. We only ask that you handle it to the best of your ability."
"On that note, are there any precautions I should take regarding student life?"
"Yes… actually, I must apologize again. Mamoru-kun, how much do you know about our school?"
"Only the basics. It's Japan's most prestigious institution with a unique curriculum. Very secretive, too."
"Correct. But I can't reveal the details of that curriculum in advance."
Mamoru frowned slightly. He didn't care much about academics, but if the chairman brought it up, it likely had relevance to the mission.
"Because of our school's philosophy, we won't treat you any differently from other students. You'll take the same classes and follow the same rules."
"That's fine. I figured as much. But is there a specific issue?"
"Yes. If you're expelled—for poor attendance or failing grades—the expulsion is final. We can't revoke it, even for someone in your position."
"Huh. I did okay in middle school, so it shouldn't be a problem… but from the way you're talking, there's more to it?"
"I can't say more for now. You'll understand after you enroll. I'm truly sorry for the lack of transparency, especially since we're the ones asking for help."
"One question, then. If I get expelled, does that mean the mission's over?"
"Unfortunately, yes. We don't have other options. But we won't blame you—that's our responsibility."
Mamoru could tell the school wouldn't lift a finger to make exceptions, even though they'd be the ones suffering from his absence. It irritated him slightly, but he held his tongue.
"Just one thing—if you can bend the rules to let me in, why not bend them to keep me in?"
"Admissions are flexible. We don't choose students based on academics alone. Your enrollment was approved based on my personal recommendation."
"So… that entrance exam I took was meaningless?"
"Not at all. Scores and interviews still affect evaluations. It wasn't pointless."
The chairman's tone shifted slightly, becoming more like that of a teacher.
"Your grades were excellent. That reflected well on you."
At least all that studying hadn't been for nothing. Mamoru let out a small breath of relief.
"Ah, one more thing," the chairman said. "My daughter will be in your class. She's a bright child, but a bit strong-willed. If she comes off as rude, I'd appreciate your patience."
"Your daughter, huh…?" Mamoru gave a neutral nod but seemed to be thinking about something.
"Is something bothering you?"
"Yeah. Let me ask this as the contractor, not the student. If your daughter and another student were both in danger, who would you expect me to prioritize?"
The chairman's expression stiffened ever so slightly.
He clearly understood how serious the question was—after all, he'd witnessed a cursed incident before. Mamoru knew it was harsh but felt it needed to be asked.
"...This mission is for the school's protection, and I speak as chairman. I can't give preferential treatment. I'll leave decisions to those on the ground."
It wasn't a direct answer, but Mamoru nodded anyway, sensing the weight behind the man's restraint.
"That's all for now. Here's my contact info. Feel free to reach out if anything comes up. Also—take this."
Mamoru pulled a small bag of charms from his pocket.
"What is it?"
"Cursed charms. They carry my energy. If something happens, I can trace it and rush over. It also keeps weaker curses away."
"That's useful. Thank you."
"It lasts for three years. Water- and fireproof too. But if you lose it, the next one'll cost you."
"How much?"
"About two million yen."
The chairman blinked. That was a lot of money—even for him.
Still, Mamoru wasn't being greedy. He wasn't attached to money, but giving it away for free could make others underestimate its value.
Besides, he could locate the charm easily if it was lost. The fee was more of a deterrent than a necessity.
"I see. I'll be careful."
"Good. And thank you again. Here's my contact info as well. If you need anything, don't hesitate."
"Got it."
With that, the meeting came to a close.
Student Profile (Advanced Nurturing High School)
Name: Gojo Mamoru
Class: 1st Year, Class A
Birthday: April 27
Academic Ability: B
Intelligence: A−
Judgment: A−
Physical Ability: A
Cooperation: C
Honestly... With how jjk future canon main story, where the conflict waiting. I doubt cote will still relevant lol