The sun was just beginning to rise over Tokyo, bathing Jujutsu High in soft gold light. The first-year squad—Yuji, Takeru, Megumi, and Nobara—stood nervously in front of Gojo, who lounged casually, arms crossed and a smirk on his face.
"You're late," Gojo teased, though the smile didn't quite reach his eyes. "But you all… did remarkably well. Against special-grade threats, no less. Huh."
Takeru's Six Eyes glimmered faintly, still sharp despite the exhaustion. "It was… necessary. We couldn't afford failure."
Yuji nodded, wiping sweat from his brow. "Yeah… but we actually did it. We stopped the finger bearer and Eso and Kechizu."
Gojo's grin widened. "Exactly. That's why—" He paused dramatically, raising a hand. "—you're all officially promoted. First-year sorcerers with enhanced privileges and responsibilities. Consider it a recognition of your growth."
Nobara blinked, then grinned. "Enhanced privileges? Does that mean we get better weapons and missions?"
Gojo chuckled. "Better weapons? Maybe. Better missions? Oh, absolutely. But with that comes more danger. Special-grade threats won't stop just because you got a promotion. Far from it."
Megumi adjusted his stance, eyes narrowing. "So the challenges only get bigger."
Takeru's gaze softened slightly as he looked at Yuji. "…It's a step forward, but also a reminder. There's still a lot we don't understand. The Sukuna fingers, Mahito… the new Death Paintings…"
Yuji clenched his fists. "We'll handle it. Together."
From Takeru's cheek, Sukuna stirred, voice low but intrigued. "Hmm… promotions. Power growth. Bonds strengthening. This… complicates things. Very interesting…"
Gojo folded his arms, smirking. "See? Sukuna's worried. That's how you know you're doing something right."
Takeru's eyes glimmered faintly, thoughtful. "…It's not just about power. It's about understanding. Knowing your limits, your strengths… and the people you fight alongside."
Yuji nodded, smiling faintly at Takeru. "Yeah. We've come a long way since the first day."
Gojo let out a soft whistle. "And we're just getting started, kids. Just getting started."