S1, Chapter 5: The Narcissistic Sorcerer, Suguru Geto

                                    

                                          

                            
                              
                                
                                
                              
                            
                            
                          
I do not own Jujutsu Kaisen or My Hero Academia.
Previously on... Izuku Okkotsu: The Cursed Hero
Chapter 4 Recap:
Three months have slipped by since Itsuka last heard from Izuku, and a gnawing worry has begun to take root in her heart. She often finds herself lost in thought, reflecting on their last meeting—the warmth of their bond contrasted with the unsettling silence since. At the Iron Claw Dojo, she stands at a crossroads, grappling with whether to reach out to him. Ultimately, she decides against it, holding onto the hope that their connection remains strong and that he is staying safe amid whatever challenges he may face.
Meanwhile, a different storm brews at Jujutsu High, where Gojo finds himself in a tense and uncomfortable meeting with the elders. They gather to discuss the emergence of Rika Orimoto, a Special-grade cursed spirit known for her vengeful nature. The elders are critical, voicing their concerns about Gojo's approach to managing the situation; their judgment weighs heavily in the air. But Gojo stands his ground, passionately defending his methods. He argues for the necessity of exploration and experimentation to fully understand such formidable entities, despite their reservations. When the elders bring up the postponed execution of Izuku Yagi, Gojo's expression hardens. He firmly asserts his commitment to Izuku, vowing to protect him against any threats, no matter the consequences.
Later, Gojo observes Izuku training alongside his fellow students Maki, Toge, and Panda. The training grounds hum with energy as Izuku strives to keep pace, clearly struggling yet shining with determination. Gojo reflects on the delicate nature of youth, the importance of nurturing their potential so they can emerge stronger in the face of adversity. After training, he leads Izuku to an old shed crammed with mystical artifacts, each with its own history and significance. Here, he explains that controlling Rika's curse involves channeling her energy into objects like a katana, paving the way for deeper understanding and mastery.
Soon, the training evolves into a friendly spar between Maki and Izuku. Although he is clearly outmatched, his grit and resilience begin to earn Maki's respect. Encouraged by her recognition, Izuku pushes himself harder, slowly honing his skills. The atmosphere lightens with playful banter between Panda and Maki, a delightful contrast to the intensity of their training.
As their camaraderie grows, Gojo assigns Izuku the responsibility of accompanying Inumaki on a mission to exorcise curses at the ominous Hapina Shopping Center. Upon their arrival, an eerie stillness envelops the place, amplifying the sense of dread hanging in the air. Inumaki prepares some throat medicine to aid his cursed speech while scanning the surroundings, alert for any signs of danger. Suddenly, grotesque low-level curses resembling twisted sardines emerge—low-hanging fruit, yet formidable in their own right. Inumaki quickly unleashes the might of his cursed speech, commanding them to dissolve, leaving Izuku both impressed and a touch wary of the strain it places on his partner.
However, an unseen force looms over them; the veil surrounding the area remains intact, hinting at the presence of something far more dangerous. Suddenly, a formidable semi-grade 1 curse materializes, its grotesque form shifting unpredictably. The weight of the battle falls heavily upon them, and Inumaki's cursed speech proves less effective against this formidable foe. Injured but undeterred, Izuku realizes that he must act decisively. Channeling Rika's energy through the katana he had trained with earlier, he creates a distraction that allows Inumaki to retrieve the much-needed throat medicine. With renewed determination, Inumaki unleashes a powerful command that lands a crushing blow, vanquishing the curse in a triumphant surge.