Outskirts of Coruscant
The outskirts of Coruscant stretched out in a maze of half-constructed skyscrapers, industrial zones, and abandoned infrastructure—a desolate landscape on the planet's fringes, carefully chosen to host the impending clash between Gojo and Sukuna. Far from the bustling cityscape, it was a secluded area, a shadowed corner of the sprawling metropolis where prying eyes and potential devastation could be avoided. The wind whistled through steel beams and unfinished walkways, adding to the eerie, impending sense of chaos. The stage was set, a colossal urban arena meant to contain the unleashed fury of two of the most dangerous beings in existence.
Sukuna materialized beside Gojo, his ethereal form flickering with malevolent energy. He looked around, sneering at the chaotic skyline of twisted metal and concrete. "This is it, huh?" Sukuna mocked, his voice dripping with contempt. "Your grand arena. From the luxury of Coruscant to this industrial wasteland—seems fitting. Now it's your turn to switch to my horrible position, brat. Trapped, desperate, and on the edge of losing it all." His laugh was a twisted echo that bounced off the towering structures and tangled pipes.
Gojo merely chuckled in response, unfazed by Sukuna's taunts. "You think I care about location? Whether it's the heart of Coruscant or some forgotten corner of the galaxy, I'm still me. And you? You're just a footnote in my story."
Before the tension could escalate further, Padmé's voice rang out, cutting through the silence. "Gojo!" she called, her tone firm yet laced with an undercurrent of concern. Yukinami, Suzunami, Reika, and Anakin followed, rushing to Gojo's side. One by one, they embraced him, their arms wrapping tightly around the sorcerer in a collective show of support.
Suzunami, the ever-stoic, gripped Gojo's arm firmly. "Don't die, Sensei," he said with a rare hint of vulnerability. "You're the only one who can handle all this madness."
Yukinami, her eyes filled with determination, clung to Gojo's sleeve. "Please be careful, Sensei," she said softly, yet with conviction. "We need you to come back."
Reika, usually composed, let a smirk slip as she glanced at the others. "So, who gets the position to have Gojo's heart if he makes it through this?" she joked, her eyes flicking mischievously between Padmé, Yukinami, and herself.
Padmé chuckled softly, a glimmer of determination shining through her worry. "Well, it's not a contest, but… I'm not stepping aside easily."
Yukinami, blushing slightly, still managed a small smile. "I'm just happy to have Sensei with us," she murmured, her devotion clear.
Anakin, standing by his mother's side, looked up at Gojo with a mix of admiration and respect. "You're my Idiot Sensei," Anakin said with a bold grin, his voice filled with youthful determination. "You're going to win this, right?"
Gojo, caught in the middle of their lighthearted banter, couldn't help but smile. For a moment, the gravity of the upcoming battle seemed to fade, replaced by the warmth of camaraderie and the fierce bonds he had forged.
As the group shared their parting words, Gojo couldn't help but glance at Sukuna, half-expecting some scathing remark or mocking farewell. But Sukuna remained silent, his usual smirk absent.
Gojo raised an eyebrow, genuinely surprised. "No parting insults? No mocking about how this might be the end?"
Sukuna glanced at Gojo, his expression unreadable. For once, there was no malice, no scorn—just a simple acknowledgment of the stakes they were about to face. "Consider it my last gift," Sukuna said, a dark chuckle escaping him. "No mocking at the end. After all, one of us isn't coming back from this."
Gojo laughed, a mix of amusement and respect for Sukuna's uncharacteristic restraint. "Fair enough," Gojo replied. "Let's give them a show they'll never forget."
With a calm wave of his hand, Gojo activated the teleportation circle beneath Padmé, Yukinami, Suzunami, Reika, and Anakin. The circle glowed, casting a soft light as it expanded to envelop them. With a hum of energy, they vanished, safely transported to the Senate Rotunda.
Back in the industrial outskirts, Gojo's demeanor shifted to one of intense focus as he began preparing the binding vow, a crucial part of their pre-arranged agreement. Ethereal chains materialized, coiling around both Gojo and Sukuna, not as a surprise but as a necessary reminder of the stakes they'd set. The air thrummed with tension as the vow manifested in full, a scale that even Sukuna found impressive. He watched with interest; this was not just any binding vow—this was a commitment that matched the gravitas of their confrontation.
Sukuna's gaze sharpened as the chains tightened. "This isn't like any binding vow I've ever experienced," he noted, his voice steady, unshaken. "But then again, you're not like anyone I've ever faced. The terms are set—if I win, your body is mine. If you win, you get the shrine, no strings attached."
Gojo nodded, meeting Sukuna's intense stare. "Exactly. No tricks, no excuses. Just a straight fight to the end."
With a twisted grin, Sukuna launched his first assault, unleashing a barrage of Dismantle. The invisible slashes tore through the steel and concrete around them, reducing the towering structures to heaps of debris. Buildings collapsed, and the sky above seemed to fracture under the relentless onslaught.
Gojo looked up, seeing the cascading wreckage hurtling towards him. The weight of the collapsing structures would be devastating without his Limitless, but Gojo moved swiftly, dodging to the side. His sharp eyes caught the moment Sukuna reactivated Domain Amplification, using it to breach Gojo's defenses for the next strike.
Sukuna lunged, his fist glowing with the eerie aura of Domain Amplification, bypassing Gojo's defenses just long enough to deliver a crushing blow. Gojo barely managed to dodge, but a stray piece of debris caught him off guard, threatening to pin him under the collapsing wreckage.
But Gojo, ever adaptable, grabbed Sukuna's arm mid-strike, yanking him into the descending chaos. "You want to play dirty?" Gojo taunted, pulling Sukuna with him through the falling debris. "Let's get real messy, then."
Sukuna's eyes widened briefly before he let out a fierce laugh. "You think dragging me down with you is enough?" he roared, relishing the physical clash. "I'm the King of Curses, brat. You're nothing without your tricks!"
The two warriors crashed through the rubble, fists flying as they grappled amidst the wreckage. Gojo twisted, driving an elbow into Sukuna's ribs, using the falling debris as a weapon of opportunity. Sukuna countered with a knee to Gojo's gut, each blow heavy with the force of their respective cursed energy.
Every time Sukuna wanted to connect, Domain Amplification flared, bypassing Gojo's defenses just long enough for Sukuna to strike. But Gojo was relentless, using his agility and precision to counter, evading direct hits and turning the battlefield's chaos to his advantage.
Gojo's expression remained cool, even as they clashed amidst the destruction. "This isn't just about power, Sukuna. It's about proving who's better—who's smarter, who's faster."
Sukuna snarled, throwing another punch with amplification to break through Gojo's defenses. "Don't get cocky, brat. I'll rip you apart with my bare hands if that's what it takes to—"
In a flash, Gojo summoned the Arm of Darkness, a manifestation of his newly acquired powers, and slashed forward with lethal precision. The blade severed Sukuna's arm cleanly, dark shadows trailing the strike. Sukuna's eyes briefly widened as he stared at his severed limb, a flicker of shock crossing his face before it morphed into a look of fury mixed with twisted delight.
The brat… he's only supposed to have Ten Shadows, the Shrine, and Limitless, Sukuna thought, his gaze narrowing as he analyzed the dark, writhing blade in Gojo's hand. Don't tell me… in just a few days, he's upgraded himself to create his own technique?
Sukuna's expression hardened, the sting of losing an arm overshadowed by a grudging respect for Gojo's relentless drive to surpass him. But respect didn't dull the rage simmering within him—it only fueled his determination. Without a word, he activated his Reverse Cursed Technique, his severed arm regenerating instantly, sinew and bone knitting back together as though the damage had never occurred. The flesh reformed flawlessly, and Sukuna flexed his fingers, rolling his shoulders as if shaking off the inconvenience.
Gojo watched with narrowed eyes, the reality settling in. I'm fighting an immortal here, he realized, a laugh escaping him, not of despair but of exhilaration. Alright, let's do this.
Sukuna's response was not with words but with action. He raised both hands, forming the Enma seal, his face a mask of cold, unyielding focus. The air around them shifted, growing thick with malevolent energy. With a snap of his fingers, the world around them darkened, the oppressive weight of his cursed energy pressing down on everything within reach.
"Domain Expansion: Malevolent Shrine."
The words were almost a whisper, yet they carried the weight of impending doom. The sprawling domain erupted around them, a grotesque, twisted shrine that stretched for 30 kilometers, reducing everything within its reach—above and below—to dust. Buildings disintegrated, and the very ground beneath their feet turned to rubble under the relentless onslaught of Dismantle slashes.
Gojo, sensing the overwhelming scale of the attack, immediately countered. "Curse Zone: Spatial Domination." His barrier flared, a translucent shield bending space around him to negate the guaranteed hits of the Shrine. The clash of their domains sent shockwaves through the battlefield, the impact reducing the outskirts to a wasteland.
I need to think fast. Gojo's mind raced, analyzing every move, every strike from Sukuna. His Spatial Domination was holding, but he could feel the Malevolent Shrine steadily wearing it down, shrinking his space with every second. I can't keep this up indefinitely. Sukuna's domain will keep eating away at my Curse Zone until there's nothing left.
Sukuna's grin widened, fully aware that his domain was overpowering Gojo's defenses. The twisted pleasure of domination flickered in his eyes. But then, instinctively, Sukuna felt the urge to abandon the Shrine—an odd, almost primal warning.
Gojo didn't waste a moment. With a swift motion, he summoned the Arm of Darkness once more, but this time, he invoked Zantetsuken—Blinding Steel. The blade moved with blinding speed, cutting through the air, aimed directly at the core of Sukuna's domain.
Sukuna's eyes widened, a flash of surprise crossing his face as he felt the impossible—a sensation that should never occur within a domain. The Shrine behind him quivered as if struck, the manifestation wavering as if on the verge of being destroyed. Impossible, Sukuna thought, gritting his teeth. Domains can't be destroyed like this. The only way to stop Malevolent Shrine is to damage me to a certain amount.
Gojo's smirk widened as he caught the look of disbelief on Sukuna's face. "What's the matter, Sukuna?" he taunted, the Arm of Darkness thrumming with power in his grasp. "You didn't really think I'd just sit back and let you tear everything apart, did you?"
Sukuna's expression twisted in fury, but a spark of something darker flickered in his eyes—a mix of disdain and thrill. Gojo was defying the rules, and Sukuna relished the challenge, not with desperation but with a deeper, sinister satisfaction.
He's pushing his limits... and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Gojo, maintaining his composure, didn't let up. He could feel his Curse Zone straining under the Shrine's relentless assault, but he pressed on, pushing the Arm of Darkness to its limits. I've got to hit him where it hurts. If I can make him doubt even for a second, I can turn this around.
Sukuna steadied himself, his grin returning, sharper and more menacing than ever. "So you've got some tricks after all," Sukuna remarked, his voice smooth and dripping with arrogance. "But tricks don't change the game, brat. They're just moves in my domain."
Gojo's eyes remained locked on Sukuna, every fiber of his being focused on finding the next opening, the next advantage. This isn't just a battle of domains. It's a battle of wills, and I'm not backing down.
As Gojo's Spatial Domination clashed fiercely against the overwhelming presence of Malevolent Shrine, Sukuna's domain began to waver, its edges flickering under the relentless pressure. But Sukuna, refusing to yield, intensified his cursed energy, his focus unbroken. With an unsettling shift, Malevolent Shrine transformed, warping into an incomplete yet even more sinister form.
The sky above them turned a deep, blood-red hue, the hallmark of Sukuna's Malevolent Shrine's dark power. The ominous red light bathed the shattered landscape, casting eerie shadows that danced like phantoms across the debris. The incomplete domain loomed behind Sukuna, a grotesque and twisted palace that seemed alive with malice. Its structure was an abomination of jagged, uneven lines, monstrous hands protruding from its core as if the domain itself sought to ensnare everything within its reach. It was not just a manifestation of Sukuna's power—it was a raw, unrefined surge of his unrelenting will.
Despite its incompleteness, the Malevolent Shrine radiated an oppressive and terrifying presence. The air grew thick, saturated with a suffocating sense of dread, while the ground trembled under the immense weight of Sukuna's curse. The once sprawling urban outskirts were reduced to dust and ruins under the relentless barrage of Dismantle slashes, as the domain's fury knew no bounds.
Sukuna, in a calculated move, forged a binding vow, his voice resonating like the toll of a funeral bell. "All targets, organic and inorganic, will be struck by Cleave. Dismantle is temporarily disabled." The vow rippled through the domain, amplifying its reach to an unprecedented 60 kilometers. The Shrine's influence extended further, a vast sea of destruction that left no room for sanctuary.
Gojo felt the shift, the binding vow's effects resonating through the air. He could sense the overextension, the gamble Sukuna had made in his relentless quest to dominate. But instead of retreating or faltering, Gojo's lips curled into a smirk, his laughter cutting through the oppressive air like a knife.
"You must be desperate, huh?" Gojo taunted, his eyes shining with defiance. He recognized the risk Sukuna had taken—warping his own domain's integrity for the sake of overwhelming power and reach. It was a reckless move, but one that spoke volumes of Sukuna's sheer will to win, no matter the cost.
Gojo's mind worked rapidly, strategizing his next move against the ever-growing menace of Sukuna's domain. So, that's your play, Sukuna? Stretching your own limits to crush me? Fine. Let's see how far you can push before it breaks. Gojo steadied himself, his focus unbroken as he stared down the monstrous form of the incomplete Shrine. The sky burned red above them, the air crackling with cursed energy, as the stage was set for a clash that would test the very limits of their power.
Sukuna unleashed Cleave, his domain's power surging outward with devastating force, slicing through everything within an 86-kilometer radius. The once-urban outskirts, already ravaged by Malevolent Shrine's onslaught, now fell victim to Cleave's even deadlier precision. Unlike the chaotic slashes of Dismantle, Cleave's cuts were exact, brutally efficient, and unyielding. Buildings, structures, and the very ground beneath were dissected with terrifying speed, reduced to nothingness as the attack carved through the landscape like a blade through water.
Gojo's Curse Zone, his last line of defense against the onslaught, faltered under the sheer power of Cleave. His barrier shattered, leaving him vulnerable to the relentless barrage of slashes that closed in on him. For a brief moment, Gojo felt the weight of Sukuna's overwhelming force pressing in from all sides.
Sukuna's eyes gleamed with a predatory satisfaction, his grin stretching wide as he watched the destruction unfold. "You thought you could stand against me, Gojo?" Sukuna's voice was low, a mocking tone edged with cruelty. "This is the difference between us. No matter what you do, no matter how far you push yourself, you'll always be two steps behind me. This is where it all ends!"
The barrage of Cleave slashes intensified, each strike more vicious than the last. But as Sukuna reveled in his perceived victory, he noticed something unsettling—his attacks had come to an abrupt halt. The slashes that should have reduced Gojo to shreds were now frozen in place, suspended mid-air as if caught in an invisible snare.
Sukuna's triumphant expression twisted into one of confusion and then frustration. "Why… why have my attacks stopped?" His voice, usually so full of derision and control, now carried a tinge of disbelief. He scanned the battlefield, eyes narrowing as he sought the cause of this sudden interruption.
Gojo stood amidst the wreckage, his right arm cloaked in darkness, pulsating with a heavy, oppressive energy. On the back of his hand, a single eye opened, exuding an ancient and foreboding presence. This was the power of Mimihagi, the right hand of the Soul King, a force that governed stagnation and stillness, halting development and change. As the eye glowed, Gojo imposed an aura of immobility, freezing everything within its reach. The relentless Cleave slashes from Sukuna's Malevolent Shrine, meant to annihilate all in their path, were suspended mid-air, rendered completely inert by Mimihagi's influence.
The battlefield shifted as Gojo's precise control over Mimihagi's powers negated Sukuna's overwhelming attacks. The Dismantle and Cleave slashes, capable of reducing everything to dust, were halted in their tracks, caught in the grip of stillness. Gojo's strategic use of Mimihagi didn't just stop the Shrine's onslaught—it severed the domain's ability to act, nullifying its destructive potential. In the midst of chaos, Gojo had carved out a void of stillness, turning Sukuna's own power against him and demonstrating that even the most formidable forces could be brought to a standstill with the right application of ancient, unyielding will.
Sukuna's eyes widened in realization as he locked onto the source of the disruption: Gojo's right arm. He didn't know what cursed power Gojo had summoned, but the truth was unmistakable—the arm was the key. That arm… It's stopping everything. It's not just a trick, it's a weapon. Sukuna recalled the moment when Gojo first revealed the arm, dismissing it as a mere display of arrogance and newfound strength.
"You…" Sukuna growled, a blend of fury and reluctant respect simmering in his gaze. "You planned this all along, didn't you? Flaunting that arm, making me think you were just showing off." His voice dripped with contempt, but there was an undeniable acknowledgment of Gojo's cunning. "You knew I'd push my domain to its limits, you wanted me to—so you could pull this stunt."
Gojo's smirk remained unyielding, his eyes glowing with calculated intent. "It's not about showing off, Sukuna. It's about showing you that no matter how overwhelming you think you are, I've already seen the end."
Sukuna's expression twisted with fury, the bitter acknowledgment of Gojo's growing power a hard truth to accept. Yet beneath the anger, a thrill sparked within him. If he thinks this is enough to stop me, he's sorely mistaken. The King of Curses thrives in chaos, and this brat just gave me more to work with.
But Sukuna's brief pause, a split second of contemplation, proved to be his undoing.
Gojo's three pupil eyes flickered with the power of the Almighty, his vision flashing forward into countless futures. He seized the perfect moment, snapping forward with blinding speed. Suddenly, Sukuna found his neck caught in Gojo's grip, pulled from his position into Gojo's hand as if fate itself had been rewritten. Sukuna's eyes flared with shock and defiance, but his body couldn't react in time—the King of Curses had been completely outmaneuvered.
"You're fast, brat," Sukuna snarled through clenched teeth, fighting against Gojo's iron grasp. "But this isn't enough to finish me."
Gojo's expression remained calm, unbothered by Sukuna's resistance. "No, but this is," he thought as he raised his right arm, shrouded in the darkness of Mimihagi's power. The eye on the back of Gojo's hand opened wide, emanating a force of stillness that rippled outwards, engulfing Sukuna in an inescapable tide of darkness.
The cursed energy that once surged from Sukuna like an unstoppable torrent was abruptly stilled. Darkness crept over Sukuna, the King of Curses struggling against the unrelenting grip of Gojo's Mimihagi. Inch by inch, Sukuna was consumed, his form sinking into the void, unable to break free from the immobilizing force that Gojo had unleashed.
As the shadows enveloped him, Sukuna's fierce defiance shone through his eyes. "One day, brat," he rasped, his voice echoing through the dark. "One day, I'll return, and I'll take everything from you." His tone carried a promise as steadfast as his cursed power—a relentless adversary who would not be truly subdued.
Gojo watched as the darkness sealed Sukuna away, the eye on his hand slowly closing as the last vestiges of Sukuna's presence were swallowed by the void. Gojo lowered his arm, the oppressive stillness fading as he stood victorious amidst the wreckage. With a composed smirk, he turned away, knowing that the battle had ended but the rivalry would endure.
"I'll be waiting, Sukuna," Gojo thought, his steps steady as he left the battlefield. "Until then, enjoy the stillness."
But Gojo wasn't done yet. He had come to this battlefield for more than just victory—he had come to claim the power that Sukuna wielded. Turning back to the devastated landscape, Gojo brought his hands together, forming the Enma seal with precise, deliberate movements. The energy around him began to shift, thickening with malevolence as he concentrated on the task at hand.
"Domain Expansion: Malevolent Shrine," Gojo intoned, his voice resonating with authority.
The sky above responded immediately, darkening to a deep, blood-red hue as ominous clouds swirled into existence. The ground beneath Gojo trembled as the domain began to take shape. With a thunderous eruption, the Malevolent Shrine materialized behind him, a twisted palace of malevolent energy that stretched far and wide. The air was thick with an oppressive aura, the shrine's jagged, towering structure casting long shadows across the desolate wasteland.
The Shrine was a grotesque reflection of Sukuna's own domain, yet it bore Gojo's unmistakable influence. The red skies above seemed to pulse with cursed energy, casting an eerie light over the twisted landscape. The walls of the Shrine were alive with writhing energy, monstrous hands and faces appearing and disappearing within the structure as if the domain itself was hungry for more destruction.
Gojo stood at the center of this nightmare, feeling the immense power that now coursed through him. The domain stretched for miles, its overwhelming presence a testament to the strength he had claimed from Sukuna. He could feel the power of the Shrine, the destructive potential of Dismantle and Cleave at his command.
A smile played on his lips as he observed the red sky and the monstrous palace that loomed behind him. "So, it worked," he thought, satisfaction settling into his gaze. "This power... It's mine now."
The Malevolent Shrine pulsed with life, responding to Gojo's will as he tested its limits. The air was thick with the scent of victory, the skies red with the aftermath of the battle. Gojo knew that with this power, he had crossed yet another threshold, but as always, the path ahead was clear. He had won today, and now, with Sukuna's power in his grasp, he was ready for whatever came next.
As Gojo stood at the center of the Malevolent Shrine, relishing the overwhelming power coursing through him, a sudden, unsettling sensation crept across his left cheek. Slowly, a small, grotesque mouth formed—a familiar mocking grin stretched wide, and Sukuna's voice slithered into the open air, dripping with a mix of fury, amusement, and a twisted thrill.
"It's not yours, brat. It's still mine," Sukuna's voice snarled from the cheek, both annoyed and amused. "You really think you can just claim my power like it's some cheap trinket? Bold move, but don't get ahead of yourself."
Gojo's expression didn't falter; if anything, his smile widened, a blend of bemusement and confidence. He regarded Sukuna's manifestation with a casual glance, not the least bit perturbed by the intrusion.
"And another thing," Sukuna continued, his tone laced with a dangerous edge yet tinged with genuine excitement, as if savoring the challenge. "You owe me, brat. If you're so keen on showing off and claiming my strength, then you'd better be ready. I demand my monopoly game—the one you've been flaunting in my face this whole time. Let's see if your wins stack up in more than just battle."
Gojo chuckled softly, the sound effortlessly cutting through Sukuna's indignation. He tilted his head slightly, making it clear he was entirely unfazed by the King of Curses' presence. "Monopoly, huh? You really can't let that go, can you? Guess that's one more reason you're still hanging around."
Sukuna's eyes glinted from the cheek, the fury bubbling beneath barely contained, but there was no denying the strange, almost begrudging camaraderie between them. The rivalry, the competition, the endless taunts—it was their unspoken bond, a relentless dance of power and pride.
"Fine, Sukuna. We'll play," Gojo said, his tone light, yet underpinned with the unmistakable promise of future clashes. "But I'm warning you—just like out here, I don't play fair."
Sukuna's laugh echoed, dark and amused, before fading back into Gojo's cheek, leaving behind only the lingering presence of the King of Curses. Gojo's gaze turned once more to the blood-red sky and the monstrous domain behind him, the reality of his new power settling in. He knew the rivalry with Sukuna was far from over, but for now, he had claimed his victory—and, perhaps, a new game to play.
In the Queen's chamber at the Senate Rotunda, Captain Panaka entered with a sense of urgency, yet his voice held a triumphant note as he addressed Queen Amidala. "Your Highness, we have some great news," he announced, careful to maintain the decorum befitting his role. "Senator Palpatine has been nominated to succeed Valorum as Supreme Chancellor." Despite the knowledge Gojo had imparted about Palpatine's involvement with the Trade Federation, Panaka had not forgotten his duty; he played his part to perfection, hiding his true feelings to keep up appearances.
Senator Palpatine stepped forward, his face lighting up with a carefully composed smile. "A surprise, to be sure, but a welcome one," he said, his voice filled with feigned modesty. "I promise, Your Majesty, if I am—" Palpatine's words trailed off, his smile faltering slightly as he noticed the unexpected crowd filling the Queen's chamber.
The room was unusually crowded, with faces he hadn't expected to see: Padmé, standing tall in her formal attire; Queen Amidala, or rather her decoy Sabé, maintaining her regal posture; Suzunami, Yukinami, and Reika, Gojo's disciples who had taken their places with a calm yet imposing presence; Anakin and his mother Shmi, standing close together; Jedi Knights padawan Obi-Wan Kenobi and his master Qui-Gon Jinn; and members of the Jedi Council including Mace Windu, Yoda, and Yaddle, all watching intently. Former Chancellor Valorum was also present, adding to the tension that filled the room.
Palpatine's eyes flicked over each figure, trying to mask his surprise with diplomatic politeness. His gaze lingered on the Jedi, particularly Yoda and Mace Windu, who stood with an air of authority and silent scrutiny. It was clear to Palpatine that this was not just a congratulatory gathering—it was an audience filled with individuals who had a vested interest in the current state of galactic politics, and perhaps, in him.
"Why are so many members of the Jedi Order here?" Palpatine queried, his voice still smooth but laced with curiosity and a hint of unease. "And Chancellor Valorum, I wasn't expecting to see you here either."
The tension in the room was palpable, each individual playing their part in a silent standoff that felt as though it could shift at any moment. Gojo had certainly left his mark, not just through the direct confrontations, but by setting the stage for this complex and layered encounter. Each person present, knowingly or not, was part of a larger narrative, one that extended far beyond Palpatine's immediate grasp.
Queen Amidala, maintaining her regal demeanor, raised a hand to command the room's attention, her voice calm yet firm. "Be silent, Senator," she instructed, her gaze sharp as it locked onto Palpatine. "This gathering isn't just about your nomination. This moment could either save Naboo or doom Coruscant."
At her words, Wonder of U materialized beside her, the stand's presence causing an unsettling ripple through the room. The air thickened as Wonder of U raised its hand, projecting a shimmering screen that hovered above the chamber floor. On it, a vivid display of Gojo and Sukuna's fierce standoff unfolded, the colossal energy and tension of their battle radiating through the projection.
The room fell into a hushed silence, all eyes fixated on the screen. The scene was electric; Gojo and Sukuna, two beings of immense power, faced off in a confrontation that transcended mere physical combat.
The tension in the Queen's chamber heightened as the projection continued, vividly displaying the intense standoff between Gojo and Sukuna. The colossal forces of cursed energy collided on the screen, creating a visual spectacle that commanded the room's undivided attention. As Sukuna unleashed a barrage of Dismantle slashes, the invisible cuts tore through the air, slicing effortlessly through towering buildings and crumbling them to the ground.
Valorum, witnessing the display of destruction, couldn't contain his alarm. "Is that Sukuna's Shrine?" he exclaimed, his voice filled with a mixture of dread and disbelief.
Suzunami, watching intently, quickly corrected the former Chancellor. "No, it's just his normal Dismantle," Suzunami explained calmly, his eyes not leaving the screen. "They're testing each other, feeling out the limits of their power." The twins were unfazed, accustomed to the magnitude of the power on display, having seen Gojo and Sukuna's abilities before.
The scene on the screen was a testament to the raw and untamed nature of their confrontation. Gojo's calculated maneuvers and Sukuna's ferocious assaults were a dance of chaos and precision, each move a deliberate test of the other's resolve.
As the screen continued to display the battle's ferocity, Sukuna's Domain Amplification jab pierced through Gojo's defenses, breaking the expected invincibility of his Limitless barrier. The room's tension spiked as Yoda, his eyes narrowing in surprise and concern, broke the silence. "Hmm, Gojo's Limitless, it is said, halts every harmful thing. Why then, breached it has been?"
Wonder of U, standing calmly beside Queen Amidala, stepped forward to clarify. "What you are witnessing, Master Yoda, is Domain Amplification," it explained, its voice echoing with an eerie calm. "This technique allows Sukuna to temporarily nullify the abilities of any technique it comes into contact with. In this instance, it neutralizes Gojo's Limitless barrier just long enough for his strikes to land."
The explanation sent a ripple of unease through the room. Suzunami, Yukinami, Padmé, and Reika exchanged anxious glances, the gravity of the battle becoming even clearer. They had all seen Gojo in action and knew the immense strength of his Limitless, but witnessing its breach stirred a sense of vulnerability they weren't accustomed to associating with him.
Padmé's eyes were fixed on the screen, her worry apparent as she watched the battle unfold. "So, he's not invincible," she murmured, the realization heavy with the weight of Gojo's struggle against such formidable opposition.
Reika clenched her fists, her usual composure faltering as she watched Gojo fend off Sukuna's relentless attacks. "He'll find a way," she whispered, half to herself and half as reassurance to the others. "Sensei always does."
Yukinami's voice, though soft, was laced with concern. "But at what cost?" she asked, her gaze never leaving the screen. The fear that Gojo might be pushed beyond his limits loomed over them all, a stark reminder of the stakes at hand.
As the screen continued to display the battle's intense back-and-forth, the tension in the Queen's chamber seemed to reach its peak. Sukuna's Domain Amplification jab had breached Gojo's defenses, shattering the illusion of his invincibility. As Wonder of U's explanation settled in, a palpable unease gripped everyone watching. However, just as the anxiety began to swell, Obi-Wan's keen eyes picked up a shift in the battle.
"Look," Obi-Wan exclaimed, pointing to the screen, "Gojo's pulling Sukuna through the rubble and the buildings that are falling from the sky. He's dragging him right into the chaos he created."
Relief rippled through the room at Obi-Wan's observation. It was a reminder that Gojo's strength wasn't just in his raw power but in his strategic brilliance. Even when his defenses were compromised, he could turn the situation to his advantage. A collective exhale seemed to follow as the Jedi and others realized Gojo was far from beaten—he was adapting, using Sukuna's destruction against him.
Then, the scene shifted again as Gojo summoned the Arm of Darkness, its dark, ominous energy radiating across the battlefield. Anakin, who had grown familiar with Gojo's antics but had never seen this particular ability, watched with wide eyes. "Looks like Idiot Sensei is going to end it," Anakin said with a mix of awe and youthful certainty.
But Suzunami, watching closely, shook his head slightly, his voice breaking through the anticipation. "Not yet. The Malevolent Shrine hasn't been deployed," he pointed out, his expression serious. "Sukuna's still holding back his full power."
The room's mood shifted once more, from cautious optimism back to a tense anticipation. Those who knew Gojo understood that the battle was far from over; the Arm of Darkness was formidable, but it was not yet the deciding factor. The Malevolent Shrine loomed like an unspoken threat, a reminder that Sukuna had not yet shown his full hand.
As the screen displayed Sukuna raising his hands, forming the Enma seal, everyone in the Queen's chamber braced themselves. The ominous chant echoed, "Domain Expansion: Malevolent Shrine." Suddenly, the terrifying structure erupted into view—a grotesque palace towering like a colossal fortress, its roof adorned with jagged, spike-like protrusions, and its base surrounded by a horrifying array of skeletal remains and monstrous jaws. The sheer size and malevolence of the shrine dwarfed everything around it, casting an overwhelming shadow that seemed to swallow the battlefield.
Yukinami's gasp echoed through the room. "Here it comes—the terrifying Shrine," she said, her voice laced with dread. Her reaction was mirrored by those around her; even the seasoned Jedi were visibly shaken by the sight.
Mace Windu's eyes narrowed as he watched the shrine unfold. "This is not like non lethal domain that gojo showed ," he muttered, sensing the dark power emanating from the structure. "It's an abomination, designed purely for destruction."
Padmé clutched her hands together, her face pale as she observed the monstrosity. "How can anyone stand against something like that?" she whispered, the fear evident in her voice.
Qui-Gon Jinn's expression was grim. "It's not just a fortress; it's a manifestation of pure malevolence. The scale of it… It's as if the entire battlefield has been swallowed by evil."
Yoda, with his deep insight into the nature of power and the Force, looked on, his brows furrowed in concern. "Dark and twisted, this place is. A nexus of destruction, it has become. Powerful, dangerous, Sukuna's shrine is."
Reika, standing beside Suzunami, couldn't hide her anxiety. "It's like the shrine itself is alive, hungering for more. It's not just Sukuna's power we're seeing—it's his will to dominate, to crush everything in his path."
Anakin, eyes wide and fists clenched, could feel his heart racing. "It's like a nightmare given form," he said, trying to reconcile the sheer scale of the threat his sensei was facing. "Can even Gojo sensei handle something like that?"
Obi-Wan, usually composed, felt a chill run down his spine as he observed the Shrine's monstrous appearance. "This isn't just a battle of strength. Gojo's up against a force that defies understanding."
The Malevolent Shrine loomed ominously on the screen, its horrifying presence casting a long shadow not just over the battlefield, but over the hearts of all who witnessed it. This was not just a fight between two powerful beings—it was a confrontation with an embodiment of raw, unrelenting malice.
As the screen displayed the emergence of Sukuna's Malevolent Shrine, a collective gasp filled the Queen's chamber. The towering, grotesque structure unfolded with a dark, oppressive aura, its presence swallowing the battlefield. In an instant, everything within a 30-kilometer radius—buildings, roads, and landscapes—was reduced to dust under the relentless barrage of Dismantle and Cleave slashes. The destructive force was not just overwhelming; it was apocalyptic, a level of power that few in the room had ever witnessed.
Valorum, his voice trembling, spoke in disbelief. "So this is the Malevolent Shrine that Gojo feared and sought to counter." His statement hung in the air, a grim acknowledgment of the threat that Sukuna posed not just to Gojo, but to everyone who stood in his path.
Mace Windu's expression darkened, his jaw clenched as he watched the outskirts of Coruscant being decimated. "This isn't just a battle—it's a cataclysm," he said, his tone laced with a mixture of anger and concern. "The scale of destruction… it's beyond anything we're prepared to handle."
Yoda's eyes were narrowed, his usual calm demeanor shaken as he observed the unprecedented devastation. "Powerful, this shrine is," he murmured, his voice tinged with somber realization. "Destruction on such a scale… Coruscant, it threatens."
Padmé's face paled, her eyes wide with horror as she saw the extent of the destruction. "If this spreads any further, it could reach the heart of the city," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "We're watching the outskirts vanish before our eyes."
Reika's fists tightened at her sides, her gaze fixed on the screen. "This isn't just about Gojo anymore," she said, her voice strained. "This could endanger everyone on Coruscant if it's not stopped."
Obi-Wan, trying to maintain his composure, glanced at Qui-Gon. "If Sukuna's domain is allowed to continue, the damage will be catastrophic. This is unlike any power we've ever faced."
Qui-Gon nodded grimly. "We're witnessing something beyond our understanding. The scale… the intensity… if Gojo doesn't stop this, Coruscant could suffer unimaginable losses."
Anakin, who had been silent, clenched his fists, his young face reflecting the gravity of what he was seeing. "Sensei has to end this," he said, determination flaring in his eyes. "He's the only one who can."
Yukinami and Suzunami exchanged a worried glance, both understanding the dire situation. "This is why Sensei took the risk," Yukinami said softly. "To prevent this kind of destruction from reaching others."
As the Malevolent Shrine continued its assault, decimating the outskirts of Coruscant, the reality set in for everyone present
Padmé, her voice tinged with urgency and a hint of desperation, turned to Wonder of U. "If that shrine were destroyed or thrashed, would Gojo have an advantage?" she asked, her eyes searching for any glimmer of hope amidst the chaos unfolding before them.
Wonder of U, maintaining its composed demeanor, responded with a calm yet unsettling clarity. "Even if the shrine itself were obliterated, it would not grant Gojo the upper hand," it explained, the weight of its words hanging heavily in the chamber. "In an open domain like Malevolent Shrine, the physical structure of the shrine is merely a symbol, not the source of its power. The true essence and control of the domain lie with Sukuna. Objects created within a domain are akin to illusions—they hold no real substance or vulnerability. Destroying the shrine would be as futile as attacking the air itself."
The explanation cast a deeper pall over the room, the grim reality of the situation sinking in. Wonder of U continued, "Within the confines of Sukuna's domain, all external techniques and defenses are rendered ineffective. The domain's inherent guarantee of hit nullifies everything, including Gojo's Limitless, as long as he remains within Sukuna's control. The shrine is not a weakness to be exploited but a representation of Sukuna's absolute dominion."
Suzunami's face tightened, frustration mingling with his concern. "So Gojo's usual tactics won't work in there," he muttered, voice low and edged with tension. "Sukuna's got him boxed in, not just by power, but by the rules of his domain."
Yukinami, absorbing the full weight of Wonder of U's explanation, looked visibly shaken. "Even if Gojo could somehow destroy the shrine, it wouldn't end the domain. It's all Sukuna's will manifested—it's like trying to fight against an entire world created by him."
Padmé's eyes stayed fixed on the screen, her expression reflecting the rising dread as she watched Gojo maneuver within the merciless expanse of Malevolent Shrine. "If the shrine isn't the key, then how can he possibly turn this around?" she whispered, her voice tinged with the weight of what seemed an insurmountable challenge.
Mace Windu, his gaze sharpening with understanding, spoke with a measured gravity. "Gojo's fight isn't with the structure—it's with Sukuna himself. The shrine is merely an extension of Sukuna's power. To win, Gojo must directly confront and overcome Sukuna, not just what he creates."
The room fell into a heavy silence, the enormity of the battle's stakes pressing on everyone present. However, as the screen continued to display the fierce combat, Gojo suddenly activated his Curse Zone: Spatial Domination. A faint barrier shimmered around him, and within moments, Suzunami's eyes widened in recognition.
"A Simple Domain… Sensei's own version of it!" Suzunami shouted, his voice breaking the silence. "He's using it to negate the guaranteed hits from Sukuna's domain!" Relief washed over him, his face lighting up with hope and pride.
Yoda, observing the shimmering barrier, turned his attention to Suzunami. "Simple Domain, this is? A counter to Sukuna's shrine, how does it work?" he inquired, his voice carrying a blend of curiosity and a desire for understanding.
Suzunami, recalling his Sensei's teachings, quickly explained. "A Simple Domain is a technique that negates the effects of another's Domain Expansion by creating a neutral space. It's like putting up a wall that cancels out the domain's guaranteed hit effect. Gojo's version, his Curse Zone, is doing just that—creating a brief moment where Sukuna's attacks can't land automatically."
Padmé let out a soft sigh of relief, her shoulders relaxing slightly as she glanced at the screen. "Thank goodness," she murmured, her voice tinged with hope. "Gojo always seems to find a way, even against impossible odds."
Reika, still watching the battle intently, nodded in agreement. "Sensei never stops surprising us," she said, her usually calm demeanor showing a rare hint of emotion. "He's not just relying on raw strength; he's using every trick he has to keep fighting."
Yukinami, clutching her hands together tightly, allowed herself a small, hopeful smile. "That's Sensei for you," she said softly, her eyes shimmering with a mix of pride and concern. "He's always one step ahead, even when it feels like there's no way out."
Padmé turned to Reika and Yukinami, her expression determined despite the fear still lingering in her eyes. "We have to trust him," she said firmly. "If anyone can turn this around, it's Gojo. He's never let us down before."
Reika placed a reassuring hand on Padmé's shoulder, her grip firm. "And he won't start now," Reika affirmed, her voice steady. "We just have to hold onto that faith and believe in his strength."
Yukinami nodded, her smile widening just a bit. "Sensei's always been more than just power—he's always been about protecting us, no matter what."
Their words, filled with quiet conviction, echoed softly in the chamber, providing a brief but much-needed respite from the overwhelming tension that gripped them all as they continued to watch the unfolding battle.
Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon exchanged impressed looks, a new respect for Gojo's resourcefulness shining in their eyes. "There's a counter to such overwhelming power," Obi-Wan mused aloud, still absorbing the implications. "It's a brilliant tactic—he's not just relying on brute strength but on strategic mastery."
Mace Windu nodded in agreement, though his expression remained serious. "He's buying himself time, but it's not a permanent solution. A temporary counter like that only lasts as long as the user can maintain it."
Suzunami's initial relief was tempered as he continued to watch the screen, noticing the subtle fluctuations in Gojo's barrier. The shimmering edges of the Curse Zone were thinning, cracking under the relentless pressure of Sukuna's Malevolent Shrine. "It's breaking," Suzunami muttered, his earlier excitement giving way to concern. "The Simple Domain can't hold out forever. It's just a stalling tactic."
The room's atmosphere shifted once more, the sense of urgency returning. Everyone present understood that while Gojo had managed to counter Sukuna's overwhelming offensive, it was only a temporary reprieve. The battle was far from over.
Suddenly, on the screen, Gojo unleashed Zantetsuken—Blinding Steel. The blade struck the core of Sukuna's shrine, causing the domain to waver and falter. Padmé, watching intently, couldn't contain her confusion and concern. "Didn't you say that destroying the shrine wouldn't solve anything?" she asked Wonder of U, her voice sharp with urgency. "You said Sukuna himself was the key."
Wonder of U appeared momentarily perplexed, its usually composed demeanor showing a rare flicker of uncertainty. "Indeed, that was the understanding," it admitted, its voice carrying a tone of grudging admiration. "But it seems Gojo has once again defied conventional expectations. He always finds a solution, no matter how improbable."
As they watched, Sukuna's expression on the screen shifted from controlled malice to something resembling desperation. Before the shrine could fully dissipate, he restructured it, twisting it into an incomplete and far more grotesque form. The newly manifested domain loomed behind Sukuna, an abomination of jagged, uneven lines, with monstrous hands clawing out from its core as if the very domain itself sought to ensnare everything within its grasp. This was no longer just a calculated deployment of power—it was a raw, unrefined surge of Sukuna's unrelenting will, born out of necessity and desperation.
Mace Windu's eyes narrowed as he observed Sukuna's frantic reconstruction of the domain. "He's losing control," Windu said, his voice grave. "This isn't a calculated move—it's desperation."
Yoda, his brow furrowing deeply, added, "Desperate, Sukuna has become. Dangerous, even more so. Cornered, he feels."
Obi-Wan exchanged a look with Qui-Gon, his concern evident. "Sukuna's pushing himself beyond reason. This isn't just a fight for dominance anymore—it's about survival. He's panicking."
Reika's eyes were locked onto the screen, her expression hardening. "He's like a wild beast backed into a corner," she observed. "Unpredictable and even more dangerous. This is where Gojo has to be the most careful."
Padmé, her face pale with tension, watched as Sukuna's incomplete domain writhed violently on the screen. "He's unraveling," she said softly, her voice a mixture of fear and fascination. "Gojo's pushed him to his breaking point."
Anakin, gripping the edge of his seat, couldn't tear his eyes away from the battle. "Gojo's got him," he said with a fierce, determined look. "But Sensei needs to finish this quickly."
Suzunami's earlier concern returned in full force. "This is Sukuna at his most dangerous. He's got nothing left to lose."
The room collectively braced as they watched the unpredictable, volatile transformation of Sukuna's domain. They knew that while Gojo had the upper hand for the moment, the battle's outcome was still far from certain.
As Sukuna's voice echoed through the screen, the words carried a chilling finality: "All targets, organic and inorganic, will be struck by Cleave. Dismantle is temporarily disabled." The binding vow rippled through his incomplete domain, amplifying its reach to an unprecedented 60 kilometers. The devastation that followed was immediate and overwhelming.
Buildings that stood tall mere moments ago were sliced clean through, their remains collapsing into piles of rubble. The very ground seemed to fracture under the relentless assault, deep gashes appearing as if the earth itself were being carved apart. Skyscrapers, streets, and everything within the domain's reach disintegrated into dust, the sheer scale of destruction expanding far beyond the original bounds of the shrine. It was a cataclysm of unimaginable proportions, the shockwaves of Cleave tearing through the fabric of the landscape with ruthless precision.
Valorum, eyes wide in disbelief, couldn't contain his shock. "Isn't the shrine's range only supposed to be 30 kilometers? Why has it expanded to 60?"
Suzunami, focused and tense, explained quickly, "It's a binding vow. Sukuna's pushed the limits by placing a vow on himself. That's why the range has doubled."
Yoda, stroking his chin thoughtfully, added in his calm, measured voice, "A binding vow, powerful it is. Risk much, Sukuna does, for greater reach. A gamble, but one that shifts the balance. No wonder, Gojo revealed his own technique. Expected this, he must have. A move, countered by another move, it is."
Mace Windu, his expression stern, nodded as he watched the destruction unfold. "Sukuna's desperate. Extending his domain like this means he's willing to sacrifice his own control for sheer destructive power. But this recklessness could be his downfall if Gojo can exploit it."
Obi-Wan Kenobi, standing beside Qui-Gon Jinn, observed the scene with narrowed eyes. "It's like watching a storm tear through a city. The scale of power is incredible, but there's a lack of precision. Sukuna's pushing his limits, but in doing so, he's exposing himself."
Qui-Gon Jinn, always the calm voice of reason, added, "This is the nature of desperation. It makes even the strongest overreach. Gojo's task isn't just to survive—it's to find the flaw in Sukuna's assault."
Yaddle, her voice soft but filled with conviction, spoke up as well, her small frame almost lost among the other Jedi but her insight sharp. "Dangerous, this game of power is. Sukuna expands, but his control wanes. Clever, Gojo must be. Patience and precision will turn the tide. Rushing in, folly would be."
The room collectively felt the weight of their words. While Sukuna's overwhelming power was on full display, the cracks in his strategy were evident to the seasoned warriors in the chamber.
As the screen showed the breaking of Gojo's Curse Zone: Spatial Domination, exposing him directly to Sukuna's Malevolent Shrine, a wave of panic swept through those who knew and cared about him.
Suzunami's eyes widened, his usual calm shattered. "No, Sensei!" he shouted, gripping the edge of his seat. "The barrier's gone! He's completely exposed!"
Yukinami, clutching her brother's arm, whispered fearfully, "He's in danger… He can't take those hits without his defenses. What's he going to do?"
Reika's composure faltered, her fists clenched tightly as she watched the screen with growing dread. "He has to move, he has to get out of there!" she urged, her voice laced with desperation. "Sensei, don't let him—"
Anakin's young face was a mask of shock, his breath hitching as he saw Gojo vulnerable for the first time. "Idiot Sensei… he can't block that! He has to do something!"
Padmé, eyes locked on the screen, felt her heart drop. "Gojo… please," she whispered, unable to hide her concern. "He can't fall now."
As the relentless barrage of Cleave slashes from the Malevolent Shrine closed in on Gojo, the room held its collective breath, the sheer magnitude of the threat sinking in. The attacks, ready to tear through anything in their path, suddenly halted mid-air. An oppressive stillness blanketed the battlefield on the screen, and the chaos that had filled the air froze as if captured in time.
Gojo slowly raised his right arm, covered in an eerie darkness, and on the back of his hand, an eye opened—cold, unblinking, and radiating an ancient presence. The same darkness seemed to pour from his hand, extending outward, creating a void where even Sukuna's devastating slashes hung motionless.
Everyone in the room stared in stunned silence, trying to comprehend what had just happened.
Suzunami's panic was replaced by confusion and awe. "What… what is that?" he murmured, unable to tear his eyes away. "That's not like anything Sensei's used before."
Yukinami, her fear momentarily eclipsed by astonishment, whispered, "He stopped everything… but how? What did he just do?"
Reika's eyes darted between the frozen slashes and the darkness enveloping Gojo's arm. "It's like he's taken control of the entire battlefield," she said, her voice tinged with both relief and disbelief. "But this… I've never seen anything like it."
Anakin's face lit up with a mixture of amazement and renewed hope. "He did it! Idiot Sensei's done it again! He's got a new trick up his sleeve!"
Padmé, still processing the sight, let out a shaky breath, her worry tempered by cautious optimism. "He's… he's found a way," she murmured, her voice filled with awe. "He always does."
As the room buzzed with reactions, Yoda's keen gaze remained fixed on the screen. His expression was one of deep contemplation as he studied the eye on Gojo's hand, and the mysterious stillness it had created. "Curious, this new ability is," Yoda said, his voice low and thoughtful. "A connection, perhaps, between the eye on his hand and the three-pupil eye. One purpose, they may serve."
Mace Windu nodded, acknowledging Yoda's observation. "Gojo's powers are evolving, adapting to the threat he faces. But this is more than just adaptation—it's like he's wielding a completely different force."
Obi-Wan, still piecing together what he'd seen, added, "Whatever it is, it's not just a defensive move. It's a counter to Sukuna's overwhelming force. Gojo isn't just surviving; he's turning the tide."
Qui-Gon glanced at Yoda, sharing the Jedi Master's intrigue. "A new layer of strategy, perhaps. Gojo's not just fighting Sukuna—he's finding the gaps in his overwhelming strength."
Yaddle, her eyes bright with curiosity, nodded in agreement. "Adaptation and evolution. Gojo wields what he must. A mystery, it is, but effective nonetheless."
As Gojo continued to stand firm, his new ability holding Sukuna's devastating attacks at bay, the room watched with a renewed sense of hope. While the true nature of Gojo's power remained an enigma, one thing was clear: he was not done yet
As the screen shifted, the image of Sukuna's neck gripped firmly in Gojo's hand appeared so abruptly that it felt almost unreal, as if the scene had skipped ahead in time. One moment, Sukuna was unleashing his wrath through Malevolent Shrine, his power unchecked and overwhelming. The next, Gojo had him at his mercy, a sudden shift that left the entire room in stunned silence.
To the onlookers, it was as if Gojo had seized Sukuna's neck suddenly, and in a sense, he had. The three-pupil eye of the Almighty had bent the future to Gojo's will, making the improbable not just possible, but inevitable.
Yoda, who had been quietly observing the scene with deep contemplation, finally spoke up. "Seen this, I have," he murmured, his voice filled with a mix of caution and intrigue. "His power… the three-pupil eye. When he faced Pong Krell, Gojo did something similar. Tortured him near half-death, then Krell… returned, healthy as before. Or perhaps, killed him, Gojo did, but returned Krell did again."
The room fell silent, Yoda's words sinking in as the implications of Gojo's power became clearer, yet more enigmatic. Mace Windu's brow furrowed, his mind racing to piece together the implications. "If Gojo has a power that can control life and death… that changes everything," he said, his voice tinged with concern. "We may not fully understand what we're dealing with."
Obi-Wan, trying to reconcile what he knew of Gojo's capabilities with what he was witnessing, added, "This is beyond any Force technique we know. It's not just strength or strategy—it's something far more complex. We're seeing him wield the very essence of life and death."
Qui-Gon Jinn, always attuned to the broader mysteries of the Force, nodded thoughtfully. "Gojo isn't merely fighting Sukuna's power—he's altering the rules of the battle itself. The three-pupil eye… it's not just a technique, it's a rewriting of reality."
Suzunami, still trying to make sense of the situation, looked at the screen with a mix of awe and confusion. "Sensei always finds a way… but this? It's like he's pulling new powers from nowhere, adapting faster than anyone can keep up."
Yukinami, her initial fear now mingled with cautious optimism, nodded in agreement. "He's doing more than fighting… it's like he's rewriting the fight as it happens. But what kind of power lets you do that?"
Padmé, her relief tempered by the gravity of what Yoda had revealed, whispered, "He's not just surviving. He's in control. But if this power is as dangerous as it seems… what does that mean for all of us?"
Reika, watching intently, echoed Padmé's concern. "Sensei's pushing beyond anything we've seen. But with power like this… there's always a cost. We just don't know what it is yet."
Anakin, his eyes wide with a mixture of admiration and disbelief, clenched his fists. "Idiot Sensei… he's more than just strong. He's something else entirely. But if Yoda's right… how far can he push before it all falls apart?"
Shmi, having seen the impossible repeatedly from Gojo, looked on with a mix of hope and unease. "He's protecting us in his own way," she said softly. "But what kind of burden must that be, to hold so much power and responsibility? I just hope it doesn't break him."
Queen Amidala, in her guise as Sabé, maintained her composure but couldn't hide the concern in her eyes. "Gojo's strength is remarkable," she said, addressing the group. "But every action has consequences, and this… whatever it is… could have ramifications far beyond what we're seeing now."
In the corner of the room, Palpatine watched with a calm, calculating expression, his eyes flickering with a mixture of intrigue and ambition as he observed the escalation of the battle. The extension of Sukuna's Shrine from 30 to 60 kilometers was a display of power so vast and unprecedented that it demanded his full attention. Palpatine's gaze sharpened, his mind turning over the implications of such a feat.
"I've not seen power like this in this generation," Palpatine mused quietly, almost to himself. "To create a range so vast, using some kind of binding vow that extends the reach of his influence… Sukuna has tapped into an unknown energy that defies conventional limits. Such sheer force of will, to manipulate reality in such a manner… it's extraordinary."
His eyes then shifted to Gojo, noting the sudden reversal in the fight. Gojo's right hand, enveloped in darkness with the ominous eye on its back, had effortlessly halted Sukuna's overwhelming assault. Palpatine's interest deepened, his gaze narrowing as he tried to discern the nature of Gojo's power.
"And then there's Gojo Satoru," Palpatine continued, his tone filled with a mixture of admiration and calculation. "That right hand… a simple gesture, yet it freezes attacks in mid-air. This isn't just defense, it's absolute control. To nullify such catastrophic force with ease—fascinating. An unknown energy that rewrites the rules of engagement as they unfold. If Sukuna represents raw, unrestrained might, then Gojo embodies precision and dominance, a counterbalance that challenges even the strongest of foes."
Palpatine's thoughts turned inward, already contemplating the potential uses of such abilities. To harness the might of Sukuna, or the reality-warping precision of Gojo… Such power could reshape the galaxy itself, bending it to his will in ways the Force alone could not.
"This Gojo Satoru… truly a force to be reckoned with," Palpatine murmured, his voice barely audible over the murmurs of the others. "This unknown energy could redefine the fabric of this conflict. If he can bend reality to his will, what else might he be capable of?"
A slow, calculating smile crept across Palpatine's face. The possibilities were endless, and as he continued to watch, his mind was already weaving new plots and schemes, envisioning a future where power like Gojo's and Sukuna's could be manipulated, harnessed, and perhaps even dominated.
Meanwhile, on the screen, the image shifted to Gojo, his right hand raised and shrouded in darkness. The eye on the back of his hand glowed ominously as Sukuna was drawn into the void, consumed by the enveloping shadows. The display was nothing short of horrifying, a testament to Gojo's unpredictable and seemingly limitless power.
Mace Windu's face tightened with a mixture of awe and unease. "Master Yoda," he began, his voice heavy with concern. "I do not doubt that Gojo is attuned to the Force in some unique way, but each time he faces danger or brushes against death, he grows stronger—yet not with the dark side of the Force, but something… darker. Like a black hole, consuming everything around it."
Yoda, leaning on his cane, looked contemplative, his brows furrowing as he pondered Mace's words. "Shrouded in mystery, Gojo's path is," Yoda responded thoughtfully. "Not the dark side, but darker still, perhaps it is. Uncharted, this power is. Careful, we must be."
Qui-Gon Jinn, his expression marked by genuine concern, added, "Gojo is a good man at heart, driven by a desire to protect. But in his pursuit of strength, he may be pushing himself too far. Such power… it comes at a cost. One that may be too great for even him to bear."
Obi-Wan, watching the screen intently, nodded in agreement with his master. "Gojo's resilience and adaptability are unparalleled, but what worries me is the strain this takes on his very being. Every time he pushes further, he treads into more dangerous, unknown territory."
Yaddle, her voice soft yet firm, echoed the sentiments of the others. "A force unlike any we know, Gojo wields. The balance, he risks. Consume or be consumed, the path may become. Dangerous, the line he walks."
Suzunami clenched his fists, his eyes fixed on the screen, reflecting a mix of admiration and fear for his sensei. "Sensei always finds a way to win, but… this is different. He's not just fighting; he's… devouring. This power… it's not like anything he's ever shown us."
Yukinami, standing close to her brother, nodded with evident worry. "Sensei's power is amazing, but it's like watching him walk through fire. I just… I don't want him to burn out trying to protect us."
Reika, her eyes filled with concern, watched Gojo's every move. "He's gone beyond anything we thought possible, but I can't shake the feeling that this is taking a toll on him—more than he's willing to admit. He's carrying all this weight, and I fear it's too much."
Padmé, gripping her hands tightly together, stared at the screen with a mix of hope and dread. "Gojo is our ally, and he's saved us more times than I can count. But seeing him like this… I can't help but worry. What will be left of him after all this is over?"
Shmi Skywalker, her maternal instincts stirred by the sight of Gojo's struggle, murmured softly, "He's done so much, taken so much on himself. I just pray that he finds a way back from whatever darkness he's facing. We've all seen what power can do to good men."
Queen Amidala, standing beside Padmé, maintained her composure but her eyes betrayed her concern. "Gojo has shown extraordinary strength, but this… it's like he's battling more than just his enemies. He's battling something within himself. I hope he knows that he doesn't have to bear this burden alone."
As Gojo's darkened hand consumed Sukuna on the screen, the room fell silent, each person wrestling with their own thoughts. The power on display was awe-inspiring, but it was also a stark reminder of the peril that came with such immense abilities.
As the screen suddenly went dark, cutting off the battle's live feed, an uneasy murmur spread through the Queen's chamber. Padmé, visibly alarmed by the sudden disruption, turned sharply to Wonder of U. "What happened? Why did the screen go black?" she demanded, her voice filled with urgency.
Wonder of U, maintaining its calm demeanor despite the unexpected interruption, responded with a hint of confusion. "Something has blocked my connection with Master Satoru," it said, its tone resonating with a controlled unease. "This is not merely a technical interference. It's as though a force is actively severing our link."
The statement sent a fresh wave of anxiety through the room. Suzunami and Yukinami exchanged worried looks, their earlier fears resurfacing with a vengeance.
"What could possibly cut off Wonder of U's connection?" Suzunami wondered aloud, his voice tense. "Sensei wouldn't just drop contact like this."
Yukinami's hands trembled slightly as she clutched her brother's arm. "He's never lost control like this before," she whispered. "If something's powerful enough to block Wonder of U, then… what's happening to him out there?"
Reika, trying to maintain her composure, nodded in agreement. "This isn't like Sensei. Whatever's happening, it's serious. We have to figure out a way to help him."
Anakin, visibly shaken, clenched his fists in frustration. "Sensei's in trouble. We can't just sit here and do nothing!"
Padmé's expression hardened, her determination flaring as she turned back to Wonder of U. "We need answers, and we need them now," she said firmly. "What can we do to reestablish contact? Is there anything we can do from here?"
Wonder of U hesitated for a moment, its usually unwavering confidence shaken by the unexpected severance. "This obstruction feels deliberate," it admitted. "As if a greater power is intentionally isolating Master Satoru. To reconnect, we would need to counteract whatever is blocking the link, but without knowing the source…"
Mace Windu's gaze sharpened as he considered the implications. "If something—or someone—is cutting off Gojo, it's likely tied to the forces at play in this battle. We need to be prepared for the possibility that Sukuna or another entity is taking steps to gain the upper hand."
Yoda's expression darkened, his ears twitching as he pondered the situation. "Darker forces at work, there are. Beyond the sight of even Gojo and his Stand. A veil, this interference could be. A test of resilience, it is."
Qui-Gon Jinn's brows furrowed with concern. "Gojo's path has always been one of great trials. This may be yet another obstacle he must overcome alone. But we must remain vigilant and ready to act, should the opportunity arise."
Obi-Wan glanced at Yoda, sharing in the Jedi Master's unease. "We've seen Gojo face impossible odds before and come out on top, but this feels different. If someone's actively trying to sever his connection, it's not just a battle for control—it's a battle for his very being."
Yaddle nodded in agreement, her small frame radiating quiet determination. "Unified, we must be. In purpose and support. If the battle takes Gojo beyond our reach, then steady we must hold. A guiding light, our resolve will be."
Shmi Skywalker, her eyes filled with maternal worry, spoke softly. "Whatever's happening, I know Gojo won't give up. He's strong, but strength alone isn't enough. He needs to know he's not alone in this fight."
Queen Amidala, standing resolute beside Padmé, voiced the collective hope of everyone in the room. "Gojo has faced impossible odds before, but this time, he's not just fighting for himself. He's fighting for all of us. Whatever it takes, we must find a way to support him, no matter how far away he seems."
As the room grappled with the sudden loss of connection, the sense of urgency only grew. Gojo was out there, facing a battle unlike any other, and the weight of his struggle pressed heavily on those who cared for him. They all knew that they couldn't afford to be passive observers any longer; they had to find a way to break through the darkness that now separated them from their strongest ally.
Darth Plagueis continued to observe from the outskirts of Coruscant, hidden in the shadows as the battle unfolded on the screen before him. His eyes narrowed, trying to grasp the full magnitude of what he was witnessing. Gojo Satoru's three-pupil eyes—one on each eye—were unlike anything Plagueis had seen. It was as if those eyes weren't just perceiving the battle; they were penetrating deeper, exuding an aura that felt fundamentally disruptive.
What is this power? Plagueis thought, his normally composed demeanor shaken by the intensity of Gojo's gaze. The three pupils in each eye weren't something Plagueis recognized from any ancient texts or teachings, but they carried an unsettling significance, a presence that transcended mere sight. This… this is beyond the Force, beyond any power I've encountered. Those eyes... they don't just see—they challenge the very fabric of reality.
As Gojo's eyes seemed to lock onto him, Plagueis felt a chill unlike any he had experienced. Though physically hidden and shrouded in the dark side of the Force, Plagueis felt an inexplicable vulnerability, as if Gojo's gaze could reach across space and time, unraveling the very nature of his presence. How does he sense me? Plagueis wondered, unnerved by the realization that his usual concealments felt inadequate against whatever force Gojo wielded.
This isn't the Force, Plagueis mused, his thoughts racing. It's something that bends the natural laws I know. A force that doesn't just coexist with the galaxy—it threatens to upend its balance entirely.
Gojo's three-pupil eyes seemed to pulse with an eerie clarity, each pupil moving as if alive with a deeper, unfathomable power. The dark energy from Gojo's right hand enveloped Sukuna, and the way it dominated the battlefield defied all conventional understanding of combat and power dynamics.
No one should wield such dominion over reality itself, Plagueis thought, his mind grappling with the implications. The Sith strive to control the Force, but this… this power ignores the Force entirely. It remakes the rules, unbound by the principles that govern the galaxy. If Gojo can do this, then he could become a force of chaos, something that even the Sith and Jedi cannot contain.
For the first time in decades, Plagueis felt a shiver of genuine fear. He clenched his fists, steeling himself against the mounting unease. This isn't just immense power—it's an aberration of power. Gojo Satoru is not merely a threat to any one faction; he is a threat to the equilibrium of the entire galaxy. He could disrupt everything I've worked to control.
Plagueis continued to watch, his mind spinning with the implications of Gojo's power. He didn't know exactly what those eyes could do—whether they saw into the future, the past, or something else entirely—but he could feel the looming potential for devastation. If I cannot find a way to counteract this… Gojo will unravel the balance of power that I've so meticulously constructed. Everything—the Sith, the Jedi, the galaxy itself—could be thrown into chaos.
Plagueis felt his confidence waver, an unfamiliar and unsettling sensation for a Sith of his mastery. I need to learn more about this power. If Gojo Satoru can ben
d reality, then he must be understood—or neutralized. Because if left unchecked, no one—not the most powerful Sith, nor the wisest Jedi—will be able to stand against him.
Though Plagueis didn't know the specifics of Gojo's three-pupil eyes, he sensed an overwhelming potential that could shatter the balance he sought to manipulate, making Gojo not just an opponent but a cosmic disruptor.
Gojo stood on the outskirts of Coruscant, his gaze still intense as he scanned the ruined landscape. The power of his three-pupil eyes allowed him to perceive not just the present but every potential future that could unfold. As he surveyed the battlefield, a flicker of irritation crossed his mind. He could sense it—someone watching, probing, lurking in the shadows. He turned slightly, directing his vision towards where Darth Plagueis was hiding, his presence cloaked in darkness and the Force.
Gojo's lips curled into a smirk, his voice cutting through the stillness like a knife. "Quit being a peeping tom, weakling," he called out, his tone dripping with disdain. He knew exactly who it was. The Force may have shrouded Plagueis from others, but to Gojo, it was as clear as day. "I'll deal with you later," Gojo muttered to himself, dismissing Plagueis's presence for the moment.
As the tension of the battlefield momentarily subsided, Gojo allowed himself a brief pause to consider his next move. The Almighty ability granted him the power to rewrite futures, making the impossible not just feasible but inevitable. Yet, as powerful as the Almighty was, revealing it openly could draw even more dangerous attention. He needed a cover—a plausible lie that could conceal the true extent of his capabilities.
Kyoka Suigetsu, Gojo thought, a sly grin spreading across his face. An ability that manipulates perception, convincing everyone that what they see is reality—even if it's not. If I can pass off the Almighty as Kyoka Suigetsu, they'll think it's all an illusion, not true reality manipulation. No one will suspect that I'm bending time and fate itself.
The thought was almost amusing. The power of Kyoka Suigetsu—a hypnotic ability that places its victims under perfect, unbreakable illusions—was a power many feared, but it was still bound by the limits of the mind. Gojo knew that the Almighty transcended that; it wasn't just about altering perceptions but changing the very course of existence itself.
Yeah, that could work, Gojo mused, his confidence returning. Let them believe it's Kyoka Suigetsu. It's still terrifying enough to keep them on edge, but it keeps the real trump card hidden. As long as they believe they're seeing through an illusion, they'll never realize they're trapped in reality itself.
Gojo's eyes flickered back to the horizon, his senses still tuned to the presence of Plagueis in the distance. He's watching. Good. Let him see what I want him to see. Let him think he's figured me out. With his plans set, Gojo turned his attention back to the task at hand, his smirk widening as he prepared to dive back into the fray.
Gojo's thoughts shifted, weighing the idea of another potential bluff. The Almighty was a trump card he couldn't afford to fully expose, but even if the Kyoka Suigetsu lie served as a perfect misdirection, there was still the matter of Mimihagi—the right hand of the Soul King. Unlike Kyoka Suigetsu, which played with perception, Mimihagi's power lay in enforcing absolute stillness, halting movement and progression entirely. The challenge was making it sound convincing without revealing too much.
Mimihagi… the right hand of the Soul King. A power that commands stagnation, stopping anything in its tracks. It's real, but they don't need to know exactly how it works. I'll let them believe it's another defensive trick, something they can wrap their heads around, like a barrier or a shield. Just another layer of protection, not the force that can freeze existence itself.
Gojo nodded to himself, the outline of the ruse taking shape in his mind. He knew he could weave just enough truth into the story to make it believable while keeping its most terrifying aspects concealed. If I call it a defensive technique, something like an advanced form of Limitless that halts attacks before they reach me, they'll buy it. They've already seen me use barriers and domains—they'll see this as an extension of that, not the total cessation of all movement and change.
Yeah, that'll do. I'll call it Mimihagi, but they'll never understand that it's more than just a shield. Gojo's smirk returned, satisfied with his plan. He would let the legends build around the name, let them believe they'd figured him out, while he kept the true nature of Mimihagi in his pocket for when it was truly needed.
Let them think it's all just another trick in the bag. They'll never know I'm holding the entire game in my hand, he thought, the confidence of his deception bolstering his resolve. With the truth safely hidden behind carefully crafted lies, Gojo felt ready to take on whatever challenge lay ahead, his mind already plotting how to best employ the tools at his disposal.
For now, they can believe what they want. As long as they don't see the real danger coming, I'm one step ahead, Gojo concluded, turning his full attention back to the battlefield, his three-pupil eyes gleaming with the promise of inevitable victory.
As Gojo vanished in a swirl of dark liquid, thousands of eerie, watchful eyes blinked around the void where he once stood. The screen in the Queen's chamber abruptly cut off, leaving everyone in the room in stunned silence. The abruptness of it all sent a jolt of panic through the room. Qui-Gon Jinn, his face creased with urgency, immediately turned to the others. "We need a ship. We have to get to him—now!"
But before they could act, the doors to the Queen's chamber swung open with a dramatic crash, and Gojo Satoru stepped through, his presence commanding immediate attention. The room, which had been thick with tension and fear moments before, now buzzed with a mix of shock and confusion. This wasn't the usual carefree, smirking Gojo who often teleported in and out of situations with ease; there was a weight to him now, an air of something darker and more formidable.
Gojo scanned the room, his three-pupil eyes gleaming ominously as they settled on the group before him. "Looks like things got pretty grim," he remarked, his tone almost casual but edged with something far more serious. "So, what's the plan? I figure I should drag you all out of this mess before it gets worse."