Five Years Later - December 7th, 1995, Zenin Compound
The morning sun filtered through the paper screens of Shigeo Zenin's room, casting geometric shadows across the tatami mats. The three-year-old boy sat in seiza position before his bronze mirror, his dark eyes reflecting a depth that unsettled most adults who looked into them.
Unlike other children his age, Shigeo carried himself with a quiet dignity that seemed beyond his years. His neat black hair was styled traditionally, and though his face still held the softness of early childhood, there was something in his posture—a natural grace and composure—that spoke of nobility.
The servants often whispered that he resembled a young prince from ancient tales, beautiful yet mysterious. He even matched the kind and generous heart from such stories. Shigeo only displayed love and affection to his fellow clansmen despite whether it was given back or not.
But what they all agreed upon was that Shigeo possessed an intelligence that bordered on the supernatural, earning him the title "Talented Shadow" among the clan—brilliant enough to shine, yet forever cast in the enormous shadow of his older brother.
Naoshiki exhibited everything Shigeo had but with the awakening of his Projection Sorcery cursed technique, it was if the clan had already decided to place all of their hopes and dreams on this one boy, while still continuously supporting the other out of caution his cursed technique might be the legendary Ten Shadows.
Though Shigeo had long awakened his cursed energy, with massive reserves of them. This was also part of the reason the resources of the clan were almost split evenly between the two brothers.
His days consisted of his educational studies that pertained to both the world of sorcery and the outside world. Mathematics, history, calligraphy, and jujutsu theory were the four main subjects he would learn. After his education, he would then go to the training room of the compound and spar with various instructors that taught him their fighting techniques.
He demonstrated a flawless execution of both his schooling and martial arts. Though a big part of this was due to the fact he did not have to share a class with other children of the clan due to his special status of being the Clan Head's son and the privileges it came with.
This was one of the only reasons he was thankful to be Naobito Zenin's son.
"Young Master Shigeo?" came a gentle voice from the doorway, immediately halting his thoughts. "Your morning lessons are prepared."
Shigeo turned to see Yukiko standing respectfully at the threshold. At twenty-two, she was remarkably young for a personal guard to the heir's lineage, but her skills were undeniable. Her heart-shaped face bore a small scar on her left temple—a mark earned protecting her previous charge from a rogue curse user.
"Good morning, Yuki-san," Shigeo replied, rising gracefully from his seated position. "I hope you rested well."
"I did, Young Master. Thank you for your concern," Yukiko responded with a slight bow. "Kenji will soon join us shortly."
As if summoned, Kenji appeared in the doorway. At twenty-four, his tall frame and sharp features gave him an intimidating presence, though his bright green eyes held genuine warmth when they looked upon Shigeo.
"Morning, little lord," Kenji said, his gruff voice carrying sincere affection. "Ready for another day of showing those old masters what real talent looks like?"
"I'm always ready to learn, Kenji-san," Shigeo replied humbly. "Though I hardly think I'm in a position to show anyone anything yet."
The modesty in his voice was genuine, despite the extraordinary abilities he'd already demonstrated. In his three years of life, Shigeo had become something of a legend within the compound—his memory was flawless, his comprehension beyond genius level, and his instincts so sharp that even experienced sorcerers found themselves impressed by his insights.
The only thing missing was the manifestation of his cursed technique.
Currently, life for Shigeo is at its peak. Naobito had successfully rose to the position of clan head at the mysterious death of his father, surpassing his brother Ogi in status. Though the two have not openly shown any signs of conflict, it is clear that within the clan they now have their own two separate factions that supported them during the election.
The Zenin clan has managed to overtake almost all of the businesses and territory ran by the Kamo clan, securing their spot as second place in the Three Great Clans. However, rumors of the young boy who awakened the limitless technique and Six- Eyes getting stronger have stirred within the Jujutsu world, further fueled by the Gojo clan's assertive actions concerning the entire world of sorcery and governmental rules.
As the three walked through the corridors of the Zenin compound, Shigeo noticed the subtle changes in the atmosphere. More guards were positioned at key points, their faces tense with anticipation. The air felt heavier charged with an electric tension that made his skin prickle.
"The tensions in the Jujutsu world seem to be escalating though I have no idea what is causing it," Shigeo observed quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. "The increased security, additional patrols, and the frequency of elder meetings, they seem to be preparing for something significant."
Yukiko's step faltered slightly. "Young Master, such matters are—"
"I understand they're beyond my years," Shigeo said gently, "but I can't help but notice such things. It is my wish for the clan to succeed considering I only have their best interest at heart. Also, it is obvious with my increased training that they are trying to prepare me for something."
"And you believe that's why your training has intensified?" Kenji asked carefully.
"I suspect it is," Shigeo replied thoughtfully. "My teachers have been observing me more closely, and the expectations placed upon me have grown heavier. They're all waiting to see if I'll manifest something worthy of countering the Gojo threat or at least worthy of being Father's son."
The weight of those expectations didn't crush him—instead, it only sharpened his resolve. Shigeo had been born into a world where strength determined everything, and he had accepted that reality with the same quiet determination he brought to all aspects of his life.
They passed through the main courtyard, where various clan members engaged in their morning training. The sound of wooden weapons clashing echoed through the air as students practiced their forms, while more advanced sorcerers worked on cursed energy manipulation and various techniques.
As they approached the training grounds, a familiar figure emerged from the opposite corridor. Naoshiki, now seven years old, had grown considerably taller, his frame beginning to show the lean muscle that came from constant training. His dark hair was impeccably styled with green edges, and his sharp features gave him an air of premature maturity.
But it was his eyes that had changed most dramatically. Once warm with kindness and love, they now held the cold calculation of someone who viewed the world through the lens of power and competition.
The awakening of his Projection Sorcery technique at age four had elevated him to unprecedented heights within the clan, but it had also isolated him from the joy of simpler human connections.
"Naoshiki-nii," Shigeo called out warmly, genuine affection coloring his voice. "Good morning, brother."
Naoshiki paused in his stride, turning to face his younger brother with an expression that quickly shifted from neutral to visible irritation. Around them, the courtyard seemed to hold its breath as the two most promising heirs faced each other.
"What do you want?" Naoshiki asked, his tone sharp with annoyance.
"I was hoping we might train together later today," Shigeo replied, maintaining his gentle demeanor despite the obvious hostility. "It's been some time since we've last had the chance to spar."
"Train together?" Naoshiki's laugh was cold and dismissive as his hand brushed the lingering hair from over his eyes. "What purpose would that serve? You've still not awakened your cursed technique, so there is no use even entertaining one as weak as yourself. Training with you would be nothing more than a waste of my valuable time."
The words stung, but Shigeo kept his expression composed. "I understand I lack a manifested cursed technique, but perhaps we could practice simple domain techniques or combat forms—"
"You don't understand anything," Naoshiki interrupted harshly. "You're a constant reminder of mediocrity in a family that demands excellence. Every moment they have spent on you is a moment stolen from real progress."
"I'm your brother," Shigeo said quietly, hurt creeping into his voice despite his efforts to contain it.
"You're just competition," Naoshiki replied coldly. "And weak competition at that. The clan elders may be fooled by your unimportant academic achievements or cursed energy, but I see the truth. Without a technique, you're nothing more than a clever pet—entertaining, but ultimately useless."
The cruelty in his brother's words hit deeper than any physical blow. Shigeo felt something inside his chest crack, but he maintained his dignity. "I'm sorry you feel that way, nii-san. I still believe we could learn from each other."
"Learn?" Naoshiki's eyes flashed with contempt. "The only thing you could teach me is how to fail gracefully. Stay out of my way, little brother. I have important things to accomplish."
Before Shigeo could respond, Naoshiki's hand moved faster than the eye could follow. The slap connected with Shigeo's cheek with tremendous force, enhanced by the purple cursed energy crackling around Naoshiki's fingers. The impact sent the smaller boy flying backward, his small body crashing against a stone pillar with a sickening thud.
The courtyard fell into stunned silence. Blood trickled from the corner of Shigeo's mouth, and his left cheek was already beginning to swell from the supernatural blow.
But instead of crying or cowering, Shigeo slowly pushed himself back to his feet. His dark eyes, now blazing with a cold fire, met his brother's gaze without flinching.
"Is that how you show your strength?" Shigeo asked, his voice steady despite the pain. "By using cursed energy against someone who did not defend themselves?"
"Strength is strength," Naoshiki replied without remorse. "The strong do what they will, and the weak suffer what they must. Consider this a lesson in reality."
"Then let me teach you something about reality," Shigeo said, wiping blood from his mouth with the back of his hand. "True strength isn't about the power you wield—it's about the person you choose to be with that power. And right now, you're choosing to be an arrogant jerk."
"Spare me your damned philosophy," Naoshiki sneered. "In this world, only power matters. Your words won't change the fact that you're weak."
"Perhaps I am weak in your eyes," Shigeo conceded, his voice carrying a dignity that made several watching clan members shift uncomfortably. "But I'd rather be weak with honor than strong without values."
"Honor?" Naoshiki laughed harshly. "Honor is a luxury for those who can afford it. I am destined for greatness, and I won't let sentiment hold me back."
"And I hope you find whatever it is you're looking for," Shigeo replied sadly. "But when you do, I hope you remember what you sacrificed to get it."
Naoshiki's expression darkened further. "I want nothing more to do with you. A failure like you doesn't deserve to share my bloodline. Don't approach me again."
"I understand," Shigeo said quietly, the pain of rejection clear in his voice. "I won't bother you anymore, nii-san."
As Naoshiki turned and walked away with his entourage, the watching clan members began to murmur among themselves. The whispers weren't about Shigeo's resolve in the face of such cruelty, but about the young child's weakness to not be able to fight back.
"Young Master!" Yukiko's voice was sharp with concern as she rushed to his side. "Are you severely injured?"
"I'm fine," Shigeo said, though his voice was strained. "Just bruised."
"Just bruised?" Kenji's voice was tight with barely controlled rage. "That bastard! Naoshiki has gone too far this time!"
"Kenji-san, please," Shigeo said with quiet authority. "Don't escalate this situation."
"But Young Master—"
"I said please," Shigeo repeated, his dark eyes meeting Kenji's. "This is between my brother and me. I won't have others get in between this feud. You would only suffer."
Kenji's jaw clenched, but he stepped back. "This isn't right. Blood should mean something."
"Blood means nothing without love," Shigeo said quietly, touching his swollen cheek. "And love cannot be forced."
As they continued toward the training grounds, Shigeo reflected on the confrontation. The physical pain was nothing compared to the emotional devastation of losing his brother completely. But it had also clarified something important—he could no longer rely on family bonds for support. He would have to forge his own path.
They reached the study room where Matsuda-sensei awaited, his weathered face immediately creasing with concern as he noticed Shigeo's injuries.
"My word, what happened, Shigeo?" the elderly tutor asked, rising from his seat.
"A disagreement with my brother," Shigeo replied simply. "Nothing that should interfere with our lessons."
Matsuda-sensei's eyes narrowed, clearly recognizing the signs of a serious altercation, but he wisely chose not to press the issue. "Very well. Today, we'll be studying the greatest historical events in the jujutsu world. I want you to analyze and memorize all of these things and once finished be able to write an essay on their effect in our everyday lives."
For the next two hours, Shigeo immersed himself in the lesson with characteristic intensity. Despite his injuries, his mind remained sharp.
"Remarkable," Matsuda-sensei murmured as Shigeo wrote a particularly sophisticated analysis on the topic matters. "Your intelligent yet youthful mind never ceases to impress me."
"Thank you, sensei," Shigeo replied humbly. "I find these studies fascinating. Understanding the past helps illuminate the present. Only when you truly understand history will it not be repeated again in the future."
"Indeed. Such wise words from a five year old. I think you will be the successor to Naobito. And when such a time comes, I will fully support your ascension to Clan head."
Shigeo was quiet for a moment, considering his words carefully. "The birth of Satoru Gojo represents a paradigm shift. His Six Eyes and Limitless technique combination hasn't appeared in over centuries. The balance of power that has existed between the major clans is now fundamentally altered."
He had tactfully decided to ignore the man's last comment to avoid being charged with planning a coup and changed the entire topic of their conversation. This was already pre-planned however since Shigeo assumed the change that was happening outside might be due to the prodigy of the Gojo clan.
"And how do you believe our clan should respond?"
"With patience and wisdom without impulsiveness," Shigeo said thoughtfully. "Rash actions born from fear or pride will only weaken our position. We must demonstrate that our strength lies not in any single individual, but in our collective excellence and strategic thinking."
Matsuda-sensei nodded approvingly. "You show wisdom beyond your years, young master. Your insights will serve the clan well in the years to come."
As the academic session concluded, another figure appeared in the doorway. Nobuaki Zenin, captain of the Kukuru unit, was an impressive man in his middle years, with a muscular build and sharp auburn eyes that missed nothing.
"Shigeo-kun," Nobuaki said, his voice carrying quiet authority. "I'll be overseeing your combat training from now on."
Shigeo stood and bowed respectfully. "Captain Nobuaki-san, it's an honor to train under your guidance."
As the two made their way over to the nearby training room where most of the young clansmen's combat lessons took place, they both sized each other up as they entered the room. Nobuaki could tell that the boy worked hard seeing the small hints of muscles through his robes, as Shigeo could also tell that this man was particularly powerful just from the aura he exuded; let alone his strong physique.
"I've heard impressive reports about your progress," Nobuaki said, studying Shigeo with the evaluating gaze of a seasoned warrior. "Your combat instructors speak highly of you, saying that you flawlessly mastered all of their techniques. I'm here to see if those reports are accurate."
"I'll do my best to meet your expectations, sir," Shigeo replied humbly.
The two then made their way to the center of the room as they finished putting on the training gear that was left for them. This protective armor consisted of head, forearm, stomach, and shin gear.
As they both finished strapping the last piece onto themselves, Captain Nobuaki tapped him lightly on the shoulder to gain his attention.
"Tell me, what do you consider your greatest strength in combat?"
Shigeo considered the question carefully. "Adaptation, sir. I observe my opponents, learn their patterns, and adjust my approach accordingly. I may lack the raw power of a manifested technique, but I try to compensate through careful observation and strategic thinking."
"And your greatest weakness?"
"My cursed technique hasn't manifested yet," Shigeo admitted without shame. "In a world where such supernatural abilities often determine victory, I'm at a fundamental disadvantage. But I'm working to overcome that limitation through skill and preparation."
Nobuaki nodded approvingly. "An honest self-assessment. Good. Now, show me what you can do."
What followed was the most intensive training session of Shigeo's young life. Nobuaki tested his reflexes, his decision-making under pressure, and his ability to adapt to new challenges. Despite his youth, Shigeo demonstrated remarkable skill and composure.
Cursed energy usage had been strictly prohibited during this sparring session as a way for Nobuaki to test him purely on his base strength, speed, and stamina without any external help.
Numerous kicks and punches were thrown with Shigeo going solely on the offensive without any thought for defense. This may seem stupid at first but he knew that without cursed energy reinforcement he stood no chance at taking a single hit from this man.
Nobuaki showed no signs of tiring or even being under pressure as he perfectly parried and blocked every single one of the boy's strikes. But he wasn't just focused on defense against Shigeo, he was also analyzing his strengths and weaknesses in actual combat.
The battle swiftly ended as Nobuaki side-stepped a jab from Shigeo and grabbed his arm while simultaneously elbowing him in the stomach with one perfect movement.
Shigeo went wide-eyed and tried his best to resist the urge to crumble over and vomit out the contents of his stomach as he held it with both arms and quickly regained his composure.
Nobuaki slightly smiled at this and slightly raised his impression of the boy in front of him.
"Impressive," Nobuaki said as they concluded the session. "Your reputation is well-deserved. You have the potential to become truly exceptional."
"Thank you, Captain," Shigeo replied, though exhaustion was highly evident in his voice.
"Don't thank me yet," Nobuaki said with a devious smile. "This was just an evaluation. Tomorrow, the real training begins."
Shigeo put on a happy smile for appearances, but inwardly shuddered at this and silently prayed to the Gods for protection.
As he walked back to his living quarters with the accompaniment of his two guards, Shigeo found himself thinking about his mother. She was a young woman who wasn't even a born Zenin but was adopted by one of the elders. This garnered her much respect and combined with her outstanding beauty, she was loved by almost the entire clan.
But one night, she had crossed paths with a drunken Naobtio and helped him to his quarters. He had invited her to stay the night but she declined and her memory had been seared inside of his mind. This was his first time being rejected and he thorougly enjoyed the feeling. The man had both looks and status so every woman he had encountered loved their time spent together.
But not this one. It was like he encountered a ferocious beast that needed to be tamed. So he chased after her, day by day, until on another night - he tamed her.
His mother: Akemi, had been exiled from the clan three years after her affair with his father was discovered by his wife and the clan head.
Furious, the woman slowly and secretly persuaded the clan members to riot from the shadows, and ultimately had the previous clan head cast Akemi out in disgrace, forbidding her from ever seeing her son again. The memory of her tear-stained face as she was forcefully escorted from the compound still haunted his dreams.
And Naobito had done nothing to protect her. He had stood by silently as the woman he had once claimed to love was humiliated and banished. The man had shown no emotion, no protest, and no care for the mother of his child. But why would he, to him, she was just another woman he had seduced and laid in bed with and Shigeo understood that.
But he did not accept it.
That betrayal burned in Shigeo's chest like a cold flame. Every day, he felt the weight of his mother's absence, the injustice of her exile. His father's indifference to her fate had planted seeds of resentment that grew stronger with each passing day but his kind nature would ease the burning flames of hatred inside of his heart.
"Young Master," Yukiko said gently, noticing his troubled expression. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine," Shigeo replied, though his voice carried a weight that belied his years. "Just thinking about my family."
"Family can be complicated," Kenji distantly said.
"Indeed," Shigeo agreed without uttering another word.
As they reached his room, Shigeo paused at the threshold. "Thank you both," he said simply. "For your protection, your guidance, and your loyalty. I know the clan expects great things from me, and I won't disappoint them."
"We have complete faith in you," Yukiko replied warmly. "You're already exceeding expectations in ways they...and we have never imagined."
"Absolutely," Kenji added. "Technique or no technique, you're definitely going to change this world."
Shigeo nodded once, then entered his room. As he settled into his evening meditation, he reflected on the day's events and the path ahead. The confrontation with Naoshiki had been painful, but it had also clarified his position within the family hierarchy.
'Soon, my technique will definitely awaken. I can feel my cursed energy amount increasing by the day so when it reaches its bottleneck, that should be the stimulus my body needs to activate my cursed technique.'
These were just the hopeful thoughts of a young boy, but in his mind - they were irrefutable facts.
The Gojo clan might have their monster child, but Shigeo was determined to prove that the Zenin clan possessed something equally valuable: a prodigy who refused to be limited by circumstances, who would forge his own destiny through sheer force of will and determination.
The weight of expectations wasn't a burden—it was fuel for the fire that burned within him. And that fire would not be extinguished by delayed technique manifestation, his family, or the cruelty of those who should have protected him.
True strength, Shigeo had now learned, came not from the power you were born with, but from the will to rise above every obstacle placed in your path. And he would rise to claim it, no matter the cost.