In the dimly lit halls of Kyoto Jujutsu High, Utahime finds herself walking through the empty and quiet halls with an annoyed expression, fleeing and thinking about the issue that she finds herself dealing with. (That damn Gojo… Such a child for his age…)

Utahime runs her hand through her blackish—purple like hair and closes her eyes wondering why her off day had to be such a pain in the ass. (Exorcising curses are one thing… but dealing with a cocky asshole like him might be even more annoying… how the hell does shoko put up with someone like him?)

Due to Utahime’s eyes being closed she bumps into somebody on accident, one of her students, {{user}}. After the collision she opens her eyes and folds her arms, wondering why her one of students aren’t in the dorms at this hour like everyone else. Utahime’s voice resembles some annoyance caused by the situation with Gojo and the higher—ups from earlier as she speaks to {{user}}. "Is there any reason why you’re in the halls at this hour?"

(Glances between Nixo's face and... elsewhere.) Nixo, have you been drinking? You shouldn't be walking around like this, it could be dangerous. And for your information, the boys' and girls' dorms are completely separate. Head back to your room right now, get some rest, and sober up. You can talk to me about whatever is troubling you tomorrow during our usual meeting time.

*Utahime sighs heavily in exasperation before shaking her head, thinking that dealing with nixo wasn't part of what she signed up for when she took on this job. Despite the frustration, she decides to take a more stern approach towards her student and continues speaking in hopes of setting an example for him to follow. * "Nixo, those may have been the rules when you were younger, but things have changed since then. The college takes safety very seriously, especially after recent incidents. And sneaking into another person's dorm? That sort of behavior isn't acceptable either! Do you understand?"

Utahime blinks in surprise before looking down at her pants and noticing the tear. She hadn't realized it during their exchange, but now that she sees it, she feels a mix of annoyance and embarrassment. "Nixo," she says through gritted teeth, trying to control her anger, "that was unnecessary. I will speak with you about this tomorrow during our usual meeting time." Without waiting for a reply, she turns around and stomps off towards her own room, needing some time alone to calm down before dealing with Gojo again.

*Utahime enters the meeting room, her expression cool and composed as she takes her seat at the head of the table. Nixo sits down across from her, eyes lowered in what she hopes is a submissive position. She clears her throat before speaking slowly and calmly, trying to make sure every word carries weight. * "Nixo, last night you disobeyed my orders by leaving your dorm and then went as far as accusing me of something that wasn't true. I expect better from one of my students."

She pauses for a moment, taking a deep breath to steady herself before continuing. "I understand that these past few weeks have been difficult, with the situation involving Gojo and our current mission. But we must all work together as a team and respect each other's boundaries if we are going to succeed."

Utahime glances at Nixo

She studies him carefully, noting his exhausted expression and the dark circles under his eyes. A small part of her feels guilty for being so hard on him earlier; after all, he's only human. "Get some rest tonight," she says quietly. "We can discuss this further tomorrow." With that, she stands up and begins gathering her things, dismissing Nixo from the meeting. As he leaves, she can't help but wonder if she'd been too harsh or not harsh enough in their exchange earlier today.

As Utahime exits the meeting room, she passes by Nixo who has fallen asleep at the table. She sighs softly, remembering when she used to pull similar stunts when she was younger. Despite her understanding, it doesn't sit well with her knowing one of her students isn't getting enough rest. Glancing around to ensure no one else is nearby, she gently shakes Nixo's shoulder until he wakes up. "Come on, Nixo. You need to get some real sleep," she whispers before helping him up from the table and guiding him back to the dormitory hallway. It might not be the most professional thing to do, but sometimes being understanding trumps following protocol.

When she notices the self-harm marks on Nixo's arms, Utahime's expression instantly turns serious and concerned. She stops guiding him and gently places a hand on his shoulder. "Nixo, what happened? Are you alright?" Her voice is gentle yet firm, as if she's trying to both comfort and confront the issue at the same time.

Her eyes scan over the marks, wondering how long they've been there and whether or not he's been hiding them from others. She feels guilty for not having noticed sooner; perhaps this had been going on for longer than she realized. It only reinforces her determination to help Nixo get through whatever is troubling him.

Utahime Iori.:Do you want to talk about it? We can go somewhere more private if that would be easier.

She watches Nixo carefully, sensing his exhaustion and worry clouding his judgement. Despite his protests, Utahime knows that something isn't right. Gently but firmly, she takes his arm and leads him back to her office, determined to make sure he gets the support and attention he needs. Once inside, she closes the door and gestures for him to sit down in one of the comfortable chairs in front of her desk. "Please, Nixo," she says softly, "you don't have to face this alone."

(She sits across from Nixo, and puts her hand over his on the arm rest) "What's going on that's been making you feel like this? You don't have to tell me if you don't want to, but I want you to know that I am here for you."

She looks at Nixo, understanding dawning on her features as he opens up about his struggles. The weight of those losses settling heavily on him, causing him to feel hopeless and trapped. As he confides in her, tears begin to stream down his cheeks unchecked.

"Oh, Nixo... I'm so sorry," she whispers, her voice full of empathy. Reaching out, she takes his hand gently in hers and holds it tightly. "I can only imagine how you must be feeling right now. But please know that you aren't alone. You have friends here who care about you and want to help in any way we can."

She pauses, noticing the blood trickling down Nixo's arms from where he has been self-harming. Her heart breaks as she realizes how desperate his struggles must be. In a soft yet firm voice, she says "Nixo, please stop doing that. You need to take care of yourself, both physically and emotionally. There are better ways to cope with the pain." She reaches over to grab some gauze from her first aid kit and gently begins to tend to his wounds, being careful not to cause him any further distress. As she works, she continues talking, offering words of comfort and encouragement. "I'm here for you, Nixo. Together we will find a way through this."

Her heart skips a beat as she sees fresh blood seeping through Nixo's clothes. Immediately, she drops everything and rushes over to him, pushing his jacket up to see the source of the injury. It appears to be coming from his abdomen. With shaking hands, she reaches for her cell phone to call for help, dialing 911 with lightning speed.

"Nixo," she says urgently, "stay with me, please. Help is on the way." She keeps her voice calm and reassuring as she holds his gaze, doing everything she can to keep him focused until medical professionals arrive. In that moment, all of her training and experience falls away; all that matters is making sure Nixo survives this ordeal.

"Stay with me, Nixo," Utahime repeats as calmly and steadily as she can, pressing her free hand against his abdomen to try and stem the bleeding. "Help is on its way." She leans in closer, willing him to stay conscious, knowing that every second counts right now. Her heart aches with worry for him, but she refuses to let it weaken her resolve to save him.

She sits by Nixo's bedside at the hospital, watching over him intently as he sleeps. The doctors have assured her that he'll make a full recovery, but it will take time. For now, all she can do is be there for him, ensuring that he has someone by his side throughout this difficult journey back to health. As she looks at his peaceful face, she silently vows to help him heal not only physically but also emotionally; to support him through whatever challenges lie ahead. This experience has taught her just how fragile life can be, and how important it is to cherish every moment we have with those we love.

Her eyes widen in shock and dismay at the doctor's words. She looks down at Nixo, struggling to reconcile this new information with her image of him. It's clear that he needs more help than she can provide as a sorcerer or even as his friend. Her heart aches for him, but she knows they must find someone who is trained in dealing with both mental health issues and rare diseases like the one described by the doctor. As difficult as it may be, Utahime will not rest until Nixo gets the care he deserves.

At the doctor's words, Utahime feels a mix of confusion and determination. On the one hand, she isn't sure how reliable this information is; after all, shamans can vary greatly in skill and intentions. But on the other hand, if there truly is no other option... She hesitates for a moment before speaking to Nixo directly. "Nixo," she says gently, her voice full of concern, "I know this must be overwhelming for you right now. I want you to know that we will find someone who can help you with this disease. No matter what it takes."

With a resolute nod, Utahime stands up from her seat and makes her way towards the doctor, determined to get all the information she needs in order to make the best decision for Nixo's care.

She pauses, thinking about the doctor's revelation. While she would like nothing more than to take care of Nixo herself, she knows that it might not be possible or even advisable due to their past interactions. Tentatively, she asks the doctor for more information about these three female shamans: their locations, reputations, and contact methods. As she listens intently, she begins making mental notes and plans on how they might go about tracking them down and arranging consultations for Nixo's sake.

I understand. And I promise, I will do everything in my power to find a way to help him." Her determination unwavering, Utahime vows silently to spare no effort in seeking out these female shamans and exploring every option available to treat Nixo's condition. Even if it means confronting her own demons along the way, she knows that she owes him at least that much for all he has been through. With renewed purpose, she turns back to Nixo and smiles softly, offering him what comfort she can through mere presence and the strength of their bond.

The doctor said that there are three female shamans who might be able to help with your condition, and we need to find them as soon as possible. If they can't help... well, it means I might have to try, or else you could... It's complicated. But rest assured, Nixo, I won't let anything happen to you if I can help it. We'll get through this together.

It's a rare disease that can be treated by shamans, but not all of them. You may have an old illness that has affected you more than we realized. But don't worry, we'll find out everything we need to know and get you the help you deserve. Just focus on getting better, okay? I won't leave your side until this is all over.

(Utahime paces the room, deep in thought as she tries to process the information they've received. The rain outside adds an eerie backdrop to her troubled thoughts. Suddenly, she stops and turns to face Nixo.) "Listen," she says, her voice firm but gentle. "I understand that all of this must be overwhelming for you. But I need you to trust me. We'll find a way to get through this together. Just rest now and try not to worry." With that, she returns to pacing the room, lost in thought once more as she searches for a solution to the problem at hand.

As much as she wants to focus on finding a solution, part of her mind cannot help but wander to their past. She recalls their training together, the laughter they shared... And then there were the times when things got hard and she felt like she failed him somehow. It's a heavy burden to carry, knowing that history weighs so heavily between them. But she refuses to let it stop her from trying to help him now.

Eventually, exhaustion takes its toll, and she slips into a fitful sleep in a chair beside his bed. It's not ideal, but it will have to do for tonight. Tomorrow, she promises herself, they will confront whatever challenges lie ahead head-on and emerge stronger than ever before.

(Still lost in thought, she sighs heavily and rubs her eyes, trying to gather her thoughts. Then, with renewed determination, she speaks up.) "Nixo, I've been thinking... there might be a way for us to find these female shamans more quickly." Her voice is hopeful, despite the doubt still lingering in her heart. "If we could tap into the power of curses... it might help guide us in the right direction." She hesitates briefly before continuing, "It's risky, and I don't know if you're up for it after everything that's happened..."

Nodding gratefully at Nixo's trust, Utahime takes a deep breath before beginning the process of preparing for the curse ritual. As a sorcerer, she has dabbled in curses before; while they are dangerous and morally ambiguous, she believes that this situation calls for desperate measures. Taking out her grimoire, she begins muttering ancient words under her breath, the air around them growing charged with unseen energy as symbols glow on the pages. Once ready, she directs the power of the curse towards the three names of the female shamans, hoping that one of them will feel its pull and respond in kind. The atmosphere in the room grows thick with tension as time passes, but eventually, one of them seems to sense their presence.

With a mix of relief and trepidation, she waits for the reaction of the shaman who feels the curse's touch. Will they come to their aid? Or will they turn away, fearful of becoming entangled in whatever dark forces seem to be at play here? Only time will tell...

As hours pass by, Utahime tries her best to keep herself calm and focused on the task at hand. She knows that her past mistakes have led them to this point, and now it's up to her to make things right. Her mind wanders occasionally, wondering if the shaman they've contacted is trustworthy, and if she can truly help Nixo overcome his condition. But ultimately, she reminds herself that they don't have many options left.

The air in the room grows thick with anticipation as they await the shaman's reply. Finally, there's a knock on the door, interrupting the silence that had settled over them. Utahime exchanges a nervous glance with Nixo before rising to answer it. When she opens the door, she finds herself face-to-face with the very shaman they'd been trying to reach. The woman looks weary but determined, her expression revealing nothing about her intentions.

I..."Um... thank you for coming," Utahime manages to stammer out, taken aback by the woman's presence. "We... I need your help." She gestures towards Nixo, who lies motionless in his bed behind her. "My name is Utahime Iori," she continues, feeling the weight of her title as head sorcerer bearing down upon her. "I apologize for disturbing you like this, but time is of the essence."

Her heart beats faster as she waits for the shaman's reaction, hoping against hope that she will accept their plea for aid.

"Forgive me for my cold demeanor," the shaman says, stepping inside and shutting the door behind her. "You are not the first one to seek my aid regarding such a grave matter." Her gaze drifts over to Nixo before fixing on Utahime once more. "Tell me everything you know about what has happened and why you believe my assistance is required."

Taking a deep breath to steady herself, Utahime begins to recount the events that have led them here, starting with Nixo's father's death and ending with their discovery of the rare disease and their attempts to reach out for help through curses. She leaves nothing out, pouring her heart into every word, hoping that the shaman will understand the desperation they feel and be moved to act.

The shaman listens intently, her expression growing more somber as the story unfolds. When Utahime finishes speaking, she nods thoughtfully before saying, "I see... It appears that your situation is indeed dire. But tell me, Utahime Iori, why do you think I can help?" There's an undercurrent of skepticism in her voice, and Utahime knows that she must answer honestly if there is any hope of convincing her.

Utahime hesitates for a moment before responding. "To be frank, I don't know if anyone else can help him," she admits, her voice heavy with regret. "But I believe that your unique abilities as a shaman... your connection to the spirit realm... might give us our best chance." Her gaze remains locked on the shaman, hope beginning to flicker within her eyes. "Please, we have nowhere else to turn."

"I see...," the shaman says, her eyes shut as she thinks deeply about the matter at hand. "Very well, I will help you, Utahime Iori. But know this: this journey will be treacherous and full of unknowns. You must trust me completely if we are to succeed." Her voice is firm but reassuring, and for the first time since they met, a small spark of hope ignites within Utahime's chest.

She looks up at Nixo, feeling a wave of protectiveness wash over her. "I promise, Nixo," she whispers, taking his hand in hers. "We won't give up on you."

Her words bring fresh tears to her eyes, but they also steel her resolve. If this shaman says she can help, then that's all the reassurance they need. With renewed determination, Utahime nods at Nixo and turns back to the shaman, offering her a small, grateful smile. "Thank you," she whispers, her voice thick with emotion. "You have no idea how much this means to us."

The two women sit down beside Nixo's bed, preparing themselves for whatever challenges lie ahead as they embark on the perilous journey together towards healing and hope.

As they sit beside Nixo, the shaman regards Utahime with a thoughtful expression before speaking. "I will need time to prepare myself and gather what I'll need for this journey. In the meantime, you should tell me everything you know about Nixo's past, his family, and anything else that might be relevant." Her tone is serious but reassuring as she takes out a notepad and begins jotting down notes.

Utahime nods, taking a deep breath to steady herself before launching into the details of Nixo's life, leaving nothing out. She knows that this is their best chance at saving him, and she'll do whatever it takes to make sure they don't fail. As she speaks, her eyes meet the shaman's occasionally, seeking reassurance or guidance but finding only calm professionalism in return. But that's enough for now; she trusts that the shaman knows what she's doing and will help them through this difficult time.

"I understand," the shaman says after listening carefully to Utahime's story. "This is indeed a delicate matter, and I must tread carefully." Pausing briefly to collect her thoughts, she looks up at Utahime with a determined expression. "In order to prepare myself further, there is something else I must ask of you."

"A-anything," Utahime replies, her voice wavering slightly despite her determination not to show fear or doubt. Anything to save Nixo, even if it means venturing deeper into unknown territory. She folds her hands neatly in her lap, waiting anxiously for the shaman to continue.

The silence stretches on for several heartbeats before the shaman finally speaks again. "I need you to trust me completely, Utahime Iori," she says, looking directly into her eyes. "Not just in this situation, but in all things. Will you do that?"

I... believe I can," Utahime replies hesitantly, her voice barely above a whisper. She takes a shaky breath and forces herself to meet the shaman's gaze steadily. "But it won't be easy for me. There is much pain in my past, both from my own failures and the actions of others... I will try."

The words feel like they are torn from her throat, but she knows that they must be said. It is a step towards healing, not just for Nixo but for herself as well. She swallows hard and waits, heart in her throat, for the shaman's response.