Chapter 24 of Jujutsu Kaisen is a chapter of contrasts, blending moments of personal connection with the lingering threat of curses. Titled “Fearsome Womb, Part 22”, it highlights Yuji Itadori’s growing bond with Junpei Yoshino, while also delving into the aftermath of battles involving powerful curses. Here's a detailed look at the chapter:
1. A Bond Over Movies
The chapter begins with a warm interaction between Yuji Itadori and Junpei Yoshino. Their conversation centers around their mutual interest in movies. Junpei discusses why he enjoyed the second "Earthworm Man" film, revealing his enthusiasm for cinema. Yuji, who has been watching a lot of movies recently due to his circumstances, admits he hasn’t seen them in theaters. The conversation underscores their growing friendship and provides a glimpse into Junpei’s personal interests.
Dinner Invitation
As they talk, Junpei’s mother arrives and invites Yuji to dinner. This gesture deepens the connection between Yuji and Junpei, allowing Yuji to interact with Junpei’s family. At the Yoshino household, Yuji bonds with Junpei’s mother, who, despite her inebriated state, is shown to be kind and welcoming. Yuji appreciates this kindness, reflecting on his own lack of parental figures and his relationship with his late grandfather.
2. Mahito’s Survival and Reflection
Meanwhile, Mahito survives the rubble trap set by Kento Nanami. This scene shifts the focus to the ongoing conflict and the stakes involved. Mahito, expressing satisfaction with Nanami’s tactics, reflects on his own abilities. He reveals that he can maintain his soul’s shape even if physically crushed, and can manipulate his cursed energy purely by will. This development highlights Mahito’s growing power and his ability to adapt and learn from battles.
Suguru Geto arrives to discuss the duel with Mahito. Their conversation reveals their concern for Nanami’s fate, though Mahito is unsure of his opponent’s condition. This interaction between Geto and Mahito underscores the strategic and philosophical dimensions of their conflict with the jujutsu sorcerers.
3. Yuji’s Dilemma and Junpei’s Fear
Back at the Yoshino house, Yuji receives a call from Kiyotaka Ijichi, who is surprised to find Yuji at Junpei’s home. Ijichi, anxious about Nanami’s potential displeasure, rushes to pick up Yuji. His conversation with Nanami reveals the gravity of the situation, as Nanami requests medical assistance from Doctor Ieiri due to injuries sustained in his battle with Mahito.
Yuji’s conversation with Junpei takes a darker turn when Junpei asks if Yuji is a jujutsu sorcerer. Yuji confirms his role and addresses the difficult reality of potentially having to kill in the future. He expresses his fear of becoming desensitized to the value of life, a sentiment that reveals his internal struggle with the moral complexities of his role.
4. The Unseen Threat
The chapter concludes with a disturbing turn of events. After Yuji leaves Junpei’s house, Junpei reflects on his fear of killing and its impact on his soul. Meanwhile, Junpei’s mother discovers one of Sukuna’s fingers on the kitchen table. This cursed object attracts a malevolent spirit, setting the stage for impending danger.
Junpei’s mother, now in peril, contrasts sharply with the earlier warmth of the dinner scene. The presence of the cursed finger introduces a new threat that looms over Junpei’s family, highlighting the persistent danger of curses even in seemingly safe environments.
5. Themes of Connection and Danger
Chapter 24 deftly explores the themes of personal connection and the constant threat of curses. Yuji’s interactions with Junpei and his mother provide a moment of respite and character development amidst the ongoing battles. However, the chapter also reinforces the ever-present danger of curses and the impact of Yuji’s and Junpei’s roles in this perilous world.
The chapter balances moments of human connection with the darker elements of the Jujutsu Kaisen universe, setting up future conflicts and deepening the narrative’s emotional and psychological layers.
Chapter 24 is a significant installment in Jujutsu Kaisen, highlighting the evolving dynamics between characters while introducing new threats. It continues to build on the series' themes of friendship, responsibility, and the constant struggle against curses.