"Exactly. Cursed energy is like a set of negative numbers. It's there, but in its raw state, it doesn't do anything tangible. To use it, you need the right operators. Add, subtract, multiply… you've got to manipulate that energy like you would numbers to get a result."
Ryosuke nodded slowly, absorbing this new perspective. "So… if I want to cast a spell, I have to first… build it, like an equation, right?"
"Exactly!" Yuki responded enthusiastically. "I can see you inherited your mother's intelligence! The more you understand how your energy works, the more complex formulas you can create. You could even invent your own spells. But everything starts with basic understanding. It's not about how much energy you have; it's how you use it."
Ryosuke stayed silent for a moment, thinking back on all his failed attempts. Now, everything seemed clearer.
Everything he had learned in science, his math classes, even the hours spent juggling complex formulas to better harness his Overhaul, could finally extend to his mastery of Jujutsu.
He straightened slightly, a satisfied smile forming on his lips. A new understanding and a renewed excitement took hold of him. He had never felt closer to grasping the true nature of cursed energy. He couldn't wait to start experimenting again.
Yuki, watching him quietly, quickly noticed her nephew deep in thought. She smiled softly, amused by his focus. She was about to ask him a new question to test if he truly understood what she had just explained, but Ryosuke suddenly looked up at her, a curious spark in his eyes.
"Auntie… why do humans only produce cursed energy from negative emotions? Why can't they also create some kind of blessed energy from positive emotions?"
The question seemed to catch Yuki off guard for a moment, then a mysterious smile crossed her lips.
"That's an interesting question, Ryosuke," she said softly, almost thoughtfully. She paused, her gaze drifting off into the distance before she continued. "I've pondered that question for a long time. I even developed my own theory."
Ryosuke tilted his head slightly, intrigued. He hadn't expected this topic to come up—he was just curious. But knowing his aunt had a take on it, he was interested. His eyes practically sparkled with anticipation.
Yuki shrugged lightly before answering. "I think it's tied to the nature of the world itself. The world, at its core, isn't designed to be good. In fact, I believe that evil is more deeply rooted in human nature than good."
Ryosuke frowned, not expecting such a direct response.
"Look at newborns," Yuki continued after a brief pause. "When they come into the world, they know nothing of good or evil. Yet they instinctively learn behaviors like biting, hitting, or crying to get what they want, long before they learn to share or show kindness. Evil seems to come more naturally. It's easier to be selfish than selfless. It's almost as if evil is an integral part of human nature, something instinctive and innate."
She let that thought hang in the air for a moment, watching Ryosuke's reaction. He frowned, thoughtful. The theory seemed solid to him.
Yuki went on, seeing that he was reflecting on her words. "And what's natural, what's instinctive, is what generates energy. Energy is an expression of who we fundamentally are. So, if our nature leans more easily toward negative emotions, it's no surprise those emotions produce cursed energy. To produce positive energy, you would need… to change that nature. And that's nearly impossible to do on your own."
Ryosuke remained silent, letting his aunt's words resonate within him.
The question of the origin of Jujutsu, of curses, and even of human nature itself swirled in his mind. He recalled his recent readings, the philosophical concepts that had intrigued him so much. Studying the essence of existence was like trying to unravel the mysteries of an endless universe.
TO BE CONTINUED!
A/N:
I created a Discord channel—here's the link
https://discord.gg/B3xfxHtGfq
(it's also included in the synopsis, and no, I don't plan on creating a Patreon). The Discord will be a space to interact with readers, respond more easily, and bring the community together. I'll do my best to keep the channel active.
Also, since this is a special occasion, I'm posting a third chapter as promised.
Next Chapter: Cursed Energy Understanding Part 2