[It was heartening, that even after all of this, Oka-chan hadn't lost hope or her spirit. Sukuna breathed a little easier, mopping up the last of the tea he had spilled before replenishing his drink, expression once again calm and pleased.]

Oka-chan the last thing you are is a burden. You've been put in a very difficult position and anyone with lesser conviction or strength wouldn't have lasted. Even if it might not seem like that now, your best is definitely more than enough.

[He paused, smiling at her over the rim of his teacup.]

But I'm sorry to have you come here all this way for no reason! How can I make it up to you?