Chapter Text
(Y/n) let out a sigh as she felt the breeze flow through her hair and haori, as she flew on the back of garchomp. She looked at the sight before her, a bright blue sky with a few clouds scattered about. Tsubaki flew a few feet in front of her, guiding the Garchomp behind her. Currently, the woman was on her way to the home of her master, Ubuyashiki. The woman was both excited and nervous at the same time, it had been quite some time since she had been back at the estate. Not only would she be meeting Lord Ubuyashi again, but his wife and children. From what she was told from Tsubaki, several pokemon have appeared in the nearby area and have either been brought to the estate or found their way there. While this was a simple ‘return pokemon back to where they came’ mission, she couldn’t help but feel like there was something more to this visit.
“Lady (Y/n), prepare to descend! We approach the Ubuyashiki estate” Tsubaki said, calling from her position from the front.
“Got it!” (Y/n) said. Garchomp cuffed in acknowledgment, and started his descent. Once close to the estate, Garchomp landed in the back and (Y/n) hopped off the back of her partner. She opened her bag and allowed Rotom to fly out. The group looked around in awe at the ‘several’ pokemon that are here. There was a wide variety of different types, sizes, and specimens.
(Y/n) looked around excitedly, watching all the pokemon interacting with each other. She faced the mansion and watched three Bounsweet run together on the rocks, a Falinks marched in the opposing direction while a small group of Yanma, Butterfree, and Cutiefly flew overhead. There were also small groups of Rookidee, Fletchling, and Pidove sitting on the edges of the estate's roof. (Y/n) turned to her right and watched as two Sunflora basked in the sunlight while a Bellossom danced beautifully under the sunlight, earning an applause from both a Teddiursa and a Happiny. The group heard a sudden ‘splash’ and their attention turned to the pond behind them. (Y/n) ran over just in time to see a Magikarp, breach the water and fall back in. The woman kneeled down next to the pond and tried to look into the pond, but found it hard to see.
(Y/n) took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and plunged her head into the water. After a few seconds she opened her eyes and marveled at all the pokemon hidden underneath the water. She saw the Magikarp once again, along with a Horsea and a Goldeen. Looking to her left she saw a Basculin bashing heads with a Carvanha while a Chinchou and a Barboach watched. Looking to her right she saw two Luvdisc swim around each other while a Finneon passed by her field of view. (Y/n) then looked down to see three Corphish trotting around on the bottom of the pond along with a Dewpider and a group of Corsola. (Y/n) smiled the best she could before she caught sight of Garchomp plunging his head next to hers. The two smiled at each just as they both felt hands on their backs, startling them both causing the two to inhale water. Both Garchomp and (Y/n) shot their heads out of the water, sputtering and coughing up water.
“I see that you’ve already made yourself at home” Both (Y/n) and Garchomp turned their heads behind them to see that Kagaya was standing behind them, along with a woman with white hair who were both smiling at them; and the master was looking healthier than ever.
“M-Master!” (Y/n) exclaimed as she felt heat rise up on her cheeks. She could only imagine how ridiculous she and Garchomp looked with their heads in the water and their butts in the air.
“I am so sorry! I got so excited to see all the pokemon, then a Magikarp jumped out of the water, and I couldn’t see so I wanted a closer look so I just–” The woman was cut off when Kagaya raised his hand, his warm smile still present on his face.
“Please, it’s alright.” Kagaya said, before turning his attention to the woman standing next to him.
“(L/n) (Y/n), This is my wife Ubuyashiku Amane” Kagaya said, just as Amane bowed to the woman on her knees before her.
“It is a pleasure to meet you, lady (L/n)” Amane said, her voice smooth and soft. (Y/n) quickly stood up and bowed herself.
“The pleasure is mine! It is an honor to meet you!” (Y/n) said, still flustered as Garchomp bowed as well. Rotom landed on the rocky ground and tried to bow to the best of its ability.
‘I can’t believe I embarrassed myself like that! In front of the master and his wife of all people!’ (Y/n) thought as the water dripped from her head and hair. The trio raised from their bow just as two kakushi suddenly appeared.
“Ah, good timing. Please, if you could, fetch The Pokemon hashira and her companion towels to dry off with?” Kagaya requested. The two kakushi, without any hesitation, quickly rushed off somewhere.
“By the way, how's that berry farm coming along?” (Y/n) asked, ringing out her hair. Garchomp had moved a few feet back before he started to shake himself dry.
“The plot of land we bought not far from the butterfly mansion has already been plowed, and the seeds have been planted. Since we’re on the topic, it would appear that four kinds of pokemon have made their home there” Kagaya said.
“Really? What do reports say? Are they causing any trouble?” (Y/n) asked, just as the two Kakushi returned with towels. The woman took the towel from one of the kakushi while garchomp allowed the other to dry him off.
“Quite the contrary actually, The berry trees are flourishing and are just about ready to be harvested. The pokemon have been helping to maintain the berries in exchange for some in return.” Kagaya said.
“I see, I’ll have to go check it out for myself sometime soon.” (Y/n) said, pulling the towel away from her now slightly damp hair.
“May I take your bag Lady (L/n)? I’ll be taking them to your room” The Kakushi asked.
“Thank you, I appreciate it!” (Y/n) said, handing the woman the only bag she had, packed with only a few clothes, medicine case, pokeballs, and berries. The kakushi took the bag, try to hide her struggling due to how heavy it was, and quickly left along with the other kakushi.
“Please come inside, we have much to discuss about the pokemon here” Kagaya said, as both him and his wife turned to enter their home.
“Please lady (L/n), allow me to take your towel.” the Kakushi said, holding her hands out just as the other Kakushi pulled the towel from off the dragon type’s head. Once dry, The group entered the estate and entered the already opened room. Ubuyashiki, his wife, (Y/n), sat down on the tatami. Garchomp sat on the engawa watching all the pokemon play, while Rotom flew around taking pictures and documenting the pokemon’s behavior.
“I will start making tea, if you will excuse me” The female kakushi said, being followed by the male Kakushi who was not too far behind. As they left, the two could be heard arguing on who would get to serve Kagaya, Amane, and (Y/n) first. Causing (Y/n) to stifle a laugh.
“It would appear that you’ve made quite the impression, (L/n)” Kagaya said, while Amane simply nodded in agreement.
“I’m glad it’s a good impression rather than a bad one!” (Y/n) said cheerfully.
“Also, it looks like the Lum berry treatment is effective! You look healthier than ever, Master!” (Y/n) added. Kagaya smiled and nodded in agreement.
“Yes, I feel stronger than ever, I can walk the burial grounds and pay my respects without issue. I feel it won’t be long till I will be able to pick up a sword.” Kagaya said, causing both (Y/n)’s and Amane’s eyes to widen.
“Absolutely not!” Amane protested.
“Dearest, while your health is improving; it is far too risky for you to take part in this war.” Amane said. Kagaya gave Amane an understanding look, while seeming saddened at the same time.
“I know I am not in good health, but I don’t feel at ease knowing so many of my children are putting their lives on the line and dying for the sins and the actions of Kibustuji Muzan. I should be out there fighting” Kagaya said, clenching his fists.
“While your drive and determination to fight is admirable, Master” (Y/n) started, gaining both Kagaya’s and Amane’s attention.
“It wouldn’t be wise for you to go up against the demons, whether you are physically fit to fight or not. Imagine if Muzan himself found you, what would stop him from turning you into a demon and using you to annihilate your family and the entire demon slayer core?” (Y/n) stated. Both Kagaya’s and Amane’s eyes widened at the very thought.
“Besides.” (Y/n) spoke with a smile.
“Now that death is no longer looming over your shoulder, what’s stopping you from spending more time with your family? So many things that you couldn’t do before due to the curse you can do now! I will personally help you in any way I can!” (Y/n) stated. Both Kagaya and Amane looked at eachother then back at (Y/n).
“The core, myself, and my pokemon included. We will fight hard to ensure a future where you’ll never have to worry about demons again, I promise! I’m sure the other Hashira feel the same!” (Y/n) finished. Both Kagaya and Amane smiled, they were about to say something when the sound of crying caught everyone’s attention. Kagaya, Amane, (Y/n), and Garchomp snapped their heads over to an opened door to see both the male and female Kakushi in tears.
“L-Lady (L/n)! You are so kind and completely right! We love you and your family so much, Master! We Kakushi will also work hard to make the world a better place!” The female Kakushi sobbed while the male nodded in agreement, also in tears. The woman was holding a tray of tea and snacks while the man was trying to dry his tears. Both Kagaya and Amane gave their thanks, causing both the male and female Kakushi to sob ever harder. The woman shakily walked into the room and placed the tray down, pouring the three their cups of tea, before bowing in respect to Kagaya, Amane, and (Y/n). The woman, along with the man, quickly left the room just as a pokemon entered the room, (Y/n)’s eyes widened when she recognized it was a Persian. The Persian came into the room, and curled up right beside Kagaya, placing his head into his lap.
“Oh wow! A Persian. How fitting for you, Master!” (Y/n) stated. Kagaya gently raised his hand and started petting the pokemon’s head, causing him to pur.
“He appeared not too long ago, after taking him in he’s been rather affectionate, mostly to my husband” Amane said.
“Since we are on the topic, (L/n), I have a request” Kagaya spoke, gaining (Y/n)’s attention.
“You see, my children were forced to grow up rather quickly due to the curse that my family lineage bears. My death was all but inevitable before you came and gifted me the lum berries. Now, just as you said, I no longer have death looming over my shoulder.” Kagaya said, with (Y/n) hanging onto every word.
“I wish for the children Amane and I brith into this world, to live how they were meant to live. While it was out of my control, I have always felt guilt over the fact that they could not play like the other children their age could, or for them to experience the wonders of life. I feel that the pokemon may help them in that regard. If you would, (L/n), teach them how to play with them just as you had, I feel it would be mutually beneficial to both parties. Especially for my son, Kiriya.” Kagaya finished. (Y/n) took a moment to process before she smiled widely at the couple before her.
“You can count on me! I think that is a fantastic idea, Master!” (Y/n) said, clapping her hands in excitement and gaining Garchomp’s full attention.
“I think the pokemon would get some enjoyment out of this as well, I will ensure that your children will relax and have fun!” (Y/n) said with a determined look on her face. Both Kagaya and Amane smiled before they gave each other knowing looks.
“There is one more thing I wish to speak with you about, it’s in regards to my son.” Kagaya said. (Y/n) gave the man before her a curious look.
“My son, Kiriya, seems to have befriended what we believe to be a pokemon.” Kagaya said. (Y/n) nodded and urged him to continue.
“This pokemon, if it is even a pokemon, has only shown itself to him and only at night. Some of the Kakushi have seen glimpses of it, but not enough to make a detailed report. When asking Kiriya, he refuses to go into detail, we’re not sure why.” Kagaya said. (Y/n) could practically feel the worry wafting off of the two.
“This behavior is very unlike him, I'm worried that whatever this is, is playing with his mind. We’re hesitant to forbid him from seeing his new friend, in fear if it will come to take him. We are at a complete loss on what to do.” Amane said, with tears filling her eyes. Kagaya gently brought his wife close to him, allowing her to rest her head on his shoulder and silently cry. (Y/n) gave the parents a sorrowful look, and turned to garchomp who shared her sentiment, having heard everything. (Y/n) turned her attention back to both Kagaya and Amane. She offered the two a smile and gave them a determined look.
“Master, you can count on me! I’ll do everything I can to make sure your son is safe” (Y/n) said. The two gave the woman their thanks and bowed.
“Thank you, Lady (L/n). We are in your debt” Kagaya said.
“You have no debt to me, I’d do this for free!” (Y/n) said with a confident smile. Amane dried her tears, and Kagaya smiled back at (Y/n).
“Truly, you are far too kind.” Kagaya said. (Y/n) simply smiled and grabbed her cup of tea to take a drink.
—---
(Y/n), along with Rotom and Garchomp, were being led to her room by a Kakushi, who was silently gushing to himself. The woman’s mind seemed to stay stuck on Kiriya and this mysterious creature. She ran through the list of all the pokemon she could possibly think of that could alter one’s behavior, in such a short amount of time.
‘The pokemon in question is most likely a psychic or fairy type, so A Hypno? No, Kiriya would have been found unconscious or in a state of sleepwalking. That also crosses off a Drowsy being the culprit. What about a Hatterene? No, that wouldn’t work either, he would have gone missing or also found unconscious as well.’ (Y/n) thought to herself. (Y/n) suddenly had an idea pop in her mind.
‘Arceus? You wouldn’t happen to know of any pokemon that could alter one’s personality?’ (Y/n) asked.
“I’ll need more information than what was given to us, but I will try. Any bit of information helps.” Arceus spoke, within (Y/n)’s mind. The woman gave her thanks, before she turned her attention to the Kakushi guiding her.
“Excuse me?” (Y/n) asked. The Kakushi jumped before turning his attention to (Y/n). The group came to a stop.
“Yes my Lady, what is it that you need of me?” The man asked.
“About this creature that has been visiting the master’s son, from what I've been told, those who've seen it have only caught a few glances of it, correct?” (Y/n) asked. The man nodded.
“Have you seen it before? If so, could you tell me what you saw? Even if it’s not much, every little detail helps.” The man pondered for a moment, placing his hand on his covered chin.
“I haven’t seen it personally, but from what I've heard, it has a bluish white color, looks like it has long hair, and that it never touches the ground.” The Kakushi said.
“Bluish white color, long hair, and never touches the ground… I see” (Y/n) noted before she smiled brightly at the man before her.
“Thank you so much, this should be of help to us!” (Y/n) beemed. The man before her sputtered and fumbled, his face heating up from underneath his mask.
“I-It’s no trouble at all Lady (L/n), anything to be of service!” The man said. Suddenly the man noticed someone walking towards them, gaining the group’s attention. (Y/n) turned around to see what looked to be a little girl with short black hair, and dressed in a purple yukata with a wisteria hairpin. She wore a rather eerie smile, and her eyes were void of any emotion.
‘This must be one of the master’s daughters. Poor thing! It must be so hard to be forced to grow up so fast!’ (Y/n) thought, before putting a smile on her face. (Y/n), Garchomp, and the Kakushi bowed in respect. Rotom tried it’s best.
“Greeting young master, it’s good to see you tonight. I’m assuming you just got back from visiting that ‘friend’ of yours?” The Kakushi asked. (Y/n)’s, Garchomp’s, and Rotom’s eyes widen to the size of dinner plates.
‘THIS IS KIRIYA?!’ (Y/n) thought, looking over the little boy before her. His facial expression remained the same, which unnerved (Y/n) even more. The boy simply nodded, before he bowed in respect and walked away. The group watched as Kiriya turned a corner and disappeared from sight.
“So that was the young master?” (Y/n) questioned. The Kakushi nodded, turning his attention back to (Y/n).
“Yes, all of the master’s children act like that. So you might have a hard time getting them to open up, it’s sad in all honesty” The man said, (Y/n) couldn’t help but agree.
“Especially for the young master, being forced to dress as a girl just for his own protection. He will take over for the master one day, thankfully not anytime soon thanks to you, my lady.” The kakushi said. He bowed to (Y/n), taking the woman off guard.
“Thanks to you, and your pokemon, you have brought a bright ray of hope to this world and it’s future. We truly are in your debt.” The man said, getting up from his bow. (Y/n) smiled warmly at him and nodded her head. The group continued on their way to where they would be staying. Once they arrived, the Kakushi bid his farewell and left. The woman looked around the room, it reminded her of her old room at Kyojuro’s. A spacious room with two futons layed out in the center of the room. Her bag had been placed in the corner of the room. Sitting on top of one of the futon, was a simple white sleep yukata, folded neatly.
“Aw, they didn’t have to give me this. How sweet!” (Y/n) said, walking over to the futon and grabbing the Yukata. Suddenly Arceus spoke to her in her head.
“(Y/n) I believe I know the pokemon that has been meeting with Kiriya, but I want to be sure that I'm correct, and I hope I'm not.” Arceus said. (Y/n) gave a hum as she started to undress herself, and adorned the yukata. Just as garchomp layed down on the futon next to (Y/n)’s.
“What do you think it is?” (Y/n) asked. Settling down on her own futon just as Rotom shut itself down for the night.
“I’ll need to see it for myself, if it is what I think it is… then you will need to be prepared, (Y/n).” Arceus said, making (Y/n) nervous. If Arceus wanted her to be fully prepared before she could face it, what kind of Pokemon could it be?