Chapter 2 - Tanjiro Kamado and his Demon Sister
Natsuki's diary
Day 1
It was yesterday when I started living in Swordsmith Village. Village chief Techchin explained everything about their world to me. Apparently, Arceus teleported me to the distant past, to the Taisho Era to be precise. When I asked Tecchin what a Demon Slayer was, he explained that they are members of the Demon Slayer Corps whose main job is to hunt and slay dangerous creatures called demons and the Demon Slayer Corps is an organization whose job is to protect humanity from these monsters.
He also explained what a demon is. A demon, or man-eating demon, also the one I met yesterday, are monsters that only appear at night and are different from each other, but I learned that the more humans they eat, the more powerful they are. When a demon becomes powerful enough, they can gain their own special ability called Blood Demon Art. Tecchin told me that the demons had two weakness, sunlight and decapitation by using a special sword. These monsters are under the control of the Demon King called Muzan Kibutsuji and is considered the greatest threat to all humanity. Tecchin told me that Muzan has a secret hideout where all the demons lived there, including the Upper and Lower Demons, the strongest demons. But no one knows where his hideout is and no demon slayer had met him except one. But the villager chief decided to told me more the day.
This afternoon I showed to the villager's doctor my berries, medical herbs and other medical items. He got curios about these items, so I explained to the doctor about their proprieties and he grew interested that he asked me to test on one of his patients. One of the patient revealed to be a female kakushi – the doctor told me that a kakushi are a brigade of people who work as attendants to the Demon Slayer Corps – and she got poisoned for some reason. I decided to create a medicine mixed with two Pecha Berries, one Revival Herb and one Orange Berry. And it worked, she was completely cured. From that day, the doctor asked me to give him all medical herbs and Berries that I have. I proposed to create a vegetable garden, where he can grow all Berries and medical herbs for his medical herbs. With the help of my Grass type Pokémon – Venusaur, Serperior, Meganium and Tropius – to create the vegetable garden full of Berries and medical herbs. The doctor proposed to me if I can become his personal supplier and assistant, which I gladly accepted.
Day 3
Another day of gathering vital information of this world.
Village chief Techchin told me the story of the most powerful Demon Slayer of the entire Japan. His name was Yoriichi Tsugikuni, he was known for being the Sun Breathing user, the first and most powerful breathing style. Tecchin told me the Yoriichi was the one who met the Demon King and he almost killed him. He told me that Yoriichi had a twin brother, his name was Michikatsu Tsugikuni and he was a Moon Breathing user, but he became a demon for unknown reasons.
When I asked about the Breathing style, Tecchin explained to me that are swordsmanship styles and each are different, but they are all related to the Sun Breathing. The main Breathing Styles are water, fire, thunder, stone and wind. In order to do a Breathing Style is necessary to learn and master the Total Concentration Breathing. Everyone has the opportunity to create their own Breathing Style by taking inspiration from the main Breathing Styles.
Tecchin explained about their job, even if I know what a swordsmith is, I listened him anyway. In the Swordsmith Village the swordsmiths create swords Nichirin Blade, a special sword and the only one who can destroy demons. The Nichirin Blade are forged from a unique ore that constantly absorbs sunlight.
Thanks to the information that the village chief gave me, now I understood how this world works, I think I'm ready to go meet a Demon Slayer next week with Haganezuka.
Day 4
I told to the kids, and later to the adults, many legends and tales from my world. I told them battle between Kyogre and Groundon, the creation of Mewtwo, the great war between Pokémon and humans and many others. I asked my Pokémon to create the scenes by using their moves and the villagers were amazed. The kids were so amazed that they asked me to tell those legends again. I even let the kids playing with my Baby Pokémon, and let me tell you that it was very cute and adorable, even Rotom took some pictures (and it sent me to my Smart Rotom).
This afternoon I explained to everyone about the Mega Evolution, which Kotetsu told about my battle against a demon with Lucario, and the Z-Moves. The were fascinated about the power that they asked me if they could try. I really wanted to teach them, but I told them that they are not ready since it needs to practice a lot, especially to remember all "dances", and they should also have their own Pokémon partner, which unfortunately they don't own one and there aren't any Pokémon in the Taisho Era.
But I promised them that one day I'll teach them and I'll give them a Pokémon Partner.
Day 6
Today I went to see how a Nichirin Blade is made. Hotaru Haganezuka explained to me how his job as a swordsmith is, and let me tell you that it was very interesting. I even asked Rotom Pokédex to record, while I took notes on my notebook. Hotaru, as he asked me to call him instead of his last name, was very happy to know that I was interested in his work and was surprised to see me taking notes of even small details. Hotaru declared that I'm his favorite person in the entire Japan.
When I showed him, Kozo and the other swordsmiths my Pokémon that are related to blades – Bisharp, Aegislash, Gallade, Kingambit, Perrserker, Alolan Sandslah, Escavalier, Kartana and Zacian – they were amazed and surprised. They even asked me some many questions. I even showed them how Kartana can cut half a rock.
Day 8
It's my last day in the Swordsmith Village. I won't lie, but I'm going to miss them, while I'm away to help this young Demon Slayer in his journeys. So, I tried to make my last day as memorable as possible. To end the day, I told the whole village one of my favorite stories, the story of the Burnt Tower and the Bell Tower. At the end of the story, I introduced everyone to Ho-Oh and Lugia in person and they were fascinated by their appearance. I even gave to Kotetsu a Ho-Oh feather and I asked him to treasure it.
The day has come. The day Natsuki will leave to accompany the young demon slayer on his missions. Natsuki decided to put her new outfit that the women from the village gave her. It was a black Demon Slayer uniform along with a white haori, and dark plum tattsuke-hakama pants. Natsuki was also wearing a pair of sporting knee-high lace-up black boots with tan soles, heels and toes.
After dressing up, Natsuki was starting to prepare to leave the village, as she was exiting the house along with her Pokémon – Pikachu, Eevee, Lucario and Poipole – she saw that all kids and adults, including the chief villager, standing in front of her, looking all sad. Even if it was for a short time, everyone had grown fond of the black-haired girl and her Pokémon very quickly. All kids started to hugged her and her Pokémon as they were crying, pleading them to stay. Natsuki and her Pokémon's hearts broke in a few pieces, they have also grown fond of everyone in the Swordsman Village. She sighed and patted all kids' heads.
Nasuki: Don't cry little ones. I'm going to miss you all, but you don't have to worry, I'll visit you guys. Don't think that I'm going to forget you, you guys became important to me. But as I told you that I will come to visit you when I have free time. You just have to promise me that you will be good, you will listen to the adults and that you won't leave the village. Will you do it for me?
All kids looked up to Natsuki and they nodded. Then the black-haired girl turned her head to the adults.
Natsuki: Thank you for everything. Thank you for your hospitality. These days that I have spent here in this village have been wonderful, I will find a way to repay your generosity.
Tecchin: There's no need, young Shima. Saving Kotetsu by his horrible fate, helping the others in the village, giving your medical supplies for our doctor and telling us your stories is already enough. Come back here whenever you want, you're always welcome here.
Said Tecchin as he bowed, even the other people do the same thing. Natsuki bowed back, bowing as well. She put on her Ogerpon mask – she created during her stay at the Festival of Masks in Paldea – and she went towards Hotaru. They started their trip towards the house where the young Demon Slayer lived.
During the trip, Hotaru told Natsuki that the place they are going is inhabited not only by the young Demon Slayer, but also a former Demon Slayer named Urokodaki Sakonji and that he decided to teach the youngster the Water Breathing Technique. Since it will take a long time to reach the destination, Natsuki suggests that Hotaru use one of her Pokémon to reduce the arrival time. At first, Hotaru was reluctantly since he was afraid that the sword will be ruin, but he accepted it. The black-haired girl took out a Velox Ball and an Ultra Ball and they came out a Kantonian Rapidash (Velox Ball) and a Miraidon (Ultra Ball).
Hotaru was once again fascinated by these creatures and Rotom gave him all their informations.
Rotom: Rapidash, the Fire Horse Pokémon. Kantonian Form. A Fire type. It gallops at nearly 150 mph. With its mane blazing ferociously, it races as if it were an arrow.
Miraidon, the Paradox Pokémon. An Electric and Dragon type. This seems to be the Iron Serpent mentioned in an old book. The Iron Serpent is said to have turned the land to ash with its lightning.
Hotaru: Incredible! But… I don't know if I can ride this horse with a horn. He's made of fire.
Natsuki: You don't have to worry about it. Rapidash's mane does not burn those he trusts. If you want, you can ride Miraidon, while I'll ride Firestar.
Hotaru: Firestar?
Natsuki: It's his nickname. Since there is another form of him, I decided that to not get confusion, I gave him a nickname.
Hotaru: Oh, I get it. Ehm… Is it possible if I can touch him?
Natsuki turned her head to Firestar and he nodded. Hotaru slowly put his hand on his fur. It was very soft. If he wasn't wearing the mask, you could see the man with his eyes closed as he was feeling relaxed. When Hotaru opened his eyes, he noticed that he was touching Firestar's mane and he was surprised that his hand isn't getting burned. Instead, he could feel how cold his mane was. Natsuki smiled and giggled.
Natsuki: I told you that Firestar's mane doesn't burn those who trust.
Hotaru could feel his cheeks turning red under his mask.
Hotaru: Well, enough talking, we better hurry up. I want to see which color it will be. Oh, and I want to ride Firestar, if it's not a problem.
Natsuki: Not at all.
Hotaru hopped on Firestar, while Natsuki hopped on Miraidon (Pikachu and Eevee were on her shoulders, Poipole in her backpack and Lucario in the back of Miraidon) and the two started to walk towards their destination.
After a few hours, Hotaru and Natsuki arrived at the house.
Natsuki: I'll reward Firestar and Miraidon, you go, I'll catch up later.
Natsuki took out in her back some Pokémon food and gave to her Pokémon. Then she took out the Velox Ball and Ultra Ball and returned Firestar and Miraidon respectively.
Natsuki turned her head to see Hotaru talking with a young boy that he was around the same age as her. He has fairly tanned skin and an athletic, muscular body. He has ruffled, burgundy hair, combed back to expose his forehead, and wide, dark red eyes. He also has a scar on the top left of his forehead. Natsuki noticed that Hotaru started to talk about how a Nichirin Blade is made, while the poor boy was trying to get his attention. Natsuki and her Pokémon started to walked towards them.
Natsuki: Hotaru. He's talking to you.
She said as she stopped besides the swordsmith. The boy noticed Natsuki's presence and he was curios yet confused. He remembered that there was supposed only one swordsmith to deliver his Nichirin Blade. And her mask? It was a very unusual one, he had never seen it before.
Natsuki: Sorry about him. He is just very passionate when it comes to his swords. You will get used to it.
Suddenly, Hotaru got closed to the boy's face as he was taking a good look on him.
Hotaru: Hey, you're a child of brightness, aren't you? Now that's what I call lucky.
Boy: Oh no, I'm the son of Tanjuro and Kie.
Hotaru: That's not what I meant. See how your hair and eyes are a reddish color? When a kid like you are born into a family that works with fire, it's considered lucky and a cause for celebration.
Hotaru started to poke the boy's cheeks to his dismiss.
Boy: Is that right? I had no idea.
Hotaru: There's a good chance that this sword will turn red! Right, Urokodaki?
Said another voice and what he came out an elderly man. It was tall man with silver hair. He was wearing a red tengu mask that covers his entire face. He was wearing a cloud-patterned jinbei kimono with navy colored pants which are fastened at his shins by white kyahan guards, traditional black tabi socks, and sandals with blue straps. This man was Urokodaki Sakonji, a Demon Slayer and the previous Water Hashira who retired a long time ago.
Urokodaki, standing behind the boy, noticed Natsuki.
Urokodaki: Haganezuka, who is this person besides you? I thought you would come alone.
Hotaru: Ah yes. Natsuki, this is Urokodaki Sakonji, the Demon Slayer that I've talked about. Urokodaki, this is Natsuki, my friend and student.
Urokodaki was shocked. He always knew that Hotaru was a difficult person to deal with, especially when it comes to his work with swords. So, having someone as his student is actually very hard to believe. Plus, this "student" was wearing a strange yet beautiful mask. Natsuki bowed to greet the two Demon Slayers.
Natsuki: It's a pleasure to meet you. I'm Natsuki Shima, Hotaru's student and Pokémon Trainer.
Boy: Pokémon Trainer? What's that?
Asked the boy with curiosity in his eyes.
Natsuki: A Pokémon Trainer is a person who catches, trains, cares for, and battles with Pokémon.
Suddenly, Lucario, Pikachu, Eevee and Poipole coming out behind Hotaru and Natsuki, surprising both Urokodaki and the boy.
Urokodaki: What are they?
Natsuki: Don't worry, they meant no harm. But I'll explain everything in your house, after we saw the color of the sword.
Hotaru: Oh, you're right. I can't wait to see a red blade!
After that, everyone went inside the house as the boy was holding the sword, while Hotaru was exciting to see the (red) sword, Urokodaki was patiently watching in silent. As for Natsuki,she took out her Rotom Phone to record everything as well as Pikachu was holding Rotom Pokédex as he wanted to record too.
Hotaru: Come on, hurry up and draw it. Nichirin Swords are also known as "color changing swords". They change color depending on the bearer.
Explained Hotaru excited and the boy was surprised. He started to slowly drawing the sword as he gripped the handle, the blade slowly became black. This surprised and shocked everyone in the room.
Boy: Oh!
Hotaru: Black!
Urokodaki: It's black, huh?
The boy started to panic. He didn't know why it's black nor what is its meaning.
Boy: Huh? Is it bad or something if it turns black? Is it unlucky?
Urokodaki: No, not necessarily, but you don't see this pitch black too often.
Natuski: Huh. I didn't know. So, it's probably rare or something.
Natsuki thought. Suddenly, everyone heard a grumbled, they turned to see Hotaru disappointment… well, more like furious.
Hotaru: And I was hoping I'd get to see a bright red sword! Dammit!
Hotaru then jumped up and wrestled the boy as the swordsmith pinned the boy into an uncomfortable position.
Boy: Wha?! Ouch! Stop! Please calm down! How old do you think you are?!
Hotaru: I'm thirty-seven!
Natsuki sweat dropped and sighed, but suddenly, Rotom Pokédex spoke up as they were still recording the entire scene.
Rotom: Wow! Natsuki, it's almost like seeing a real wrestler in action when we were in Alola!
This made everyone – aside Hotaru and Natsuki – startled, upon seeing the Pokémon in the Pokédex.
Urokodaki: What the?! Is that a demon?!
Boy: What?! A demon, here?!
Natsuki: Everyone calm down!
Exclaimed Natsuki as she got up from the floor and everyone stopped screaming.
Natsuki: Lucario, release the poor boy from Hotaru, please. And you, Rotom. How many times do I have to tell you that we are in another world where no one has ever seen a Pokémon in their entire life, especially when it's a Pokémon that can communicate via a device?
Rotom: Oops. Sorry, I totally forgot. I just got excited. It won't happen again.
Natsuki: I hope. Sorry about Rotom. They didn't mean to scare you and they're not demon. They're Pokémon.
Urokodaki: You keep saying 'Pokémon' but what exactly is a Pokémon? And what do you mean by 'another world'?
Natsuki: To answer your first question, Pokémon are beautiful and magnificent creatures and each of them have unique ability. These "strange looking creatures" are Pokémon as you can see.
Urokodaki: I see. And they have names?
Rotom: Of course, if you want, I can tell you who they are.
Said Rotom as he started to explain to Urokodaki and the boy about Natsuki's Pokémon. This made both the man and the youngster very impressed and fascinated.
Boy: Whoa! That is so cool! I've never knew such creatures could be this cool!
Urokodaki: But what about that one?
Asked Urokodaki, pointing at Rotom.
Rotom: I'm Rotom Pokédex and I'm what you called "assistant". I can do everything, but I'm more an Encyclopedia Pokémon. I know every Pokémon, if you have any question about Pokémon, all you have to do is just ask me.
Then he started to take some photos, startling the boy and Urokodaki.
Natsuki: Don't worry. They're just taking some photos. They always want to be updated about everything.
Boy: But what Pokémon is Rotom?
Rotom: Here's your answer. Rotom, the Plasma Pokémon. An Electric and Ghost type. With a body made of plasma, it can inhabit all sorts of machines. It loves to surprise others. Here some image of the forms I can have.
Urokodaki and the boy were surprised to hear this, but they are even more when they saw how Rotom can take different forms.
Natsuki: As for the second question, well it's very complicated and difficult to explain, but I'll try to put it as simply as possible. I'm from another world where humans and Pokémon coexist, and I discovered that my family was blessed by the Pokémon God with the power to travel to every world and dimension. And this gem has the power to do it. But I don't know exactly why they sent me here.
Urokodaki and Tanjiro were shocked. This girl was from another world were these creatures called Pokémon co-exist with humans. How is it possible? Also, a Pokémon God, it really exists?
Natsuki: Anyway, I think it's time for you to see what I look like.
Urokadaki: Wait! Are you sure? Hotaru, is it-
Hotaru: Of course, she can take the mask off without any problem. Don't worry Urokodaki.
Natsuki slowly took off her mask and Urokodaki and the boy were surprised to see her face, especially the boy. He was mesmerizing by her appearance. She was a beautiful girl with dark blue eyes, long, black hair and light tanned skin. The boy couldn't' help but blushed as he was admiring her.
The boy snapped out of his thoughts, when suddenly, a crow appeared in the house and started to squawk.
Crow: Caw! Tanjiro Kamado! Here are your orders!
The boy known as Tanjiro and Natsuki were shocked – Natsuki was fascinated but this, but still shocked – to hear the crow talk.
Tanjiro: Huh? It talks!
Crow: Make your way to a town in the northwest! Young girls have been vanishing there! Night after night, young girls have been vanishing! Hunt down the demon lurking there and kill it! Tanjiro Kamado, prepare yourself well for this task! This is your first assignment as a Demon Hunter! Caw!
Tanjiro: My first… assignment…
After a few minutes, Natsuki, after saying goodbye to Hotaru as he went back to the Swordsmith Village, was waiting for Tanjiro outside of the house. She then heard the door opening and she saw Tanjiro with a new whole outfit. He was wearing his standard Demon Slayer uniform, a dark-brown gakuran jacket, a white belt, baggy chocho zubon pants that extend into tabi socks, a pair of zori with red straps, and bands of white cloth wrapped tightly around his calves resembling kyahan, all beneath his signature checkered haori. Natsuki noticed that Tanjiro was carrying a large wooden box on his back, she wanted to asked him, but she decided to ask him later.
Before she and Tanjiro could start to leave, Urokodaki stopped them and he walked towards Natsuki.
Urokodaki: Natsuki, please, can you watch over Tanjiro for me? Even if I just know you today, I can sense that you are trustworthy person. Can you please do me this favor?
Natsuki: I will take care of him and protect him, mister Urokodaki. You can trust me.
Urokodaki: Thank you.
With that Tanjiro and Natsuki (her Pokémon were in their Pokéballs) set off for the first mission, ready to save people and to fulfill their mission with determination.
Tanjiro and Natsuki arrived in the town where the mission was requested, but as soon they set foot in it, they heard some people whispering as they pointed to a young man called Kazumi. Tanjiro and Natsuki saw Kazumi, he was full of bruises and he had a depressed expression, they approached him, asking him about his situation. Kazumi told them that last night his fiancée mysteriously disappeared without a trace. Tanjiro asked Kazumi to take him and Natsuki to the alley spot where he saw the last time his girlfriend and when they arrived, the burgundy-haired boy started to smell the ground, which confused Kazumi and Natsuki as the black-haired girl thought that he almost acts like a Stoutland. After that, Tanjiro seemed to understand what happened and he explained to Kazumi.
That night as the investigation continued, Tanjiro suddenly gasped as he found something. He exclaimed that the demon's scent got stronger and he started to run, more like he jumped, to find the demon, until he found himself in an empty alley. He started to sniff in the air and he caught two different scents, a demon and a young girl. He tried to find the spot of the scent, until he found it. He drew out his sword and aimed to the ground. Suddenly, from the dark shadow, a young girl appeared and Tanjiro reached her into the dark, pulling out the young girl out. It was then that a demon appeared.
The demon appeared to be a young man with pale skinned and long blue hair with two long strands of violet on both sides of the face, supported by two golden hair separators. It had claw-like nails and the veins on his forehead are quite prominent as it almost looked like eyebrows. Its eyes were red without pupils and with prominent dark eye bags.
Tanjiro: Where are those girls you kidnapped?
Exclaimed angrily Tanjiro, the demon gritted his teeth.
Tanjiro: I've got two more questions for you!
But the demon said nothing and only continued to grit his teeth. Afterwards he left, before Tanjiro could say anything.
Kazumi and Natsuki found Tanjiro and the two saw a young unconscious girl in Tanjiro's arms.
Kazumi: Who is that?
Asked Kazumi, confused and worried.
Tanjiro: Mr. Kazumi, please hold this person and stand nearby.
Kazumi took Tokie from Tanjiro and the burgundy-haired boy walked forward with his sword drawn. Before he could do any more steps, Natsuki put a hand on his shoulder and Tanjiro turned his head towards her.
Natsuki: I'll help you. Even if I can't hold a sword, I know two perfect Pokémon for this mission. But first-
Natsuki took out three Pokéballs and one Beast Ball and they came out Pikachu, Eevee, Lucario and Poipole respectively.
Natsuki: Guys, I want you to protect Mr. Kazumi and this girl for me. There's a demon here, if you see it, Lucario tries to attack the demon and you three call me and Tanjiro and we come.
All four Pokèmon nodded and Natsuki took out two Sub Ball, and from these they came out two Jellicent.
Natsuki: Tanjiro, meet Phantom, the blue one, and Spectre, the pink one.
Tanjiro: They looked like two jellyfishes.
As usual, Rotom Pokédex came out of Natsuki's bag and started to explain to Tanjiro about Jellicent.
Rotom: Allow me to explain. Jellicent, the Floating Pokémon. A Water and Ghost Type. Its body is mostly seawater. It's said there's a castle of ships Jellicent have sunk on the seafloor. Fishermen are terrified of Jellicent. It's rumored to drag them into the sea and steal their lives away.
Tanjiro and Kazumi hearing this got scared a little about this information.
Natsuki: These Pokémon can help us on our mission. Phantom, Spectre, listen, there's a demon here, a real monster. Help us to defeat it. Phantom, stay stick with Tanjiro, while you Spectre stay with me. Do you understand?
The two Jellicent known as Phantom and Spectre nodded. The pink Jellicent flew besides Natsuki as the black-haired girl stayed behind, while the blue one flew besides Tanjiro as the burgundy-haired was in front of Natsuki.
Tanjiro: If you're inside my range of attack, I can protect you!
Exclaimed Tanjiro as he turned to Kazumi. As Natsuki and Tanjiro stepped forwards, suddenly three copies of the Swamp Demon rose out from the ground. As one of the Swamp Demon tried to grab Tanjiro, he jumped back as Phantom did the same. When the demon noticed Natsuki, he tried to grabbed her.
Natsuki: Spectre use Shadow Ball!
Exclaimed Natsuki as the pink Floating Pokémon created three dark balls and launched at the Swamp Demon, hitting it.
Tanjiro: Whoa! So, Natsuki can command these creatures and they obey her. Focus Tanjiro! You have a mission! You can ask her later!
Tanjiro thought as he was surprised to see how the Spectre just listened to Natsuki and obey her. It was the black-haired girl turn to be surprise as Tanjiro performed Water Breathing.
Tanjiro: Water Breathing, eight form, Waterfall Basin!
Tanjiro was able to cut the demon's arms from the ground. Natsuki saw how Tanjiro performed perfectly a cut vertically in a flowing motion. He could perform his Water Breathing while using her Water type Pokémon.
As Kazumi saw the demon's arms being cut, the young man got scared, Eevee noticed it and the Pokémon Evolution rubbed Kazumi's arm to calm him down, which it worked. The Swamp Demon disappeared back into the ground, Tanjiro and Natsuki and the two Floating Pokémon run towards Kazumi to protect him. The burgundy-haired boy noticed that all three demons had the same scent.
As the Swamp Demon was preparing to grab Kazumi, Tanjiro attacked the demon, but the monster was able to dodge it, which made the burgundy-haired boy angry.
Suddenly, all three Swamp Demons appeared in front of Tanjiro and Natsuki.
Swamp Demon (Two horns): You bastard! Back off for crying out loud! That girl's gonna go stale on me, dammit! That girl's already 16, okay? If I don't devour her soon, she's gonna lose flavor by the second!
Swamp Demon (One horn): Calm down, my other self. There are gonna be nights like this. I've already fed on plenty of 16-year-old girls in this town. They were all quite meaty and delicious. I'm satisfied.
Swamp Demon (Two horns): Well, I'm not satisfied, my other self! I wanna consume more!
Kazumi, having remained silent this entire time, took a step angrily as he looked towards the three demons.
Kazumi: You monster... Return Satoko to me. The one you abducted the night before last!
The Swamp Demon with one horn showed the inside of his kimono, revealing many hairpins.
Swamp Demon (One horn): Satoko? Who are you talking about? If her hairpin is among these collectibles, then I've devoured her.
Kazumi's eyes widened as he saw her fiancée's hairpin (red ribbon). His beloved was killed by this monster. She was dead.
Kazumi: That's… Satoko… You... You killed…
Natsuki, as soon she saw the hairpins and how many young girls lost their life due to this demon, was disgusted and horrified. Pikachu was angry as his cheeks sparkled a little, Lucario growled a little Eevee and Poipole were sad.
The Swamp Demon with one horn noticed the black-haired girl.
Swamp Demon (One horn): Wait, that girl with blue eyes…
Even the Swamp Demon with two horns noticed Natsuki and a maniacal smile crept onto his face.
Swamp Demon (Two horns): There's another girl! And look at that, she's also very pretty! Now that's what I call lucky! These two girls can satisfy us even more!
Tanjiro and Natsuki's Pokémon get in front protectively of the black-haired girl. Then, the Swamp Demon with two horns was about to attack Tanjiro and grab Natsuki and the young girl, when suddenly he got hit in the face.
Natsuki and her Pokémon were shocked to see a foot coming out from the box. But they were even more shocked that that foot belonged to a girl.
She has fair skin with a slender build, and sharp, stiletto nails with a base color of light pink and ombre fading to a red-pinkish color at the end where they point. The girl has long, black and wavy hair. She has soft-looking, pale pink eyes, slanted downward toward the sides of her face and framed by notably long eyelashes. The girl wore a light pink kimono with an asanoha (hemp leaf) pattern, the lining a paler pink, secured by a red and white-checkered hanhaba obi with an orange-threaded obijime and a green obiage. Over this, she sports a long, dark-brown haori that reaches her calves, as well as a pair of zori with pink straps and white tabi socks, wrapped with thick pieces of black material resembling kyahan. She was also wearing a small pink ribbon on the left side of her head.
In the girl's mouth there was a bamboo muzzle.
Natsuki: Tanjiro is that a… girl? Who is she? And… why is she wearing a bamboo muzzle in her mouth?
Asked Natsuki, both worried and shocked, as she looked at Tanjiro, but she raised an eyebrow as she saw the burgundy's expression in his face. His eyes were wide, he was shocked as if he was hiding something from the black-haired girl and was afraid to tell.
Swamp Demon (One horn): Tell me… why would a mere human be accompanying a demon?
Natsuki and her Pokémon were shocked. This girl was a demon? Does Tanjiro know about that? And why was he carrying her around with him?
The girl came out from the box and looked at Kazumi. She walked towards the young man and placed her hands on Kazumi and the young girl's faces. Natsuki and her Pokémon watched the scene and for some reason they were relief.
Tanjiro: Nezuko…
The girl known Nezuko turned around to see the Swamp Demons and she glared at them. She started to run towards them, ignoring Tanjiro as he was calling her out. She suddenly raised her leg, slamming on the Swamp Demons, but he dodged it, so the foot hit the ground instead. Nezuko, noticing the other Swamp Demon, started to run towards him, but she suddenly stopped, when Tanjiro told her not to chase the demon.
As she was running towards him, a black hole appeared and the Swamp Demon appeared as he was trying to grab Nezuko, but the girl noticed and she jumped and rejoined Tanjiro.
Suddenly, Tanjiro and Natsuko noticed that the two Swamp Demons were nowhere to be found, but then they felt something under them and they noticed a black hole. The two Swamp Demons grabbed them, Nezuko and the Pokémon noticed it, but before they could run towards them, Tanjiro and Natsuki stopped them.
Natsuki: Don't worry guys! I'll be okay, just stay here to protect Kazumi! Phantom! Spectre! Come here!
Tanjiro: Nezuko! I'm going underground! I want you to protect those two along with these Pokémon! You can trust them! I trust you!
Nezuko and Natsuki's Pokémon nodded. Then, Tanjiro and Natsuki were dragged into the hole as Phantom and Spectre followed them.
The two teenagers were inside the Swamp Demon's domain, the two were sinking slowly inside and they saw many tore pieces of clothes, which they presume they belonged to the young women. Natsuki motioned to Spectre and Phantom to create water bubbles so they can breathe underwater without any problems. The two Floating Pokémon did it and they put the bubbles on the two teenagers' heads.
Natsuki: Thank you guys.
Tanjiro: Ah… Thank you. I didn't know you could do that.
Natsuki: Told you that Pokémon are extraordinary creatures.
Suddenly, Tanjiro and Natsuki heard the two Swamp Demons' voices, they started to circle around, preparing to attack Tanjiro and to grab Natsuki.
Natsuki: You think you can defeat us? Ha! Don't underestimate us! Phantom, Spectre, get ready. You too, Tanjiro.
Tanjiro: Natsuki, what…
Natsuki: Tanjiro, I have a plan, I'll give you the signal when it's time to attack. Phantom, stay with me. Spectre protect Tanjiro.
Tanjiro and the two Floating Pokémon nodded. Phantom swam towards Natsuki and the black-haired girl whispered to the male Floating Pokémon. Phantom nodded and grabbed Natsuki.
Natsuki: Hey! If you want me, then you have to catch me!
Tanjiro: Natsuki, no! It's dangerous!
But it was too late, Phantom started to swim faster in every direction, but near to Tanjiro, as the Swamp Demons were following him behind.
Natsuki: I think that's enough Phantom. Stop right here.
Phantom stopped and released his Pokémon Trainer.
Natsuki: Let's show them what power is all about! The power of water, Hydro Vortex!
She and Phantom performed a pose while Natsuki's Z-Ring activated. As the Swamp Demons were approaching her and her Pokémon, suddenly a giant whirlpool appeared and sucked the demons. Tanjiro, seeing the giant vortex, was shocked, surprised and amazed upon seeing this. After a few seconds, the giant whirlpool disappeared and the two Swamp Demons felt nothing but dizziness.
Natsuki: Tanjiro, finished them! Now!
Tanjiro: Alright! Total Concentration! Water Breathing, sixth form, Whirlpool!
Tanjiro twisted his body and performed with his sword a whirling motion which generates a whirlpool, cutting apart the Swamp Demons' bodies, defeating them. As the demons' bodies started to float away, Tanjiro grabbed a piece of fabric, and he and Natsuki, as she swam towards him, looked at the piece of cloth with a sad expression.
Natsuki: Tanjiro, we have to go. We need to help Nezuko and my Pokémon, before the hole disappeared.
Said Natsuki and Tanjiro nodded. The two Floating Pokémon grabbed Natsuki and they began to swim towards the surface.
On the surface, while Tanjiro and Natsuki were fighting against the two Swamp Demons in their domain, Nezuko and Lucario were fighting the remaining Swamp Demon. The girl and the Aura Pokémon dodged all the demon's attacks, Nezuko punched him in his stomach as the Swamp Demon spitted up blood, while Lucario used Shadow Claw, hitting in the demon's chest.
Swamp Demon (Two horns): This girl and beast are powerful!
The Swamp Demon thought, Nezuko kept attacking the demon a few more times, but it dodged. As it was about to hit Nezuko, Lucario protected her as he used Brick Break, hitting the Swamp Demon's head. The Aura Pokémon jumped and he started to use Aura Sphere; he blasted the sphere to the Swamp Demon, but he dodged it and reappeared in front of Nezuko, but he was hit in the back by another Aura Sphere. Lucario landed to the ground and run towards in front of Nezuko, protecting her. The Swamp Demon disappeared once again and reappeared behind the girl, but as he was about to attack Nezuko, suddenly Tanjiro, along with Natsuki and the two Jellicent, emerged from the hole and sliced the demon's arm off.
Tanjiro: Hands off my sister!
Natsuki: That girl demon is his sister!
Exclaimed Natsuki in shock. Even her Pokémon were shocked by this revelation.
Tanjiro sliced the other arm off and the Swamp Demon fell backward. Tanjiro and Natsuki looked at the demon and they gave him a hard glare.
Tanjiro: You give off a scent like rotten oil. It's a horrible smell! How many people have you killed?
Swamp Demon (Two horns): Listen! If women live any longer, they turn ugly and start tasting like crap! So we killed them for their own good! You should be thankful to us demons-
Suddenly, Tanjiro cut the Demon Swamp's tongue and the demon screamed in pain. Then the burgundy-haired boy walked towards the demon as the monster backed up against the wall.
Tanjiro: Never mind. You're going to tell me what you know about Muzan Kibutsuji.
Upon hearing this, the Swamp Demon's eyes widened in fear.
Tanjiro: Talk to me! Start talking!
Swamp Demon (Two horns): I-I can't tell you. I can't tell you! I can't tell you! I can't tell you! I can't tell you!
The Swamp Demon suddenly regenerated his arms and launched towards Tanjiro, but the boy dodged it and he beheaded the Swamp Demon.
Finally, the demon, no demons were defeated. The nightmare has ended. The village and its people are safe. But Tanjiro, despite it is relief that there are no more demons, was disappointed, even Natsuki and her Pokémon noticed it.
Tanjiro: Once again, I failed to get any information.
Tanjiro sheathed his sword and he turned to Nezuko, who sit on the ground against the wall. He started to call her out, but she didn't respond.
Tanjiro: She's asleep. She stopped bleeding, too.
Tanjiro grabbed Nezuko and placed her into the box, while Natsuki thanked Phantom and Spectre, she took out the Sub Balls and she returned them. Then Tanjiro and Natsuki walked over to Kazumi, who was staring blankly at the ground. He was devasted to know that his love was killed by a demon.
Tanjiro: Mr Kazumi. Are you all right?
Kazumi: I've lost my fiancée. How can I be all right?
Tanjiro: Mr. Kazumi… No matter how many people you may lose, you have no choice but to go on living. No matter how devastating the blows may be.
Kazumi grabbed the collar of Tanjiro's clothing and he angrily screamed at his face.
Kazumi: What do you know about it?! A kid like you?!
Because of Kazumi's scream and action, Eevee and Poipole got scared and jumped into Natsuki's arms, while Lucario and Pikachu growled at the young man. As Natsuki was about to say something, Tanjiro placed his hands around Kazumi's wrist and smiles gently. Natsuki and her Pokémon could feel something, something that made them feel shocked and sad.
Tanjiro: I'll be on my way now. Take this.
Tanjiro took out the scrap of clothing he brought back from the Swamp Demon's lair and offered it to Kazumi.
Tanjiro: I hope you'll find something of Miss Satoko's in there. Come one Natsuki, let's go.
Tanjiro and Natsuki and her Pokémon started to walk to leave the town. Kazumi opened the scrapped of clothing and found his beloved's ribbon. Shame and sad, Kazumi apologized to Tanjiro.
Kazumi: I-I'm sorry! That was an awful thing to say! Please forgive me! I'm so sorry!
Tanjiro stopped his tracks, even Natsuki and her Pokémon did the same thing, turned around and the two teenagers waved at the young man.
Tanjiro: I'm leaving that young woman in your hands!
Natsuki: Take care! I hope you move on with your life!
Kazumi: All right!
With that Tanjiro and Natsuki started walking again until Tanjiro's crow flew over them and landed to the burgundy-haired boy's shoulder.
Tanjiro's crow: Next up, Asakusa, Tokyo! Rumors of a demon lurking there!
Tanjiro: Eh?! I'm heading to my next mission already?
Tanjiro's crow: Oh yes, you are!
Tanjiro: Hold on a minute…
Tanjiro's crow: No can do!
Tanjiro: Come on, just give me a minute!
The crow began flapping its wings towards Tanjiro.
Tanjiro's crow: Just shut up and go already!
Tanjiro: Hold on! What?
Suddenly, some flames appeared out of nowhere. Tanjiro and his crow turned their head and they saw a bird that resembles a falcon, but with red-orange feathers. The red falcon landed to Natsuki's arm and the girl thanked the falcon.
Tanjiro: Whoa! Isn't that a falcon? It has beautiful feathers! But, was the one who breathed fire?
Natsuki: Tanjiro, this is Talonflame, one of my trustworthy Flying type I've ever have. Yes, was the one who breathed fire and it's called Flamethrower and is a "he".
Said Natsuki as the red falcon known as Talonflame huffed and turned his head.
Rotom Pokédex: Talonflame, the Scorching Pokémon. A Fire and Flying type. Talonflame can swoop at incredible speeds when attacking. During intense battles, its wings give off showers of embers as it flies.
Tanjiro's eyes were full of stars, while Tanjiro's crow felt a little jealous and fascinated at the same time.
Natsuki: I decided to keep Talonflame out for a while for measures, especially if I want to send some help. Anyway, Tanjiro, now explain me and my partners about the girl in the box? You do know that she is a demon?
Tanjiro sighed. He knew that the black-haired girl would have found out about his sister. Realizing that there is no way out, he decided to tell her everything.
Tanjiro: Nezuko is my young sister. Two years ago, while I was out to sell coal, a demon attacked my family, killing my mother and my younger siblings. Nezuko was the only survivor, but she had come into contact with the demon's blood and in turn became a demon.
Natsuki and her Pokémon widened their eyes, they were shocked and saddened.
Natsuki: Nezuko, did she eat human flesh or...
Tanjiro: No! She hasn't eaten any human flesh for two years I swear! The only way she could regain her energy is sleeping. I decided to become a Demon Slayer to avenge my family and to find a cure for my sister to turn her human again. I know it's hard to believe, but it's the truth.
Tanjiro lowered his head in sadness. Natsuki and her Pokémon looked at each other. It was a lot to take it. How did a boy with a good heart like Tanjiro deserve all this? Who is this demon? There were many questions, but Natsuki knew one or two things about this world, but she needed to know more, otherwise how can she could help other people and to keep them safe from those monsters?
Natsuki took a deep breath and she gave him the most genuine and kindest smile.
Natsuki: I believe you Tanjiro.
The burgundy-haired boy raised his head with his eyes widened open, surprised by her response.
Natsuki: Even if I just met you today, I see you as a kind and brave person, you're also willing to put at risk your position as a Demon Slayer just to help your sister and I found it very admirable. Yes, I know some things about this world, but there is still so much I want to know. I mean I know what you said it sounded really hard to believe, but if there is one thing that I've learned from my experiences as a Pokémon Trainer is to always help those in need, even if their problems may seem impossible, I know that at the end of a tunnel there's always a glimmer of hope. That is why I want to help you to reach your goal.
Tanjiro couldn't believe what he heard. This girl… did she just believe him? Despite telling her the truth and seeing his sister as a demon, she wasn't angry nor disappointed. She just smiled and gave him a hand to him. She is willing to put her life on the line just to help in his goal. Tanjiro has always had a strong sense of smell that no normal person is able to and when he smelled Natsuki's scent, it was very unlikely. She smelled of kindness, braveness, empathy, and love like a summer sun in a field of sunflowers, but it also smells of calm, beauty and thoughtful, like a full moon reflecting the night sky with its moonlight onto a calm sea.
The burgundy-haired boy could hear his heart beating a little fast as his cheeks started to grow a little red. He grabbed Natsuki's hands and looked at her with a serious yet soft look.
Tanjiro: Thank you Natsuki! Thank you so much! I'm really happy to know that!
Natsuki gently smiled at him.
Natsuki: No problem, Tanjiro. I think it's better if we go to the next destination. Since you're tired, I decided to ask one of my Pokémon if they can let you riding on them.
Tanjiro: Oh no, no, no, no. I can't accept it. You've already done enough.
Natsuki: I insist. Plus, I already have the perfect Pokémon in mind.
Natsuki took out a Safari Ball and one Heavy Ball, she threw them and they came out respectively a Gogoat and a Mudsdale.
Tanjiro: Whoa! I have never seen such a big horse and a goat made of leaves.
Rotom Pokédex: Yeah, but Mudsdale and Gogoat are not your ordinary goat and horse from your world.
Gogoat, the Mount Pokémon. A Grass type. It can sense the feelings of others by touching them with its horns. This species has assisted people with their work since 5,000 years ago.
Mudsdale, the Draft Horse Pokémon. A Ground type. Its heavy, mud-covered kicks are its best means of attack, and it can reduce large trucks to scrap without breaking a sweat.
Natsuki: They are also one of the best Pokémon to ride. You can ride Gogoat and I'll ride Mudsdale. Or you want to ride Mudsdale?
Tanjiro: If it's not a problem, I want to ride Gogoat.
Natsuki: Not at all. You know, if we ever find a place where no demons are around, I can teach you how to ride Mudsdale and my other equine Pokémons.
Tanjiro: Yeah, I think it's a great idea.
Natsuki: Let's get going then. Pikachu, Eevee and Poipole come with me and hold on tight. Lucario, you stay with Tanjiro and Talonflame, you follow Tanjiro's crow.
All Natsuki's Pokémon nodded and they do what she asked to. Tanjiro and Natsuki looked at each other and the black-haired girl gently asked to Gogoat and Mudsdale to start walk and they do.
Their journey continues.
Taisho Secrets
- The entire Swordsmith Village was upset that Natsuki and her Pokémon left the village
- Hotaru loved riding Firestar and wished to ride with him again
- Tanjiro and Urokodaki found Natsuki's mask very peculiar
- Hotaru dreamed to create the perfect Nichirin Blade for Natsuki when she will become a Demon Slayer
- Urokodaki started to trust Natsuki despite knowing her for a short time
- Tanjiro thought Natsuki was beautiful
- Natsuki and her Pokémon were shocked to know that there was a girl in the box and she was also a demon
- After the battle against the Swamp Demon, Tanjiro promised himself to protect Natsuki
- After telling his story to Natsuki and hearing that she accepted his sister, Tanjiro started to develop romantic feeling for her