Jujutsu Kaisen: I Have A Gardevoir

The cleanup went very smoothly.

Sendai isn't a big city to begin with, and the strength of Cursed Spirits here is far inferior to those in Tokyo and Kyoto. With Akira's current strength, it would actually be harder if things didn't go smoothly.

However, the smoother the cleanup, the worse it is for the Itadori family.

The key item, the double-faced Sukuna's finger—was not found.

Even though Akira had already gotten from Yuji Itadori the name of the high school he favored, and also found a shrine that looked like it could store a cursed tool, inside it there were only ordinary offerings.

Don't even mention a cursed tool; there wasn't even the slightest trace of Cursed Energy.

The school was unexpectedly clean as well. Either it had just been cleaned, or the general atmosphere was excellent.

The crucial Cursed Spirit that triggers the plot—the green Cursed Spirit that once injured Megumi Fushiguro so badly he got a Grade 2 rating—could not be found either.

Now that Akira had mastered "Reversed Cursed Technique," his sensitivity to Cursed Energy had risen another notch. Plus, with the help of the Sabrina (Natsume/Na-tsu) template's sensing, it would be impossible for any somewhat notable Cursed Spirit to hide from him.

Yet even after spending an entire night sweeping through the whole city of Sendai, he still found nothing.

"Although there's a possibility of invasive species from outside, the possibility of a mastermind secretly manipulating events seems greater."

After working so hard, the only gain was a bit of level-grinding for Swablu and Snivy. Akira wasn't too upset though.

This was always the most likely outcome.

Putting aside the Cursed Spirits, it's not like Sukuna's finger would be so easy to obtain—wrapped with a seal and thoughtfully offered up?

"Seems I'll have to spare some time to come back after next spring and try my luck."

Luck is all he can rely on.

There's a saying that you can't guard against thieves every day.

If a mastermind is truly determined to make Itadori the vessel of Sukuna, they'll find a chance eventually.

Akira can't watch over Yuji Itadori day and night.

If he has that kind of time, it's better spent on figuring out how to continue improving himself, maybe even finding a way to solve Sukuna's problem at its root.

Before that—

"Old man Wasuke, I've done my best. You and Yuji can only rely on yourselves now."

Those were the last words Akira left for this city.

He came with excitement, and as he left, it wasn't exactly disappointing, but he didn't leave fully satisfied either.

That's just life. Most things don't go your way, and raising Pokémon is the same.

For example, a proud Snivy, who throws a fit at the slightest displeasure by whipping with her tail, scratching with her claws, or biting with her mouth.

And another example: Swablu, who doesn't get along with Snivy and keeps trying to peck at her.

Who knows if birds and snakes are naturally at odds? From the very first meeting, Swablu felt unhappy with Snivy, and Snivy displayed obvious hostility.

If you're not careful, a bird-snake war could break out.

This made it impossible for Akira to let these two troublemakers be alone together. If they have to be together, a reliable "senior" must watch over them.

For instance, Darkrai, Darkrai, Darkrai.

On second thought, this is probably the norm of parenting.

How many siblings never fight or argue? Let alone when dealing with multiple species of Pokémon?

Akira doesn't have many concerns in this regard, thanks to Ralts (now Gardevoir) being born early, and Darkrai's reliable personality.

The former has long since matured and won't fuss like a child.

The latter… strong, reliable, able to hold the fort, and has that "lulling children to sleep" special move. No matter how you look at it, he's the perfect candidate for a Pokémon nanny.

"I'll be counting on you more in the future."

Darkrai nodded silently, shifting his gaze.

The rambunctious Swablu and the haughty Snivy instantly became well-behaved.

That's certainly good news. But considering Darkrai's divine status and image in the Pokémon world, hopefully no psychological shadows are left behind.

Thinking of this, Akira felt both worried and helpless.

This anxiety and uncertainty is the true portrait of all new dads.

Raising them alone is too stressful.

He only has two now, and there are eight more eggs to come. If they all start acting up at once… Just thinking about it is headache-inducing.

He must quickly distribute these Pokémon eggs, so everyone can share—cough, enjoy—the joy of hatching!

At times like this, Japan's small size has its advantages.

Once you get on the Shinkansen, you can quickly return to Tokyo.

Though there's still a considerable distance from the station to Jujutsu High, Akira came out prepared with enough big bills. Another money-burning taxi ride—he won't get many more chances anyway.

"Grow up quickly, Swablu."

"Dew-lu~"

Swablu responded loudly, glancing smugly at the Snivy currently wrapped around Akira's neck like a scarf.

Snivy lifted her eyelids, her gaze as if looking at a fool.

The master rides you, I'm coiled around the master, so aren't you still carrying both of us?

What's there to be smug about?

Really a stupid bird.

As the saying goes, what kind of trainer, what kind of bird.

In terms of intelligence, Swablu's not much, but even if it doesn't understand what Snivy is thinking, it can still sense the contempt. The bird's beak gleamed, ready to peck.

Snivy certainly wouldn't fear it; two vine whips and her tiny claws waved together—if you dare come, I'll bind you.

Great, here we go again.

Because Akira is about to get off the train and there are many curious people around—Akira always buys a luxurious private cabin ticket to prevent the Pokémon from getting bored.

Satoru Gojo is even more extravagant, directly booking an entire carriage. After all, Jujutsu Sorcerers generally aren't short on money (except Miwa Kasumi), and everyone carries weapons, plus Panda is there. No shortage of funds.

Akira could only snap his fingers.

Darkrai's figure slowly emerged from the shadow.

The eerie light in those eyes flashed briefly. Not only can it stop babies from crying at night, it can also stop fights.

Using "nightmare" threats to bully Pokémon, Akira took the opportunity to return Swablu into his backpack and kept Snivy around his neck. Then he stepped once again onto Tokyo's land.

It's only been a few days, yet it feels like a long time has passed. Both his strength and mindset have changed significantly.

Not only Akira, but everyone else at Tokyo Jujutsu High as well.

He returned around noon, and everyone was present.

The first to notice Akira, of course, was Gardevoir, who was closest to him.

She had been helping Hayami clean up. Suddenly, her hair quirked up, and she instantly vanished, teleporting right in front of Akira.

Calling "Garde, Garde" while spreading her arms, she wanted to hug the master she hadn't seen for so long.

Unfortunately, before she could embrace him, she noticed Snivy's presence.

Realizing this is a new member of the family, Gardevoir showed her big-sisterly demeanor. She didn't force a hug, but thoughtfully changed positions, hugging Akira's arm instead. Her voice, however, revealed a bit of grievance, showing her true inner feelings.

As for Snivy—maybe because they share a similar color scheme, or perhaps she's wised up and knows who's truly the top dog around here, the one not to be provoked—Snivy actually took the initiative to shift to Akira's other arm. Before moving away, she even reached out and poked Gardevoir's arm, making her burst into a delighted smile.

Maintaining a hold on half of Akira's body, Gardevoir also embraced Snivy, showing affection to this youngest "little sister." The atmosphere was harmonious and pleasant.

Until another girl arrived:

"Did I come at a bad time?"