Title: Journey
Author: Ansela Jonla
Fandom: Bleach
Rating: PG
Characters: Ikkaku, Yumichika, Yoruichi, Urahara, Zaraki
Warnings: none
Summary: From Rukongai to the Eleventh Division; Ikkaku and Yumichika's story
Word count: 3648 (total)
Notes: Inspired by an old discussion with delwynmarch, where we considered the possibility that the duo became Shinigami before Zaraki and Yachiru did. A multi-part story.

- I -

"They're not just going to let us walk in there, you know."

Yoruichi paused on a rooftop and looked around for the speaker. This sounded a lot more interesting that heading back to headquarters and filling out miles of paperwork about the routine raid she'd just led.

"Yeah, yeah, they don't let just anyone walk into Seireitei, I know. But since no one will tell us how to become a Shinigami, I say we get as far as we can then start busting heads until someone gives us some answers."

Yoruichi spotted the two men, sitting under an awning on the opposite side of the street. They were sharing a large bowl of curry and rice, and judging by the flicker of reiatsu Yoruichi could sense from the pair, they were eating for more than just enjoyment.

"I don't see why we're even bothering with this in the first place," Flowers said, waving his chopsticks in the direction of Seireitei.

"I want to get strong enough to beat that guy if I ever see him again. And Shinigami are strong, especially those Captains. Neither of us are going to get any better if we stay in Rukongai. The only person who's even a match for us is that guy." Baldy grinned and twisted to look at Seireitei. "Plus this way we'll get plenty of fights."

"Yeah."

The pair finished their meal and left the restaurant, heading in the direction of Seireitei. Yoruichi followed them at rooftop level for a couple of streets, before jumping down between them.

"Boo!"

The reaction was instant; Flowers jumped away, his hand on the hilt of his sheathed sword, and Baldy spun towards her, drawing his sword as he turned. Yoruichi ducked the blow, catching Baldy's wrist and twisting until he was on his knees.

"Couldn't help hearing that you two want to be Shinigami," she remarked. She let go of Baldy's wrist, shoving him to the ground. "I feel like helping you with that."