THE BLEACHED THRONE
Prologue:
Author's Note: Ok guys. I recently started watching GoT after a lot of insistence from my friends. And I fell in love with it ever since. I have started Season 2 and the idea for this story came about towards the end of Season 1. As a result, this story picks up at about the end of Season 1. It's essentially going to be a crossover between the Bleach and the GoT universe...the only common ground I could find laughably being swords! Don't worry. For those who have watched Bleach or are aware of it would probably think I'm about to introduce OP characters in this story. Fear not. That's not my intention. While my OC will be a shinigami and will wield a Zanpakuto, it's true abilities will not be utilised till far later into the story. SO NO SHIKAI ANYTIME SOON! So those who will follow this story, please don't request for Shikai or Bankai...those will be revealed in due time. With that said, let's get the show on the road….
Prologue:
Soul Society. The realm of the dead. The plane of existence one is said to enter upon death.
While mortals would construe it to to be paradise, it was far from it. Aside from a lack of hunger and a slow aging,everything was much the same as the Mortal Realm. Struggles and hardships were a daily routine for those who lived in the Rukongai districts. And things pretty much went literally south the further deeper one went into the districts.
And amongst all this was the proud structure that arose at the centre- the Seireitei- the Court of Pure Souls. Containing the Shinigamis- Soul Reapers, the Seireitei was said to be the military force of the realm. These people were tasked with protecting the realms from the charge of Hollows- evil monsters said to devour souls and the mortal enemy of Soul Reapers. While Hollows would rarely venture into Seireitei, they were a common occurrence in the lower districts of Rukongai. Aside from that, most Hollows preferred the World of the Living, as it provided them with far greater number of souls to feed on. The Hollows were indeed a nuisance.
While Hollows were a matter of grave importance, Soul Society had faced far worse internal threats than those which were external. The treacherous Aizen had struck not more than a few decades ago. Also known as the Winter War, Aizen allied himself with the Hollows and declared an all-out attack upon Soul Society, while all the time furthering his own ambitions of transcending the boundaries of Hollows and Soul Reapers. What was far more recent was the subsequent Quincy attack which occurred but two years later. A war which took its toll and the lives of many a fine Shinigami in battle as Seireitei sacrificed its previous Head Captain to ensure the defeat of the enemy forces. The war was finally brought to a close by the Substitute Soul Reaper and legendary Shinigami of the Winter War, Ichigo Kurosaki, who refused to surrender to the almighty power of his foe. It was only through extreme perseverance and a knowledge of his full capabilities was he finally able to overcome his opponent.
Thus, Soul Society, which was consequently damaged heavily in the war, began to get back to its feet. It took an entirety of five years to successfully rebuild the massive structure to its former glory. Ever since, peace had reigned in the realm and all realms across.
It was on such a night that we find a young man strolling down the path to the Head Captain's barracks. He was young, if one had to hazard a guess, almost an adult, but not quite there yet- say around 14. He had on the traditional garb of a Soul Reaper which constituted of a black robe lined with white edges. On his side lay his Zanpakuto. He was tall with a crop of copper colored had which shone in the light of the few lanterns lit here and there. He was fair skinned and brown eyed.
It was one of the few times in the day he was able to wander about without having to be busy in paperwork(groan!), or running away from Kenpachi, the bloodthirsty captain of the Squad Eleven who was always pestering him to a fight, one which he would never accept, or training a new recruit in his stance and katas. While he did enjoy the latter, it was the former which annoyed him to no end. As he let out a groan of annoyance, a voice chuckled in his mind.
Rolling his eyes, he thought to himself.
Really? He asked.
The chuckling gave way to an annoyed huff.
Well, if you just gave him what he wanted…
Toshio sighed.
We've had this discussion already...you know I don't want to…
His Zanpakuto spirit sighed as he consented.
He was about to return back to his squad barracks when a recruit ran upto him in a hurry. He was a short man, around the same age as that of Toshio. He had a much more rotund appearance but was shockingly fast on his feet. His face was round and held a boyish charm to them. He was huffing and puffing, clearly out of breath, by the time he arrived. Toshio raised an eyebrow.
"What's up Kenji? Is Kenpachi looking around for me already" he asked wearily, as he looked about frantically, albeit a bit comically. A sudden thought struck him as he smacked his head for his stupidity. Kanpachi had such monstrous spiritual energy that when unleashed, it could be sensed from miles away.
His Zanpakuto chuckled at his folly.
Shut up, Shashutaiho! The Zanpakuto's laughter faded away in the back of his mind.
Kenji, meanwhile having regained his breath, spoke.
"Lord Shiba, its.." before Toshio cut him off.
"No Lord or any titles, Kenji. How many times have I told you to just call me Toshio?" he asked.
"So many times I've already lost count as it is." Kenji replied with a sly grin.
Toshio smirked in response.
Kenji Yumia. The Third Seat of Squad 13. A lowly born Rukongai who entered the Academy in the same year as Toshio. While most generally tended to underestimate him owing to his appearance, he was no one to be trifled with.
He could distinctly remember the shy boy he had come across in their first year.
Flashback
He took a step back as he slashed the boken down through the air. Completing the set of katas, he wiped his brow in exhaustion as he set the broken away. He was about to exit the training dojo, so as to get in some Kido training when his eyes fell on another boy at the corner.
Upon noticing his stance, Toshio was able to notice at least three openings in his guard. He walked up to him. The boy on the other hand was too busy executing the katas to take notice.
"Your legs are too wide apart." he said.
The boy jumped in fright, nearly dropping the wooden sword in shock, as he whirled around to face him. His eyes held a wild look about them, almost as if was anticipating an attack. Toshio sighed.
The look of the Rukongais, he thought. He should have known better than to creep up on a Rukongai.
"Easy there." he replied calmly. " It's just your hairs is far too open. Anyone can break through with the barest effort."
"W-What do y-you…?" he was cut off abruptly as Toshio vanished from sight, appearing right behind him, the tip of his boken at the nape of his neck.
"...and you're dead." he finished, as he stepped back, withdrawing his boken. The boy turned around steadily to face him. Toshio raised an eyebrow as he noticed the change in his eyes. Gone was the look of fright, replaced by a look of bewilderment and admiration.
" You know the Flash Step already?" the boy asked, in awe as he stepped back and took a good look at Toshio.
"Umm...yeah…" Toshio said, awkwardly with a small grin.
"But they don't teach it till at least fourth year." he replied, the excitement in his voice rising by the sentence.
"Oh yeah...Dad taught it to me. It took me around a month to master it properly.
"
"Wow. Your dad's probably a really powerful Soul Reaper then if he was able to teach you that." he replied.
"Was." Toshio replied in a low voice, as his face fell.
"Who is he?" the boy asked,clearly not having heard his previous reply. He was literally bouncing on his soles in excitement.
" He was Rai Shiba." Toshio replied with a short pause.
The boy's eyes widened as he understood the implications of the situation.
Rai Shiba. The previous Captain of Squad Five and the head of the lesser of the noble clans, the Shibas, and the third and final student of the previous Head Captain the late Genryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto, who had been slain in the war against the Quincies. He had been nominated for the position of the Fifth Squad Captain, shortly after the Winter War and had been an admirable Captain, despite his short tenure. He was a sharp contrast to the previous Captain, the treacherous Sosuke Aizen, the man being the Winter War. While he had been a strict disciplinarian, he was far from the cold Byakuya Kuchiki, the ex-Captain of the Sixth Squad. He was a man of honour and integrity and he had an eye for each and every one the men he led. While he was an intimidating person, in reality he was actually kind to all whom he led.
He was fast friends with both Shinsui Kyoraku and Jushiro Ukitake, all of whom, had known each each other since they were mere children in the early days of the Soul Society.
What he primarily excelled in was his proficiency in Kido. From what Toshio had heard, his usage of Kido itself was a rather inventive and shockingly complicated method, which only a few in the Kido Corps were able to analyse properly. Prior to being made the Captain to the Fifth Squad, he had been the first Captain of the Kido Corps, a branch of Soul Reapers who were specifically trained in the usage of Kido. He had himself trained his successor, the exiled Captain Tessai. His skill level in Kido was considered legendary and some who had seen him in action had observed him string multiple Kidos into a single stack, as if it were second nature, an ability which could only be outdone by the Head Captain himself . Apart from that, he possessed a rather unique skill in Kido, something which none bar the Head Captain had ever been able to analyse. Yet it was so complex, that while the Head Captain had understood the theory behind it, he had never been able to perform the under his command had never seen the Captain fight with his Zanpakuto, instead opting for Kido. He was said to have slain Hollows ranging from level ones to as high as Adjuchas with Kido alone. Using Level Ninety spells were merely second nature to him. He had soon resigned from the Kido Corps after Toshio had been born, whose mother had unfortunately passed away in after giving birth to him.
It was rumored that in the entirety of his lifetime he had activated his Zanpakuto a mere handful of times. None till date had survived to recount the tale of its abilities. His proficiency in Kido was so high that none but the Captains were aware of his Zanpakuto, as it was mandatory to display one's Shikai and Bankai in the Selection Ceremony. Toshio had heard that when he had been asked to release his Zanpakuto to the others, he had asked each of them to accompany him to the outskirts of Soul Society, far out of Seireitei. When each of them had returned, the only ones who were in perfect conditions were the Head Captain, Captain Kyoraku and Captain Ukitake. The rest had all looked as though they had been spooked or something. He and his father had had a right laugh about it that night. It had thus been unfortunate that the Captain's life was forsaken in the battle against the Quincies. Yhwach, the Quincy leader had been the one to slay him in battle. The exact nature of his death was unknown as he had been off fighting the Quincy forces outside the walls.
The boy felt a bit overwhelmed, yet saddened for him. It was clear that he had brought up a sore topic. It was then that a sudden thought struck him.
"Wait…then that means you're Lord Shiba." he replied in awe and respect. He was about to bow to him when Toshio stopped him. He looked up and locked eyes with him. His eyes had a serious look to them.
"I'm no lord. My name is Toshio. And you are not to bow to me. Do I make myself clear?" Roshik asked in a commanding tone.
His eyes widened at that. "Yes ,my lord…" Noticing his glare, he quickly corrected himself. "I mean Toshio."
Toshio stepped back as he observed the boy in front of him. It was clear that his katas were more or less perfect. The only flaw in his stance were those openings in his guard. He slammed that tip of his boken down on the floor, startling him.
"Your guard is littered with openings. Like I showed earlier, anyone half-good will be able to break through and strike you in a moment's notice."
"O-ok, Lor- Toshio." If Toshio had noticed his slip up, he didn't give indication to it.
"Take your stance." Toshio commanded as he raised his boken. The boy did as he was told.
"Your legs are too far apart." he barked, as he slammed his boken down in front of his legs. The boy quickly adjusted, moving his left foot closer to the right one.
"That's better, I guess." Toshio stepped back as he continued to analyse him.
"Once you enter your stance…" he continued "...it is critical that you be aware of your surroundings. An opponent need not necessarily strike you upfront. You need to be on your feet and quick, so as to adjust to your opponent's style."
He stepped back as he set his boken back on the rack.
"I believe that will be all for today." he replied as he turned back to him. He left for the door.
The boy sighed in relief. He approached the rack and sid the boken back into its slot.
As Toshio approached the door, he turned his head once again.
"Hey, I didn't quite get your name." Toshio asked, half embarrassed.
The boy looked up, a small smile on his face.
"I thought you'd never ask. Its Kenji. Kenji Yumia." he replied.
"Well, Kenji i guess I'll be seeing you around tomorrow I guess." With that Toshio left the dojo, sliding its doors shut.
Kenji had been his best friend ever had taken some time for Toshio to break Kenji out of his shell, being that he was shy and awkward around others. That being said, Toshio soon realized Kenji's true potential lay in Hakuda, the art of physical combat- an area which he would naturally excel in considering his origins. Toshio lacked training in this particular area. Thus they both came to a mutual agreement- Kenji would teach him Hakuda,while Toshio would teach him Zanjutsu. Toshio was never a natural at Kido, something which bothered him to no end. Most of his peers had thought he would be particularly talented at it, considering his father had been a proficient user. He still had a difficulty grasping Bakudo- the Sealing Arts- as they required a much finer control over one's spiritual energy, a fact which Kenji never failed to remind him, ironically. While he could perform Hado, he was unable to perform any of the spells beyond Level 40, owing to his training with Captain Kuchiki, who herself was an expert in Kido. Both had graduated early in their third year, and shockingly, had both been selected into Squad Thirteen, which had been the Squad Toshio had almost been dying to enter, as he wanted to serve the now late Captain Jushiro Ukitake, who had been one of his father's closest friends. They were one of the two youngest recruits in the history of the Court Guards. The Squad was currently led by Captain Rukia Kuchiki, the sister of Byakuya Kuchiki.
End Flashback
"Ok. Now that you've had your fun and games, what is it that you were all huffing and puffing away to say."
"Oh yeah. Sorry." he replied, scratching the back of his head in embarrassment. "Captain Kuchiki has asked for you at her barracks. She asked to come without delay."
Toshio raised an eyebrow at that. An odd request, he thought, What would the Captain want at this hour? Oh God! I hope it's not more paperwork he groaned.
Noticing his look, Kenji grinned.
"Well...I'm off. More sake for me, I guess." Kenji replied.
"Little idiot." Toshio muttered as watched Kenji disappear around a turn, whistling a merry tune.
Toshio took a left and kept walking until he finally arrived at the Squad Thirteen barracks. Approaching Captain Kuchiki's office, he slid the door open and entered.
The office was traditional one, used commonly by every Captain in Soul Society. A large ornate desk lay at the centre with piles of paper neatly stacked at its corners. The sheer stacks of paper would drive anyone insane and yet behind the desk was Captain Kuchiki, poring over one of the piles, quite diligently, something which he had never seen anyone else do.
Rukia Kuchiki. The adoptive sister of Byakuya and petite, Rukia had light skin and purple eyes. Her hair was black, with several strands of hair always hanging between her eyes. She had on the traditional Soul Reaper shikasho with a Captain's haori on top. Her Zanpakuto laid attached to a strap on her side.
At times, Toshio wondered how she could possibly be related to Byakuya of all people. Byakuya tended to be cold and detached whereas Rukia was always kind to every one of her Squad members and reserved time to listen to each and every one of their problems when she could.
Looking up from her paperwork, she spotted him.
"Oh, Toshio. Do come in." she replied with a warm smile. Toshio approached the desk and took one of the seats offered to him.
"Why was I called, Captain?" he asked, in confusion. He most certainly hoped it wasn't MORE dreaded paperwork!
Noticing the look on his face, Rukia chuckled.
"It's not more paperwork, if that's what you're thinking." Toshio sighed in relief at that. " But I'm afraid we can't actually begin addressing why you're here until a certain someone's how's up" she replied, her eyes twitching in annoyance.
Toshio looked confused. He had rarely seen his Captain get annoyed or angry. She was more often than not, a calm and gentle Captain. But Toshio had witnessed her Captain's wrath quite a few times, and more often than not, it had always been targeted at-
The door slid open once again as a man entered. His most distinguishing feature was his ridiculously spiky orange hair, a trait he has been ridiculed about for years on end. He was a fairly tall, lean-built young man with peach skin and brown eyes. He had on the traditional Soul Reaper shikasho. The hilt of a massive Zanpakuto could be seen at his back, which was wrapped in cloth, ready to be pulled at a moment's notice.
Toshio grinned.
"Hey Master Ichigo, haven't seen you here in awhile. How have you been?" he asked, as he left his seat and approached him.
"Hey kid!" he replied, as he ruffled his air. Toshio huffed in annoyance not liking when anyone did that. Ichigo merely chuckled.
If Toshio had anyone to thank for his proficient development in Zanjutsu, it would be this man before him. Ichigo Kurosaki, the Substitute Soul Reaper and the vanquisher of both Aizen and Yhwach. The entire realm of existence owed a lot to this man for his efforts in bringing an end to both wars. It had been Captain Kuchiki who had recognised his true hidden potential at first.
Flashback
He had just been called to the Captain's office at moment's notice, having just finished his daily training routine. As he entered the office, be slid the door shut and took a seat.
As he looked around the empty office, be couldn't help but feel a little intimidated. It had hardly been two months since his entry into the Squad, and he had already been summoned to her Captain's office. He sincerely hope he hadn't screwed up somewhere and was about to get a telling off. Or maybe-
Before his thought could progress any further, the door slid open once again and in walked his Captain.
"I'm sorry if I have kept you waiting. I had to go and discuss something with the Head Captain personally, before we could begin our discussion." she replied with a smile.
This just seemed to get worse and worse.
"Of course, Captain." he replied, with a bow.
"Oh. None of that. I won't have my Squad members bising to me." she replied,sternly.
"Yes, of course Captain." he replied, straightening up.
"Take your seat." she replied, as she took the seat on the opposite end of the desk. Pushing aside each stack of paperwork, he settled for sharing hard into his eyes. This only made him fidget worse.
"Tell me.." she asked, in a commanding tone, her smile sliding off her face, "What is your true level of power?"
She knows! he thought in panic. He tried to act innocent.
"I'm afraid I don't understand what you mean, Captain? I'm only a Sixth Seat-"
"Stop." she replied, sternly. " I noticed you while you were sparring today." Toshio's eyes widened at that. He hadn't even felt his Captain's spiritual energy in the surroundings. Toshio preferred to train in seclusion, in the far outskirts of Seireitei rather than in the barracks. Noticing the look of shock on his face, a small smile formed on her Captain's face.
"You didn't believe you were the only one who could conceal their spiritual energy, did you now? The truth. Now." she commanded.
He sighed . Guess there was no point in lying any more.
He provided his Captain a full account of each and every one of his abilities. After it was all over, her Captain leaned back in her chair, a thoughtful expression on her face.
"You're clearly far too good to be a mere Sixth Seat. Why didn't you aspire to go higher?' she asked, puzzled.
Toshio shrugged.
"I'm happy where I am. I like to keep my head low and get my work done without drawing too much attention."
"But if you-" his Captain continued ,before being cut off.
"I said I'm happy where I am." Toshio replied, with a forceful expression o. His face.
Clearly sensing that she had crossed some line, the Captain did not pursue it any further. She dismissed him without further words.
A week later, he was summoned once again to her office. This time, he noticed someone else awaiting him at her office allah with his Captain. Upon noticing who it was, his eyes widened in shock.
"I-Ichigo Kurosaki?" he asked in awe. He couldn't believe he was meeting him for the first time. He heard so many tales about the man from his Captain and her husband, Renji Abarai, the current Captain of the Sixth Squad, both of whom were his close friends. Meeting him in person, was every Soul Reaper's dream. Unfortunately, be resided in the Human World, and while he would occasionally visit, such visits were usually private occasions, and not common knowledge as such.
"Why am I here, midget?" he asked, in annoyed voice as he rise from his seat.
The Captain's eyes touched before she sent a fist flying straight into his face, knocking him over.
"I'M NOT A MIDGET!" she screamed.
Toshio immediately resolved not to get on his Captain's bad side ever.
Noticing Toshio standing at the door, she quickly composed herself before smiling at him.
"Come in Toshio. We've been waiting for you."
As he took his seat, Ichigo wearily got off the floor, a he rubbed his face.
"Why did you go and do that, Rukia?" he asked, in annoyance.
"You tell me." she replied with a chuckle. Ichigo gave a small smile too.
"Ok. Seriously." Ichigo asked, a she took his seat once again. "Why did you ask me to come?"
In reply, she simply turned to Toshio.
"Its Toshio here. I want you to train him.",she said, in a very matter-of-fact tone.
Toshio's mouth hung open after that declaration. He couldn't believe his Captain had just made such a proposal. He was about to be trained by THE Ichigo Kurosaki?!
"So you're the one I'm to train. I look forward to it. I have never had an apprentice before. This should be interesting." as he eyes Toshio critically, who in turn began to feel self-conscious, hoping he wouldn't embarrass himself in front of him.
"Training begins on Friday. I will training you twice every week, so I hope you bring your A-game kid." he replied, before ruffling his hair. Following which, he and the Captain left the room for a private discussion. They both returned shortly. Ichigo gave him a thumbs-up before he left.
Toshio was still stunned at the events which had just taken place. He turned to the Captain as if for an explanation. She simply shrugged.
"You didn't wish to be promoted. So I thought you had at least better have proper experience fighting against opponent's, when you DO chose to do so."
Ever since that day, Ichigo had been training him twice every week for nearly a year till now. He was infinitely grateful to both his Captain to present him with this opportunity.
End Flashback
"YOU'RE LATE!" screamed the Captain, bringing him out of his reminiscence, her eyes still twitching in annoyance. " I sent you that Hell Butterfly hours ago…" she trialed off.
"Sorry, sorry." Ichigo replied apologetically as shut the door and took a seat. "I had some work at the clinic and Orihime wouldn't let me leave without dinner, so…"
Rukia sighed.
"It doesn't matter. At least you're here." she replied, as she took resumed her seat.
"So...Why am I here, Captain?" Toshio asked Toshio, expectantly.
The Captain and Ichigo exchanged a look before she addressed Toshio.
"You have been nominated as an Observer, approved by the Head Captain."
Toshio's eyes widened in shock a she heard what was told. It took him a few moments for him to register what was being said, before he actually comprehended the meaning of said words.
Contrary to popular belief, the Human World was not the only world connected to the Soul Society. There were a multitude of other worlds, each of which are individually connected to the Soul Society.
An Observer. A Soul Reaper sent to an alternate realm to oversee its activities and to protect said realm from Hollow attacks. A task of high honour, a single Soul Reaper was usually appointed per world for such a task, as it was usually observed that each world did not have vast populations of Hollows. While Hollows were a common occurrence in every world of the Mortal Realm, they were more often than not, found in abundance in worlds which contained being with high outputs of spiritual energy. As such, Hollow populations were unequally distributed across various worlds. Hueco Mundo- the realm of Hollows- was similarly connected to each of these worlds, similar to the Soul Society.
Toshio could barely register his Captain's words which were sounding far off. It was only when ichigo shook his shoulders that he regained his senses.
"You looked off." Ichigo replied, "Is everything alright?"
"Umm...Yeah.." he replied, trying to clear his head, but failing to do so.
"So?" his Captain asked, clearly resistant upon noticing his reaction, "Do you accept?"
"Y-yeah. I mean, ofcourse." Toshio replied, in a daze. " I have just one question. Who nominated me?"
The Captain met eyes with Ichigo before answering him..
"Both Ichigo and I vouched for you to the Head Captain. He was decidedly impressed upon hearing the report on your skillset, I admit." she replied with a proud smile. "Besides you already have the requirements fulfilled."
A small smile formed on his face upon hearing that even the Head Captain had approved of him. Everyone knew of Shunsui Kyoraku, the Captain of Squad One and the Head Captain of Soul Society. The man was a legendary figure amongst Soul Reapers. A student of the previous Head Captain, he had taken up his mantel, and had provided the moral support to the rest of the Soul Reapers to stand strong in the face of the threat thus ensuring victory.
The requirements to be fulfilled for one to be nominated as an Observed was a steep one. A Soul Reaper was required to specialize in at least two of the major Soul Reaper Arts- Zanjutsu(the art of sword weilding), Kido(the art of spells including the sub categories, Hado-the Way of Destruction and and Bakudo- the Binding Arts), Hakuda( unarmed combat) and lastly HoHo(high-speed unarmed combat). Most Soul Reapers specialised in the former two while the latter two were far leads focused upon. Infact, he only knew a couple of Soul Reapers who specialised in HoHo, Ichigo being one of them. He himself specialised in both Zanjutsu and Hakuda, the latter owing to having spend years upon and with Kenji. For an Observer, complete mastery over Shikai was considered mandatory. Bankai was an optional choice and as such, not an absolute necessity, as every world in the Living Realm did not contain equal populations of Hollows very few of which contained Hollows which would necessitate the use of Bankai. Thus, aside from Zanjutsu, one needed to be equally proficient in at least one of the other Soul Reapers Arts, which in itself was quite difficult, as most Soul Reapers specialised in a single are.
"When am I to leave?" he asked, a trace of excitement and something else that the Captain couldn't quite understand.
"You will be leaving in a week's time. As for where… I'm afraid only the Head Captain will be able to repay you that information. You will be notified on the day of your departure. You may leave now."
Nodding, Toshio got up to leave. He was about to edit the office, when a hand on his shoulder stopped him. It was Ichigo.
"You don't have to do this if you don't want to, you know?" Ichigo replied with a serious expression. "I can convince the Head Captain to change his decision…"
"No." Toshio replied almost immediately " Why would you? Besides it's getting way too quiet around here. I can't even get a decent spar in nowadays. A new world is just what I needed." he replied with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. He turned around to face Captain Kuchiki again.
"Thanks again, Captain Kuchiki. For the nomination. I guess I'll be seeing a you tomorrow."
She smiled and nodded.
With that Toshio left.
As soon as the door slid shut, Rukia sighed. Ichigo came up to her and sat down opposite to her.
"He's hiding it. He doesn't want to go. Maybe it was wrong of us to suggest him to the Head Captain. And u know he can't.." before trailing off.
Ichigo met her eyes shortly before replying.
"I know he can't...but at least we know he'll be able to hold his own. He's tough."
Rukia snorted.
"The boy's exactly how I remember you were when you were his age. Headstrong, rash, and rebellious. Yet smart enough to know what to do and when to do so, and the will to never give up."
Ichigo sighed.
"That's true. Even Zangetsu acknowledged how alike we were. And his Zanpakuto is a fearsome one if I ever saw any."
"Let's just cross our fingers and hope we didn't get this one wrong."
As he lay wide awake in his bed at the Squad Thirteen barracks, he sighed.
This is useless, he thought, annoyed, I'm not going to be able to sleep after all this!
Well you could if you tried, his Zanpakuto replied, an edge of worry in his voice.
Toshio sighed.
Toshio?
Yeah, he thought back.
No matter where we may go, I will always be there for you. Through thick and thin.
A soft smile formed on Toshio's face as he heard his Zanpakuto's comforting words.
Thanks, Shashutaiho. I owe you one.
You don't owe me anything, Shashutaiho replied, I'm your Zanpakuto. It's my duty to look out for your well-being.
Nevertheless, thanks, Toshio replied before he fell asleep.
The next morning, he immediately set about locating Kenji. He soon found him training a recruit in Hakuda,who has having a hard time having to dodge each and every strike, which were steadily becoming quicker and more powerful by the second. To this day it still confused Toshio as to how someone as Kenji could possibly be so quick on his feet.
He was quickly brought out of his thoughts as he saw Kenji preparing to strike him with his left fist. No sooner had the recruit seen thus, he crossed his hands together into a defensive position. Which was exactly Kenji wanted him to do.
It's a feint, Toshio realised, abruptly.
No sooner had he thought so, that Kenji which dropped his feet and swept the boy's legs out from under him. His Zanpakuto was drawn in a flash and at his throat.
"That's enough for today." Kenji replied, as he pulled him up. " Report back tomorrow. Same time." The recruit nodded before running off.
"Hey, what brings you here so early?" Kenji asked, upon noticing him.
"I have something to tell you."
Kenji noticed the heaviness in his voice and the look on his face.
Toshio let out a deep breath before he continued.
"I've been chosen as an Observer."
Kenji whistles in appreciation.
"Wow. You're lucky. That's such an honour. Plus, you get to see another world. I beg that would be exciting, wouldn't it?"
"I...guess…" be replied shortly.
"What's wrong?" Kenji asked.
"You know what's wrong." he replied in low voice.
Kenji sighed.
"If you don't wish to leave, you could tell the Head Captain so. I'm sure be would be understanding."
"It's..just going to be hard that's all." Toshio replied. "Soul Society is where I've been my entire life. It will be...Difficult leaving all that behind…" as he glanced at Kenji.
Kenji met his eyes.
"The Order of the Observers are one of the most honourable positions in Soul Society. I knew, ever since the day I met you, that you were meant for great things. If this is the price you have to pay…" he trailed off. "Besides it's not all too bad I guess…I get to see you once every year. I mean that should count for something, right?"
Toshio could clearly see that this was hard for Kenji as well. He didn't to make it any harder on him than necessary.
"Thanks." he replied, "I needed that."
"Don't mention it." Kenji replied. "Now what say you and I have one last supper for old times sake."
Toshio grinned.
"You are going to get your ass handed to you. Like last time."
The day had finally arrived. The day of his departure. He had already said his goodbyes to Captain Kuchiki and Ichigo,both of whom wished him good luck in his endeavours. Before leaving Ichigo had pulled him aside and reached into his shikasho, handing him a wooden charm.
Flashback
It looked like a plain charm with the Kanji for 'Luck' on it. When he had looked at him questioningly, Ichigo replied.
"It's a Kido-based charm my dad gave me when I just became a Soul Reaper. It saved my life, more than a few times. You'll make better use of it than I will." he said with a grin.
End Flashback
He had on a plain robe with a hood. It was made of sturdy fabric which would be able to withstand most sandstorms or harsh weather. Captain Kuchiki had warned him that the terrain of such a world might be difficult to navigate, so it had been best to wear proper clothing accordingly. A knapsack on his back containing nothing other than a few containers of water and a few rice balls which Ichigo had given him, courtesy of his sister Yuzu. Apart from the essentials, he had also been given a special Gigai-an artificial body Soul Reapers use to navigate the Mortal Realm- manufactured by Kisuke Urahara- the exiled Captain of Squad Twelve, who had said that it would be able to adjust to pretty much any and all adverse weather conditions. To make it portable, Kisuke had sealed it into a charm much like the one Ichigo had given him. All he had to do to release the Gigai was release the seal on the charm.
He had already reported to the Head Captain's office and was now currently waiting outside. He heard a call beckoning him in.
When he entered the office, he noticed how unique it was from that of the other Captains. It was massive, easily thrice the size of other floor was a rich marble with curtains hanging from the windows. The bamboo carpet itself was of a soft texture and the desk which lay at its centre an ornate one. Behind his chair, there was a massive shelf containing books each of which looked as old as the ages. He was too busy taking in the room itself, that he entirely forgot to notice the man behind the desk.
He was an odd man if one considered his appearance. He was middle-aged if one had to hazard a guess. He had long black hair tied in a ponytail. On his head rested a conical straw hat, giving him a comical look. To top it all off, upon his haori, he wore a bright pink robe with flowers of various colours and drawings embroidered on it.
While his appearance itself was comical, it was the man's piercing blue eyes which stood out sharply. They reflected much pain, much hardship and much experience. This was not someone to be taken lightly.
Upon noticing him, Toshio paled and quickly bowed to him.
"I'm sorry Head Captain, I've never been here before and I completely…"
The Head Captain merely chuckled before replying.
"That's quite alright, Toshio. I know how curious you are. After all, i did you ever since you were a child. " he replied genially. "And do stop bowing. I'm not a man for formalities. Besides I'm Uncle Kyoraku to you, not Head Captain."
Toshio straightened up before grinning,as he beckoned him forward. Toshio could clearly recall the first time he had met the rather odd man.
Flashback
He was a child at the time whose curiosity knew no bounds. Aside from the occasional Squad members, he had hardly met a single person. One day, while his father was away attending to Squad duties, he had left, deciding to take a look around the barracks.
While he roamed around, he would occasionally come across various Squad members performing various duties- some were running errands for their Captains or Vice-Captains while others were either busy training a few non-seated members or training themselves.
He rounded a corner, and came upon the Eighth Squad barracks. There shared on the porch, he found the strange man whom he occasionally seen in the company of his father. He would often visit in the late hours of night, whisking his father away to some unknown place from where he wouldn't return till the early hours of morning. He recognised the man due to the excessively pink kimono he had on, along with the ridiculous conical hat, he knew Soul Reapers did not generally wear. He couldn't help but chicken at his appearance.
The man obviously having heard the chuckle, looked up, noticing the boy who was peeking at him from around the corner. He beckoned the boy forward. Toshio arrived, running up to him.
When he bounded up to him, he noticed a saucer containing a clear drink and a flask sitting right beside it.
"What's that?" he asked, indicating at the saucer.
Kyokaru noticed what he was indicating. With a mischievous twinkle in his eyes, he smirked.
"That" he replied "is sake. It's really nice. Would you like some?"
Toshio's eyes widened upon hearing what it was. He had occasionally seen his father drink the stuff with others. But whenever he had asked him for a taste, he would laugh and tell him "Maybe when you are older." and send him off. And here this good man was finally offering him some! He nodded eagerly.
Kyoraku's grin widened at that as he poured out some of the clear liquid from the flask into another containing and pouring himself one. Handing one over to him he said "Cheers" bottoming the drink in one shot.
With the same gesture, Toshio set the saucer to his lips and drank some of the liquid. No sooner had he done so did he taste it.
Yuck, he thought, as he grimaced at the taste. Upon noticing the man watching him intently, he took it on as a challenge. Despite the hideous taste, and the burning sensation as it passed down his throat, he downed the drink in less than thirty seconds. When he finally set the saucer down, his eyes had begun to water and the room was beginning to move around in circles. But he quickly shook his head, in an attempt to steady his thoughts. When he looked up at the man, he chuckled slowly.
"You've got guts kid." he replied in an amiable manner, thumping his back, which wasn't helping his situation. "The first lad I've ever met who was able to down an entire saucer in one go."
He nodded, barely able to comprehend what the man was saying. He voy up to leave.
"Best you don't mention this to your dad, okay? He would have my head if he knew." he replied, as an afterthought.
Nodding, Toshio left.
End Flashback
"...You are already aware as to why you are here." he beard him say, bringing him out of his , you stand here bearing the honour of being chosen as a member of the Order of Observers. Do you understand the terms and conditions of your position?" he asked, as he eyes him criticality.
"I do." he spoke in a clear tone.
Kyoraku smiled softly at his reply.
"Good. Now let's move on to a few more matters which need to be addressed." He got of the oak chair he was seated on, as he approached the row of books on the shelf. Taking a particularly old one wrapped in a yellow binding almost as faded as the very pages of the book. On the cover, were the words Westeros Essos and Sothoryos written in a clear, elegant script. As he looked up at the Head Captain, he sat back down at his desk before he began his explanation.
"These" he indicated tapping on each of the three words on the cover "are the continents of the world which you are assigned. You will be sent to Westeros as it is apparently the world's largest continent." he replied as he flipped the book open to a its second page, displaying a map of the world. In the west was a stretch of land extending from the north to the south. From what he could see, it extended from the polar religions to the far south. Various words were scattered all over the areas on the map. In bold letters, over the large continent, was the word Westeros. Towards the east stretched a larger stretch of land, extending several thousand miles to the east, large latter's declaring it as Essos. Finally, to the south lay a smaller landmass marked by huge stretches of deserts and forests. On it, were the words Sothoryos. The world's geography was a fascinating one, one far different from the one of the Human World. As he looked up, he noticed the Head Captain's amusing expression.
"Fascinating isn't it?" he asked, as he himself began perusing the map. "Of all the maps I've studied in my lifetime, none by far have caught my interest as much as this one had. As you are already aware, knowledge pertaining to other realms is usually restricted to the Captains alone. I had always pestered Old Man Yama for a peek at the books. All I got, was a whack of his cane." he replied with a chuckle.
Toshio smiled. Somehow, he couldn't quite picture Uncle Kyoraku being whacked by a cane of all things.
The Head Captain reached into his desk and pulled out a set of thick robes placing them upon the desk. Toshio's eyes widened as be recognized thee articles. These were Oken clothing, the special clothes worn only by those of Squad Zero.
"Are those…?" he trailed off, looking up at the Head Captain.
"You guessed it." he replied, with a smile. "It has always been the tradition of the Head Captain to pass on Oken clothing to each and every new member of the Order."
Toshio felt the fabric of the material. It felt soft to the touch and light. Yet Toshio knew that it could withstand high amounts of pressure. He still remembered ichigo recounting how when he had entered the Soul Society during Yhwach's attack, he had to pass through each and every one of the seventy two barriers surrounding Soul Society. He was easy able to do so due to the Oken clothing which he had received from Squad Zero. This was tougher than the toughest of armours made in Soul Society. It could unfortunately be only created with a mineral specifically located in the Soul King's domain.
The Head Captain placed the book on top of the Oken clothing.
"The book will be handy as it will provide you pretty much a basic knowledge of the going ons in the world. Besides,the hour of departure is finally upon us." he replied before he got up and came around the table, drawing out his dual Zanpakuto. He was the only one other than Ichigo in the entirety of Soul Society who welded dual Zanpakutos.
As Toshio quickly packed the additional items away in his rucksack,he couldn't help but recall his father's words.
You'll do me proud my son. I believe in you.
Tears formed in his eyes as his words echoed in his mind. He desperately wished his father were alive to see him before a small smile formed on his face.
I'll make you proud Dad. Believe me.
His resolve strengthened, he swung his backpack on, his right hand resting on his Zanpakuto.
You ready?
A deep, yet reassuring voice answered him.
Always.
Nodding slightly, he turned to observe the Head Captain who was busy unlocking a Senkaimon- the gate to a realm.
While the Senkaimon could be accessed by any Shinigami, most were only allowed to access those realms which had a larger Hollow population, such as Ichigo's world. As such, other worlds were locked off, due to their lower levels of Hollows. Those worlds could only be accessed by the Head Captain, as he alone possessed the knowledge to do so.
As he drew his Zanpakutos from their sheath, he placed them on a horizontal level before shutting his eyes in concentration. Each blade began to glow blue as his eyes snapped open,slashing them in a cross.
That's odd, Toshio thought as he observed. A Senkaimon was traditionally opened by turning one's Zanpakuto in a similar manner as one would turn a key. The Head Captain's movements had been different. No sooner had he done so, did a small crack appear in thin air which began to widen further.
As he watched, the Head Captain lowered his Zanpakuto and placed them back into those sheaths, as he turned, locking eyes with Toshio.
"Toshio Shiba" he declared, his voice taking on a deeper tone, "do you pledge yourself to protect the inhabitants of this world, as you would your own?"
He took a deep breath watching the crack growing wider by the second, now almost two feet apart and increasing in height.
"I do." he replied solemnly.
Nodding, the Head Captain continued.
"Do you pledge to keep your abilities as a Soul Reaper hidden from mortals unless otherwise" be asked.
"I do."
"Do you pledge to remain in this world, knowing fully well that you shall not be permitted entry into Soul Society barring once per year?" he asked.
Thus is it, he thought, no turning back now.
"I do."
Giving one final nod, the Head Captain stepped back. The crack of light heightened and broadened until it finally formed an opening large enough for a single person to travel through.
"Then Toshio Shiba of the Known World, you are henceforth assigned as it's Observer. May the Soul King watch over you." he replied.
He was about to step forward, when he felt a hand on his shoulders, stopping him. It was the Head Captain.
"Do him proud, Toshio." he replied.
"Don't worry Uncle. I plan to." Toshio replied, in a firm voice. Kyoraku could see neither fear nor worry, only conviction in those blue eyes. Nodding, the Head Captain stepped back. With a determined expression, he looked forward.
Here we go, he thought as he stepped into the Senkaimon.
A bright flash of light and a moment later, he was gone.
Authors Note: Whew! That was one long ass prologue. At first, I thought I would divide it into two chapters, but then I thought it would far too much of a hassle to do so. So there you go. I know there isn't much action or much of a mention of GoT and that this chapter heavily focus on Bleach, but I needed a solid back story as I will be frequently visiting it through the story. Don't worry. Action will kick off surely by the next chapter. Oh and I'm going to introduce a time skip for the next chapter. After all my OC required time to adjust to Westeros before things start heating up. Anyways I hope you guys enjoyed it and I hope you will share your reviews as they are greatly appreciated. See you next time!