The Distortion of Reality
All Bleach related stuff are © of Tite Kubo
I own nothing, except for the plot
This story is non-canon, meaning that it has nothing to do with the original Bleach franchise.
I was inspired to write fan-fictions after reading some at DeviantArt and I thought that they would be quite interesting to write one (albeit I don't know how good it will be). Another inspiration was a school project we had to do, which we were supposed to write about a story about a hero trying to overcome obstacles, so that also inspired me.
I hope you enjoy this and I hope it is a good piece of art for a first attempt that will last for a long time.
Remembrance!
1st Division barracks
"Hmm," thought Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto as he paced around the room with his cane, "What exactly should I do…?" "Is there something the matter taichō*?" questioned Chōjirō Sasakibe as he was bringing in some coffee.
*Taichō is the Japanese way of saying captain.
"There's something that has been bothering me for a very long time, I wonder what it could be… besides the main incident currently that is." Yamamoto took the coffee, thinking it was tea, and began to drink, but then spit it right out.
"BLEH! COUGH! COUGH!" spat the captain as Chōjirō pounded him on the back, "What… is… this… stuff? *Cough**Cough*" "It's called coffee taichō. It's a major trend in the Human world. We should make it a franchise in this world!" replied Chōjirō excitedly.
"Absolutely not! If all humans are drinking stuff like this, think about what their elders must say about their health. They must be dying of thirst." "Taichō, this is what they drink in order to keep going. Without it, most of them would be dead within a week." "Bleh, I can't stand this. Bring me something real to drink. And don't even think about making this a major trend in this world. And besides, think about what is happening at the moment."
"As you wish taichō," said Chōjirō in a disappointed voice as he left, but also understood the situation at hand and quietly left the room.
"Now… I think it would be best if I called everyone here, so I may discuss what is in my head." Yamamoto called in a couple of Hell Butterflies* and started giving them some instructions. The Hell Butterflies received the message and went to their designated locations.
"Will all taichōs and lieutenants report to the meeting room now? I repeat, will all taichōs and lieutenants report to the meeting room now?" echoed the voice of Yamamoto from the Hell Butterflies as they arrived at their designated locations, "This is an emergency!"
8th Division barracks
"Sigh," thought Shunsui Kyōraku as he was lying on top of the 8th division barracks with his sakkat (straw hat) over his face, "What does the old man want now? Hopefully it's not about that."
"Taichō," said Nanao Ise as she spotted her captain lying on top of the roof, "It's time for us to go. We can't be late like all the other times we have been."
"But Nanao-chan*," wined Kyōraku as he pulled the sakkat away from his face, "What if I don't want to? I bet Yamma-Ji just has more stupid things to say. Remember the last meeting and how much I had to suffer...?"
*Name-chan is a way of addressing people younger than the speaker, usually for young people, babies, and any type of young women, including young and teenage girls.
*Name-Ji is a way of calling someone old, such as grandpa or grandma.
Meeting room for the Gotei 13 75 years ago
"It's time to decide whether or not we should start an annual book fair to raise money for our government," declared Yamamoto. There was no moaning, but one could see the confusion and distaste in the captains' eyes. He ignored their attitudes and continued. "We're too poor these days and I hereby declare a book fair."
"You said that we could decide Yamma-Ji," interjected Kyōraku, "What if we don't want to have one? I mean, a book fair… it seems like too much work. If the Soul Society members don't like the idea, then our efforts would have gone to waste and there would be some major problems. It sounds like a good idea, but still." There were a couple of harmonious voices on the thought and looked at Yamamoto for his response.
"Silence," barked Yamamoto as he hit the ground with his staff, "We need money and this is how we're going to raise it. If there are no more objections, let us continue." Everybody was silent again and continued to remain in their original composures. "Kyōraku, I want you to greet everybody that comes to the book fair and be as nice as you can. And be warned, I will be watching your attitude and work ethic. You will also be giving a welcome speech about the book fair and how we will now have one every year and how this will help our economy. Do I make myself clear?"
"Hai*, hai…"
* Hai is the Japanese way of saying yes, sure, or okay.
75 years ago, Soul Society's opening day of the book fair
"Oh boy, there are a lot of people," thought Kyōraku, "I never knew this book fair would be so popular. Whew, I'm already getting pretty nervous."
Kyōraku was behind the podium and was peeking through the curtains to observe the crowd. There were at least one million people waiting for Kyōraku's grand speech and they looked real eager to hear him. Kyōraku never liked giving speeches, even to his friends, but to a whole crowd was too much. There were regular citizens from all parts of Soul Society, from the most dangerous crowds of Rukongai 80 to the most civilized of all parts of Soul Society, Rukongai 1. There were also many Shinigami who wanted to see captain Kyōraku in action and actually have the opportunity for such a man to address them. It was really rare for captains to reveal themselves in public and this was a very rare opportunity.
"Damn," thought Kyōraku, "I bet Yamma-Ji did this on purpose. I should have stayed quiet. Sigh…, well, we'll see how it goes…."
"Hey Shunsui," came his friend Jūshirō Ukitake, "I can't wait to hear your speech. How much did you prepare for it?"
"Not a lot to tell you the truth," said Kyōraku nonchalantly, "I think I'm ready for it. 5 minutes of preparation should be enough. Besides, shouldn't you be in bed? I thought your condition was pretty bad at the moment,"
"I'm fine, don't worry. I really want to see you give a grand speech to the people. Oh, and are you sure you're perfectly fine? I mean, you look a little under the weather. Your knees are shaking and you look like a total mess."
"Do I? I really didn't think I looked that bad. I guess I'll admit that I'm a little worried, but, hey, what's the harm? I mean so what if my speech is pretty bad?"
"Well, the citizens of Soul Society probably won't like you anymore and you'll lose all the respect you had at first and Yamamoto-sensei* will be extremely mad at you for ruining the grand opening of the book fair. Imagine what he might do to you."
*Sensei is a way of saying teacher, master, or professor.
Shunsui thought about it for a moment and saw himself doing everything Yamma-Ji wanted him to do, cleaning all the dishes in Seireitei, helping out all the squads with their daily activities, and worse, denying him the opportunity to drink sake with his buddies. Then he realized that Yamamoto might deny him the opportunity to be with all the pretty girls. Shunsui shuddered at the thought and quickly looked over his script.
"Damn," thought Shunsui as he reread his letter, "Now that I actually read it and think about it, this speech is... Let me change a few words…"
"Shunsui, what are you doing?" questioned Ukitake as he looked over Shunsui's shoulder, "Why are you writing as if you're writing a will to your great-great-grandson?"
"Isn't it because I kind of am? I mean, do you expect me to write a letter that is convincing? I, for one, don't really care about this project, so I am not motivated at all. Second, I'm under highly intense pressure by Yamma-Ji. If I wasn't, I might have been able to write a decent letter, but right now, it's not going to happen. Besides, you know who I am. I'm not cut out for these kind of things."
"Well, just do your best. I mean, I think Yamamoto-sensei will understand."
"Yeah, and that's when Soul Society will recognize Mayuri Kurotsuchi as the stupidest person in Soul Society."
"What was that about me? Did someone just mock my intelligence?" hissed a voice as Mayuri Kurotsuchi came strolling in with his vice-captain Nemu Kurotsuchi, "Was I mistaken eh Nemu? Didn't someone just mock my intelligence?"
"Hai, Mayuri-sama*," replied Nemu, "Someone did mock your intelligence."
*Name-sama means to address someone formally, as in sir, madam, or master.
"Oh, what a surprise Mayuri-san. I rarely see you out of your office. What brought you out here?" questioned Ukitake. He rarely saw Mayuri outside of his office and was glad to see him once in awhile.
"Silence!" barked Mayuri as he looked at the duo, "I just happened to be passing by and I heard someone ridiculing me. Who was it? Was it you Kyōraku? Hah! I knew it! It must have been you! Only you would have said something like that about me! Oh I'll get you for this," said Mayuri as he was about to pull out his Zanpakutō.
"Calm down Mayuri," said Shunsui as he was about to pull out his own Zanpakutō, "I'm just playing with you. Of course you're not the stupidest resident of Soul Society. Why else would you be the head leader of the entire technological and science sector of Soul Society? It's very obvious, because you deserve it. Now, let's resort back to friendly terms and forget that this ever happened, shall we?"
Mayuri glared at Shunsui. He never liked him in the first place, always acting as if there was nothing important in life. He had absolutely no goals in life and was a major slacker. He would never understand true genius.
"Fine Shunsui, I'll let it go this time. But mark my words! When I get the chance, you better watch out! Come Nemu!" growled Mayuri as he and Nemu walked away. "Damn that Shunsui. Who does he think he is anyway? I hate that man…."
"Sigh…. I never understood that man. It is true that he is a genius and all that stuff, but literally, at least treat me a like a fellow senpai*," muttered Shunsui as he went back looking at his speech, "Man, now I'm really kind of scared now. Yamma-Ji will probably chew me out for this."
*Senpai is a way of acknowledging colleague, a fellow work member, or someone in school who is older than the speaker.
"Well Kyōraku, are you ready?" said Yamamoto as he walked in with his cane and his vice-captain Chōjirō, "Don't forget, your speech will affect the entire Soul Society. You will be held accountable for this if you even get one person to leave the area. I'm watching you, Kyōraku. And you, Ukitake!" barked Yamamoto as he pointed at him with his cane, "Don't even think about giving any help to Kyōraku. You too will suffer the consequences. I'm warning the both of you, especially you… Kyōraku," said Yamamoto as he and Chōjirō walked towards the front of the stage to greet the crowd and introduce the book fair.
"Well, Shunsui, I wish you best of luck. I'll see you later," said Ukitake as he left the back stage to return to the crowd.
"And now, I would like to introduce 7th taichō of the Gotei 13, Shunsui Kyōraku, who will now introduce his speech about our book fair," yelled Yamamoto as Shunsui walked out to the front.
The entire crowd went crazy as Shunsui came out. Everyone was clapping as hard as they could and many people were trying to get as close as to him as possible. Shunsui tried hard not to tremble as he walked, but it was not really easy. "Just take it easy, just take it easy," thought Shunsui.
"Damn," thought Yamamoto as he was in the back listening to the crowd, "Why is he so popular?"
"Well," said Shunsui as he arrived at the very middle of the stage, "Hello citizens of Soul Society. As you know by Yamamoto-taichō, today is the first day that we are having our now annual book fair. I think that, Yamamoto-taichō deserves most of the credit. Cheers for Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto."
The crowd erupted again and everybody started yelling Yamamoto's name and praising him.
"Better thank me Yamma-Ji. I let the crowd respect who you are and I even called you by taichō," thought Shunsui.
"That brat," thought Yamamoto, "He just did this on purpose so he can regain my favor towards him. But, I can't help thank him a little bit; that scoundrel…. Now, what do you have to say about your speech? Are you truly ready Shunsui Kyōraku? Do not disappoint me."
"Now," started Shunsui, "I'll now give my speech regarding to the book fair. I hope it doesn't bore you too much. Please enjoy."
(A couple of hours later)
"Now, I hope that this book fair will be successful and that Soul Society can regain its once lively position as before. Thank you very much."
The crowd was silent as they watched Shunsui leave the stage. They didn't know what to do. They just never heard anything like that before.
"Man," thought Shunsui as he was sweating, "Do they hate me that much? I knew my speech was bad, but, this silence is a little too much…." Shunsui walked towards the back of the stage and saw Yamamoto waiting for him.
"Well Yamma-Ji, there you have it. That was my speech. And now, do whatever you want with me." Yamamoto just remained silent and looked at him. "Was my speech really that bad that he can't say anything?" thought Shunsui as he left.
"Hey Shunsui," said Ukitake as he came running towards Shunsui, "That was an excellent speech, no kidding. Even though I only took a glance at your speech; that was amazing!"
"Really? I thought it was really bad…. I mean, no one even clapped or at least looked like they were listening to my speech. And to make things even worse, it was all improvised" said Shunsui as he looked towards the ground, "Well Yamma-Ji," said Shunsui as he turned towards Yamamoto, "I have done my duty and shall leave now." Yamamoto remained silent and just watched Shunsui leave.
"Sigh…, guess there goes my freedom. What should I do to regain his favor?" He was walking slowly and was about to return to his barracks when there a tremendous uproar. The entire crowd was waiting for Shunsui and they were all in ecstasy.
"Wh-, what's going on?" cried Shunsui as the crowd started amassing towards Shunsui, "Do you hate me that much that you are going to stampede over me with your despair and agony?"
"NO!" yelled the entire crowd, "WE ALL LOVED YOUR SPEECH! HOW CAN SOMEONE EVEN COME UP WITH SOMETHING LIKE THAT?"
Shunsui was too appalled. He didn't realize that he wrote something so well. He thought it was the stupidest thing he ever wrote in his life.
"It's true, I have to admit," said Yamamoto who suddenly appeared right beside Shunsui, "You're speech, I have to admit, was pretty good. I never knew that you were capable of such a task. I'll let you go this time, but remember Kyōraku, know your place…."
Current time 8th Division barracks.
"Don't you know taichō?" said Nanao, "Remember you received all that publicity? I saw the happiness on your face when you received the praise from everyone including Yamamoto-sōtaichō."
"True, but I still had to give up a lot of time," said Shunsui as he sighed happily. "Stop being so irresponsible and let's go. We dawdled enough; we're going to be late," ordered Nanao.
"You're right," replied Shunsui as he got up, "Let's just go and get this over with." He looked at the sky and noticed that it was unusually bright, not a single cloud in the sky, just the way he liked it. He slowly smiled and lowered his hat, turning around to head towards the meeting. "Maybe I'll get lucky again, just like last time," he thought cheerfully.
2nd Division barracks
"This really sucks," said Marechiyo Ōmaeda as he was stuffing in some chips, "I actually had some free time for once and then Yamamoto-sōtaichō decides to call for a meeting. So unfair."
"Just shut up and keep moving," said Suì-Fēng as they were walking, "And stop spitting out crumbs all over my hair, it's disgusting. And don't do anything stupid that'll make us look stupid. I have had it with your antics. Because of you, Yamamoto-sōtaichō doesn't seem real happy with us these days."
"It's not our fault that three of the taichōs defected and nearly destroyed our entire community. Why do the rest of us get the blame when we tried to stop them?"
"First, it's not our fault that Aizen was an enemy from the very start. Second, Yamamoto feels bad that he didn't notice Aizen, Gin, and Tōsen were corrupted from the very beginning. Third, it was our fault that we couldn't stop Aizen when we had the chance. We had him cornered, but he was able to escape through Negación from the Menos Grande." Suì-Fēng paused for a moment and thought about what happened that day.
Soul Society 5 days ago
"It all ends here, Sōsuke Aizen," said Suì-Fēng as she slid Suzumebachi (Hornet) under the throat of Aizen. She and Yoruichi had Aizen captivated, Shūhei Hisagi capturing Kaname Tōsen, and Rangiku Matsumoto confining Gin Ichimaru while the other captains and vice-captains were in the vicinity, arriving to see the man that had tricked them all. They found that Aizen, Gin, and Tōsen were behind many unforgivable incidents, notably the assassination of the Central 46.
"Pretty impressive for being able to sneak up on me like that. Yoruichi, you never cease to amaze me. Back then your abilities were considered legend, beyond recognition. That is why you were the leader of the Onmitsukidō. Even now, after a couple of decades of inactivity, you are still worth of that title. And you, Suì-Fēng. Beyond doubt, I'm impressed. You have been Onmitsukidō for only a couple of years, not too long after Yoruichi left. You have improved greatly in that short amount of time. Truly, both of you are wonderful," said Aizen with a hint of surprise and recognition on his face.
"Aw man, boss. Why with the compliments? You know they got us real good. I guess we were a little careless," questioned Gin with a grin. "No matter Gin. This is just a trivial matter, nothing too big."
"Careful Sōsuke Aizen. We have all seen what you have done to Soul Society. You, Kaname Tōsen, and Gin Ichimaru have been found out with breaking the highest orders possible. You will be apprehended as soon as possible," muttered Suì-Fēng.
"I'd figure as much that you would be here, Suì-Fēng, to capture me. Everything went accordingly, even our capture; however, I have no interest in being taken away. I still have too many things needed to be accomplished." "Yea you said it boss," said Gin as he smiled slyly, "We ain't gonna lose yet right?" "Of course not Gin. Tōsen…." "Hai, for the sake of justice, my will is yours," said Tōsen as he continued to stare at the ground, "Your will is my will."
A huge roar was then heard overhead. Everyone looked up and saw a rip in the sky. In the rip was a multitude of Menos Grande and a huge mysterious, menacing purple eye. The Menos Grande shot three blasts of Negación at the trio. The capturers were pushed back by the sheer impact of the Negación and Matsumoto, Hisagi, and Suì-Fēng tried to recapture the trio. Yoruichi, on the other hand, regained her composure and glanced at Genryūsai.
"Stop," commanded Yamamoto without showing even a hint of surprise. Hisagi, Matsumoto, and Suì-Fēng stopped in bewilderment as they looked at Yamamoto. "Once they are inside the Negación, it will be impossible for us to recapture them. We have to give up… this time. Unless you want to waste unnecessary energy and be taken hostage by being sucked into the Negación, I advise you not to move," muttered Yamamoto with complete hollowness.
"Smart thinking," said Aizen as he was being pulled away from the Negación, "It's true. It is impossible to break through Negación and you would indeed only waste energy. Too bad."
"Damn it!" yelled Suì-Fēng as she saw Aizen escape. "How could I let him go? I have allowed one of the greatest threats in the history of Soul Society go loose. What the hell is wrong with me?" thought Suì-Fēng rapidly, "GOD DAMN IT AIZEN I WILL KILL YOU!" yelled Suì-Fēng as she charged at the Negación surrounding Aizen.
"Enough," muttered Yoruichi as she appeared in front of Suì-Fēng to block her path, "You know you can't do anything about it now. It's not your fault that Aizen escaped. Everyone here is at fault for being careless in allowing Aizen to continue his plans. Don't worry; there will be another time."
"But-" continued Suì-Fēng. "Enough," repeated Yoruichi as she looked at Suì-Fēng. Her gaze pierced through Suì-Fēng and immediately stopped her in her tracks.
"It's too bad that I couldn' have been captured a little longer," said Gin as he was pulled away by the Negación. He looked towards Rangiku and there was a hint of sorrow in his face, "I'm sorry, Rangiku-san."
"Gin… why? I thought that we were…," said a confused Matsumoto. Long ago, it was thanks to Gin that Matsumoto was still alive. She was about to die by an experiment led by Aizen, but Gin came and saved her from starvation. Ever since then, they were together and protected one another. She knew that Gin was always different from the others, but she didn't know that he was planning something as malicious as this.
"For the sake of justice, I will follow Aizen-sama to the end. His will is God's will," said Tōsen as he too was pulled away, "Soul Society is nothing but impurity. None of you will understand. Not you Hisagi… not even you, Komamura…," muttered Tōsen as he looked towards Komamura.
"Tōsen!" yelled Komamura as he ran towards Tōsen, "Don't you remember the promise you made? What kind of justice is this? What about your friend? Tōsen! Listen to me! Are you saying that she died in vain? Baka*! Tōsen! Tōsen!" Tōsen just ignored Komamura and continued his ascent towards the rip, not even glancing at Komamura.
* Baka is the Japanese way of saying idiot.
Hisagi was too shocked to realize what happened. Tōsen, his captain, was a man of true virtue and Hisagi greatly revered him. He taught him what life truly was and showed him all the morals and lessons in life.
"Farewell Soul Society," said Aizen as looked down upon them, "You will soon see a new order in a short amount of time. Do not worry my friends. It will come all in good time. Enjoy the short time you have left because your world… will soon be mine…."
Present day 2nd Division barracks
"Damn it," she thought as she shook her head in despair, "I need to forget about what happened that day and actually concentrate on the situation at hand."
"Oof," said Marechiyo as he tried to stop himself from falling on top of Suì-Fēng, "
What's wrong? You just stopped walking all of a sudden. If you think that this meeting is also a waste, I totally agree with you."
"Just shut up and keep moving. Stop complaining and let's go," commanded Suì-Fēng as she continued walking, "I need to get a grip with myself. I can't continue going on like this," thought Suì-Fēng, "Well, what are you waiting for?" she snapped, "Aren't you coming?"
"Like I want to…."
4th Division barracks
"What do you think Yamamoto-sōtaichō has to say this time?" questioned Isane Kotetsu as she was readying to leave, "With the major events that just happened, something is bound to have happened."
"I think Yamamoto-sensei is going to discuss our next actions and tell us what is going to happen," said Retsu Unohana quietly as she was examining a couple of medical reports, "It's about time to rectify what went wrong during that encounter."
She moved towards the other end of the room and put on her haori on. She looked out the window and sighed. For the past few decades, there was nothing but trouble for Soul Society. Every time, there would be injured people and people dying that sometimes she was unable to save despite being the most advanced healer in Soul Society. She hated to see people suffer and die, even if they were the enemy. It was her duty to protect and heal others and not to see others suffer.
"When will all the troubles ever end?" thought Unohana as she left the barracks with Kotetsu following close behind.
3rd Division Barracks
Izuru Kira was straightening out the captain's office when one of the Hell Butterflies entered the room. Kira had no idea what this meant. Usually, Yamamoto would leave Kira alone and would just give him so tasks his squad can carry out. After the captain betrayal incident, Gin Ichimaru, being one of the defectors, left 3rd Squad alone and they were captain less. They only had Kira to lead them now and he was doing a pretty good job of leading.
"I see," thought Kira, "Yamamoto-sōtaichō wants us to talk about our next moves. I hope he can find a new taichō sooner or later. It's a really difficult job leading the entire squad without much support. But, it was fun. The squad is really kind and respectful and they get the job done. Well, let's see what Yamamoto sōtaichō is planning to do with us this time."
6th Division barracks
Kuchiki Byakuya was looking outside, admiring the scenery from the garden in his mansion. He already received the message, but didn't feel like going yet. There were greater issues going on and he figured that this meeting was going to be just as useless as before.
"Taichō, shouldn't we be heading out by now?" questioned Renji Abarai as he saw the captain day dreaming, "This must be a pretty big meeting if the sōtaichō is making even the vice-captains come to the meeting."
"It doesn't matter to me," said Byakuya without even turning around, "I'm not responsible for whatever the sōtaichō says. I will only take action if the peace within Soul Society ruined."
"But taichō, what about the Aizen incident? That's probably the biggest event that has happened to us ever in the history of Soul Society. I'm pretty sure that this meeting will be of utmost importance."
"Must I repeat myself, Renji Abarai?" said Byakuya as he turned his head to look at Renji, "As long as it doesn't mess with the peace of Soul Society, I don't care. Do I make myself clear?"
"H- hai…," muttered Renji. A Hell butterfly then came across Byakuya and landed on his shoulder. Without even glancing or acknowledging its presence, it delivered its message. It then flew away and Byakuya nonchalantly turned around and left the barracks.
"Come Renji Abarai, Yamamoto-sōtaichō is waiting for us," said Byakuya, not showing any indication of a change in his thought.
"H-hai taichō," stuttered Renji, not knowing what just happened to his captain or what the Hell butterfly told Byakuya.
"Yamamoto… just what exactly are you thinking?" thought Byakuya as he left the 6th Division barracks with Renji.
Outside 7th Division barracks, near a hill overlooking Soul Society
Sajin Komamura, who was in deep thought, was looking at the grave of Kaname Tōsen's past friend. It was because of her that Tōsen took the life of justice and decided to become a Shinigami in order to rectify all the mistakes in the world.
"Tōsen…," thought Komamura, "Just what are you planning to do? I thought I knew what you were doing… and I thought you too knew what you were doing."
Komamura's vice captain, Tetsuzaemon Iba, was examining his captain at the bottom of the hill. He didn't want to disturb his captain in any way and felt as if he was better alone. Iba turned around and saw Hisagi coming towards him with a very troubled face.
"Hisagi, wassup? Ya usually don't come around here," said Iba as he noticed that Hisagi was troubled.
"You should know why. It's the exact same reason as Komamura taichō," sighed Hisagi, "I thought that Tōsen-taichō was a better person than that. But, I guess what has happened has happened. Now I am in charge of the entire 9th division. I wonder how Tōsen-taichō did it. Anyway, I was hoping to talk with Komamura-taichō and ask if he is feeling any better than before."
"I guess ya can go see him," replied Iba as he looked towards Komamura, "I bet he would like the company of someone who feels the pain as ya do. Not me, uh uh. I have no business at all in this situation. Go right ahead."
"Thanks again, Iba."
"Ya will do better than I ever could," thought Iba as he returned back to his room to think about what Yamamoto was going to talk to them about, "After all, what do I know about suffering?"
10th Division barracks
"Matsumoto… Matsumoto… wake up Matsumoto," said a voice. "Uhhh," wined Matsumoto, "I don't want to! Leave me alone taichō," complained Matsumoto as she swat away the person's hand. "Matsumoto…," said the voice, becoming a little more frustrated, "We have to go…." "No!" continued Matsumoto. "WAKE UP MATSUMOTO!" yelled the voice. Matsumoto fell off the couch and looked up. She saw her captain, Tōshirō Hitsugaya, looking at her with a very stern face.
"Morning taichō. What's up?" questioned Matsumoto in a good humored way as she got up.
"What's up? I'll tell you 'what's up'?" said Hitsugaya who was becoming very ill humored as time was passing, "You slept in again and now we are late for a meeting. I cannot believe you Matsumoto."
"But taichō," wined Matsumoto, "It's just one meeting. There's no big harm in it."
"Matsumoto…," growled Hitsugaya, "We… are… late…. Do not… make… me… repeat… myself…. Or else…."
Matsumoto could feel her captain's anger rising at a very quick pace. However, she decided to annoy him a little more anyway.
"Taichō… do you want to see something nice," she said as she was about to unzip her Shinigami uniform.
"SHUT UP MATUSMOTO AND LET'S GO ALREADY!" yelled Hitsugaya as he was about to drag Matsumoto away.
"Aww, taichō, I'm pretty sure you wanted to see them anyway," slyly said Matsumoto as she zipped her uniform, "Are you sure?"
"OH I'M SURE ALRIGHT, SURE ENOUGH TO KNOW WHY I'M GOING TO FIRE YOU WHEN I'M DONE HERE!"
"Ooh, I'm sure about that taichō. You know without me you are hopeless. If it weren't for me, think about what would have happened to your grandmother."
That shut up Hitsugaya. As much as he hated it, it was Matsumoto who brought Hitsugaya into the Gotei 13 to help understand his true power. Before then, Hitsugaya was a young child living with his grandmother. His friend, Momo Hinamori, would also visit frequently to make sure that they were doing fine. Hitsugaya and Hinamori were good friends and would always look after one another, although Hinamori would tease Hitsugaya a lot because of his short height and white hair, causing her to call him "Whitey-chan." This annoyed Hitsugaya to a great extent, but he still liked her a lot and he felt as if he had the responsibility to protect her, even if she was the older one. People usually never hung out with Hitsugaya because they deemed him to have a very cold and lonely personality. Because of this outlook, Hitsugaya was indeed an outcast to others and only Hinamori and his grandmother would be with him. One day, when Hitsugaya was out looking for something at the grocery store, he was arguing with the shop keeper about an issue. Pretty soon, Matsumoto came and broke up the fight, but not before Hitsugaya was down on the floor by Matsumoto's bosom. She berated him for not standing up and arguing back, totally unaware that it was her who knocked her down in the first place. He ran away from her and tried to forget about the incident. The following night, Hitsugaya had a dream in which an ice dragon started talking to him. He had these dreams before, but never had the dragon been so fully materialized and talking so clearly. Hitsugaya had no idea what it meant, but before he could ponder more on the situation, someone woke him up.
"Boy, stop leaking your reiatsu everywhere! It's freaking cold in here!" whispered a familiar voice. "Huh?" said Hitsugaya groggily, "Who's there?" He looked around and saw the woman from the store, "How the hell did you get here?" "It was pretty easy. Your reiatsu was so huge that it could have been felt for miles. Have you ever noticed how cold it was here?"
For the first time, Hitsugaya noticed that the room was freezing. He always thought it was weird that during the summer, it was cold like this. He wondered how it could be so cold.
"Confused huh boy? I'll tell you. You're reiatsu is abnormal compared to regular standards. If you don't learn how to control yourself, the people around you will die. Take a look at your grandmother." Hitsugaya looked and saw how pale and cold she looked. He realized that because of him, she was suffering and dying because of his ignorance to realize what was happening. He tried to come up with a plan to fix his mistakes, but couldn't think of anything.
"Hey boy," said Matsumoto, "Come with me. I'll take you to a place where they can train you to control yourself and harness your power. You'll then become a Shinigami." "Oh, are you really sure about that? I mean, is that even possible? Will I really become a Shinigami?" "Trust me, you will."
The following day, Hitsugaya followed Matsumoto to the Shinigami academy and soon learned to harness his power. However, his talents were beyond recognition. He was marked as a child prodigy and surpassed the last prodigy, Gin Ichimaru by a milestone. He completed the academy in one year with the highest written and performance scores. In no time, he became a captain for the Gotei 13 and was greatly recognized by all.
"So Hitsugaya-taichō," said Matsumoto back in the present day, "What are we waiting for? Aren't we going to go?"
"… right. Let's go," said Hitsugaya as he left the barracks, thinking about how much he still had to learn.
11th Division Barracks
"Ken-chan*!" yelled Yachiru Kusajishi as she pounded on Kenpachi Zaraki's back as he was sleeping, "Wake up Ken-Chan!"
Ken-chan* is the way Yachiru addresses Zaraki
"Heh?" said Zaraki as he looked back, "What is it Yachiru? My afternoon nap isn't over yet." "Ken-chan! Grandpa Yamamoto has called us to have a meeting!" Zaraki sighed in despair. He never understood why the old fart wanted to have a meeting. Most of the time they were pointless and a huge waste of time. The only time something interesting happened was when a couple of humans decided to invade Soul Society in order to rescue someone, which was actually five days ago. He was unable to witness the Aizen incident, but he heard enough about it. All he cared about was fighting someone strong and worth his time.
"Bah," muttered Zaraki as he closed his eyes again, "I don't care." "But Ken-chan, grandpa Yamamoto will get mad at you again." "I don't care." "Please Ken-chan!" Zaraki turned around again and saw Yachiru was looking at him with a sad face. "Pretty please?" Zaraki looked at her for a moment and just turned around. He sighed and stood up and put on his haori. "This is so stupid, but oh well," thought Zaraki as he left the barracks, "Maybe something interesting will happen."
12th Division Barracks
Mayuri Kurotsuchi was busy typing something when the Hell Butterfly arrived. Mayuri just ignored the butterfly and continued with his work. The butterfly kept on fluttering in its position and kept staring at Mayuri. Before he knew it, a horde of butterflies were inside his lab and they were all staring at Mayuri.
"Of all the animals in the world, he has to pick the butterfly," hissed Mayuri as he listened to the message, "I don't give a damn about the Aizen incident. It has nothing to do with me, so leave me alone Yamamoto," said Mayuri as he went back to his typing.
"Mayuri-sama," said Nemu Kurotsuchi as she walked into the laboratory, "It's time for us to head to Yamamoto-sōtaichō's meeting." "Silence Nemu!" hissed Mayuri as he turned around, "Don't you dare tell me what to do! Leave me alone!" "Hai, Mayuri-sama," replied Nemu as she left the laboratory.
"Sometimes I wonder if I should have built her at all," thought Mayuri. "GET OUT OF MY ROOM YOU DAMN BUTTERFLIES!" yelled Mayuri as the butterflies continued to flutter around, "Fine, if you won't leave, then I'll just make you leave." Mayuri reached for his Zanpakutō and was about to release its Shikai form when the door to the laboratory opened. "I thought I told you to…. Who's there?" Before he knew it, all the Hell Butterflies were shot down and there was a major explosion. Mayuri covered his face with his arms as the force of the explosion hit him. He was pushed back by the repercussion of the explosion and hit the wall behind him. "Damn," gritted Mayuri as he tried to look around, "What the hell was that?" There was too much smoke for any visibility. He pulled out his Zanpakutō and readied it.
"Who's there? Show yourself!" He looked around a saw a shadow emerge from within the smoke. "Huh? Who are you?" "Mayuri-sama!" yelled Nemu as she came running in, "Did something happen Mayuri-sama?" The shadow turned around and pointed the palm of its hand towards Nemu. She was pushed back by an unknown force and crashed into the wall, breaking it entirely. "Nemu you idiot! How dare you let yourself destroy the wall like that?" yelled Mayuri, completely unaware what happened to his subordinate, "I'll make you pay, but first... I see that you have an interesting power," said Mayuri as he faced the shadow, "Just what exactly did you do? I'm curious. Please show yourself."
The shadow emerged and Mayuri was very intrigued, "Oh, what an interesting person. Who exactly are you?" "That's none of your concern at the moment. Instead, you should be worrying about what is happening around you," said the person. "Hm?" said Mayuri as he looked around. Around him, darkness was engulfing the entire room and before he knew it, he was completely blinded.
"What is this?" thought Mayuri, "This reminds me of Tōsen's bankai. Utter darkness, none of the five senses except feel working. No matter. Eh?" said Mayuri as he looked around. In the darkness, holes started appearing and the darkness started turning to light. The light's intensity increased and Mayuri for some reason became unable to move. "Damn! What the hell is going on?" thought Mayuri as he tried to move. A big explosion ensued and part of the Shinigami Research and Development Institute then blew up, littering the silent darkness with utter chaos.