A/N: Welcome back everyone~

Before we start, I just wanna respond to an anonymous reviewer who posted a review. Namely the long Star Wars themed one. I'll say up-front that no, that won't happen at all, and there is zero chance of that happening. I'm not a Star Wars fan, for one, and don't know a lot about the universe so I can't accurately add in the material. Another problem is that I have the entire plot for this story already laid out, and already have 5~ chapters written ahead of this one, so if characters were suddenly to become Jedi then it would require re-doing the entire plotline.

Adding to that, there isn't any need for it to be added. The characters in the story will face strong opponents, and will gain strength on their own. They don't need Jedi and other stuff thrown in the mix, especially since some of the stuff in the Star Wars universe is a little unexplained and unclear *cough* the force *cough*.

In short; no, it won't be implemented into the story because said story is already thoroughly planned out and I don't know enough about the lore. I appreciate the enthusiasm, but I suggest going to a Star Wars crossover fandom to suggest this idea, since this is Bleach/RWBY, not Bleach/Star Wars.

That aside, let's get into the story.

I DO NOT OWN RWBY OR BLEACH


Arc 1: Karakura Arc

Chapter 7: Banish The Rain


The skies of her Inner World were cloudy, unsurprisingly, yet rays of sunlight peeked through the clouds persistently. The breeze was as cool as it always was, but without the sun to warm her it felt chilly, almost bitter.

Ruby sighed as she stood within the world of her soul, perched atop the familiar cliff overlooking the vast landscape. Her Zanpakuto had arrived and spoken to her before leaving to do whatever she does to entertain herself, leaving Ruby to her present activity; flaring her Reiatsu in an attempt to draw the Hollow out from whatever hole it lied in. It wasn't working, and hadn't been working for the past two hours.

Her mother may have the patience of a saint, but she had only a fraction of that. A fraction that was swiftly dwindling as the Hollow refused to even make an appearance and, given how vast (if not infinite) her world was, she could only find the creature by chance. Even with those abysmally low odds she was considering it if only to relieve the boredom and frustration she was feeling. She had come in here ready to fight and hopefully win, only to be left standing around doing nothing but flaring Reiatsu, something that was becoming quite tiring.

''...does that ever get boring?''

The sudden double-toned voice shattered her concentration, causing her to flinch and nearly stumble off the cliff in surprise. She spun around in a heartbeat, wide silver eyes locking onto the ivory form before her.

The girl was a near clone of herself, wearing a Shihakusho that was the purest yet blankest of whites, with a red obi sash the same colour as freshly spilt blood. Short snow-white hair fell down in a nature curve, framing her round face and ending in bright red tips. Bright gold eyes were backed by sclera of the deepest black, her pale ivory skin standing out against the lush greenery behind her. One of the more defining and unusual traits of the pale girl was the pair of ivory wolf ears perched atop her head, the tips a faint red colour. A Zanpakuto eerily identical to her own rested at the unknown girls hip, and if the fact the pale girl was lying on her side was any indication, she had no intention of drawing it.

No longer flaring her Reiatsu, and intimately aware of the Hollow Reiatsu radiating from the girl, Ruby swallowed her nerves and spoke. ''So you're the Hollow that's supposed to be within me?''

''Yep.'' Was all the eerie-looking clone said, her ominous eyes flickering up to the sky lazily.

...well, this was underwhelming.

''So... uh... what took you so long?''

The Hollow just quirked a brow at her lazily, ''I've been here for like an hour, waiting for you to notice me.''

Ruby blinked owlishly at the girl. ''You've... wha?''

''You're just oblivious.'' The Hollow said flatly, a yawn escaping her as she lied on her back. ''If that's all you need I'm gonna take a nap.''

''We aren't going to fight?''

''Nah, can't be bothered.''

''But what about you trying to take me over, or the nightmares?'' She asked insistently, taking a step closer. ''Weren't all those to wear me down?''

The Hollow (Inner Hollow?) just stared at her for a moment, before shrugging. ''I didn't know about that. Eh, sorry. I'll try and stop it if I can.''

''Thanks...?'' Ruby mumbled uncertainly, an awkward silence descending upon them.

''So... uh... I'll be going now...''

''See ya.'' Her new... guest replied.

The sounds of her Inner World faded away as her vision turned to black, the brief sensation of falling overcoming her before she found herself back within her room, her eyes taking a few long moments to adjust to the sudden darkness.

A sigh escaped her as she ran a hand down her face, mild irritation and exasperation flooding through her. The fact she had not noticed the Inner Hollow behind her for nearly two hours was equal parts embarrassing and irritating, and the fact she had been so worried and frazzled over the whole Hollow-in-her-soul only to find out it was a lazy clone of herself... it was underwhelming, to say the least.

'Ugh... I need a drink.' She grumbled lightly to herself, grimacing as she stretched her stiff legs. Jinzen; creator of pins and needles.

The house was completely silent as she slid out into the hallway, briefly shivering at the cool air. As she descended the stairs she was surprised to see a head of orange hair in the living room, the owners form hunched over slightly, clearly deep in thought. She briefly wondered why he was awake at this time of night, only to belatedly realise it was probably because of the news earlier. That, or his near-death experience today with Shrieker. Probably both.

''Ichigo?'' She spoke up, snapping the teen from his thoughts and causing him to jump lightly. ''What're you doing up?''

''I should say the same to you...'' He deadpanned, sighing after she gave him an expectant stare. ''Just got a lot on my mind.''

Ruby hummed, slipping into the kitchen and pouring herself a glass of water. ''Wanna talk about it?''

She got a mumble in return, but sat down across from him regardless, the room faintly lit by a brown lamp in the corner of the room, casting long shadows across the length of the expansive room. Even in the poor lighting she could see that he hadn't gotten much sleep, and his hunched form wasn't solely because of deep thought. Whether he was exhausted but refused to sleep, or was too shaken over everything that he couldn't sleep, she didn't know.

''So...'' She drawled, folding her leg over the other as she gave him a look. ''What's the matter?''

''My mom was a Quincy.'' He said, his tone completely flat and his expression set in a deadpan. ''And my father is, or was, a Shinigami. A Shinigami Captain at that.''

That she was not aware of, and she had a hard time not letting it show.

''Oh, and apparently I also have a Hollow in me.''

Well there goes her attempt at hiding her thoughts.

''What?!'' She blurted out, eyes widening. ''Wait-wait-wait a moment! How... just, wait...''

''Explain?'' He asked rhetorically, an amused smile slowly curling at his lips at her spluttering.

Ruby only nodded dumbly, trying to regain some composure.

''Dad says during his time as a Shinigami he was sent out to Naruki after some of his guys went missing. He ran into a Vasto Lorde who was responsible, fought it and nearly got his ass kicked if it wasn't for Kaa-san.'' He smiled lightly, before his face fell neutral again. ''The Hollow bit Kaa-san and she slowly got infected by it, since apparently Hollows are poisonous to Quincy.''

That much she knew; it was one of the many reason Quincy were told to stand down; they were walking bombs if they got bit. Like zombies, but with more explosions. Big explosions.

''Dad had to seal away his powers to stop the infection and save mom. Since he lost his powers and didn't want her to be revealed, he faked his death to be with her.'' He finished a much more concise, less heartfelt version of Isshin's story, with the additional information.

Made sense, in a way; Isshin trusted her, but Ichigo deserved to know the full truth before she did.

''Wait... where'd you get the Hollow though?'' She queried after a moment.

''I... inherited it from my mom, I guess.'' He shrugged uncertainly. ''Dad says it's probably subdued because of my latent Shinigami and Quincy powers.''

Ruby nodded. That was a reasonable conclusion, especially since her own Hollow was, presumably, suppressed by her Shinigami powers until recently. Beyond his admission, however, she could see the confliction in his eyes. The debilitating news that, like her, he now held a soul-eating monster within him that could strike at any moment. However, if it was anything like hers, it might not be so bad. Hopefully.

''Hey, look on the bright side!'' She smiled lightly. ''...the Hollow might not be so bad?''

He gave her a flat stare, ''That's awfully optimistic, considering your reaction yesterday.''

She laughed nervously, ''Yeahhh, about that... I kinda just met my Hollow when I was sleeping.''

''...what.''

Ignoring his deadpan, she sheepishly continued. ''She looked like me, except all white and creepy gold eyes. Really lazy though, didn't even want to fight.''

His deadpan quickly morphed to surprise, ''Really? That's...''

''Underwhelming?'' She giggled lightly at his dumb nod. ''I thought so too. So if my Hollow is a lazy bones like yours might be, then there shouldn't be anything to worry about!''

''Maybe you're right.'' He hummed, but the sated worry in his eyes was clear as day.

Speaking of Hollows...

''How'd you beat Shrieker anyway?'' Ruby asked curiously, ''That guy was pretty tough, probably almost Menos-class, so you and Sado-san shouldn't have been able to beat him alone.''

Ichigo just shrugged, ''I did what you taught me to. My sword managed to cut him though, which I'm guessing isn't normal.''

''No. No, it isn't.'' She frowned, taking a sip of her water. She made a mental note to pay a visit to that shopkeeper tomorrow. ''Anything else?''

Glancing away, he sheepishly murmured; ''...I used some Kido.''

''...what now?''

''I panicked, alright!'' He barked, glancing away as an embarrassed blush rose to his cheeks. ''...we probably wouldn't have won otherwise.''

SMACK

''Ichigo...'' Ruby grumbled, her voice muffled by the hand she used to face-palm herself with. ''Do you know why I am not allowed to teach you Kido?''

''...because it's forbidden?''

''Exactly!'' Her muffled exclamation made him flinch guiltily.

Privately, however, she recalled the burns he had sustained on his arm. At the time she had overlooked them, but with his present admission the reason behind it made more sense. Hado, when mishandled, often had a vicious backlash against the user that ranged from light pain to destruction of the limb or even death. With his lack of training the chance of him hurting himself in a future stunt (which would inevitably happen with his poor luck), she had to find a solution.

The frightening fact he had copied her Hado after only seeing it once did not escape her notice either.

Thus...

''So starting tomorrow, we'll start Kido training.'' She flashed a grin, adding silently in her mind; 'And Shunpo... we've already crossed the line anyway...'

The look of befuddlement on his face almost broke her composure.

''Wait, didn't you just say it was-''

''It is. But who will care if nobody sees?'' She winked with a giggle. ''Plus you forget, I'm a noble - legal loopholes are in the name.''

''Well, if you're sure... where do we start anyway?''

A sly smirk came across her face as she pointed at him, unleashing a wordless Sai, causing him to jerk in surprise as his arms were suddenly pulled behind him. Not enough to hurt, but enough to cause mild discomfort and lack of mobility with them.

''First lesson; break out of Bakudo #1: Sai.'' Ruby stated as she got to her feet. ''That's punishment for using Kido that could've burnt your arm off.''

For his part, Ichigo only scowled. ''So how do I-''

''Figure it out yourself.''

''...I almost pity him.''

She only giggled as she skipped back up the stairs, ignoring the grumblings of the bound teen.


A few days past since that night, and it was the only the day after it that she learned how poor Ichigo was at Kido.

It wasn't the amassing of 'power', oh no, he had that in spades - but it was the fine control to maintain it. Hado he could do with only marginal difficulty with minor injury, but Bakudo was too much of a hassle for him, so they ended up putting that on the backburner for now. His attempts at Shunpo, on the other hand, found more success - and also had the occasional impact into a wall. She even kept a running tally to amuse herself. Twenty-one times so far.

All of their training took place within a Kido barrier either created by her or occasionally Isshin, who was much better at making barriers than she was. She was more suited to smaller but more complex Kido rather than a large-scale one. Through her tutoring she got to see her student flourish, probably outranking some of her subordinates in almost every department, which either spoke of his insane growth rate or her Divisions lacklustre unranked Shinigami. She made a note to talk with her mother about that.

Today however, they would not be doing any training.

It was the anniversary of Masaki Kurosaki's death.

Ichigo was the one to invite her to come along and the other members of the Kurosaki family were completely welcoming. It was a nice day too; bright sunshine, clear skies with only a few distant clouds and a pleasant breeze. She had forgone wearing her usual attire of a hoodie and skirt, instead going with a black sundress and a wide-brimmed black hat instead, given the weather.

Ichigo still wore his usual get-up of a plain purple shirt and grey pants, no change there. Isshin was slightly more formal with a grey button-up and black slacks, but the enthusiasm that he radiated killed any smart look about him. Yuzu went with a yellow hoodie and matching floral skirt, the perfect picture of adorable cuteness. Karin, much like her brother, went with a more casual sports shirt and beige shorts, a blue cap on her head shielding her eyes from the sun. The five of them walked up a rather steep road towards Karakura Cemetery in relative silence, aside from Ichigo and Isshin bantering that is.

Cemeteries were an odd tradition in their world, even to those not part of the Twelve Divisions. Everyone knew that once a soul was either purified or passed over, they went into the 'cycle' that spat them back out in a new body with no memory or power. Yet despite knowing their spirits were all but guaranteed to exist in another life, people created graves and spoke to them, as if their loved ones were watching over them. It was more for the grievers than the departed, she supposed. It was silly and, cynically speaking, rather pointless and a waste of space... but all such notions were thrown aside when one stood before the grave of one of their comrades. It was hard to scoff and dismiss the weight in ones heart when an outlet for said emotion was present.

Cemeteries also originated from back when people did not know about the Cycle of Reincarnation, extending back way over two thousand years ago, when mankind built its fortresses in the eastern land, once called Anima if she remembered right. Back then they used the Old Language, before it was gradually forgotten and replaced by the Common Language, even if traces remained - phrases and terms such as 'Okaa-san' and 'Kaa-san' were perfect examples of the Old Language, interchangeably used with 'Mom' or 'Mother'. Some were meant to be more formal, but the meaning behind them remained the same.

She was drawn from her thoughts by a sudden cry of; ''Ichigoooooo~!''

The aforementioned teen let out an annoyed growl as he threw a backhand towards his father, who attempted to tackle his son. Isshin took the hit remarkably well, getting knocked off his feet and sent tumbling back down the hill. Had this been any random person she would've been concerned, but she had seen the man been thrown out a window once with no scratches to speak of. He was quite durable, both to ones annoyance and relief.

Perhaps he acted so exuberant to distract them from the gloominess of the day? Despite the picnic, they were still going to visit the grave of their deceased mother. Yet none of them seemed sad about it, again most likely due to Isshin distracting them constantly with his goofy antics. It was... oddly thoughtful.

''Idiot.'' Ichigo grumbled, rolling his shoulder and making the sheathed sword on his back shift slightly.

''I don't know why you even bothered brining that with you today.'' Ruby deadpanned, ''If a Hollow shows up, I'm fighting it. I'm not letting you throw yourself at another Hollow just yet.''

''Just yet.'' He snorted amusedly, ''I brought it with me to show mom.''

''And tell her how you tried fighting a dangerous Hollow with minimal training beforehand?''

''I'd rather leave that part out.'' He quipped lightly, earning a giggle from his companion.

They reached the cemetery a few minutes later, the numerous tombstones decorated with either fresh or withered flowers. If one was to take a glance at the details on them they would find many of them died due to the Grimm, a rather morbid reminder that even with the Shinigami actively fighting the Grimm on a daily basis, sometimes they were never quick enough. One Shunpo too slow, a moment of hesitation, or a quick-draw too late.

As they turned down one of the many lines of well-maintained graves Ichigo nudged her, the picnic basket in one hand. ''C'mon.''

She blinked, glancing at the twins and Isshin walking towards the grave, but didn't comment and followed after the teen. He led them off to the side slightly, exiting the designated area of the cemetery and over to an exposed clearing next to it, a few benches sitting around bathed in sunlight. She understood what he wanted now; he needed a helping hand... and also to give his family some space, and probably vice-versa. She couldn't see Ichigo opening up in front of his sisters like that, he acted too tough for that.

It was when she was helping him lay out the plates that she caught sight of a figure in the adjacent forest, their Shihakusho defining them as a Shinigami, and their eyes were locked onto her.

Assuming it was a messenger of some kind (though it was odd that they would send one out instead of send a Hell Butterfly) she excused herself and calmly traversed the distance, her silver eyes lighting up at the sight of a familiar face. Black hair fell down her back in a wavy fashion, her pale skin highlighting her bright gold eyes and hint of purple mascara. Twin black cat ears twitched atop her head, signifying her Faunus heritage for all to see. Her Shihakusho was perfectly maintained and adorned with a black obi sash, alongside the badge on her bicep signifying her rank, a black dagger as the emblem.

Blake Belladonna, Lieutenant of the Black Division.

''Hey~ Blake-san!'' Ruby grinned, face alight with joy.

''Hello.'' Blake's much more passive reply did nothing to deter the younger (physically and technically) girl.

''What're you doing in Karakura? On a mission?''

Her lips curled up into a small, amused smile. ''Something like that.''

''Oooh, looking for a gift for Yang, maybe?'' Ruby teased, her grin growing when the faintest of blushes dusted the Lieutenant's cheeks. Her potential affection for Yang was something of a growing rumour within the Twelve Divisions, and was teased quite mercilessly about it. She became quite the tsundere when flustered.

Blake just mumbled something too low for her ears to hear, before shaking her head. ''It doesn't matter. What're you doing here?''

''On a mission of course!'' Ruby declared with a smile, ''The usual stuff, but its still better than paperwork.''

''I cannot disagree with you on that.'' Blake murmured, a soft chuckle escaping her. ''Say hi to Yang when you return, I'll be back later than you.''

She pouted, ''Leaving already?''

''Mm. I still have my mission to attend to.'' Blake nodded, spinning on her heel and walking into the forest.

''Fine. Pick up a gift for Yang though- she likes daffodils!'' She laughed when Blake stumbled slightly, before she vanished in a burst of Shunpo.

'Heh, wonder how long it'll take her.' Ruby smiled, turning back towards the benches where Ichigo was just finishing setting up. As she approached, however, a thought struck her.

'I don't remember telling her how long I was staying... huh... weird.'


Even in a quiet place like a forest, the Kurosaki family always found a way to make it lively.

Despite originally having a picnic, it turned into a hide-and-seek game somewhere along the way, with Ichigo often ending up the hunter due to the fact orange was hard to hide in a forest. So far Ruby had managed to make him submit five times, becoming the winner five times in a row until the teen just gave up. Isshin then forcibly dragged him into a game of tag (via threat of waking him up at five in the morning). He actually won one round after catching her off-guard with a burst of Shunpo, something she adamantly declared was a fake-win.

She was not embarrassed about being outpaced. Nope, not at all.

Now however it was time to head back to the Kurosaki residence, the afternoon sky slowly fogging over with depressing grey clouds, hinting at the potential rain spell they were about to receive. Isshin and the twins were cleaning up the mess they had made off to the side, giving a certain someone the privacy he needed.

Now though... now he was just staring at the grave morosely. She didn't like the look of sadness on his face.

''What was she like?'' She asked softly, having walked up silently beside him. His brown eyes glanced towards her, staring into her silver ones for a few long, silent moments before shifting back to the grave.

''...Amazing.'' Was all he said, his solemn look gaining a small, wistful smile. ''She was... she was the light of our family. She was everything you pictured a perfect mother was; kind, caring, gentle, affectionate, understanding... loving.''

His gaze drifted to the side, past her and to the rest of his family. ''When she was gone... I think everything kinda just... stopped. Everything for a year or two afterwards just blends together, unimportant. Yuzu and Karin were too young to really remember her, but they still love her all the same. I don't think I need to tell you how dad thinks of her.''

Ruby giggled lightly, ''The giant posters was a giveaway.''

Ichigo chuckled, one hand scratching his cheek as his gaze swapped to her. ''What about you? What's your family like?''

She blinked, slightly surprised by the question, but spoke anyway. ''Well my mom is the current Clan Head of the Rose family, and the Captain of the Red Division. She always makes time for me despite being so busy and when she has the chance, she makes me some homemade cookies, which are the best by the way. She's been a Captain for over two centuries now since the Civil War and is kind to her subordinates, and likes to read. She gained the title of 'The Ivory Reaper' during the Civil War too, for defeating two Captain-class fighters with her Bankai, which she only achieved the day beforehand.''

''My dad is also pretty cool, though he doesn't have as much time to spend around home since he's required to be out in the field more than mom. He's also a Captain but isn't as easy on his Division since he doesn't want them going lax, and is kinda lazy himself. He married mom a while ago despite not being a noble and had to fight for permission to court her.'' She smiled, ''It was even made into a romance novel.''

However, her smile swiftly faded, a familiar phrase popping into the forefront of her mind.

''I also had a sister.'' She murmured softly, eyes drifting up to the ground. ''I've never met her, and nobody ever talks about her, but mom's mentioned her a few times. I can't even find anything in the clan archives or the Grand Library under Beacon Tower. Almost like anything about her was wiped away.''

Ichigo frowned, ''Why would that happen?''

''If someone did something that is better left forgotten.'' Ruby muttered, a sad sigh escaping her. If such a thing was true, it would explain why she had never heard or seen her sister... she would've be executed, and all traces of her existence wiped away to prevent someone copying them. However, for someone to have done something so significant that warranted being erased from history, it would've left a more lasting effect. Moreover, she would've been around to see it. She was her mothers first child, that she was absolutely certain of. However, she had no answers, and her mother was unwilling to speak on the subject whenever it was brought up.

She shook her head, dismissing the train of thought. She was supposed to be comforting Ichigo, not get lost in her own unsolvable mysteries.

When she opened her mouth to speak however, a sudden scream pierced through the air, causing both their heads to snap towards the sound. Her eyes widened and before her companion had even begun speaking she moved, disappearing in a burst of Shunpo and one hand drawing her Zanpakuto that rested over her shoulder, swinging it in a vicious arc that tore cleanly through the hair-like appendage that had ensnared Yuzu.

''Hado #4: Byakurai!'' Ruby declared, pointing an index finger forth and letting loose a small but powerful beam of lightning, cutting through the trees and narrowly missing their target, but succeeding in scaring it away... but it wasn't fleeing.

''What the hell was that?!'' Ichigo asked, looking torn between chasing whatever dared to scare his sister or comforting said sister.

Isshin answered before she could. ''Grand Fisher.''

The tightening of his fists and sudden murderous expression was the exact reason she was about to call it a 'regular old Hollow'. Before she could stop him he rushed past her, running through the forest with pure speed. It wasn't hard to understand his rage; the creature that killed his mother was now within his reach, and he possessed the power needed to kill it. If she was in the same situation she wouldn't have turned that opportunity down, overcome by emotions or not. She sent a worried glance at Isshin, who gave her a solemn look. Without a word she chased after her friend Zanpakuto in hand, using a burst of Shunpo over the trees as she homed in on her friends flaring Reiatsu.

It didn't take more than a few seconds to find them, standing opposite one another in a clearing, the Hollow revealed fully in the gloomy daylight. The beast resembled something akin to a hamster, with bird-like feet and an ominous tentacle lure hanging over its head. Its mask was disturbing to look at, with piercing red eyes that glowed with malice and a grin that reminded her more of a psychopath than a Hollow.

As she prepared to lunge at the Hollow from above, however, she was startled by her companions words.

''Don't intervene!'' Ichigo shouted, briefly looking up at her before glaring back at the Hollow. ''This bastard is mine.''

She wanted to deny his request. This was Grand Fisher, a Hollow who had evaded the Twelve Divisions for over fifty years and was powerful enough to be considered Menos-class despite not having evolved. He was above the tier of Shrieker by a significant margin, and given their history would likely manipulate Ichigo mid-fight. But then again, she had trained Ichigo in the ways of the Shinigami recently... he wasn't a novice anymore.

''Trust me.'' A soft whisper startled her, but Ichigo wasn't looking at her anymore, instead slowly drawing his sword in a way that would seem dramatic had it not been for the sheer murderous intent he radiated.

Ruby bit her lip, nodding her head worriedly before disappearing in a burst of Shunpo, going through the effort to suppress her Reiatsu and come back around, hiding beneath a Bakudo. She would intervene if necessary, that she repeated in her head, soothing her worries as best she could.

She would trust him.

''Hm, quite arrogant of you, boy.'' The Hollow remarked, its mask mockingly tilting at him. ''Sending away the Shinigami, keh, for what, pride?''

''Maybe.'' Ichigo shrugged almost casually. ''It won't matter, you'll still be dead in the end... I'll be the one to avenge mom.''

''Ho? Avenge your mother? Did a Hollow kill her?'' Grand Fisher chuckled lowly, ''Or, perhaps, was I the one who killed her, hm?''

''Yeah, you were.'' Ichigo murmured, his form disappearing in a burst of Shunpo, appearing above the surprised-looking Hollow. It didn't react fast enough before Ichigo's sword came sweeping down, digging a small but notable trench down the top of its mask.

''Masaki Kurosaki, that was her name.'' He whispered, one hand coming to rest upon the flat bone of the mask. ''Hado #33: Sokatsui.''

In an instant luminescent blue flames burst forth from his palm, scorching the mask and erupting in a marvellous explosion of pure power, incidentally burning the casters arm slightly. From the smoke several tentacles of fur shot out, narrowly missing the teen as he hopped back, slashing through any he couldn't avoid, his narrowed eyes ablaze with emotion.

''Che... you are quite troublesome, boy.'' The Hollow's echoing voice said from the smoke. ''I wouldn't have guessed that the Shinigami would've taught you anything. What is your name, boy?''

''Ichigo Kurosaki.'' The teen smiled thinly.

''Ah, now I remember.'' Grand Fisher's tone abruptly shifted, becoming sinister. ''Kurosaki, Kurosaki, Kurosaki... she had given me quite the trouble in the past and had stopped me from slaughtering a few Humans beforehand. To think that the small child below her that day was you... hmhmhm!''

The Hollow openly laughed, a horrible sound that echoed like a broken toy in a tunnel. Even as Ichigo's killing intent grew he paid no attention, all but ignorant of how very nearly physical the feelings of Ichigo became, his Reiatsu saturating the very air. Not a moment later a blazing ball of Shakkaho was let loose, flying across the distance and hitting nothing but grass. The sky overhead rumbled with thunder, muffling the sound of the Ichigo's Shunpo as he came in from above, only for a swarm of fur-tentacles to attempt to pierce him, forcing him back.

''How arrogant!'' Grand Fisher laughed mockingly, dodging another poorly aimed Shakkaho. ''Do you believe yourself capable of facing me, let alone defeating me, Human?''

''Shut up!'' Ichigo roared, charging forth unheeding of the tentacles grazing his form. Just before he reached the Hollow however four claw-tipped fingers shot out, piercing him straight through the chest and killing his momentum completely.

''Anger gives way to carelessness, and with it I exploit it to create your downfall.'' Grand Fisher stated, as if reciting a quote. ''You truly believed you could defeat me, didn't you? Foolishness. I am above what you are, that is not arrogance, but fact. I have slain fully trained Shinigami, what hope do you have to defeat me, one who is not a full Shinigami themselves?''

Ichigo growled, coughing out blood as the claw abruptly retracted, causing him to stumble. Another boom of thunder rumbled overhead, rain slowly beginning to pelt the area, as if the heavens themselves were crying.

''Interesting... even with a hole in your body, you remained standing. You are tough, I will give you that.'' Grand Fisher commented, its sinister grin twisted as its lured moved. ''But while the body can be improved, the mind will remain as fragile as glass.''

Ruby's breath hitched as the lure moved, flesh twisting eerily as it took on a familiar form, and if the way Ichigo froze was any indication... he was well aware of who that form looked like. Masaki Kurosaki. She understood why Ichigo revered his mother so greatly; just by looking at her she felt safe, as if the woman alone would hold back all the troubles of the world with perfect ease.

''Ichigo.'' The false woman said, a too-perfect smile on her face, her eyes unseeing yet warm. To her, it was clearly fake. Ichigo however...

He slowly began walking forth, his sword held in a white-knuckled grip. ''You bastard...''

''How dare you...'' He growled, his pace picking up into a jog. ''... bring out my mothers face like that!''

The figure of Masaki abruptly shifted in front of him and caused his pace to come to a dead-stop, almost flinching away from the sight. ''Don't, Ichigo! Don't kill me again!''

So taken aback by the words of the false woman, he didn't see the monster move until it was too late. Grand Fisher's arm extended like a spear, shooting through the fake woman and into Ichigo's chest, creating another hole in his body. The area fell silent, the pounding ran the only sound littering the clearing as Ichigo stood stock-still, the arm pierced through his chest leaking with blood.

'Ichigo...!' Ruby's grip on her sword tightened, and she would've took off in a burst of Shunpo had her Zanpakuto not intervened.

''Stay where you are, Ruby.'' Bara-chan ordered. ''I sense something stirring within him. Leave him be.''

'Leave him be?! How can I-'

Her frantic question was cut off, ''Because unless you have forgotten, the soul grows strongest when in danger of termination. And I do believe this qualifies as such.''

''You...'' Her attention was drawn back to Ichigo, who growled lowly. ''... are the most disgusting... evil... vile creature, I have ever met!''

''You words may be sharp, but your blade is-''

He was cut off by Ichigo's wordless roar as he took a strong step forward, sinking deeper onto the claw and putting himself in range. Before the surprised Grand Fisher could react the teen swung, blade digging deep into the front of its mask and digging a deep, critical trench horizontally along the mask and causing the Hollow to gasp in pain. A swift swipe severed the arm that kept him pinned, his free arm shoving the false Masaki aside.

Both hands gripped the hilt of his sword as he swung in low, roaring ferociously as his blade swept in an upwards arc, a bright blue arc of raw, unbridled power unleashing itself from his sword. Its brightness was almost blinding as it impacted Grand Fisher, meeting resistance for all but one second before tearing straight through the Hollow, flying past high into the weeping sky and erupting into a thunderous explosion that sent shockwaves through the skies, briefly dispelling the raining clouds overhead.

Staring at Grand Fisher shocked face, Ichigo only muttered; ''Rot in hell, bastard.''

He would've fell had Ruby not caught him, grunting as she lowered his heavy form to the ground, resting his head on her lap.

''You did it, Ichigo... you did it.'' She whispered, a small smile gracing her face. The soft glow of healing Kido eased his pain, though it would take some time before those wounds closed up. She didn't know and, honestly, didn't particularly care what the hell that technique was. She could ask later.

''...yeah, I did.'' He smiled softly, eyes drifting to the corpse of Grand Fisher. Neither were particularly surprised when the Gates of Hell spawned behind it, chains bursting out and ensnaring the corpse of Grand Fisher, dragging it into the depths of hell. The souls devoured by Grand Fisher would be released into the Cycle of Reincarnation, free from the horrors they endured. Alongside them would be Masaki's soul, finally free.

A light giggle escaped her. ''That's twice in one week you've fought a dangerous Hollow and won... you're already doing better than most Shinigami.''

''That's 'cause I got an awesome teacher, Rose-sensei.'' He chuckled as her face glowed crimson, ''Hey... I've been meaning to ask...''

''Hm?''

''I keep hearing voices, in my head I mean.'' He said, eyes drifting to her surprised ones. ''Is that supposed to be my Zanpakuto, or am I actually going insane?''

''Yeah, most likely.'' She confirmed with surprise thick in her voice. Most Shinigami took years if not decades to even hear their Zanpakuto, let alone learn their Zanpakuto's name. She had an easier time since she was born from two Shinigami, thus naturally more powerful than a regular person, but even then it took several years into her training before she learnt her Zanpakuto's name.

''You really are full of surprises, aren't you?''

He chuckled, wincing as a spike of pain hit him, a glance at his torso telling him the (rather obvious) holes in his chest were still bleeding. ''Shit... Yuzu's gonna kill me for this.''

''I'd be more worried about what I'm gonna do when you're healed.'' Ruby said with a teasing smirk, flicking him on the forehead.

''Harsher training?''

''Yep!'' She affirmed, laughing lightly at his groan.

Off to the side, obscured from their sight, Isshin smiled softly.

''Guess he can finally start healing... eh, Masaki?''


Within a separate world, a figure stood tall upon a flagpole, smiling as he stared heavenward to the skies that were slowly clearing, the pounding rain lightening to a faint drizzle. It had been a while since he had seen the skies clear so fast.

''Perhaps... you may finally banish the rain, Ichigo.''

A soft hum came from behind him, his dark eyes drifting to the form of Bara-chan, standing upon the edge of the building and staring skyward as well.

''Indeed. If my own wielder will overcome the storm in her heart, however, is another story.'' She smiled bitterly.

''My wielder will stand by yours, of that I have no doubt.'' The man informed, his deep baritone cutting through the sound of the rain smoothly.

''Perhaps so.'' Bara-chan conceded. ''But, will it be enough?''

''I cannot say.'' He mused, hopping off the flagpole and walking towards the edge. The drop was easily twenty stories, not that it particularly mattered, and reached its end at a series of streets. It was a vague copy of Karakura, after all.

''Would a walk ease your mind?''

''Perhaps so.''


Translations:

Kaa-san = Mother (slightly less formal)


A/N: Slightly shorter than last chapter (currently at 7k words opposed to 7300 words) but I think this is a good spot to end on.

A little sneak-peak at Bara-chan and the not-so-mysterious man, Zangetsu. (Not a spoiler since Zangetsu will still remain Ichigo's Zanpakuto, though what form of his Zanpakuto will be left for a mild surprise.)

I hope I portrayed the scene with Grand Fisher aptly. It was shorter than what was displayed in canon, though that is more because Ichigo is quite a bit stronger than said canon. It wasn't quite as emotional as I would've liked, but I cannot make it fit without blatantly copying canon, something I am not overly keen on doing.

A small tease of Blake and potential for Bumblebee pairing... fufufu. I wonder when Yami-chan will return?

How'd you like Ruby's Hollow? She won't play much of a part for the first arc, but later on... oh boy. I left a little hint about her origin, albeit a roundabout hint, so point to you if you can guess right.

A brief little tale of Summer Rose, The Ivory Reaper and the badass mom, and another little hint on Ruby's lost sibling. Whatever happened to her, I do wonder... fufufu. Does that laugh convey my mischievous plotting aptly? I hope it does.

Till next time~