"Oi Hat-and-Clogs!" Ichigo shouted as he barged through the guild doors. "Get down here, urgent news!"
The door to Kisuke's little study burst open with Kisuke rushing down to meet Ichigo. The rest of the guild had heard his outburst, and the ones of significance made themselves known. Harribel and Nel walked down the steps, Ishida and Chard walked up from a nearby table. The former pinched the bridge of his nose. Orihime was by his side practically the moment he entered. And Gin slowly stood up from his chair, eagerly making his way over to hear the news. Yoruichi flashed down beside Ichigo, grabbing his collar.
"Urgent news Ichigo?! What happened in the trial?!" Yoruichi asked/yelled.
Ichigo shook off her hand and sighed. "I had to tell them about Soul Society. They asked me to tell you that they would be sending diplomats through the portal to meet the head captain and negotiate with him…"
All colour drained from Kisuke's face as his jaw dropped. Gin's chuckling brought a stark contrast to the grim situation. Yoruichi expected as much. She put a palm to her face.
Kisuke's visage turned serious, "Do they know anything about the Head Captain? He might just kill them if they don't tread lightly… And how did they even believe you anyway?"
"They have this stone called a memory lacrima. Apparently if you put some power in it you can display memories." Ichigo answered.
"And what exactly were the memories you showed them Ichigo?"
"Nothing serious, just the view of the Soul Society and a small spar between Renji and me." Ichigo shrugged.
Kisuke took a breath of relief, "The head captain won't be happy you know? Did they say what they wanted to negotiate about?"
"Nope, they just said they'd be sending diplomats." Ichigo scratched his neck.
"They most likely want to make sure we don't invade them. Either that or set up trade agreement. Both options are ones that the Head Captain most likely won't agree with. After all, we are the stronger military power. His reasoning would probably go along the lines of 'Why bother setting up trade when I can just invade and take everything for myself?' or 'You can't defend against us, what's the point of this meeting?' Let's just hope that Soul Society will stick to its traditional method of non-intervention. I'll probably go with the diplomats to ease out the negotiations with the Head Captain. Ichigo, could you come with me to the office for a moment." Kisuke said before turning from the group and making his way up into his office.
Urahara in his serious mode meant business, meaning that even if they didn't want to go along with him they didn't really have a choice. They reluctantly made their way into the office, Ichigo entered.
"Now spit it out Kisuke, the hell do you want to tell me?" Ichigo asked roughly.
"You're not going to like hearing this Kurosaki-san, but I'm afraid it's one way to appease the Head Captain. See, my plan to get the diplomats and the Head captain to agree on one thing, which is that peace is necessary for the most progress for both parties. Because in peace, the research team here can do their job at full efficiency. In order to have this peace, there has to be a form of compromise. For letting us into their world and researching it, the Council is going to want something out of us. Now then, do you know of what's called dark guilds in this world?" Kisuke asked.
Ichigo nodded, "Their basically guilds that break the law and commit crimes aren't they?"
Kisuke nodded back, "In a basic form, yes. There's plenty of dark guilds and plenty of different types. A form of enemy towards the council if you will. What I plan to propose is having people from the Soul Society help the council get rid of their enemies, and we get to stay here and research without restrictions in peace. You all realise what that means don't you? Soul Society is going to have to get rid of some. Don't worry, you don't have to take part in it if you don't want to. Most likely it's gonna be some Omnitsukido squads taking them out. For some of the tougher ones, we'll send some of the more powerful people as a back-up. Be it a captain or hollow. Might even be one of us from this guild, depending on what the mission needs."
Ichigo narrowed his eyes. "Why are you telling me this Kisuke? This is all usually cloak and dagger stuff that you keep quiet about."
Kisuke took off his signature bucket hat and laid it on the table, he looked up at Ichigo with earnest eyes. "Because, you're my lieutenant now Ichigo. Adding on to the fact that you are one of the most powerful one-on-one fighters and the defacto leader of the rest here, you are definitely respected enough to hear of my plans. But the main reason why, is because you might be called up to go remove a dark guild or two. And with the sheer power you bring, you could easily spare your friends from Karakura of that fate. You'd just have to fill in for them on missions they are called up for, in addition to your own. That means if the plan goes through, you're going to be obliterating a whole lot of dark guilds. While they are evil people, they are people nonetheless. Can you stomach it Ichigo? Can you tolerate that so the Soul Society will have a means of staying here? So they don't have to go on a rampage again?"
A dark shadow was cast of Ichigo's eyes. 'He's basically asking me if I'm willing to kill…'
"What's there to debate about Partner?" Zangetsu spoke up from his inner world. "Kill some of them, to save practically the rest of the world. Besides, you're not going to be doing it alone you know? Those already acclimated to killing will have no problem. Basically everyone except your Karakura group are willing to spill blood."
"I must agree with Zangetsu, Ichigo. It is certainly not an easy task for you to do, but it prevents the greater loss of life. That is your core principle is it not? To protect? Besides, it's not like you have never killed before." The Quincy in him mentioned.
'So you two are completely fine with just going around and killing whole guilds?!' Ichigo mentally yelled.
"In essence, yes. Think about it Ichigo. If you get called to do it, you're going to have to do it. And what of your friends? Do you think Yasutora Sado will be able to? Ishida Uryu? Orihime Inoue? By doing this you are protecting them."His Quincy partner sternly told him.
"And it's not just them partner, you'll be protecting this little world and its people from the Soul Society. Don't forget, they're just as shady and ruthless as any villain. You just happened to join its side. You never really fought for them, your interests just collided. I'm sure the Head Captain knows that too. If you don't like the way it's done you can always kill the Head Captain and take over. But we all know how well you respond to paperwork. So toughen up your gut and mind, it's not innocent people you're killing either you know. They're murderers, rapists, thieves, slavers, torturers, assassins. And you're gonna have to keep workin' for the Soul Society. Know why? They know your entire family, your friends, those near and dear to you. And don't forget, those dark guild people have done some disgusting things you know? Ginjo, Aizen, and Yhwach at least had some form twisted morality in the sense that they didn't stoop that low." The sword scolded.
'… Fine.' Ichigo muttered quietly, knowing in his own heart that it had to be done. The words from his closest allies had hammered in the final nail in the coffin. He'd have to do this. He'd have to shed more blood it seems. It's not like he couldn't stand gore or death. After all, he had killed Ginjo, Ulquiorra and Yhwach. He just preferred not to kill. But it looks like he'd have to let go of those reservations.
Kisuke cleared his throat, bringing Ichigo's attention back to him. "So, Ichigo, what will it be?"
Ichigo's glare pierced through Kisuke's grey eyes. "I'll do it. But you leave Orihime, Chad, Uryu and anyone else not from Soul Society or Hueco Mundo out of it you understand?"
The steel in his voice left no other option for Kisuke but to accept. "Understood Ichigo. I truly am sorry that I must do this. You have my thanks." He placed his hat on his chest and bowed, showing respect to Ichigo.
He straightened back up and placed his cap on his head, nestling it comfortably in his signature fashion. He gained his own goofy attitude back, whipping out his fan and placing it in front is his face. "On the bright side Kurosaki-san! You'll be seen as even more of a hero to the Soul Society now! Two-time war hero and defender of dimensions! Imagine the women that will be lined up to meet you!"
Kisuke promptly received a foot in his face. Sending him crashing into the table and the papers flying.
Ichigo walked out of the office, "Would you and my dad shut the hell up about women and me?!" He slammed the door of the office. Although he had a scowl on his face, he was still appreciative that Kisuke tried to lighten up his mood.
Kisuke rubbed his sore nose, his back on the floor and legs propped up on the table. He closed his eyes and sighed. 'Sorry Isshin… I promise I won't let anything happen to him. As a mentor to him… And a… friend.'
"So, you didn't tell him the whole truth huh?" Yoruichi's disapproving and cold voice cut through the thrashed room. She had flickered into the room, unknown to anyone. A lightning quick flash. She stood with her arms crossed and back against the wall. "You do realise he's still just a kid Kisuke. No matter how stupidly strong he is, or how unbending of a will he has, he is still a boy."
Kisuke set the chair back in place and sat back in proper position, gloom evident in his face. "I know that Yoruichi… I know that. I don't want to do this but…"
Yoruichi finished his sentence, sensing that Kisuke clearly did not want to. "… He's the easy option."
Kisuke almost flinched from the disgust in her voice. His oldest friend, and closest companion. "Sadly, yes. Don't get it twisted though, I like Kurosaki-san. Very much so. He is after-all my first and best student. And begrudgingly for someone of my nature, I would call him a friend. And in reality the chances of him being asked to do anything like this is very slim. Anything the Omnitsukido can't handle, a captain will do. And I doubt there's anything in this world that will be able to take on a captain's full might. I just wanted his confirmation and permission to send him if absolutely necessary."
Yoruichi's scowl remained. "He's not just your student Kisuke. He's mine as well. And soon enough, he'll probably be Shinsui's student if he decides to ask him for advice. Difference is that I'm not afraid of admitting he's much closer than a student to me. I've started to love the kid as family. His friends come close too. Don't you dare cause any permanent harm to him. If I find that he can't cope or handle with his missions well, you're taking him out of the mission roster. And that doesn't mean you get to substitute him with someone else from Karakura… It's for your sake too you know. You're just too stubborn to get in touch with emotions sometimes."
She flashed away, probably back into the main hall of the guild to entertain herself with the others and lighten her mood.
'My sake too huh…?' Kisuke wondered as he took both the unspoken and spoken warning his friend left him to heart.
-.-.-.-.-.-
"So what was the talk with Kisuke about Kurosaki?" Uryu questioned as Ichigo made himself known to the group once more. Speculations were thrown about by each member of the group, some pessimistic, some optimistic, but most were harshly realistic.
"Nothing much, just a discussion about what to tell the head captain." Ichigo waved off the group's eager stare.
"That's it?!" Uryu half yelled and half shouted. "All that suspense and drama for a discussion on what to tell the Head Captain?!"
Ichigo cleaned his ear with his pinky. "Head Captain's a scary guy, gotta sweet talk him a little."
Uryu's jaw dropped in disbelief at the ridiculousness of his nonchalant statement. "You…"
While Uryu was still trying to process the ridiculous and brief explanation, Orihime stared intensely at Ichigo's face. She knew he wasn't lying. But she also knew he wasn't telling the whole truth. She'd been with him long enough to know. Whatever it was had made Ichigo uncomfortable, and that didn't bode well for the future. But she didn't want to force Ichigo to spill the beans if he didn't want to. Nor would she. She firmly believed in him and his intent to keep all those dear to him safe. She just hoped that he wouldn't put himself through too much for their sake. After all, he always had that tendency to sacrifice himself for others.
'Don't push yourself for our sake Ichigo… We're strong too.' Orihime silently hoped that he'd be able to read her thoughts. Alas, the carrot top was no psychic.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
"Four hundred and ninety-nine! Five hundred!" Natsu shouted as he got up from his push-up position. He hopped around a little, shaking his arms. "Ah, that was a good workout! Wasn't it Happy?"
"Aye!" Happy responded as he flew down from a nearby tree trunk and landed on Natsu's shoulder. "Let's get some food Natsu! I'm hungry…"
Natsu's stomach grumbled in agreement. "Hell yeah! Let's go Happy!" He started running through the forest, faintly in the direction of Magnolia City.
"Aye Sir! But where though?" Happy questioned as he flapped his wings behind Natsu, keeping pace.
"The guild, duh. Where else are we going to find Mira's cooking?" Natsu's mouth watered.
Happy's big orbs brightened. "Woohoo! She always makes the best fish!"
Natsu however, midway of his frantic pursue of food, stopped dead in his tracks with his nose in the air. He sniffed a little bit and his eyes lit up. "Happy! I smell Erza!"
"Eh?! Erza?! In the forest?" Happy asked, shocked that Erza would be here.
"Yeah! She's in the forest, I can hear her swinging her sword too! C'mon, let's go train with her! Maybe we'll get to spar too!" Natsu started to run after the scent of strawberries and steel. He was held back by the collar of his vest by Happy in a remarkable show of strength by the blue avian cat.
"Wait Natsu! Are you crazy?! That's Erza! She'll beat you to a pulp the moment you show your face!" Happy's wings worked in overdrive trying to flap backwards with enough force to keep the rowdy dragon slayer in place.
Natsu froze in place, leg halfway up the air and his arms in a marching position. He spun on his heel and started marching towards the guild once more. "Food it is Happy!"
"I can't wait for Mira's food!" Happy flew after the dragon slayer in hot pursuit.
"After that, we can go train again!" Natsu happily shouted. Nose high up in the air to smell his way out of the forestry and into the guild kitchen.
Happy landed on Natsu's shoulder and slumped lazily, "Again? Why are you training so hard nowadays Natsu?"
"Because Happy, I have more people I have to beat now. Ichigo is strong. Super strong. Stronger than Erza! And I want to beat him! To do that I need to train. His friend already hits like a dragon, I can't imagine what he's like." Natsu beamed, excited by the prospect of having an even more challenging hurdle to get past.
"So shouldn't you be training with Erza to get stronger though?" Happy asked.
Natsu stopped in his tracks. "I can't do that Happy. She's too scary. Besides I'm sure I can get stronger on my own."
"You're gonna have to do it someday Natsu."
"Let's just get some food Happy, my stomach's killing me. Talk about all this depressing stuff later." Natsu continued his leisurely walk.
Happy stared at his friend's unconvincingly happy face. His eyelids dropped in concern for his friend. He couldn't understand why Natsu couldn't train with Erza. He'd fight her with all his might and hang out with her no problem but when it came to training he just never approached her. It was weird and worrying at the same time.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Grimmjow kicked open the guild doors, slamming them against the walls and scaring more than a few people. "Oi! Bucket hat! They're comin' and they're bringing their whole guild! Hope you got my reward ready." He called up towards the office.
Ichigo walked into the main hall from the lounge area, followed by his group. "What's the big idea Grimmjow? Whose coming? And what's this about a reward?"
Grimmjow's fangs bared in a grin as he saw Ichigo. "Oh? He didn't tell you huh?"
"Didn't tell me what?" Ichigo asked suspiciously.
"He means that I forgot to tell you that you have a training spar with Grimmjow as a reward for him doing his mission well! You'll be duking it out in the sands of Hueco Mundo. No limits, except for the fact that you can't kill each other of course." Kisuke's fan covered his mouth.
"Why the hell wasn't I informed of this?!" Ichigo shouted.
"Because it's a surprise gift of course!" Kisuke cheerily replied, fan in full spread in front of his smirking mouth. "Oh and the portal has already been opened to a forest in Soul Society, you're going to have to open a Garganta from there."
"Kisu-." Ichigo didn't finish his sentence. He was dragged off by Grimmjow towards the portal, who already released his full strength.
Kisuke saw Yoruichi in cat form speed past him and towards the two, not to interfere but rather, make sure the two don't kill each other.
"I'd pity the kid if he wasn't so damn strong." Quipped Gin after a low whistle.
"We're about to have our own problems to deal with Gin." Kisuke informed.
Gin smiled. "I know."
The ground of Magnolia began to tremor.
-.-.-.-.-.-
Mirajane was not a professional cook. But she was a damn good one. And in every cook, professional or not, lay a certain sense of pride and accomplishment in the finishing touches. The garnishing and the plating. The light sprinkle of herbs or the slight wipe of the side of a plate to pin the tail on the proverbial donkey and complete the meal.
She hummed a gentle tune as she grabbed some finely chopped parsley and prepared to sprinkle it onto the dish when the table suddenly shook, spilling over the tall glass of water that beside the plate. The ruined dish ignited her ire and she was ready to storm out and bash the cause of the shake with a wooden spoon. Most likely it would be Natsu. After all, bombastic entrances was Natsu's forte. Or, more accurately, failing them was.
She paused in her warpath when she felt the shake another time. And another. She knew it wasn't Natsu at this point. But her curious mind wanted so desperately to find out what it was. What was causing the tremors? What caused her hearty meal to be wasted?
When she looked out to see her garden of herbs being covered by a shadow, she put down her spoon of doom and walked out to check out what it was. Her thoughts had switched from curiosity to horror as she saw a literal giant walking guild on the other side of town, bearing the Phantom Lord insignia. One of the things they were famous for was their ability to mobilise their whole guild and turn it into a giant robot of sorts, capable of firing a Jupiter Cannon at anything in front of it. Its contribution to making them sky rocket in popularity and strength to becoming Fairy Tail's rival was immense, and well earned.
She ran out of the kitchen and straight up to her master's office. "Master! You have to see this!"
"Hmm? Mira dear, what's got you so worried?" Makarov looked up from the pile of paperwork to regard Mira with spectacled eyes.
"It's Phantom Lord! They've mobilised they're guild and they're coming into Magnolia from the other side of town!" Mira hurriedly told him.
"What?! Why did they bring their guild here?! Wait… Other side of town? That is where that Soul Society guild is!" Makarov came to a stunning conclusion. Jose was going to try and attack Kisuke Urahara's guild. And knowing them, they will fight back. A battle like that would not be safe for the civilians.
"I have to get there immediately! I'm going to try and talk some sense into that damn Jose! Mira you stay here and handle operations until I'm back!" He bolted out the room.
He reached the centre of the guild and started his orders, "Everyone! Phantom Lord has mobilised their guild and is currently coming into Magnolia with what seems to be intent to fight with Soul Society! I will be going there to try and prevent this fight! You will all remain here and defend the guild if you have to! Mira will be put in charge for the time being! Jet, tell Erza to bring her team and catch up to me!" With those commands the guild sprang to action. Makarov ran out the front door of the guild, going as fast as he can to the opposite end of town. Jet took off, heading into the forest where he knew she'd be training. Just at that moment Natsu happened to walk into the guild.
"Hey! What's all the panic about?!" Natsu questioned the guild.
Macao pulled him to the side, "Phantom Lord is attacking your friends over at the other end of town. No idea why, but we're defending the guild. Master is on his way there now, Jet went to get Erza. He asked that Erza and her team join up with him at the guild."
Initially shocked, Natsu slowly found himself fuelled with a burning desire to knock the lights out of Phantom Lord's guild master. He grit his teeth and prepared to sprint after Makarov. "Got it, When Erza gets back tell her I'll be at the guild already." And then he went after Makarov, hot on his trails.
"Just what the hell is going on?" A tired and very sleepy looking Ur made her presence known in the doorway of the infirmary. "I heard Master shout a few things and that woke me up. I didn't quite get what he said though."
A nearby guild member explained the situation to her. Her eyes became saucers. "I'm going after them."
"No. You. Are. Not." Mira grabbed her shoulders and pulled her back into the bed with remarkable force. "You're still weak and recovering. You need to stay here. Don't worry about them, they'll be fine. Jose can't beat Master Makarov. And Master Urahara isn't anything to scoff at either if the rumours are true. They will be fine. Now rest." Mira's affectionate scolding tone of a mother made Ur settle in place in her bed.
"Fine…" Ur pouted slightly.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
The final notch in the tree's trunk was created by Erza's sword as she finished up her training for the day. Sweat covered her silky white skin, glossing it with a reflective sheen. Her palms were reddened and calloused and her hair was a mess.
She made her sword disappear and began to drink some water from a canteen. Imagine her surprise when a breathless Jet appeared in front of her suddenly.
"Erza! Bad news! Master asked for you and your team to go to the other side of town, Phantom Lord is going to attack Ichigo's guild! He went to try and stop it!" Jet hurriedly blabbed.
Erza fully understood the rushed rambling and started sprinting after a brief nod to Jet. He collapsed onto a nearby log, trying his best to catch his breath.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
"My, oh, my… That is certainly a big guild." Kisuke light-heartedly joked as the combatants of their guild looked up.
"Not the time for this Urahara." Uryu grimly watched on. "We're gonna have to fight them aren't we?"
"I don't think they're here fer a slumber party. Ya might wanna start shooting your toothpicks." Gin replied, annoying the archer to no end.
"Stop your bickering and be prepared." Harribel scolded.
"Ooh, a feisty one huh? Ichi-chan really has been getting himself a buffet of women." Gin taunted.
Red spread across Harribel's covered cheeks. Slight sentiments of unhappiness was seen in the other two women's eyes though.
"Soul Society! You were supposed to be the ones that helped destroy Fairy Tail! To take over Magnolia side-by-side with us! But alas, you gave up that golden opportunity. You are nothing but trash! After we obliterate your sorry guild we'll move onto Fairy Tail!" Jose's voiced boomed from the giant mecha-guild.
"Yeah? You and what army?" Gin taunted.
"This army. Shades!" Jose's voice boomed once more.
And Gin got what he asked for. A veritable army of shadows started pouring out from the guild. All intent on rushing at them.
Kisuke started taking things seriously. "Two of you stay here, the rest of you infiltrate the guild and take down Jose. Try not to kill him, but if you have to go ahead. Leave the other guild members alive though, wouldn't want to get in trouble with the law." The irony of that statement was not lost on the others.
"I'll stay here, I'm good at clearing numbers." Uryu volunteered.
"I'll stay too, I can protect Uryu." Chad offered, transforming his arm into its signature shield form. He stood in front of Uryu.
The rest of the group nodded before they were about to use their respective movement abilities to get to Jose, but a shout from Makarov stopped both sides from aggressing.
"Stop this! Jose, what are you doing?! Starting guild wars are illegal! Not to mention that you should know better than this being a wizard saint yourself!" the old man reprimanded his junior.
"Makarov? Why are you here? No matter, someone up there must love me because this is the opportunity to get rid of both annoyances at once! Jupiter Cannon! Get ready!" Jose cackled sadistically. "Goodbye Makarov. You and your shitty guild could never keep us down!"
The cannon's barrel began to shift itself to face Makarov. The whir of the machine could be heard, charging up to deliver a shot of pure power.
"You do not want me as an enemy Jose that I shall warn you of." Makarov harshly reminded him, his hands starting to glow a pure white light.
"You think you scare me?! That ancient spell can't solve all your damn problems anymore!" Jose yelled.
"Fairy Law can most definitely match and overpower your Jupiter Cannon Jose. I shall give you three seconds to stop this pointless guild war." Makarov warned Jose, his hands now brightly glowing.
"Hah! You don't have the guts you has-been! Not when you can potentially risk getting your guild disbanded for it!" Jose challenged him.
"Things can be worked out in the council Jose, we have eye witnesses. Have you forgotten? Three…"
"I'll just have to get rid of both your guilds then." The Jupiter Cannon was at about fifty percent ready to fire now.
"Two…" Makarov counted down.
"Do it then! C'mon do it Makarov!"
"One…"
"Jupiter Cannon Fire!"
"Fairy La-."
"Master!" Natsu yelled as he leapt in front of him with his hands ablaze.
"Wha- Natsu?!" Makarov's eyes widened as he realised the brief distraction caused him to lose Fairy Law. "Natsu run!" Makarov saw the Jupiter Cannon fire.
He enlarged his hand to cover both him and Natsu as fast as he could and he closed his eyes, both of them bracing for impact.
"Adamantine Armor!" Erza's voice cried out.
Makarov saw her stand in front of them both, teeth clenched and shields together.
The Jupiter Cannon hit. But it didn't make the sound everyone thought it would. There was no armor shattering. No shields breaking. No Erza shouting.
Makarov, Natsu, and Erza both slowly opened their eyes to see a giant of a man standing in front of all of them. His arm the shape of a shield. They recognized him as one of Ichigo's friends.
"Chad! You alright?!" Uryu shouted.
"I'm fine. What about you guys?" Chad lowered his smoking arm shield and turned back to address the three stunned onlookers.
"We're fine. You have our thanks." Makarov replied, still wide-eyed.
"What?! Impossible! You should be dead after blocking something like that!" Jose screamed. "Shades! Attack! Prepare the Jupiter Cannon for a second firing!"
The shades unleashed themselves on the group.
"Stick to the plan everyone." Kisuke called out, taking out his Zanpaktou to assist Chad and Uryu on the ground.
Nel, Harribel, and Gin nodded before jumping up to the giant. "Try not to die toothpick-kun!" Gin mocked as he jumped.
"They're arrows!" Uryu shouted after him.
Makarov grew in size, rivalling the guild. "A good old fist fight it is. Natsu, Erza, I can't use my magic at the moment since theirs too many combatants on the field. You two go in and take down Jose."
"Aye sir!" Natsu shouted before he started crawling up the guild.
"Understood." Erza transformed into her Flight Armor and sped after the Soul Society bunch.
"Now then, come at me you useless scrap." Makarov locked hands with the guild, pushing against each other in a show of strength.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Nel and Harribel stepped into the empty corridor of the weaponized guild. They got the pervasive feeling that they were being watched.
Harribel looked around her surroundings, finding nothing out of the ordinary before deciding to start moving down the hall. "It seems Ichimaru is not with us. He went in another direction." Harribel commented.
"Yeah, now that you mention it, I just noticed. Where'd he go? Hopefully he spares these people…" Nel really wanted to have hope that Gin wouldn't massacre the people in this guild. But then again, it was Gin. The only way he wouldn't cause a bloodbath would be if he took the orders from Urahara seriously. It was a dim chance though.
Harribel had other thoughts. "Don't be so soft-hearted Nel. These people openly attacked us, we have every right to defend ourselves to whatever means we believe is necessary. I believe he will try to spare them but if they insist on being a nuisance then they will have to be eliminated. That's what we'll be doing too." The silent turn of her head from addressing Nel, to looking forward signalled the end of the discussion. Both women were unwilling to get into an argument with each other over the topic.
The gentle lamb Nel would try her best to show mercy. And the merciless shark Harribel would get rid of them if the need arises. The difference between the two Tres Espada was just that.
"Non, non, such violent Mademoiselles. Your willingness to resort to brutality scares me so." Sol slowly rose from the ground behind them.
Nel and Harribel turned immediately, swords in hand.
"Drip, drop, Juvia will destroy her opponents. Juvia shall defend her guild as much as she can." The rain woman formed behind them, opposite to Sol from a splash of water from the roof.
"You wanna take the water girl Harribel?" Nel asked.
"My pleasure." Harribel pointed the tip of her blade at Juvia's throat.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
"Wow, this is quite the intricate room isn't it?" Gin asked the spooked inhabitants. "The sign on the door said control room, should I not be here?"
"Leave now and I will spare you intruder. You do not want to feel the burn of these flames." Totomaru threatened, fireball already ready in hand.
"Oh is that so?" Gin reached down and put a hand on Shinso's hilt. "Well, guess I'll be going then, bye bye!"
The jaws of every person in the room dropped to the floor as they watched the menacing, tall creep make an exit through the door.
Totomaru grit his teeth and chased after him, out into the corridor. "Hey just wait a damn second you! Where the hell do you think you're goin'?"
"Well… Ya said get out didn't ya? So I'm bein' a nice guy here, and goin' back to my route of findin' your guild master." Gin shrugged, not understanding why he was throwing such a hissy fit.
"Bu- Wha- You… Gah! Just fight me damn it!" Totomaru sputtered, in disbelief his enemy was being so relaxed.
"Eh?! But you told me get out didn't ya? So just what is it you want you confusing monochromatic matchstick?" Gin whined childishly, tossing in an insult to his opponent's hair.
A vein in Totomaru's forehead almost burst. "Monochromatic… Matchstick?! Like as if you're one to talk you skinny, bamboo-looking, whitey!" Totomaru unsheathed his katana and swung at Gin.
Gin parried with his wakizashi of a blade. "I'll have ya know, I go to the beach every Saturday to try and get tan. I just don't tan easily. Nice sword by the way, which pile of trash did you pick it out from?"
The vein really did burst this time. "Why you… RAINBOW FIRE!"
Totomaru launched his ultimate spell at his opponent. It was the first time he had used it so early in the fight, and only after he shot it he realized that it was just a bait. A quick flash step from Gin and a Kido binding ensured that Totomaru wouldn't be able to move.
He struggled on the ground immensely, trying his best to break open his arms from the bars of light that bound him. The efforts were futile though.
Gin walked over menacingly. None of his previous joking or cheeriness in sight, even though a smile was widely plastered on his face. "Now… Are ya gonna be cooperative and tell me where's ya guild master so I don't have to keep wandering these halls like a dumbass?"
Totomaru spat at him. It landed square on his shoulder.
Gin pouted slightly, "That wasn't the answer I wanted to hear." He turned Shinso in his hand and stabbed it into Totomaru's knee with surgical precision. It was lodged in between his kneecap and the joint. "Now, how about my answer?"
Totomaru screamed from the pain, but he bit down on his lip. It drew blood, but he remained loyal. He didn't speak a word.
Gin started moving the short sword, slowly cranking it left like a lever. It severed flesh and tendon alike. Totomaru's screams filled the empty halls. "How about now? Ya still willing to play hard ball and be a badass? Or do ya want me to pull this out and give you a breather so you can answer me." Blood splattered onto the ground.
Through gritted teeth, Totomaru managed to grind out a few words. "Screw… You…"
"Ah," Gin imitated the sound of a buzzer, "Wrong answer yet again! Ya know, I can do this all day. My only instruction is not to kill ya guys. But this? I can do this for a lifetime. Once this thing comes full circle, yer' not gonna have a knee cap anymore. But then again, you have another one. It's like opening an oyster, don't cha think so?" Gin pulled out Shinso, only to stab it back in. Totomaru had tears running down his face at this point, his teeth almost about to break themselves from the sheer forces he was using to keep them clamped together. "You stab it in, then twist," Gin twisted the blade agonizingly slowly, the sound of the kneecap slowly detaching could be heard as it was being forced out. Totomaru finally screamed, and it was probably heard throughout the whole guild. "And then ya just go… pop!" Gin almost popped the kneecap off with his final manoeuvre, if it wasn't so a surprise visitor.
"This is absolutely sorrowful!" Aria shouted as he appeared behind Gin. He lacked his usual tone of overdramatic sobbing, instead it was fuelled with rage as he saw his guild mate being tortured. His usual blindfold was already off, and his eyes glowed with power. "Airspace: Zero!"
The wind swirled around them violently before turning into a violent maelstrom that fired itselft at Gin, who just stood there grinning, hand and sword covered in Totomaru's blood. The sideways tornado consumed Gin's entire body.
"I will kill you in the most sorrow way! Metsu!" The life draining spell, the terror of the Airspace magic was casted. Around Gin's still standing form suddenly appeared multiple magic circles. The glowed brightly before they suddenly exploded in a flash of white, signalling the drainage of the opponent's magic power. The more they had, the more damage this dealt. Both spells ended.
Gin was seen still standing in the same position. Nothing had changed, except for the fact that his robe as scratches and cuts in them and his skin was the same. "Ya done?" Gin asked.
"Impossible! No one can take an empowered Metsu and Zero and still be alive… What are you?!" Aria yelled.
Totomaru couldn't believe it either. That combination, if allowed to be pulled off, could kill a wizard saint! And this man here just took it all like it was nothing.
"See, ya stuff deals damage based on magic. I ain't got a single bit of magic in me." Gin laughed. "Oh well, no point in explaining anything to you anyway. Let's see how well you fare against my 'magic' Hado #31: Shakkaho"
The bright red ball of energy glowed before it was launched at Aria. It smashed against him directly in his midsection before exploding. It caused his body to go flying through the wall, where it lay on the ground.
"Well, now that that's taken care of, let's get back to- Aw shucks, he left me." Gin pouted. He forgot to keep his concentration on the Bakudo, leading to its dissipation. 'Matchstick must've left sometime during that wind stuff… Oh well, I might as well turn this thing off.'
Gin stepped back into the room, the occupants all cowered behind different furniture and equipment. They had heard and briefly seen what he did to Totomaru and they watched the fight between him and Aria. The man was a demon, and they were unwilling to lose their lives. No guild was worth it.
"So, any one of y'all wanna tell me how to turn this guild off?" Gin asked.
"T-T-The guild can't be turned off unless M-M-Master Jose stops feeding it magic from his office. Once it's been started that's the only way to s-s-stop it, or keep it running. This room is only for the J-J-Jupiter cannon!" The terrified crew explained in short bursts and anxious sputtering.
"That's the big lazer right?" Gin asked, pursing his lips together and frowning slightly, as if he was thinking hard.
"Y-y-yes sir!"
"Alright, I'm destroying it." He jammed Shinso into the pain control panel and the orb.
The Jupiter cannon was effectively shut down.
"Now then, anyone willing to tell me where this 'Jose's' office is?" Gin sked with a grin.
"Just down the hall, turn left and take the stairs up!" The instant reply came from all the crew members in unison.
Gin pouted, "Ya guys are no fun ya know that? Well, I'll be on my way then." He walked out the door whistling.
A random crew member slumped against the wall with his knees tucked to his chest. "I'm quitting this guild life first chance I get."
"Same here…" Another one replied, his knees shaking as he propped himself up by holding onto the edge of a chair.
"Did you pee your pants?" The first asked the second, noting the dark colouration in his crotch area as opposed to the light blue of their pants.
"Shut the hell up."
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Nel and Harribel had a remarkably easy fight. Considering the fact that Harribel was a master of water techniques, and Nel was a former espada. Harribel toyed with Juvia for a while, dodging her deftly slow attacks and poorly constructed water attacks. It was more of a misting than any form of damaging attack.
Nel had a similar situation. She it was like reverse whack-a-mole. Instead of whacking the mole whenever it came up, she dodged it. She of course could not actually whack the hypothetical mole, since with a katana that would result in the decapitation of said mole. The mole being Sol. And she had 'orders' to keep them alive. He was starting to get annoying though. She had a plan though, and she was confident it would work.
Sol popped out of the ground for a moment, "Roche Concerto!" He blasted Nel with stone, or at least tried to. She deflected any that were coming towards her.
He slunk back into the ground. His voice was still heard from underneath however. "Hmm… Yes, yes, yes! My monocle has whispered to me such juicy stories about you mademoiselle! I know your past! What a tragedy… Though it terrifies me so, hearing the stories of your power and the land you lived in. Are you from another continent?" He popped back up from the ground behind Nel, a silhouette with red eyes. "I am deeply sorry for this mademoiselle, but I'm afraid it must be done. Merci La Vie!"
The man sent a wave of magic into Nel, the spell start causing her to hallucinate. She saw a flurry of colours before she saw Hueco Mundo once more.
The black night sky with the looming moon over it. She felt herself surrounded by the sands. She felt liquid running down her head and face. Seems like it was blood. She was lost. She didn't understand why she was there or what was happening. She tried to move her body but every part of her hurt. She looked downwards, or was it sidewards now that she was on the ground? She saw her legs bent in an awkward angle. 'Must be broken…' she thought carelessly, still in a daze. She decided to look to her side, and it finally brought the memories back. She got out of her daze. She came to a realization what was happening.
She saw thee crumpled and mangled bodies of her servants. Her fraccion. Pesche and Dondochaka. Their masks ripped off their faces, scarring them disgustingly. Her stomach did flips as she saw them once again. 'Why is this happening?! How?!'
She tried to crawl over to them, her legs not working. She clawed her way through the sands she reached out trying to grab a hold of them. She felt her consciousness waning. She felt like screaming. But there wasn't any energy left.
She reached out, failing to touch them. She wasn't close enough yet. 'Just a little more… A little more…'
"Hahaha! Look at you now you bitch! Look at how pathetic you are! Third Espada my ass! Weak little shit!' she heard Nnoitora holler from somewhere above. "Still trying to reach those weak shits you call servants?! Hahaha! You really are a dumb bitch aren't you?!"
She ignored it. 'A little more…' She could almost touch Pesche's shirt now. Right before she was able to she succumbed to unconsciousness.
She slowly opened her eye lids once more. Blinking slightly. It was bright. 'Was that just a dream? Where am I now…?' She could see the sun.
She thought she was back to herself before she heard a scream. A scream that was forever etched into her memory. Ichigo's scream. She looked to the sound and saw the haunting scene once more. When she was in her child body. Powerless. Useless. She looked at Ichigo, flat on the ground, arm up. His hand help by Nnoitora. His boot was planted on Ichigo's back firmly. Nnoitora twisted the hand, slowly starting to break Ichigo's wrist. Causing him to scream out in pain. The audible pops were heard as the wrist finally gave way and broke.
'No… No… Please not this… Not this too… Ichigo!' She screamed. "Itsygo!" She felt tears run down her face in floods. "Stop please!" She was sobbing now. A pitiful sight. A young girl, crying and sobbing over a man who just had his wrist broken. Unable to do anything.
'Please… Stop this…'
The scene suddenly shifted. It was black for a moment before she was back to her own body. She recognized the room. She could feel herself. She was fighting that guy.
She felt some warm liquid on her cheek. She touched it and looked down at her fingers and saw blood. But it wasn't hers.
She looked to the side and saw Sol. With Harribel's sword sticking out of his chest.
He fell over to the side. He didn't move. His chest tried to rise with futile effort, and he died there. Blood leaked from his gaping mouth as he collapsed onto the ground.
She looked over to see Harribel's opponent in absolute shock. Her mouth hung open and she petrified on the spot.
Harribel had a menacing glare on her face as she looked at the limp body of Sol.
-A few minutes prior-
Harribel did what she was doing for the last ten or so minutes. She blocked and dodged the water that was sent to her. It was like child's play really. She heard a spell being cast behind her but she believed Nel would be able to handle it. Well, that's what she thought until she heard the screams.
She turned back to see Nel huddled in a ball, clutching her head hard as she screamed her lungs out. She saw Sol looming over her, ready to strike. He was preparing another spell. But he never got to finish. In a momentary lapse of judgement she sonido'd and planted her sword firmly into Sol's chest. Piercing a lung.
-Now-
Harribel pulled her sword out of the body and stalked over to Juvia. Juvia tried her best to stop the woman, throwing every spell she had at her but Harribel just batted them away. She slapped Juvia. Hard. Juvia flew into a wall and slumped over, the backhand almost knocked her out. She felt her throat being grabbed and a sword was put delicately and precisely over her jugular.
"You have exactly three seconds to tell me what just happened. Talk." Harribel ordered.
"Juvia… Only knows… Sol can… make his victims… ex… perience… their worst memories again." She managed to squeeze out those few words as Harribel held her in a vice grip.
She was finally let go, she saw Harribel walk over to Nel and gave her a hand in standing up before confirming she was alright.
Harribel started approaching Juvia again but Nel placed a hand on her shoulder, stopping her in her tracks. She almost pulled away to continue, but she saw Nel shake her head. Nel gestured to Sol's body. Harribel relented, and followed Nel deeper into the guild. Not before delivering one last scorning glare at Juvia though.
Juvia's heartbeat slowed. Grief settled in as she took in the fact that Sol was just stabbed, almost killed. She herself almost died too. The anxiety settled and the injuries sustained caused her to pass out.
Nel and Harribel took their first step, and immediately fell to the side as the entire guild shook, started going backwards, and finally shook immensely. The guild was on its back now. They picked themselves up and dusted themselves off. They started walking towards Jose's office.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
In the grim sands of Hueco Mundo, not far off from Las Noches was where Grimmjow and Ichigo landed. Ichigo was thrown into a nearby sand dune by Grimmjow, impacting it hard. Out of the plume of desert sand emerged Ichigo, limiter off and Zangetsus drawn. He rushed at Grimmjow, crossing his blades in an X-shape. "You that eager to get your ass kicked again Grimmjow?"
"Don't think you're stronger than me just cause you kicked Aizen's ass! I trained the entire time so I could kill you!" Grimmjow blocked Ichigo's furious swipes with his sword, his arm being pushed back slightly more with each strike. "I'm sick of you acting like as if you're some hot shit! You're not strong damn it!" Grimmjow pushed Ichigo's blades away.
"You're in denial Grimmjow! You'd best get your head straight or I'll bash some sense into you." Ichigo continued his frontal attack of blades. Granted, he was not very proficient in it. He'd just recently gotten them and wielding two at the same time felt clunky and disorganized. So far he'd only swing with his right like he used to and use his left almost exclusively to block strikes. There were times he'd catch himself wanting to hold the blade in his right with both hands and swing it like the old Zangetsu.
"You're gonna fuckin' die trying!" Grimmjow parried Ichigo's wild chop before kicking his knee, making him buckle. He sliced downward at Ichigo's neck.
Ichigo sped out of the position, to the back of Grimmjow. He stabbed his left sword into Grimmjow's shoulder and held on tight, channelling his reiatsu. Grimmjow growled in pain before he twisted himself free of the sword. He spun around and tried to slash at Ichigo, only to realise he wasn't there anymore.
He looked around, left and right, back and front. He saw nothing.
"Getsuga Jujisho!"
Grimmjow heard the shout from above and saw the x-shaped projectile of doom heading his way. He charged a quick Cero and shot it before trying to dodge. He knew the cero wouldn't hold its own against the attack, he just needed to slow it down a little.
Ichigo's attack hit the ground and caused a huge explosion. The sand flew, making Ichigo cover his eyes. He heard a buzz and saw Grimmjow appear at another point in the desert, his left arm burnt.
"Willing to give up yet?" Ichigo taunted.
"In your damn dreams." Grimmjow's healing kicked in and he stood upright once more. His eyes were now focused, a stark difference to the angry primal look he had at the start of the fight.
Ichigo started taking the fight more seriously. Both fighters sped at each other, blades crashing before powering through and appearing at the other side. It was like watching two bolts of lightning pass each other.
They clashed once more, Ichigo applied a new technique though. He spun mid dash, resembling a spinning saw, he sliced at Grimmjow savagely. He clanged against the blades, making Grimmjow stumble backwards, before grabbing his throat and tossing him into the air. Ichigo launched a quick Getsuga from his right before literally throwing his left at where he thought Grimmjow would dodge. The plan worked spectacularly. Grimmjow dashed to his left, right where Ichigo predicted. The sword embedded itself in his right calf. Ichigo Shunpo'd behind Grimmjow, his blade already glowing a strong blue. "Getsuga Tensho!"
The blue arc of power smashed into Grimmjow's back, sending him plummeting to the sands below. The impact raised a tower of dust. Ichigo walked on the air downwards, picking up his misplaced sword stuck in the ground. He watched the aftermath settle and saw Grimmjow kneeling. He looked worse for wear, missing an entire chunk in his right side and an arm.
"You can't win me Grimmjow. You might have in the past but not now. Never again. You think you're the only one who trained and got stronger? Quit lying to yourself. You will never reach my level." Ichigo spoke harshly, wanting his nemesis to give up on trying to fight him every time.
"Shut the fuck up! You're nothing but a freak with reiatsu. You're nothing. You're garbage and I plan to prove it to you. If only so I can wipe that look of your face. That smug pitying look. I fuckin' hate it!" Grimmjow slowly got up with each word, his grip tightening and jaw clenching. "Grind: Pantera!"
Wind picked up speed around the combatants, circling Grimmjow as his appearance started to morph. His canines grew, and so did his claws. The hard and sturdy shell Hollow skin engulfed his body, becoming almost like a second layer of skin. Weirdly enough, his eye shadow lengthened as well.
He breathed heavy, a small cloud being puffed out every time.
Blue veins made their appearance on both of Ichigo's arms as he stared down the feral man.
He beckoned Grimmjow, curling his fingers twice.
Grimmjow launched himself at Ichigo at a terrifying speed. More than twice as fast as before, it was very evident Grimmjow trained this part of himself just as much too. He clawed at Ichigo viciously and quickly, not leaving him any room to counter attack.
Ichigo kept blocking, unable to do anything else for the moment. Out of the corner of his eye he spotted a dot of blood on Grimmjow's hand. His eyes widened as he tried to disengage as fast as he could. But a claw grabbed onto his shoulder before he could and he felt Grimmjow strike his mid-section with his other hand. He felt the heat of the Gran Rey Cero forming. He tightened his body and braced for the impact.
"Gran Rey Cero!" The beam of blue energy sent Ichigo flying. His coat smoking from the heat. He landed roughly into a dune.
"How does that feel huh? Stronger than before isn't it?! Hahaha!" Grimmjow cackled. "Hey! Here's another blast from the past! Garra de la Pantera!" spikes launched out of his elbow at Ichigo.
Ichigo recognized those. They had the potential to each destroy a skyscraper sized building. And that was in the past. He popped a few joints and imbued his blades with his energy. He dashed at them cutting them in half with a few quick slices. They exploded mid-air. "If we're talking about the past, you might remember this too Grimmjow."
Two red marking appeared under Ichigo's right eye, on his cheek. Reminiscent of his old Hollow mask markings. His right eye's sclera turned black and his pupils a sick yellow.
"That annoying shit again huh? Weird seeing that without the mask." Grimmjow commented.
"Pretty handy when you're partners with a hollow." Ichigo smirked. It was a skill his Zanpaktou gave him. It functioned much like his old mask, just on a smaller scale. He could still pull out the mask if he wanted to give a tremendous boost, but this fight wouldn't require it. He was only recently taught it. Though it came with a few benefits, such as the addition of Sonido into his speed belt, Hierro, and Pesquisa. Cero and Bala were still off limits though, he'd have to get much more proficient with his skills before he could do that just in his base form.
"You almost died keeping it up last time, I hope you're more of a challenge now." Grimmjow launched another flurry of bolts from his elbow before speeding at Ichigo. He almost clawed out his throat before he hit sand. He was bewildered. No way he dodged that fast. He felt metal tapping his cheek.
"Looking for me?" Ichigo taunted.
Grimmjow spun, slashing at the same time. But he didn't notice anything there.
"Over here~" Ichigo sung.
Grimmjow spun again, were his senses playing tricks? He heard him from the left but while spinning he saw him on the right, and how he was nowhere. He felt pain explode from his gut. He looked down and saw Zangetsu jutting out of his abdomen. He quickly clutched it and launched a Cero backwards. He looked back to see nothing before turning to see Ichigo in his face.
"Quick aren't I? Wanna' give up now?"
"Fuck off!" Grimmjow sent another Cero. He saw it impact Ichigo but it went right through. 'Afterimage?'
He felt the sword get pulled out of his midsection, the pain spiked through his being.
Grimmjow growled, he crouched low and his claws were at the ready. He just had to wait for the opportune moment. He knew his sensing was off so he didn't bother. He'd just have to rely on instinct. And his gut told him he'd be right… there!
"Desgarron!" He swiped with all ten of the monstrously strong claws. And he was right. Unfortunately, Ichigo was grinning.
"Same as always Grimmjow? Getsuga Jujisho" The crossed blades launched at full power, the attack flew straight at Grimmjow. And he couldn't dodge it either. His Desgarron blades shattered against the crossed fangs. "Tch…" was all Grimmjow had to say.
An explosion rocked Hueco Mundo. Sending tremors all around. It scared off weaker hollows and it intrigued the strong.
Ichigo bent down to pick up Grimmjow's torso before he Shunpo'ed to Las Noches to open up a Garganta to the Soul Society. It was where the entrance to the Senkaimon to Earthland was transported to after all.
Yoruichi breathed a sigh of relief for Ichigo, before dashing after him. She was impressed with the kid's skills, but she was worried for his heart.
Makarov and the guild had a brawl of epic proportions. The Karakura bunch could only compare it to the mega monster movies they've watched in cinemas. Godzilla being the prime example.
It was a titanic slugfest between the two. The robotic guild threw some good hooks and crosses every now and then, Makarov hit it with a few of his own shots to its body and dome.
Makarov started hopping lightly, like many would see in professional boxing matches. He held his fists up, left one in front of his shoulder region and right one pressed against his cheek. He breathed hard, sweat dripped down his forehead.
The guild threw a jab, Makarov leaned back and avoided it. It reset its arm before throwing another quick one, this one lightly grazing Makarov's cheek.
Makarov kept his body tight, ready to explode at any moment. He waited for the opportune time.
'Wait…' The guild threw a cross into a lead hook, the cross was blocked and the hook was evaded by a duck.
'Wait…' Makarov leaned back to avoid a hook and tightened his side to absorb the impact of the body shot by the guild. Before he could grab on, the guild moved back.
'Wait…' The guild tested the distance with a few jabs before deciding to move in with a combo. It crossed with its right, Makarov dodged. It threw a hook to his head which was blocked before it threw a hook to the body which was eaten by Makarov. It went in for another hook to Makarov's head, believing him to be injured from the body shot. 'Heh, gotcha!' Makarov ducked under the hook and stepped to the side, leaving the guild in an awkward position before Makarov threw a straight right into its 'cheek' and following that up with a uppercut into its body before delivering a right hook to its head.
And a left hook.
Right body shot.
Left body shot. It was bent over now.
To finish it off, Makarov threw a perfect uppercut into it's bent over head.
Makarov held the pose for a second, the victorious titan grinned.
The guild fell backwards onto the ground, almost flattening a whole are of the forest. It stayed there, unable to get up. It sustained too much damage to the main control area. Parts of the head also flew out when Makarov punched it. Akin to a spray of blood, spit, and sweat when boxers get hit. Nuts and bolts flew everywhere.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
[A/N] *sniffles* I'm so sorry my loyal readers! I really do feel guilty about the absence. As for the reason why? School started in April. And its been really really hectic. The time I have for writing had to be cut unfortunately. But now that it's the holidays, and I've gotten more situated to my school, do expect chapters again. It will take a while for each to be uploaded though, sorry bout that.
For some review reviewing!
FORGEmaster: Thanks for the concern, nothing major like health problems. Just a boat load of school stuff. Sorry…
DoctorKnight: Arigato! I'm glad you enjoyed.
Winged Serpent Of Light BOTM: I'll try my best to… ;-;
Guest(Apr 10): Well, no… In order to get magic you need to have a magic container. Which Ichigo and many other humans in Earthland, don't.
Arraia : Thank you, but I don't think this was the "soon" you expected.
Noondark : stay tuned!
Infernalhavoc: Thank you. And yes, they were hard to keep in character. You would not believe the amount of times I wanted to make Gin into a comedy piece…
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Zathol: Danke! How do you think the girls would react? XD
Goost: As always, my longest writing reviewer! I'm glad you saw it the Kubo way when it comes to Gin. I never pictured him as the lovable type, funny? sure, but prince charming? no… Regarding your thoughts on the previous chapter I sort of saw it as you stating your thoughts and opinions rather than telling me something directly. Plus I don't really have any comment for it.. T.T
And yes, I wanted Ichigo to get over the whole tip toe attitude with the council, because it was quite frankly not that fun to write really. I would love to start building a relationship between the realms, perhaps in terms of trade or the such, rather than leave it as a secret. It seems more fun that way doesn't it?
And gosh no, I wouldn't do that to Rangiku. No, no, she is gonna keep Gin to herself and only herself.
Thank you, and sorry to have disappointed with the long waiting time for the chapter.
Cael Heres: See above for explanation for reveal. Thank you for the kind words and do enjoy the chapter c:
Till next time peeps! Thank you to all of you for staying such loyal readers nad following me through thick and thin. I'll try to make up for lost time but I might not be able to, do be patient with me. Thank you!