Yasashii Kyōsō, Enjo No Te, To Sasayaki
Friendly Competition, A Helping Hand, and a Whisper Part 2
Yay! Another chapter down xD
Classes has now started, and its been pretty easy these days,but not enough time to update regualry. . .sad face, but at least its here now!
These past few days have been a mental rollercoaster, so I apologize for the angtsy stuff thats coming around in the following chapters.
Also. . RIP Amy Winehouse. . . I know its a bit late, but she was a very soulful singer.
SHOUT OUT TO: LightLord92 Thanks for being taking interest in this story and taking the time to leave reviews. And long with DragonKnight15 I'll get to your stories and I hope you like this part :D
Hope you like this chapter!
LAST TIME ON TIES THAT BIND THROUGHOUT TIME!
Everyone in the Seika world has now have a change in game plan. They all have to stick to thier former powers, and develop on thier skills along with their other teammates. The adults on the otherhand, have been working morning and afternoon with the exception of Kakashi to try to find a way to communicate with thier original homes. At the same time, Ryou has met his adversary in the battle for Akiyama Asumi's heart. Not only does the love triangle fall to the oldest twin, but to also young Akiyama Asuka, who have caught the sight of Abarai Renji and Kotobuki Saiko.
Ichigo and Naruto go through with thier training on how to use thier new swapped powers. Yet Asumi came up with the idea on using thier new powers to gain thier old ones. The theory consisted on trying to repress thier new alteregos, while trying to find thier original power source meaning Zangetsu and the Kyuubi. And with finding thier orignal alter egos. . . they might have a chance to get thier orginal powers.
But will Haruto and the Ichbii give up thier powers?
Or will they face the grueling task of winning someone's heart?
Find out!
Prologue of the whole story: One pale blue sky, is shared throughout the times. Stars being people that shine brightly throughout the night. One sky that holds dreams and goals. One sky that unites people as whole even beyond the worlds themselves. Stars being the burning fire and passion of people's wills and determination, and with that you see the millions of stars shining along together. This is the story of people saw the images on the moon, 2 young men and 1 young woman, whose legends will be written across the skies of bonds and friends.
FOLLOWING RENJI, RUKIA, AND ASUKA
Renji and Rukia followed Asuka to a a more private area of the training field. When Rukia and Renji realized where they were being led to, they couldnt help but have a grin on thier face. Asuka knew that the both of them love the water, and here they were at the creek, along with a pinic basket a blanket and the the rest of the crew or well most of them excluding Saiko and Ryou.
Sai was away from everyone, and had his painting utensels out, and was drawing once again by himself. Uryuu was also doing the same thing in a similar fasion, however he was reading a book from the Knight's labrary called Legion Politics, and was leaning against the tree intrigued by the book. Inoue and Sakura took the time and decided to let thier feet splash on the water, and slowly get reacquainted with each other.
Noticing that almost everyone ate thier share, Asuka motioned for everyone to sit down, not before moving a snoozing Kouga on her own lap.
She handed Rukia and Rneji thier won bento and slowy Renji and Rukia began to eat quietly.
Renji was scarfing it down faster then Rukia and demanded for seconds, that was until RUkia slapped the upside of his head making him ask more politely.
"Geez Renji. . I thought you had manners." Rukia eyed him sharply not before shifting her eyes to Asuka who wasnt really paying attention.
Her eyes were looking at his and sending a message.
'If you really like her, like the way you wanted me to believe, prove to me that you are even trying to be with her, because righ tnow you like a slob! And I know for a fact that Saiko is not like that!'
Renji's eyes narrowed at Rukia, who shrugged and nibbled on her egg and rice. He hates it, really hates it if he is compared to someone. Whether its Ichigo, Ryou, or even Chad about the little things like loyalty, hygiene, humour. . .. it pisses him off if he always comes as second best. Maybe thats why he has a strained friendship with most guys. He felt his hands curl slightly around the wooden chopsticks, just enough so he can hear fine cracks.
"Sorry for being rude. . May I have seconds?" Renji mumbled.
Asuka laughed and handed him a tray making him flush, "You know I dont mind you being bossy, since I know you and Saiko are quite demanding when it comes to food."
Renji gave a weak laugh and picked at the food, feeling already full all of a sudden. "I'll try to be nicer. . ."
Asuka smiled sweetly at him, totally unaware of his behavior, "No need, just enjoy the meal, a girl loves it when a guy always comes hungry and leaves with his belly happy."
Renji chuckeled, "Yup I agree" In more ways then one. . . "Its really good though."
"Haha I bet it is since your face always lights up."
Its not the food. . . its because you made it Asuka, Renji thought with a smile. "Haha true. . ."
Rukia then backed out not before giving Asuka a quick hug and joining the other girls to cool off for a while before they all had to get back to training.
Renji didnt mind his long time friend leaving, at least he was alone with Asuka. And to him it looked like Asuka didnt mind one bit. They were talking quietly, just among the simplest things, like personalities of thier comrades, what was thier interests in life, so on so the slight dreamy smile on Renji's face faded, when he noticed two figures walking to ward the pinic, and the way Asuka's expression changes, when she saw the said figures walking toward them.
"Saiko! Ryou!"
She runs from her seated position and flung her arms around the two boys, who smiled at thier friend. Renji's face contorted into a scowl as he saw his friend Saiko smile big like how he was previously doing.
I cant compete with that. . . they knew her longer.
Asuka pulled back from her hugs and looked at them, "I thought you werent gonna eat with everyone."
They both shrugged, "Had to get things sorted I guess. Well are you ready to start training again?"
Asuka shrugged, her eyes never leaving Saiko's. Saiko gave her a weak smile, and opened up his arms. "Sorry if I was ignoring you the whole day. . . .Forgive me?"
Renji winced when he saw Asuka smile wide with a slight blush in her face, as she threw his arms around his neck. Saiko grinned and wrapped his arms around her waist. He gave her a bit of a twirl, and he gave a cold glare to Renji who was pratically seething at that point.
Get your bloody hands off her Kotobuki!
Asuka pulled away giggling, her arms still around his neck, "You are just having a bad day. No worries."
"I technically blew you off when you asked me to join you for lunch." Saiko admitted sadly. "And I know how hard you make lunch for everyone, and my ever bottomlesspit for a stomach."
Asuka shook her head her smile never leaving, "Its fine, Ren-ren gave me commpany."
Renji smirked when he saw Saiko's face twitch just a bit, and he kinda laughed at the wierd nickname. Ryou tapped Saiko's back, signalling that he was leaving them alone, and gave Saiko a thumbs up. Asuka looked at them back and forth, and raised her brow, "Okay,hold up. . .Whats going on? Between you and Ryou?"
Saiko shrugged, trying to play it cool, but really the nervousness around his said crush was making it not easy to lie."Tell you later okay."
Asuka pouted, making Saiko step forward, his left hand trailing down her face and cupping her cheek. His playful eyes never leaving his face. Renji glared seeing it all happen in front of had already broken his choptsticks with a firm snap, GET YOUR BLOODY HANDS OFF OF HER! but it looked like Asuka couldnt hear anything. Renji bit his lip praying that Asuka would just push him away.
Saiko turned his attention back to Asuka, who had a glazed look on her face. Her breath heard into small audible gasps. He leaned down and gave a kiss. Yet not where it would normally go for his long time crush. It was on the cheek but very near the corner of her mouth.
Asumi felt lips near the corner in her mouth, and nearly gave a groan of disappointment, so she opted for pouting. But she felt like she was floating on cloud 9, it was about time Saiko made a move.
Renji's eyes popped open, his heart literally breaking. . .But he could be satisfied. . . it wasnt where it shouldve been.
"Hn. Dont be like that. I'll make it up to you later." He whispered, probably intentionally loud enough for Renji to pulled back, and put out his hand," Let's go?"
ICHIGO'S INNER MIND
When Ichigo felt the hand on his shoulder, his instinct was to look back. But as he was charging, he saw no one, but he didnt let it faze him. His sword over his head, he began to jump, trying to dodge all of his Bijuu's attacks.
Ichigo felt the weight of the tail suddenly hit him from behind, making fly upward and plummet to the ground. In his daze he managed to roll out of the way from the incoming paw.
You have to do better than that Kurosaki. The Ichibii roared at him. Ichigo wiped the blood off his mouth, and he smirked, "Im just getting started you pussy!"
The light of anger grew bigger in the eyes of the Ichibii at the bad nickname, and Ichigo stepped back, his sword pointed. In his own mind, he had still have no idea or any certain way to detain his alter ego.
Rope? Chains? Anything?
His eyes darted back and forth looking for anything, like a stone a boulder, just something, that he can hide from, jump on so he can have an edge against the taller demon before him. As he was dodging, there was nothing else.
"Jumping wont solve your problems!" Ichibii taunted him, while Ichigo was again hit by the ruthless tail. Ichbii watches as Ichigo struggled to stand on his feet. Ichigo panted, already feeling his stamina run low.
Ichigo pounded his head with any jutsu he can think of. But he couldnt think fast enough, along with concetrating on dodging.
BAM!
UAH!
Ichigo tumbled yet again, but this time allowed himself to just lay there.
Ichibii chuckeled and reache dfor the fatigue body, and held Ichigo tightly by the paw. Ichibii studied him, squeezing him for fun, seeing Ichigo's torture continue.
"I thought with the 3 days of chakra training, you would actually get somewhere."
POOF!
The Ichigo in his plam had vanished. "What?" Damn it its a clone!
"RIGHT HERE! LIONS' BARRAGE!" Ichigo yelled from up above. "TAKE THIS!
The Ichibii felt blows after blows to his head, as his body caved to the floor with a thud! Ichigo jumped to the side and watched as the tumbling giant fell to its knees. He was grateful enough that Kakashi taught him som of Sasuke's old moves, especially the Lion's barrage for one. Too bad, he knows its not enough to bring the Ichibii down. He needed an A-rank jutsu or an S-rank attack. . . .Like the Rasengan, his Getsuga Tenshou. . .anything!
Man. . . . .
Ichibii fumbled to its feet, its blue eyes now enraged. The cat demon sat back on its heels, and its paws out stretched to its side, and its mouth cocked open wide aiming straight for Ichigo. A black and blue swirl of power bega to manifest its self into a small ball.
His eyes widened when he remembered using that bright ball to attack Naruto the night they were all newly transformed.
He knows that the Ichibii wll try to scatter the beam so he cant dodge, and the power is so raw he will distintergrate immediatly. Theres nothing to hide behind, and he surely cant attack it straight on.
I can try though! Im not planning to die here!
Ichigo began to run, in circles, back tracking, just trying to keep on the move, with luck he might pull through, knowing the length of the recharge.
He dragged the sword to the sand, trying to swipe sand dust, to keep the distraction up, and hopefully buying himself some time.
"Shadow clone jutsu!"
He had several clones running beside him, doing similar things. Ichigo prayed that the Ichibii will miss, but looking to the blue iris of his adversary, he knew deep down in the pit of his soul, that the Ichibii. . .wont miss.
He blinked once, then already he felt his body freeze up, locking his movements tight in place. Ichigo tried to squirm, and force his muscles to work, but with every movement there was a pricking pain deep inside.
"DONT MOVE IF YOU WANT TO DIE SCREAMING ICHIGO!" The voice screamed inside his head. At this point, he couldnt tell who was talking to him. He felt done. . . he was fighting a battle he coudlnt win.
No experience, and especially. . . no help.
Asumi. . .Naruto. . . .Zangetsu. . Hichigo. The few fleeting thoughts running through his head. Rukia. . . .
"ITS THE END FOR YOU!"
BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM
With a a desperate cry, "ZANGETSU! HICHIGO!" And he squeezed his eye shut, then he felt two stranger file in front of him, before seeing the bright blue ball fire and a great white flash.
"Tsk Ichigo. . .You really cant live with out us can you?"
NARUTO'S INNER MIND
Naruto's eyes Haruto with confusion and suspicion. Haruto looked at him with amusement, "Hn. You seem pretty interested into finding out who it is huh Naruto?"
Naruto crossed his arms, "And if I am?"
Haruto grinned, showing his sharp teeth a trait of a hollow. "Not letting ya get to it. Much less hear its voice."
Haruto stood infront of Naruto, but as Naruto tried to get passed him, Haruto swivled back into Naruto's line of direction.
"Move."
"No."
Naruto glared harder but made no movement to take a fighting stance.
"So if. . .you Haruto are in my way into hearing it. . . .so better, help me, or I beat your ass to next week yet again."
Haruto eyes lit up and threw his head back to give a throaty laugh. "Hah! Im sorry Naruto but you just might have to wait!"
Then with that Haruto raised his hands up, as thunder and lighting just happened to be rising over thier heads. The sonic waves of the thunder proved to be too much for Naruto as he covered his ears whimpering in pain.
"GAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
He opened one eye, to see Haruto smirking at him, before beginning to mouth out words. Naruto nearly being on the edge of losing consciousness couldnt read his lips, before he was slammed to the ground.
"RAGH!"
Naruto felt heavy and damaging power, already feeling his energy being sapped, by attempting to stand and face a cocky Haruto. Naruto held his stomach, and when looking up to Haruto yet again, his eyes widened, his mouth curved to a frutrasted curse.
Haruto held the long red curved datio, and licked the blade, which was dripped in blood. Naruto's blood. Haruto let the blade dug in the ground as Haruto crossed his arms yet again.
"Such a beauty aint it? So much power packed inside this thing!" Haruto cackled, showing off the hefty blade to Naruto. Naruto winced when the blade was pointed to him, he could feel the iron pressure up in his joints. The power must be enough just to make fall to his knees.
Fuck! Think Naruto THINK!
"HADO 33! SHAKAHO!"
He pointed his palm to the blade, causing a ricochet of power, making a bright flash. Naruto used this to force the blade to lower, before making his move into Haruto.
"BYAKURAI! WHITE LIGHTINING!" His finger pointed toward Haruto's chest. White lightning shoots from his fingertip, hoping that the damage would give Naruto some space.
As on plan, the white lighting pierced Haruto's chest, making him wince, but nothing. No blood, just a sting!
Naruto bit his cheek, looking around with his eyes looking for any suprised attacks from Haruto. Haruto still made no move to continue his path, but is clearly taunting Naruto with his new destructive powers. Naruto knew he cant get any closer, with out being in pain from the sword's powerful spiritual pressure.
His blue eyes flashing, he wanted to make a quick guess. It feels familiar, the power, the speed. . everything.
At his better knowledge, he ran full steam ahead toward Haruto, hoping his hunch was correct. Haruto nearly smirked, looking at Naruto running toward him.
"YOU'RE ASKING FOR IT NARUTO! BEND OVER AND BEG!" Haruto yelled pointing the red sword at Naruto.
Naruto then could see it, but just faintly. Tails. He saw tails, 9 of them barely visible, but it was waving fratically around Haruto, who seemed not bothered by it.
Kyuubi. . .? he thought.
. . . . . . . .
KYUUBI! He screamed at his thoughts.
. . . . . . . .uto. . . . .
I can hear him! He thought in relief, but thats when the wheels inside his head began to turn quickly, the realization hittin ghim like an obviouis sign has just been given to him.
Kyuubi is the one who would have to call to him!
Haruto seemed to notice, and began to slightly feel worry build inside him. Haruto knew he had to end this fast. He pulled to sword back, not minding the metal's power screaming in pain. He forced it to bid his doing and hacked it acroos the ground, letting a red and white wave cut down towards Naruto.
"TAIL BEAST WHIRLWIND!"
Naruto who was too busy inwardly thinking about the best way for Kyuubi to fully call to him, was barely able to catch sight of the impending attack, and quickly pulled a quick binding spell.
"BAKUDO 39! ENKOSEN! ARC SHIELD!"
With his palms in front of him, and orange circled shield came in between the red wave blast and Naruto himself. After the red wave smashed in to the shield, the attack was finished and so was the repelling move.
Naruto could faintly here the metal sing to him, warning him about Haruto. As in sync, he was able to slowly patch the ideas on how the sword. . or the spirit in the sword works. He could feel Kyuubi's pain, he could hear it screaming. He coult tell by the uncomfortable look on Haruto's face, and it only made Naruto grin.
I so got this. . . play it cool Naruto.
"Got somethin gon your face Haruto. Ya scared? Gonna back out?" Naruto yelled, trying to keep the grin off his face, but failing. "Ya looking a little pale!"
Haruto anger fueld more at the stupid taunts Naruto is flinging at him. Even his control, he could feel it slipping from the power of the sword.
He looked down at the datio, hoping to hear more than the metal clanging against the sand, but to his dismay, it didnt happen. Though even though his control on the said sword was forced befoer Naruto arrived, Haruto refuses to let Naruto beat him again and again. He WILL have control!
"Shut it Naruto before I end you!"
"Clearly you havent yet! Or are you a little. . too weak even with that useless piece of metal!" Naruto boasted, puffing his chest. Only a little bit more Naruto. . .He's gonna crack. He tolf himself. Make my move, and then it would be all over, if I play my cards right.
IN AN UNDERGROUND FACILITY DEEP WITHIN THE SHINIGAMI-SHINOBI-SAYER KNIGHT JOINT MANSION
"Do you think we have gotten somewhere with the communication Kisuke?" Yoru(Bleach) asked quietly, listening in to the hum of the make shift monitor that was glowing brightly in the far end of the room. Yamato and Yoruichi were on the otherside of the room, reading the graphs and paper which never seemed to stop printing as the thinking process continued.
Since the morning, Kisuke being the total genius, was all day working non stop in front of the screen, writing equations, and have been silent for the past hours now. Yoru his right hand man er woman, was ordering everyone around to bring more papers, scrolls about thier (meaning Sayer history) and have been in charge of filing information properly.
Yoruichi sat back on her heels and sighed, wiping back a loose hair behind her ear. "Kisuke-san you still havent answered the question."
Yoru nudeged Kisuke's rib, making Kisuke flip out and crash his head to the floor. With a groan he sat up and dusted himself off.
"Dont do that again, Yoru, Yoruichi. . . This is a delicate process. . . but to answer your question. . .Afraid not. . . there is just to many energy waves coming from everyone, its disrupting the process. And, we only have a tiny lead.."
Yamato scratched his head, "Which is what again?"
"There was the area where the Shinobi and Shinigami entered, the locket that Asumi previously worn." Yoruichi explained while holding a cracked locket in her palm. "And that's it."
Kisuke turned off hte monitor, and rubbed his strained eyes. "And thats too little to get anything. . . ."
"Well what should we do then?" Yoru sighed, leaning her body against the wall.
"Take everyone far away from here, for a week or so. . . but please it has to be anytime soon." Kisuke explained carefully. "Far away to train. . . or something to keep them occupied so they wont fight with thier powers. But we cant deny them of training. They still have a lont way to go..."
A glint in one's eyes were sparking, and a mischievous grin made its way to her lips.
"I think I have an idea, but the certain to make the plan go in session, will be a tad bit. . .. forced. . .hehehehe~" Yoruichi giggled uncharestically. But then her eyes glazed over, filled with guilt and sadness. "Forced. . .but its for the better. . I believe and it can give most of us a peace of mind."
"Please do tell. . ."
"How about. . . ."
THE OTHER SECTION OF THE GROUP
"Where to?" Asuka shyly asked.
Saiko shrugged, "Anywhere. Or we can just walk and talk. we never really had time to talk. . . you know one and one since this whole thing had started. . . I wanna you know. . catch up?"
Asuka looked to Renji, before her excitement turned to guilty. "Um. I guess we have to do that next time. . .Renji has been keeping me company, and I really dont like to leave him."
Renji gave Saiko a cocky grin, Renji: 1, Saiko: 0 and Saiko's eyes darkened. Saiko sighed and looked to Asuka pleadingly, "At least later tonight?"
Asuka smiled, and nodded and gave a quick hug to Saiko, before Saiko walked off leaving Renji and Asuka alone yet again. Renji smirked yet again, but then changed his face when Asuka was looking at him with a raised brow.
"Okaay. What was that?"
Renji tried to hide the panic in his face, and shrugged stiffly, "I get lonely too ya know? Rukia is always off with Sakura, and you know Sai and Naruto and Ryou they got thier own thing. And its Saiko, I mean you would leave with him every chance you get." He ended a tad bit with venom.
Asuka seemed like she didnt notice and gave Renji another of her smiles, "Hey. All you gotta say is if you want me to spend some time with you, just say so. Saiko I doubt wouldnt mind."
But would he mind. . . .if I asked you to be mine? If I wanted to be the one for you, not him.
"You sure?" Renji asked hesistantly.
"Positive, besides, you are a good change of pace Saiko." Asuka admitted to Renji, before she started to clean up around the pinic blanket. Renji's heart thumped at the possible one-sided confession, but it was good enough for him.
Renji gave her a strong hug his arms wrapped around her wiast, trying to hold back some tears in his eyes. His heart was thumping widly, but it seemed it would only escalate higher, when the girl turned around arms wrapped around his neck tightly.
"You are one sweet chick Asuka."
"Cuz I rule hehehe~"
ICHIGO INNER MIND
Ichigo weakly opened his eyes, and saw his vision blur, trying to refocus. Until he was forced to stand in his daze, but felt another body lifting him up. He weakly lifted his head, and saw the blur or red and black cloack, and heard a snarky laugh.
"Zangetsu. . . Hichigo. . . "
Hichigo who was holding Ichigo up, groaned, "Okay fatass, if you can stand now, Id appreciated it if you moved over please."
Ichigo tried to laugh and make a sleazy comeback, but his body was pretty battered, so he winced with every movement away from Hichigo.
Zangetsu held the blade in his hands looking over at the injured Ichigo. "Hn. Ichigo, you should've been more rational about it. I cant believe you let this drag on for too long."
Ichigo who was now on his feet, resisted the urge to roll his eyes, "Sorry old man, Im NOT the best with this whole SHINOBI THING!"
"What have you been doing then huh?"
"Training!"
"Training? Doesnt look like it!"
"MAN JUST SHUT IT ALREADY!" Hichigo yelled his hands over his ears, "We just reunited and all that shit, but we still got to hold back that lame excuse of a pussy. . . .cat"
Ichibii, was recovering slightly from the attack, was able to feel 2 unknown prescenses in front of him. His blue eyes shifted to see Zangetsu and Hichigo, and a growl emitted from his throat.
"HEY BIG PUSSY LONG TIME NO SEE~"
"Hichigo. . . Zangetsu. . . " Ichibii spat out, "I thought I was through with ya. . "
"YOU KEEP MAKE US COME FOR MORE!"
Zangetsu and Ichigo shook thier head in disgust, man Hichigo was sure something. . .
Zangetsu pointed the sword at Ichibii, making Ichibii stepped back just a little. Hichigo had also drawn his own version of Zangetsu. Ichigo was still in shock that his former alter egos was standing in front of him willing to defend him. But still, confusion etched on his face, he knew the big show down was just starting, but curiosoty got the better of him.
How the hell did you guys end up here?
Zangetsu and Hichigo shared similar huffs and looked at Ichigo over thier shoulder. "You didnt let us erase fom your soul and mind Ichigo. Thats why we are here."
"Hichigo?"
Hichigo groaned and hit Ichigo with his elbow, "Enough with the talking, lets go and start cracking skulls. From the looks of it, that giant ass freak is about to crack."
"Noted. . . . Me and Hichigo will do what we can. The rest is on you King."
Ichigo balled his fist, his own sword now gripped tightly in his wrist. He stood proudly, confidence filling him, with Zangetsu and Hichigo standing beside him waiting for orders. "Couldnt said it better myself Hichigo. ON THREE GO!"
Ichibii heard Ichigo's command, and started to slowly panic. Like all creatures, fight and flight response, began to act on Ichibii's fear. He could sense that right now, the odds were slowly stacking up against him. Swishing his tail back and forth rapidly, he hunche dhi sback waiting for Ichigo to finally make the call.
It was tense. . . Zangetsu and Hichigo slowly starting to make circles around the giant beast, while Ichigo continued to stay rooted to the ground. But the Ichibii started to get riled up with the constant shifting of his adversaries.
"I WILL END YOU!" Ichibii roared finally letting his normal sanity let loose, his tail beginning to swip quickly at Hichigo.
"THREE!"
Hichigo was barely able to block, but he could feel his heels digging deeply into the ground as he tried to push the wieght of the tail away. Zangetsu tool the advantage, and tried to hit from above into the Ichibii's blindspot. "GETSUGA TENSHO!"
A lunar crescent wave of blue starting to fly toward the Ichibii, Zangetsu hoped it would finally connect, but the Ichibii knew better. He moved his tail slamming it against Hichigo, who was flung by the force away, before the tail moved back and shielded his body. Dust clouds began to form as the battle continued.
Ichigo on the other hand was still standing on the floor, waiting for the moment to strike.
Ichibii waited from the shadows of the dust clouds, waiting for Hichigo and Zangetsu to finally make thier move. The blue cat felt that he can finally relax, before seeing a giant cleaving blade rip through the dust cloud, slicing the other side of his cheek.
"GAH!"
The Ichibii's giant paw twtiched as the claws shown and swiped at the direction of where the blade had struck him. But as his arm started to extend he felt a thin slice cut across the side of his stomach, make the said beast roar in pain.
The dust could had finally dissapated, leaving the Ichibii wounded, but still standing. Hichigo and Zangetsu floated above the Ichibii with victorius grins on thier face. It was only a matter of time before the Ichibii fell, but thier eyes widened on what they had witnessed next.
"Hehehehe~ You really think those petty moves are really going to bring me down," The demonic voiced whispered. Ichibii blue eyes caught the gaze of an unmoving Ichigo and the shocked Hichigo and Zangetsu.
The beast motioned to his body, on where the cuts had scarred his body, and very quickly, flesh stringed together with flesh, as the wound began to heal and disappear.
"MUAHAHAHAHA YOU CANT WIN!" The Ichibii boasted, his roar echoeing throughout the empty land. "NOT UNLESS YOU COULD LOCK ME UP AWAY!"
The Ichibii stopped his laugh, when he heard Ichigo give a low chuckle. Ichibii turned to glare at Ichigo, and tried to give him his most intimidating glare.
"You are not going to win this time Ichigo. Its over."
Ichibii looked at him, then back at the two other hovering over him. "Oh really how?"
Ichigo raised both his palms, the palm side facing the sky. "You are in my turf now. . .not yours."
On cue, the blank empty space of time that all of them were in. . . the skies began to move, bend, and shift. The ground was shaking, and Ichigo crossing his arms as his plan began to set in motion. One by one, horizontal skyscrapers moved, making everyone stand on the painted glass. Ichibii shocked and angry, could see that his power was slowly fading.
"NO! THIS CANT BE!"
Ichigo with his brown eyes burning with fire of determination stared down the Ichibii. "Looks like I'm back in control of my soul. ZANGETSU, HICHIGO, ALL TOGETHER!"
"BAN-KAI!" All three males shouted together.
Zangetsu and Hichigo's bodies disappeared, thier bodies mingling shifting and transforming. Ichigo could then feel the familiar pressure everywhere in his body.
Spiritual Pressure? I can feel it!
Ichigo resisted to do a fist pump, but he can see the progress, he is able to feel reishi! He then turned to his attention to a young boy dressed in the bankai clothing of Zangetsu. In the younger boy's who could not be any older then himself, hand lies a mask, making a wave of memories hit Ichigo.
"Tensa Zangetsu," He breathed.
"We cant stay much longer Ichigo. . .Time is almost up for the both of us." Tensa Zangetsu warned. "We only have a few more shots left in the both of us. . . so make sure, your resolve is clear, seal him, otherwise. . . you wont see us ever again."
Ichigo hands flew to his sides, waving frantically, "How the fuck am i suppose to know how to seal him? I was just able to grasp getting my old spiritual realm back!"
Tensa Zangetsu shook his head, his now white eyes staring deep in Ichigo's mind. Tensa Zangetsu lifted his hand, and Ichigo flinched, thinking that this former ego would hit him. But the slap/punch never came.
Instead it rested on his shoulder, makin gIchigo look back to Zangetsu.
"Dont question how it's done. . . I know you Ichigo. . . .just get it done." Tensa Zangetsu half explained. "I'm pretty sure, you already have the answer."
It was then a flash of red, caught his eye, and then the flash of hope hit him.
Tensa Zangetsu gave hima small smile, "You found it?"
Ichigo nodded slowly, "I think."
"Good, when the moment is there Ichigo. . .Take it!"
With that Tensa Zangetsu flashed away from him, and began his own assault on the dazed bijuu. The Ichibii who was now struggling to stand with the powerful spiritual pressure could barely block the frontal attack. He though using his fast recovery to get the better edge, but feeling Tensa Zagetsu attack him withoutstopping, blocking was no longer an option.
"GETSUGA TENSHOU" Tensa Zangetsu yelled. A blur of black and red, flew out of the daito striking the Ichibii straight to the chest. The bijuu flew back colliding through several skyscapers, glass flying everywhere.
The Ichibii crawled out, shaking off the glass that stuck to his body, making blood leak out somemore. "DAMN IT!"
Then when the bijuu examined himself, he saw this power was fading. The blue fire that used to cover his body like an extra shield, was now barely flickering. His fast regerneration, was also slowing down, making him finally feel his own wounds.
He sat back on his paws his mouth opened wide throwing out a roar, waiting for Yin and Yang energy form in front of his his palms
Tensa Zangetsu saw the power gathering, and look to Ichigo who gave him a firm nod. The bijuu ball was the ultimate trump card to absolutely destroy several countries and millions of lives. And by the looks of it, the bijuu was now desperate to end it all. The power that was already starting to manifest, looked unstable, but packed with loads of power, making the whole dimension quake.
At the same time, Ichigo beegan to feel the pain rip through his chest, cuts burying deep around the center of his being. Ichigo bit back a cry of pain, as the Ichibii continued to build more power.
At this rate, I'll be dead before he fires!
He figured that ever since Zangetsu gave his long ass lectured about how that his sprititual world had always had a tie to his body. And Ichigo began to panic when he remembered the ultimate lession abou this soul.
If anything happens to this world Ichigo. . . .it will take its toll on your physical body and your sprititual form. In other words-
"YOU WILL DIE HERE TODAY, AND I'LL DESTROY THIS WORLD! KUROSAKI I'LL DRAG YOU WITH ME TO THE PITS OF HELL!"
Tensa Zangetsu acted immediatly, on the palm of his left hand, a blur of balck energy grew, before revealing a lone white mask.
" I WOULDNT DO THAT ZANGETSU! YOU KNOW THAT ADDING PWOERFUL ENERGIES IN A TINY SPACE WILL SPEED IT UP! YOU KNOW YOU DONT WANT TO SPEED THE PROCESS FOR YOUR PRECIOUS HUMAN!" Ichibii taunted, still charging the ball in his palm this time around.
Tensa Zangetsu hesistated, when he heard the pained cry from Ichigo.
Ichigo tried to blink back tears of pain, and weakly tried to stand trying to ignore the ever growing pain in his chest. "D-DO IT ZANGETSU!"
Tensa Zangetsu, made his painful desicion, but it was for his master's sake. He push the mask toward his face and breathed, letting Hichigo's solid hollow powers blend within him.
"TERAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!"
The white mask covered tensa Zangetsu's fae, as Ichigo below felt the power vibrating against the dimensions. Sure there was another wave of pain cutting him, making blood shown, but he knew that Zangetsu is about to lay it on the line for him.
"FINISH HIM!" Ichigo yelled, as he started to run toward the bijuu. Tensa Zangetsu(now transformed) made no hesistation and began to fly toward the bijuu who have already finished.
"ITS THE END FOR YOU ICHIGO!" Bijuu cried, his hand draw back before thrusting out, a black and blue beam heading towards the incoming duo.
"GETSUGA-TENSHOU!"
"TAILED BEAST DARK BALL!"
REAL WORLD
IN the physical world, Asumi and Kakashi took the key note and watched as Ichigo began to suffer outward injuries, as cuts traced all around his body. They continued to watch Ichigo shake, shiver and twitch every once in a while, that was until Ichigo breaking out in sweat.
Asumi put an eased hand on Kakashi's shoulder, feeling the tension rise inside him.
"Is Ichigo-"
"No he is okay. . .I think Zangetsu got through to him." Asumi slowly explained, seeing her teacher worry a bit.
But the calming words doesnt seem to ease him, as Ichigo continued to shake somemore, and swirls of blue, silver, red, and black energies flowing out of Ichigo all oat the same time.
They cautiously moved backward as the energies began to lash out toward them and the ninken. they took in account to look at Naruto who just laid there in a fetal position, still possibly out cold.
Kakashi let the statement fill his head, "But how do you know? LOOK AT THEM!" He yelled pointing at the two students. "HOW CAN YOU BE SO SURE THAT THIS WAS GOING TO EVEN WORK?
"Naruto is nt our biggest concern right now Kakashi-senpai. He is handling it quite well." Asumi let a small smile grace her lips, "But you could feel it can you right? . . . . Ichigo in front of us right now, is not Ichigo the Shinobi. The one in front if us, is Ichigo the Shinigami Daiko fighting spirit. "
ICHIGO'S SPIRITUAL WORLD
As the two powerful attacks met one another head on, a blearing light enveloped every space, making everyone's eyes shut.
But for Ichigo, he kept running, hearing Zangetu's possible final words, before the two energies had connected.
NOW ICHIGO IS YOUR CHANCE! SEAL HIM!
Ichigo gripped his sword, and his left palm fisted hte ribbon that was on his bicep. It was almost shocking to see the ribbon slide off so easily now, but he continued to run through the light looking for his objective. He made the now blue ribbon tie around the base of his sword, mamking his resolve tight in his mind.
It was then that threw the light he saw the Ichibii, on his knees, with the light trapping him in chains, paralyzing him from moving. But as he stepped closer, he could feel the light's dimming, signalling that Ichibii would be on the loose again. Ichigo, tried to use his bearings to hopefully feel Zangetsu or Hichigo again, but when he felt nothing, he had a feeling that the last Getsuga Tenshou would be the last of thier appearance.
The paralyzing spell wont last. I gotta do this now.
Ichigo walked calmly toward the Ichibii, who was weakening, but still having that stubbown scowl on its muzzle. Ichigo stood then in front and looked to the now steadily shrinking cat. And it continued till the mere cat demon was now a kitten in his palm.
Against his own judgement, he picked up the bloodied and bludgeoned cat in his arms, and sat down on the floor.
Why arent you doing anything? Arent you going to seal me away? Erase me?
For such a strong demon, when its small it sure has a cutsey voice. Ichigo thought.
But he looked down in his hands, and saw the vunerable cat, that was this close to destroying his whole spiritual world.
"Im not erasing you. . . sadly you are a part of me." Ichigo replied.
The cat hissed amd squirmed out of out his grip, its paws padding the floor.
The light barrier slowly begin to crack, and Ichigo knew that it was time.
"Sorry Ichibii, it's over." Ichigo pulled out the ribbon, and fastened it around the cat's neck. The ribbon then, slowly morphed into chains, and the kitten now sunk to the floor trapped and unmoving. Yet the chains began to wrap around Ichigo as well, pulling the kitten toward him. Inch by inch they came closer, till finally the bodies of two different beings came together. Blue and silver combined as the energies finally seemed to morph together reaching an equilibruim. Ichigo now had placed a steady hand o nhis heart, feeling the official bond between Ichibii and himself.
He didnt need the Ichibii to submit, but to accept Ichigo as his host, and to work together. . .
The light barrier had then shattered to bits, leaving Ichigo alone in the skyscraper world.
He inhaled slowly, finally able to breathe peacefully after this whole ordeal. His muscles slowly wieighed heavier, making his slump to the glass floor of the laid back, exhaustion creeping up on him, making his senses dull, his eyesight fading to black. But before he was able to fully embrace the dark, his eyes took a glimpse of what had taken place in his right hand. It was a black gauntlet, along with the metal sword that he used throughout the whole fight. It felt familiar. . .like holding Zangetsu again. . .
But he didnt want to think about it right now. . . right now he just needed rest.
"You did well Ichigo. . . wake up."
REAL WORLD
Asumi and Kakashi watched as Ichigo's body suddenly went limp and fell against the floor.
"Wait Kakashi-senpai, check on Naruto, I'll see to Ichigo!"
She made a hesistant yet frantic run to Ichigo to see if something went abosolutely wrong. Asumi was the first to reach him, and check his vitals, and sighed in relief.
"Is he alright?" Kakashi asked from his position which was near Naruto, who was still in his comatose state.
"He's fine. . Just probably knocked out by the experience of it all." She inquired. She placed her hand on his cheek, and patted it, trying to slowly wake Ichigo up. "You did well Ichigo. . .wake up."
She continue to shake him, till she felt a rough hand grip her arm, and she breathed out shakily. "Oh good! You're still with me. . ."
"Stop. . .mm hitting me. . .so tired." Ichigo mumbled his eyes still closed.
Asumi didnt like that tone, it sounded almost defeated, "Ichigo you gotta stay awake! What if-"
Ichigo who was still in a sleepy daze, smiled playfully, "Not dieing. . . .got. . things settled. . .want sleep please."
Asumi chuckled softly, and affectionately brushed his cheek, "If you insist. . . "
"Oh and Asumi?"
"I thought you were sleeping you big idiot." She scoffed earning herself a playful yet weak smack to the arm.
"Shut it. . thanks though. . . for saving me the first time. . ."
Asumi felt his gratitude, "Any time Ichigo. . .sleep now, I'll send for Rukia if you want me to."
Ichigo shifted under Asumi, his mind already halfway to sleep once again, "Mmk."
Asumi sighed and signalled to Kakashi, that Ichigo was alright. Kakashi walked to Ichigo and carried him to a nearby tree and let him lean back on it and returned to Asumi's side. Now all there's left was Naruto who was still asleep.
He wasnt thrashing as often, but by the features of his face, it's rather calm.
"For Naruto, its the battle for the soul I take it?" Kakashi asked after a moment of silence. Asumi tapped her chin, her eyes furrowed in concentration.
"Possibly. . . Ichigo's was mostly physical noting the physical outburts toward us. Naruto's is mostly in his soul and mind, so we just hope he doesnt come out mental deranged." She joked lightly at the end.
"But I can feel from his heart, that the battle will end shortly."
NARUTO' INNER MIND
"ENOUGH!" Haruto yelled out.
"Awwwwh did I struck a nerve."
"DIE UZUMAKI!" Haruto brought his hand back, and waited. Naruto then saw a familiar fox head shape into his palm.
Oh no. . .He's going to use that as his last resort. Im so dead!
Haruto smirked, seeing the fear, and absolution that he will win, "This is the end Naruto."
Then he placed the mask on his face, feeling the spiritual power grow as his body accustomed to the transformation. With Naruto, he was forced to his knees, feeling the pressure hit him. Even the screeching of the sword was ringing more loudly against his eardrums. Then it was in his own daze that Haruto starting to flash step toward him. But Naruto was barely able to cath him with his eyes, and barely able to dodge potential fatal blows.
"CMON NARUTO YOU CAN DO BETTER THAN THAT! CMON BIG SHOT, WHERE IS ALL YOUR BIG TALK HUH?" Haruto punctuated as the blade kept trying to stab Naruto. "
Within that time period, Naruto tried to keen in close to the voice of Kyuubi, but it was only faint.
. . . . uto. . . . . me. . . . .
But it was then that Haruto began to slow down, the hollowfied powers starting to get weaker.
Naruto. . . . my name. . . .
Naruto could feel his spiritual powers lieavin ghim, as the fight wore on. He could barely stand to do Shakaho, or Soren Sohkatsui without an incantation.
You. . . . know. . . it. . . . say. . . it
Naruto bit back a groan as he was kicked in the face, and punched in the ribs, and tumbled back. He tried to stand, but he couldnt. He just sat there, his mind half in conciousness. Haruto smiked, feeling that victory was now his. He walked toward Naruto, pressure suddenly increasing yet again, as Haruto stepped closer.
He picked Naruto up by his hair, his face turning to a crooked smile, " Looks like I. Win."
He drew the sword over Naruto's head, ready to behead the great Uzumaki Naruto. Naruto prayed for the miracle to be able be awake to hear the cry.
CMON CMON CMON HEAR HARDER!
"No final words?"
". . . .ugh. . . . ack. . . . Fuck. . . you."
"THEN DIE!"
The screeching cry with the metal finally boomed out it's voice. NARUTO! CALL MY NAME! SAY IT!
"TAIL BEAST ROAR!" Haruto yelled, his arms swung back preparing to slash done, permanently erasing Naruto.
Naruto thrusted his right hand in front the incoming blade, feeling his skin singe at that burning power, that was to fully kill him. Haruto watched as Naruto caught the blade in between his fingers(much like how he did to Kabuto.) his whol palm sliding down the metal and gripping Haruto's own hand, and locking him in place. This was it.
Naruto weakly stood,, however his grip remained tight as he stood face to face with Haruto, who suddenly felt weak under the intense gaze of an unwavering Naruto.
"No. . . " Haruto whispered, seeing that the blade suddenly began to crack in his grip. "NONONONO!"
"Anata no mamora gēto no rokku o kaijo! KITSUNE NO SAKEBI!" UNLOCK YOUR GUARDED GATES! HEAVEN FOX CRY!"
"NOOOOOOOOOO!" Was the last thing that Naruto heard, before he saw the sword shatter from Haruto's grip. Pieces of red metal seem to float in mid air, both parties shocked at the sight. It was then that the Kyuubi's voice boomed once again through thier ears.
NARUTO!
The red manifestation of Kyuubi then appeared in front of Naruto studying him again. "Naruto. . . . my master."
Naruto then looked to his palm, and saw the red energy finally show, and manifest. . . to a long thin blade daito. His own Zanpakutou. Dark red from the blade to the hilt, with a fox head shape as it's guard.
Light in his hand, and he can feel the familiar surge of power, as he always felt when he slips in the the Kyuubi cloak.
"NONONONONONONONONO!" Haruto cried out, "HOW DARE YOU!"
Naruto finally seeing that things were looking up to his side, pointed to the sword to a defenseless Haruto. "Step down. Or else."
Haruto's stance fumbled, as he kept muttering curses under his throat. Naruto could see that Haruto was making a desicion, but he doesnt know how these last moments could make or break his time here.
Haruto stood slowly, his back turned away from Naruto, his fist tight and his voice void of emotion.
"Tsk do what you want Naruto, I aint gonna bother ya anymore."
"Oh? And you think Id believe that?" Naruto retorted trying to hide sarcasm, but failing.
Haruto looked over his shoulder, and looked at Naruto with tired and bored eyes, "If you want me gone, finish me off, but I guess you cant do that."
Its a shame that I cant. Naruto seethed. cuz if I kill you, Im a goner. . .
"Then Id best on my way. . . But I'll be back." Then he was gone.
Naruto chuckeled at his alter ego's strange possible bi polar behavior, "Keep telling yourself that Haruto. . . keep tell yourself that."
REAL WORLD
Asumi and Kakashi had waited for roughly 30 minutes after Ichigo had woke up, and now were by Naruto's side. Asumi took note at the red blade that was now suddenly resting by Naruto's side, and she smiled.
"They both did it. They actually did it!"
"*cough cough* We. . .sure did. . ." Naruto said weakly finally waking up.
Asumi looked at him up and down, taking his hand. "How are you feeling?"
Naruto squeezed back, "Ugh. . .Peachy. Just. . .sore."
Kakashi shook his head, and gave Naruto a hearty pat on the chest, "You kinda gave us a scare, first you were sitting and then next thing we know, you were in a slight coma."
Naruto grinned, taking note that Ichigo was now slowly approaching them, "I didnt want to wait for Ichigo to get my turn."
"Tsk, oh your funny Naruto. . .But I still win. . ." Ichigo who had now woken up looked at Naruto with a smirk, "About time you woke up you lazy ass."
"And you think your the hot shot."
Ichigo then plopped his body next to Naruto, lying on his back and staring at the sky.
Ichigo rolled his eyes, and fist bumped Naruto, "Well congratz by the way."
"You tooo Ichigo."
Then in realization they both looked to Asuka and smiled sweetly at her. Asumi blushed under the intense stares, and fumbled with her words," What?"
"Well without you. . we wouldnt be sittin ghere. We wouldve been dead, and couldve died eventually if you hadnt told us to control our demons." They whispered, thier hands finding hers, "And we really owe you for that."
Asumi patted thier hands, her eyes darting between Ichigo and Naruto, "It was nothing, and besides it wasnt me all the way, Zangetsu, Hichigo, and Im guessing Kyuubi were the ones that helped you out. I was just. . "
"Awesome?"
"Smart?"
She shook her head, laughing at thier stubborn attitude, "No. . just never mind."
It was then that they relaxed to a comfortable silence, before all three feel asleep curl closely together for a quick nap. In just a span of 5 slow hours, much of thier energy was spent either fighing on the inside, or just worrying. But in thier heads, they could only dream, of what hoped to be smooth sailing from here.
AUTHOR NOTE
And I'll end it here. I'm just going have to push back the other parts just a bit, since this became too long as it is already.
Oh and I forgot to mention that all of this is happening in the 1st year, since that the Sayer Knights have begun thier journey. In total they will continue to train for the remainder of the 2 years they have left before going home.
Anyways. . . HOOORAY! For Naruto and Ichigo that is: For they have sucessfully controlled Ichibii and Haruto, and gained thier own weapons ish.
And sorry for the story being based mostly on Ichigo. In the last chapters, I have neglected him a lot, so this is to make up for that. Naruto and Ichigo will get balanced in the following chapters.
NEXT TIME: Drawing the Line, Friends or Love? Festival Awaits!
Renji, Ryou, Ichigo, and Naruto and Saiko: Watch us *cough cough the boys cough* start our biggest adventure
Asuka, Sakura, Rukia, Orihime, Asumi : What's the big adventure.
Renji, Ryou, Ichigo, and Naruto and Saiko : Uh. . . .um. . .SECRET!
The teachers: Watch the boys failing in being subtle, and watch the ladies being thier usual selves with a twist! Join us next time!
Renji, Ryou, Ichigo, and Naruto and Saiko: HEY! HEY! W-wait! We are not done yet! HEEEEEEEEY!
Okaami-chin out~