Chapter 24 - Illusions, Horror, and Recovery?
Captain Unohana was waiting at the entrance to the barracks with her Lieutenant, Isane when Yoruichi and Ichigo appeared. Both of them were surprised as they had been told that Captain Kurosaki was in grave condition but that Yoruichi had taken him somewhere for emergency healing. They both appeared to have recently been in a river.
"Hello Yoruichi how is Captain Kurosaki?" Unohana asked. She preferred to speak informally but she held Ichigo in high regard.
They both looked and saw Ichigo appeared to no recognize either of them, he did however remain close to Yoruichi, protectively.
"It's a bit complicated to explain I'm guessing others will be here soon and we'll hear the details. Ichigo's major wounds have been stopped for now but he needs to be looked at" she said.
Unohana nodded "I shall take care of it myself. Please follow me" she said.
Ichigo however did not move as he seemed to remain oblivious and his face was expressionless. Unohana and Isane seemed unsure about his hesitation.
Yoruichi then stepped next to him and took his hand "come on Ichigo we need to get you looked at" she said.
He looked down at her slowly then nodded. He then followed the three of them inside. Many of the squad members looked at him curiously as he followed the woman many had come to know was his lover yet he seemed to be sleepwalking rather then aware of where he was.
They took him to the more exclusive rooms near the rear of the barracks. These were meant for critical injured members, officers, or sometimes prisoner who needed strict guard. In Ichigo's case it was more of to keep him secluded until they knew what to do with him. They got him to sit down on a bed, after another reassurance from Yoruichi, and removed the remnant of his haori to be mended.
Unohana then began to give him a medical examination and was shocked by some of the results.
Yamamoto arrived at the 4th squad barracks. He walked with Ken'ichi next to him to show that he was a welcome prisoner for now. Behind them were many of the other captains.
"Just to give you all a word of caution. I wouldn't crowd around Ichigo, thanks to Aizen he may take it as aggression" he said
"What has Aizen done with him since he took him?" Ukitake asked.
"I'll explain when you see him It may be easier. However I am suggesting that you all remain back" he said. It wasn't a threat.
Yamamoto nodded. He decided that only the captains, along with Kisuke and their guests would go in and the lieutenants who were around were to remain outside and keep any curious visitors away. Captains Komamura and Soi Fong volunteered to remain outside as well.
They then proceed to where they had been told the Captain Unohana was. When they go to their room they saw a light above it was on. This meant that medical attention was being given to someone. However Yamamoto knew this was again to keep unwanted visitors out.
He knocked on the door and waited.
Lieutenant Isane answered and was surprised to find nearly all of the captains were waiting outside. She was momentarily taken back before saying they could all come in.
Inside they found Ichigo sitting on the bed at the far end of the spacious room. He stood up to look at them when they all entered, even though his face and eyes remained devoid of emotion they could tell he was gauging them as a possible threat. Behind him Yoruichi laid a hand on his shoulder. Looking up at her he nodded slowly, in a mechanical way, and sat back down.
Ken'ichi was shocked "how the hell did she do that. The last time something like this happened I had to sneak up behind him and bash him on the head with my sword to stop him" he said in annoyance.
Nel who now saw Ichigo jumped up from Kisuke's shoulder and threw his hat back at him "Itsygo" she cried happily and hugged him though her arms could not go around his chest.
Ichigo looked down at the child and patted her on the head. The others seemed surprised by his gentle behaviours, especially those who saw him fight only a short while ago.
"What is with that kid" Kyoraku said.
Ken'ichi answered "She was once the 3rd ranked Espada however due to jealousy on the part of the 5th and with some help from the now dead 8th they conspired against her and she received a wound to her head that resulted in her current condition she is reverted to this kid form. The adult you saw earlier was what she used to look like, she can only assume that appearance for a short while it's how she helped us escape. She also has a strong liking for my brother since he indirectly saved her and due to her rather innocent personality he doesn't mind her being around" he explained.
"A former espada? Innocent?" Toshiro said finding those words did not seem to connect.
Ken'ichi grinned "Even when she was normal I'm told she was highly pacifistic, and only fought if attacked" he explained.
Nel meanwhile had not climbed up to stand on Ichigo's shoulder and was looking up at Yoruichi curiously "you look familiar" she said.
Yoruichi raised an eyebrow unsure of what the kid espada was talking about. Nel then reached down inside Ichigo's robes which now been restored how that he was healed. From the section that had not been torn away she pulled out something from his inside chest pocket. It was the photo of the two of them from the day at the beach. Nel held the photo up to her with a childish smile "see this is you" she said.
Ichigo then took the photo from her and looked at it before slipping it into his pocket again.
Ken'ichi then walked forward. Ichigo looked up at him "It's just me brother" he said putting his hands up. Ichigo looked back down.
Ken'ichi then came to stand next to him, he saw Yoruichi glare at him, probably had that coming for all the shit I put them through, oh well the sooner we end this fight the sooner we can all get away from each other.
"I know you must hate me right now, but you might be interested to know that even when Aizen ordered him to get rid of that picture and that necklace he refused to listen" he said, his words might have been kind if his tone wasn't so harsh.
Yoruichi looked down at Ichigo and smiled.
"I believe now it is time you explained a few things" Yamamoto said.
Ken'ichi turned around with a sigh "well to begin from the start. Due to my ability to copy Zanpakuto powers I transferred a part of my own mind and soul into Ichigo. It happened during that moment when we last fought and was also why you didn't find any of my remains. During that time inside his head I was creating an illusion, and when I was strong enough I would scatter his conscious mind into those illusions. That's where he's trapped now whether he knows the truth or not I can't say" he said beginning his long explanation.
"After I was transferred out, into this new body. Ichigo was left mostly a blank. Thanks to Aizen's ministrations he fuelled the negative emotions that the real Ichigo was feeling from what he's trapped in to create this tool he would then use as a part of his plans" he said.
Captain Kurotsuchi interrupted him "what manner of ministrations, do you mean tests were performed on him?" he asked ever the scientist.
Ken'ichi nodded "yes for the first couple weeks that was what went on, mostly at first it was tests to see how much power he possessed, then ones to see how much he could take. Aizen was pretty basic since he never had the same science head the former 8th espada had. The only odd one was when he thought about creating more like him" he explained.
"Create more?" asked Kisuke, not liking where this might be going.
"Yes to quote his thoughts, he suggested Ichigo mate with the only female Espada Hallibel that would hopefully lead to more weapons to use like Ichigo" he said, then he suddenly realized that revealing that might have been a mistake.
Some of the others in the room suddenly looked at Yoruichi standing behind Ichigo. At first she looked normal then her eye twitched "m-mate with that female espada" she said in a voice that made the others think to dive for cover.
"Oh shit, guess I shouldn't have said that" Ken'ichi said quietly before turning to see a very pissed of Yoruichi bearing down on him.
"What happened?" she demanded.
Ken'ichi was unsure of what to say then he just swallowed and spoke "uh nothing happened. Aizen ordered them both, Hallibel listened, but Ichigo wouldn't budge" he said hurriedly.
Yoruichi then blinked in surprise and smiled relieved. She knew Ichigo would never do that.
Ken'ichi turned away to resume "uh getting back to what I was saying. Most of the time Ichigo was there he was sent out to fight either just killing other Arrancar's who haven't sworn themselves to Aizen or the other Espada. At first a lot of them weren't to happy with Ichigo around and to preserve their ego's they tried to beat him, that's were a lot of his injuries came from. He was forced to use his released form a lot and when he started using the Berserker state, well you've seen the results" he said.
Unohana then stepped forward "his injuries also consisted of dozens of bone fractures, internal damage to his organs and various other serious wounds" she said reading her medical report.
Many of there were shocked by the level of damage.
"Aizen doesn't care for his subordinates so long as they can serve his goal. Aside from some healing thanks to Nel. He would have let Ichigo kill himself fighting" he explained.
"What was Aizen planning to use Ichigo for?" Byakuya asked.
Ken'ichi looked grim before he answered "I'm sure you know his goal is to kill the Soul King and take his place. However the plane he lives on is highly defended and has special wards in place. Aizen was going to use my brother as a sacrifice to distract the guards while he could kill the Soul King. I knew he had the same plans for me since I am unique like he is. That's one of the reasons why we escaped" he said.
They listened most of them were unsure about the Espada's motives but were all interested to see if he could help Ichigo get back to normal.
Kisuke then stepped forward "you said you could help us undo the damage and return Ichigo to normal how do you plan to do that?" he asked.
Yoruichi looked up at this when she heard about getting Ichigo back. Ken'ichi looked down and his brother for a moment then answered "I still have the ability I used before to enter his mind, and I held onto my copy of Aizen's illusion power. Using those I can shatter the illusions and let his consciousness regain control of his body. There is however a problem" he said.
"What is it" Yoruichi said sharply.
"I tried it before we escaped. Even if I break the illusion he's stuck in the dark wherever he is, I won't be able to convince him. I need a few to come with me that can help so that he will see that its not real and he can retake control otherwise the sudden shock might make him lost to us forever" he said.
"What do you mean?" Kisuke asked.
Ken'ichi gave an annoyed sigh "you are familiar with Aizen's abilities the illusions look real. I said that the moment he was capture his mind was cast into that illusion to him it seemed as though he charged Aizen that night and kept going but that was when he was caught. He had been having bad dreams before which were glimpses of these illusions. I guess you could say he saw me laying down the foundations for the wall" he said.
"There is more then one?" Yoruichi asked.
He nodded "yes to make it harder for him to resist. Basically the illusion has led to how he acts now. It took hold after he tried to attack Aizen, it's an alternative outcome of that fight where he won and after that he saw things that led the anger and rage that fuels his violent side in battle. Right now it's hard to say what's going on inside" he explained.
The captains were most outrage or appalled at the tactics Aizen had employed. To attack someone like that was disgusting. Ken'ichi saw the looks on their faces and knew some of it was for him.
"This is why I wish to repay my debt to him. Despite my previous actions which were manipulated by that bastard I consider this highly dishonourable and want to fix it. If you then want me to leave I'll leave" he said.
Many of them seemed satisfied by his words.
"Do you know what it was Ichigo saw?" Kisuke asked.
Ken'ichi shook his head "no I never saw them myself or I might have gotten caught too. What I do know is the anger from it was strong so its not gonna be pretty" he said.
Yamamoto had listened to all of this then made a decision "We shall proceed with you plan, before that I want to know what will happen if you take others with you, and who would you wish to take with you?" he asked.
Ken'ichi thought for a moment "I won't be the same as the first time I did it, those who go with will just go into a catatonic state while we are inside his inner world. Once were done I can at least guarantee they will return to their bodies. As for those I wish to take with me I would prefer those who have close connections to my brother as they will be more convincing to him" he said.
"I'm going" Yoruichi said. No one expected less and was going to argue.
"I will as well" Kisuke said.
Ken'ichi shook his head "no one thing I should tell you is that the anger he feels, a lot of it came to the surface whenever he saw you before being captured I think you were involved in trap he is in" he said
Kisuke was surprised by this.
Ken'ichi looked at the others "I can only take a few along I'll let you all decided but it should be those Ichigo is closest to" he said then went to sit down on the other bed and wait.
Unohana then asked for the others to leave to give Ichigo a little time to rest.
Yamamoto and the Captains left.
After a word from Yoruichi Ichigo lay down on the bed and went to sleep. Nel sat next to him looking at him.
Ken'ichi sat on the next bed over and was surprised "That's pretty interesting to see him listening to you like that. Makes me think he'll be alright one we take care of those illusions. Like the hat guy said his subconscious feelings for you are strong" he said. He then looked up and saw the angry look Yoruichi was giving him.
"Right I'm guessing I'm the last person you want to be talking to right now. I won't ask you to forgive me but I'm not the same as I was before. However once this war with that bastard is over I'm leaving and neither you nor my brother will have to see me again" he said. His tone was still a harsh blunt one but the words were sincere.
Yoruichi looked hard at him "your right there are things I can never forgive you for, but I do thank you for bringing him back to me and for trying to undo the damage" she said.
Ken'ichi nodded "I should also warn you, I do not know exactly what he believes has happened, but Aizen went after what Ichigo fears you should be prepared to see some hard things" he said.
Yoruichi's face was unreadable but she was now very worried about what it was that Ichigo has been trapped in. She reached down to gently stroke his hair, oddly enough the thoughts in her head right now were, he needs a haircut, and it was weird at first. However she realized that there was nothing to worry about she would get Ichigo back and everything would be alright, at least that's what she hoped would happen.
**
"Aizen you bastard" Kyoraku said.
The captains were all standing just outside the barracks. Some of them were talking with their lieutenants or each other. Kyoraku remark was echoed by many of the others. They all knew Aizen was a cold and ruthless person, but to go to such cruel lengths just to use Ichigo as a meat shield.
"All Captains and Lieutenants, this is now a very delicate matter I ask that you speak with your squads. They will not disturb these barracks and you may share a limited amount of what you all now know if the Soul Foundation gets word of these they will cause trouble" he said.
The other captains all agreed. The next step was deciding on who might go with Ken'ichi to help restore Ichigo's mind.
"I will go" Byakuya said. He offered out of his close friendship to Ichigo.
"I request permission as well" Toshiro said. His reason was that he did not overly trust Ken'ichi and wanted to make sure he didn't try anything.
Yamamoto nodded and agreed to let them go. The other captains then left to speak to their squads. Rangiku and Renji had been nearby so they did not need to be told they would be speaking for their captains. Byakuya then left to give Kukaku an update on the matter. Toshiro waited by the entrance for him to return.
**
Yoruichi sat down next to the bed Ichigo was sleeping on. She was wondering about what she would see soon enough.
Ken'ichi, who had fallen asleep as well now woke up "damn was more tired then I thought" he mumbled. Looking he saw Nel was curled up at Ichigo's side using his forearm as a pillow.
Ken'ichi stood up and walked over to stand next to his brother. He knew he was far from being one of the good guys, but he wasn't evil like Aizen or the other espada. His time inside Ichigo's inner world had made him think about a lot of things, essentially it was what made him realize what he was doing. Now all he wanted was to repay his debt to his brother then finish off Aizen after that he would return and keep an eye on things in Hueco Mundo.
The door opened and in walked Byakuya, and Toshiro. Ken'ichi looked up at them, after doing a count he groaned "sorry but I won't be able to take all of you, one of you has to stay behind" he said.
Toshiro stepped forward "very well I'll do it to keep and eye on you, if you try anything you won't live long enough to lie about it" he said his hand going to hi sword.
Ken'ichi smiled "well said"
He then turned to the others "I am guessing about this but I think that when we first enter his mind we will see what ever illusions Aizen created. Just remember what you see isn't what really happened. We then need to find where ever my brothers' mind is in his inner world and help him break free then I can destroy the illusions. After that it's up to him" he said.
"What do we need to do?" Yoruichi asked.
Ken'ichi turned to face them "just reach out and hold onto me, don't worry your bodies will stay standing, but a part of your souls will come with me, we kinda be like ghosts in his head" he said.
As the other three moved to stand behind him Ken'ichi looked over his shoulder.
"Hey kid, for reasons of safety I can only do this for about an hour, when that much time has passed just break my physical contact with Ichigo. You might also wanna give the others a head up, knowing Aizen he'll tell what were up to and may send his forces while he thinks were distracted" he said.
Several veins popped on Toshiro's head "shut up the name is Captain Hitsugaya to you" he said angrily.
Ken'ichi was no longer listening, his hand began to glow and he touched Ichigo's forehead. Just then a light glow began to emit from the others. It must have meant they all were now gone.
Toshiro let out an annoyed sigh. He then summoned a messenger to relay the warning Ken'ichi had given him to the head-captain.
**
Inside the palace of Las Noches Aizen was currently inside the laboratory of the former 8th. He watched as a screen light up and gave a slight frown "it would see Ken'ichi wishes to interfere with my shield. How troublesome I'm certain they will not be able to restore the young man's mind the time he had spent inside that illusion will have driven him mad" he said to himself.
Turning he walked out and found Ulquiorra waiting for him "Go to the soul society you may take all of those who are now ready for combat" he said.
Ulquiorra eyes widened slightly "My lord we are too few in number now, only Nnoitra myself, and Hallibel are ready along with a third of our Arrancar's if we attack we won't win" he said.
Aizen looked at him for a second and Ulquiorra felt fear.
"The goal is not to win, you are to kill that meddlesome Ken'ichi it will take them time to try and undo anything. We are already forced to wait until we begin our main plans, this will not add to that wait. Now go" he said. His tone was calm but there was anger beneath it.
Ulquiorra bowed then turned and walked away to get what forces that had ready.
Aizen walked to his chambers. He walked to the balcony and stood out watching the moon. On the outside he looked like he was in complete control, but whether or not he knew it one of his hands clenched into a fist angrily.
**
To Yoruichi one second she was standing in the recovery wing on the 4th squad barracks. The next she felt an odd tingling sensation all over her body. Now she was standing in the middle of a street.
She gasped, it was out front of the Urahara shop. Looking to her left she saw the shop, and ahead of her she saw Ichigo, and the others, including herself.
"Like I said we are now viewing the illusion, there's nothing I can do we'll just have to watch" Ken'ichi said.
Yoruichi suddenly realized they were standing next to her. She noticed they looked a little transparent. She realized that this was like when Ichigo sent that Kido orb. Turning back to watch she saw Ichigo charge Aizen and the espada. Instead of falling like he really had he just kept going.
Aizen appeared to be surprised then flash stepped away as Ichigo took down Grimmjow. The other three moved away before drawing their weapons.
Ichigo then began to move when the whole scene seemed to shift. The whole area around them seemed to get darker.
"What's going on?" asked Byakuya.
Ken'ichi looked around "I'm not sure. Look its focusing" he said.
Suddenly the scene shifted. Ichigo stood over the bodies of the espada. Aizen stood a short distance away was missing an arm and bleeding from many wounds. Ichigo's armour was black
"Damn you. How did you do that? Well its no matter you will join me think about what the others may think now that they have seen what you really are" he said in a pain filled voice as he retreated through a Garganta.
"Now I get it. I was right Ichigo does already know about the berserker state. Since this illusion read his mind when I set it in place it included that. So does this mean he doesn't remember when he goes to that level nor does this illusion make him think that? Aizen you clever son of a bitch" he said.
Ichigo's armour returned to normal then he removed his helm to let go of his released form. He returned to normal and turned to look at his friends. His gaze passed over the "ghosts" but he took no notice.
He walked towards them "sorry for the sudden show I sensed them moving here and came as fast as I could" he said.
His friends appeared to be shocked by what they had seen. Yoruichi saw herself almost take a step away. She knew if this was real right now she would have her arms around him since he was safe
Ichigo then stopped "I'm sorry I never mentioned this before. It's another power of my armour that's a bit hard to control" he said.
The others seemed almost fearful but shook it off. It was then Kisuke suggested heading back to the soul society.
The scene shifted again and they saw they were now in the soul society. A group of nameless squad members were waiting for them.
"Ichigo Kurosaki on behalf of the Soul Foundation we hereby pardon you of your crimes" one of them said. They then departed.
"Huh talk about short and sweet on the apologies" he said. Then he was asked by Byakuya to come with him to report to the head captain. Ichigo waved to Yoruichi to meet him at their place. She waved back and Ichigo seemed to notice something but turned and followed Byakuya.
The scene shifted once again. They saw Ichigo walking down the path to his cabin. He looked up with a smile to see there was a small light coming from the window.
He walked in the front door, but didn't call out he was back. Yoruichi knew what he was up to sneaking up on her, she smiled at the thought of it.
Ichigo started walking down the hall. Then he and the others behind him heard voices. It sounded like he walked into the middle of a conversation.
"Kisuke that thing he did it was terrifying I don't know what to think" came Yoruichi's voice.
Ichigo and Yoruichi behind him both gasped. She guessed that this was were something bad was going to happen.
"I know his power has been growing amazingly and I am worried about what it may be doing to him. However you have nothing to fear though my dear Yoruichi" Kisuke said with a flirty tone.
Yoruichi giggled "as always you did have a way cheering me up Kisuke" she said. It sounded as though someone moved up ahead.
Ichigo seemed to be having trouble breathing.
"Is that a wise thing to do when you are an engaged woman" Kisuke said playfully.
"I'm not anymore you know" Yoruichi said seductively.
Yoruichi felt like her heart was going to break in two as she saw the painful look of horror cross her loves face as he quickly moved down the hall and opened the door.
When they caught up to him they now discovered the source of the anger Ken'ichi said Ichigo had felt towards Kisuke.
Inside the bedroom Kisuke and Yoruichi were on the bed in the process of making out as they started to slowly removed clothes. It was when Ichigo let out a pained gasp that they looked up.
"Ichigo" they both said startled.
The others behind him looked grim as they saw what horrible thing Aizen had done to Ichigo.
The scene began to get dark again. The last thing they saw was Ichigo reach for Zangetsu.
When the scene came back again. They saw Kisuke on the floor cut nearly in half. He was already dead. Yoruichi meanwhile was staring at Ichigo in pure horror.
"Ichigo how could you" was all she said before running past him.
They saw Ichigo was back in his armour and was returning to white. He fell to his knees dropping his swords, he held his hands stained with blood up to his face "what have I done?" he asked himself horrified.
He then heard many voices shouting outside. He picked up his swords and ran out. The others followed him outside to see a group of Captains standing before him.
"Once a criminal, always a criminal" came Soi Fong's voice.
"Seize and kill him" said the head -captains.
The soul reapers attacked. Again the scene darkened just as Ichigo's armour went black. When it cleared they were following Ichigo as he was running through the Seireitei flash stepping from rooftop to rooftop. There was wet blood on his swords.
"What the hell is happening" he yelled out in lost voice.
Hearing it made Yoruichi's heart clench. She wished she could just jump in and grab him to tell him everything was ok.
All of a sudden Aizen's voice spoke.
Someday Ichigo, They will fear you and turn on you
That was what he had said when he had captured him the first time.
Ichigo stopped at a roof top to catch his breath, "no he can't be right. What the hell is going on" he said in frustration.
"No traitor he was right. You are the monster he and others have claimed we would someday see you as. Now you shall be put to death" came the voice of Byakuya Kuchiki.
Ichigo turned just in time to counter an attack.
"Byakuya you have to listen to me something is not right here" he said
"You are correct, I am going to correct a grave mistake" he said raising his sword and charging.
The others saw Ichigo's eyes widen in fear as he raised his swords defensively.
The whole area went dark. When it cleared they saw themselves somewhere new.
This place seemed to go on forever. They were standing on the side of tall skyscraper building. Looking to their left they could see clouds moving down, to their right was what should be the ground. Looking around they saw more buildings like the one they stood on. It was also pouring rain
"What is this place?" Byakuya asked.
"Ichigo's inner world" a deep voice said behind them.
They all turned to see Zangetsu. He was standing on the tip on a flag pole, his cape fluttering in the wind. He was staring at all of them like he'd been expecting them. When his gaze fell on Ken'ichi Zangetsu the sword appeared in his hand.
"Why have you brought the intruder with you?" he asked.
"Were gonna tear him to pieces for screwing things up around here" came another voice, this one sounded like Ichigo but with a stronger hollow echo. Ichigo's inner hollow appeared suddenly next to Zangetsu holding his version of the sword.
"This time I'm here to undo the damage I started" Ken'ichi said.
The hollow sneered, and Zangetsu lowered his blade, "I see, we only stay our hands for the sake of Ichigo" he said.
"Where is he" Yoruichi said looking around. She was desperate to find him now after seeing the horrible thing he had to go through.
"Follow us" Zangetsu said. He them appeared to float down from his post and landed near them. He touched his hand to a glass window and a hole appeared. He and the hollow jumped through. The others were not sure what to expect but knew they acted out of Ichigo's best interest, they nodded and all jumped through.
Ichigo, the real Ichigo, opened his eyes to a cold darkness. He had fallen here ever since that horrible night in the Seireitei, at first he wondered what this place was. He tried to get out but no matter what he did, walk, run, or shout for help he was still in this place.
He didn't even know how long he had been here. A minute, day, week, year, he couldn't say. When he slept he was plagued with visions of what he heard and saw. Recently others dreams began to invade and that made him question what was going on. He tried to ask Zangetsu or his hollow about what he was seeing, but he couldn't enter his inner world. That was something that had been eating at him for a long time now. He had never had trouble doing that before, even when he had been under the influence of his hollow he felt the presence of his inner worlds, now nothing. He felt truly alone without Zangetsu here, hell he even missed the hollow.
"Where the hell am I? Is this real, was what happened real" he mumbled in the dark.
Sighing he closed his eyes but not to sleep. He pictured the one thing that helped him stay calm in his dark hell. He pictured those golden eyes, the purple hair, and the lovely dark skin. Even here she had a calming effect that helped until he fell asleep and had more weird dreams.
Yoruichi and the others emerged from the hole on what looked like the same place as before. However this sideways world was much more ominous, it was dark and the buildings looked in poor condition. The sky here was blackish green and no clouds could be seen.
"What a dump" Ken'ichi said looking around.
"This dump happens to be where I hand out wise ass" the hollow said standing next to Zangetsu a few feet to the left of them.
"This is the lower part of Ichigo's mind and soul, here the hollow resides. This is also where his sub consciousness is located.
They all nodded. To dumb it down further would be to say this was the lower part of Ichigo's mind.
"Where is Ichigo?" Yoruichi asked.
"Over there" the Hollow said pointing behind them
They all looked back to see a gigantic wall of black flames. They looked a lot like Ichigo's spirit energy when it became visible.
"That looks pleasant" Ken'ichi said with a surprised look on his face.
"Ichigo is contained within. When the intruder broke his mind and erected the illusion he fell here and is now caged. Neither I nor the hollow are able to pass through and reach him. You can still feel the emotions that leak through that fuel the blank personality. When in battle we noted strong anger and rage, when not in battle there was sorrow and despair." he said explaining what he and the Hollow had observed while trying to break through.
Walking closer to the flame like wall, they found it was cold the closer they got, they could feel a sense of negative emotions passing through, sorrow, and a sense of being lost.
Yoruichi was certain she also could feel what ever it was that had made Ichigo act protectively around her. It was weaker but still there.
"So can we get in?" she asked.
Ken'ichi nodded "yes, those two can't since they are linked to my brother. We can get through and reach him. Once he's ready I can dismantle this thing and he can retake control. Like I said if I do it now the resulting shock could be disastrous" he reminded them making sure they knew what to do.
Byakuya and Yoruichi nodded. Then after a deep breath Ken'ichi walked into the flames and disappeared from sight. Byakuya and Yoruichi went in right behind him.
Ichigo opened his eyes. He sensed something was different. He was immediately on alert because he could tell this wasn't a dream where he saw what had happened back in the Seireitei. Whatever it was it would be a damn welcome thing compared to this nothing he was in.
At first he saw nothing since it was still dark. He could hear them though. The sound of footsteps. From the pattern he guessed two or three of them. Ichigo was now worried, he didn't have Zangetsu and he couldn't use any of the Kido he had learned or even Shunko to boost hand to hand combat.
He was about ready to shout and find out who they where when he heard their voices. One he didn't recognize, but the other two made him gasp.
At first when the three of them walked in they couldn't see a thing. Then Byakuya used a Kido to release a strong light. They could see about 5-10 feet around them.
They then heard the sound of someone moving. The rustle of clothing.
"Ichigo?" Yoruichi called out.
At first no one said a word. Then.
"Yoruichi? Is that you?" they heard a familiar voice asked. They saw someone walk just barely into the light.
Yoruichi gave a happy cry then ran to where she could see his outline with her arms raised. However she passed right through him. She heard him let out a sigh of frustration.
Ken'ichi then stepped forward "were not really here remember" he said.
Ichigo turned at the sound of his voice "so I wasn't going crazy you are alive still" he said in a tired voice.
The three of them seemed surprised by his words.
"Ichigo how did you know" Byakuya said surprised.
Ichigo looked at him. Regret and sadness in his eyes "Byakuya I'm so glad to see you alive. When I came too after blacking out I thought I had killed you" he said.
Byakuya seemed shocked by his words. Then he remembered the last scene they had seen during the illusion, "it is good to see you as well my friend" he said not sure how to begin explaining things to him.
"Brother this may seem like a shock to you but that wasn't real" Ken'ichi said in a surprisingly gentle tone.
Ichigo turned to look at him, realization seem to dawn on his face and he looked like he was thinking hard "so it was an illusion. It makes sense now, why I can't enter my inner world and why I'm having weird dreams" he mumbled just loud enough for them to hear.
Yoruichi stood next to him now, he was more into the light and he heart broke at the sight of his face. He looked completely exhausted mentally, as well as physically, there was an almost haunted shade over his eyes. Even the sight of them only lit a small spark of hope in them. She wanted nothing more for him to be in her arms, and to feel his arms around her.
Ken'ichi then resumed speaking "yes brother you've been under a special kind of illusion. It was Aizen's plan to make you his pawn, when we last fought I snuck a part of my soul and mind into you to lay the foundation for that. Those dreams and weird surges of anger were glimpses of it. That night you charged Aizen was when you were trapped and your mind was broken. Nothing you saw was real" he explained.
Ichigo looked at him with an unreadable expression, "I guess a part of me knew the whole time but I couldn't get out no matter how hard I tried. When I couldn't even talk to Zangetsu it made me doubt whether it was real or if I lost my mind" he said in a low tone. There was something in his words that made Yoruichi look at him intently.
Then she saw it.
"Ichigo, it wasn't you" she said.
At first Byakuya and Ken'ichi seemed confused. Then they realized she meant his blackouts he must have thought going into his berserker state also made him dangerous.
"We saw it too Aizen made those blanks when you made your armour go black, he wanted you to think it was like your hollow took control" she said.
At her words Ichigo looked up "how do you know about that?" he asked.
"Brother you said you had weird dreams what were they?" Ken'ichi asked going fishing with something.
"I saw myself like some kind of Zombie doing what Aizen wanted. I was nothing more then an animal he set loose. Then I saw you and that girl, Nel was her name taking me away from Las Noches" he said.
Ken'ichi nodded "I was right the Illusions wasn't strong enough you still had a connection to reality. Those dreams were glimpses of when the personality Aizen created was weak enough for you to get close to the surface" he said.
"Yes he's right Ichigo. Right now you are lying in the recovery wing of the 4th squad barracks. We have come to help you retake control on your body from this illusion" Byakuya said with a slight smile to show his trust.
Ichigo was listening but something was still eating away at him
"Even when you had your black armour you still fought like you always do Ichigo. You even protected me" she said.
At this Ichigo seemed to wake up from his thoughts. He looked for a long time at his goddess.
"I did make a promise didn't I?" he asked simply.
Yoruichi felt joyful tears well up as she nodded.
Ichigo then turned to Ken'ichi. "I'm sure there's a lot you have to tell me but for now smash this thing I want to wake up" he said sounding like the real him.
Ken'ichi grinned "well said brothe" When I break this you will be reunited with Zangetsu and your inner hollow they will help you removed the blank personality in your way and then you will be back to normal" he said.
Ichigo nodded.
Ken'ichi then turned to the others "I am about to begin. The second it's down I'm gonna break this connection and you two will wake up as well" he said.
Without waiting for a response Ken'ichi turned and both his hands began to glow, he was muttering something but to low for them to hear.
The glow began to get stronger and was extending around them. They head a cracking sound like glass shattering and then the blackness was gone.
Yoruichi, Byakuya, and Ken'ichi then all jolted as they all opened their eyes. They found themselves standing in the same spots as what seemed like a few minutes ago.
"About time you all woke up" said an annoyed voice from behind them.
They all turned to see Toshiro walking into the room "we've got big trouble. Several Garganta's opened at least three confirmed espada, as well as a dozen Arrancar's with them. You've been out for almost an hour now, I just came back to wake you all up because we need more assistance" he said.
He then looked down at Ichigo still lying in bed "well how did it go" he asked his tone getting gentler.
Ichigo then groaned and stirred as he sat up, his eyes opening slowly.
Yoruichi turned in a flash "Ichigo?" she asked.
Ichigo looked at her and smiled. Yoruichi gave a cry of joy and wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Ichigo" she said again unable to find the right words.
"Yoruichi I missed you" he said in his voice, his real voice.
Yoruichi gave a happy sob "I did too" she whispered into his ear.
Ichigo felt tears in his own eyes "I'll never leave you again I swear it" he said.
Yoruichi did not say anything just hugged him harder. Were it not for the others in the room she would have jumped him.
Just then a small squeal erupted. Looking down they saw Nel was crushed between them. Yoruichi moved back a bit so she could get free.
"Hey I can't hold my breath forever you know. Itsygo I'm so happy to see the real you" Nel cried as she hugged Ichigo's shoulder.
At first he took a moment to recall "Nel?" he said
The odd child espada nodded "yep that's me Nel" she said smiling innocently at him
"Ichigo I'm sorry to break this up, but were in trouble we got a lot of enemies in our midst" Toshiro said
Ichigo stood up, and angry look on his face, "I understand, I'm ready" he said sounding just like his old self after a matter of minutes.
Yoruichi took his hand "are you ok Ichigo?" she asked.
He turned and gave her a warm smile that she had missed, along with the love she saw in his eyes.
"Don't worry Yoruichi, I promised I would never leave you. Besides I've got something very important to ask you once we get ride of these damn bugs" he said.
Yoruichi gasped and blushed slightly. She then nodded "Right I'm right behind you Captain" she said.
Ichigo smiled again before nodding to Byakuya, Toshiro, and Even Ken'ichi.
"It's time for a little payback" he said.
A/N: ah nothing I hate more then writers block. Especially when I know what I wanna write down but the flow ain't right. Anyway hoped you enjoyed that. I repeat, there will be no more Aizen kidnap, if at any point Ichigo goes back to Hueco Mundo It's to bring the fight to the enemy. I hope you all liked my little illusion thing that Ichigo was under I personally thought it was a tad weak but I couldn't really work more into it. I look forward to your Reviews on this chapter. Enjoy an Stay Tuned! : ).