Chapter 28
Consciousness was slowly coming back to Ichigo. After a night of drinking with his friends….well, he kind of missed the last few hours, so that's why he wasn't aware of where he was. He felt that something was wrapped around him. He realized that they were bodies.
'Kami, please don't let it be Ikkaku, Renji or Yumichika!' He was afraid to open his eyes, but he was even more afraid to spend even a moment longer in their manly embrace. His eyes snapped open, and….relief even couldn't describe how he was feeling.
Tia was sleeping soundly on his left side, while Yoruichi was on his right. Both of them were snuggling into his arms, resting their heads on his chest.
They were in his bed, in his chambers. The place, like all the building, was made of black marble with white veins. The bed was a king size, so three people could sleep there without any problems. The bed was placed in the middle of the room, with a large wardrobe behind it, and small desk on the left. On the right was the entry to the room, and opposite to the bed were doors to the bath room.
The edges of his mouth rose a bit, when he looked at their sleeping faces partly covered by their hair. He pulled them closer, which was what lead him to his second discovery. He and Tia were almost naked, being only in their undergarments, while Yoruichi was naked, since she never bothered with such minor details as underwear.
To add to the spice, her legs were wrapped around his right thigh. Ichigo could feel her warm womanhood pressed tightly against it. So by chain reaction his little Zanpakuto went Bankai instantly.
Ichigo started to gently untangle himself from his girlfriends. Not that he didn't like their embrace and warmth, but he knew that he had too much work to do, and had to speak with Tessai about certain voices…
He managed to sneak out of the bed without waking them up. He stifled a laugh when he saw their discontent expressions.
'Looks like the sudden disappearance of their warmth source was not welcomed.' He thought idly. He went to the bathroom and splashed some cold water on his face, so he could at least look awake. He quietly went to his wardrobe and took his clothes. He walked to the doors.
Ichigo spared one last glance at his sleeping girlfriends, and saw that in the meantime they both snuggled together.
'Damn…' Ichigo turned away, the temptation to go back was too strong. He left his room and went to the canteen. He noticed that it was almost empty, so that indicated that it was late. He went for his breakfast and ate it quickly. After that he went to his office. As soon as he entered the corridor leading to his office he saw someone was waiting for him.
It was Shiro Kuni.
"Commander may I speak with you?" He asked.
"Sure, come in." Ichigo replied, and motioned him to enter the office. Hachi would usually be here already, but since Tia was promoted he moved to the library. Ichigo went to his desk and sat. "Take a sit..ehm.."
"Shiro Kuni." The man replied and sat.
"So Kuni-san what did you want to speak about?" Ichigo asked. He saw Shiro brace himself.
"Permission to speak freely?" Ichigo nodded. "I wanted to speak about the Arrancar." He said sternly. Ichigo sighed mentally. He was aware that it would cause dissent, but not that soon.
"Go on." He said.
"Commander, to be frank I don't care what your personal relationship with her is, but bringing her to the division and giving her the Vice-Commander rank is not right. Not to mention, it's practically nepotism and it wasn't taken well by some of my colleagues, and then there's the fact that she's a Hollow…."
"Not anymore." Ichigo interrupted him.
"What?! It's impossible!" Shiro exclaimed.
"One of the requirements for Vice-Commander is Shikai, and she possess that. Not to mention, her powers are balanced now. Exactly 50/50 for both Shinigami and Hollow." He stated. "So now she's neither Shinigami nor Arrancar, but something in between.
Shiro looked at him incredulously.
"It's hard to believe, but if you say so Commander I will believe it. But my point still stands, people will see her as a Hollow, and it will bring down our division's reputation. That's not even mentioning the rumors about…"
"They already told you it was a joke!" Ichigo yelled flushed. He hadn't missed the mirth in Shiro's eyes.
"Maybe, but what about the rest of S.S.? The Seretei Communication is very popular, and most of the G14 are still convinced that you are…well…have a unique style…but regardless, that's not the point. Because of that they will see her as nothing more than your sex toy."
"Is it really that bad?" Ichigo asked dejected. It looked like he and Tia had a massive challenge ahead of them.
"Commander, the fact that she was the 3rd Espada indicates that she is strong, but I doubt that she has any skills in Kido."
"She is able to perform it." Ichigo defended her.
"Being able to perform it is not enough to be the Vice-Commander here." He replied.
"Hachi and I will personally teach her. She will close the gap in no time." Ichigo told him.
"Commander, you still don't understand." He shook his head. "It's not about what we thinks about her, or even the rest of the G14, but it's about what C46 thinks. And for them she's nothing but a Hollow. They will as always try to do something like exile her or execute her. Which by default will cause your betrayal, for you aren't the type to sit idly by. Am I right?"
Ichigo nodded.
"You want to know what had happened last time when we lost our Commander and Vice-commander?" Shiro asked.
"Yes."
"So as you know 110 years ago…."
Flashback - 110 Years Ago Kido Corps HQ
"What the hell is going on!" A random Shinigami yelled. The whole HQ was surrounded by Squads 2 and 12, and they refused to let anyone out. There had been rumors about a Hollowfication experiment, and usage of forbidden Kido. Commander Tessai was arrested, but someone managed to spring him out, and now his whereabouts were unknown. As for Vice-Commander Hachigen, he was said to be a victim of the aforementioned experiments, and was sentenced to death.
And now all that chaos and dissent was thrown on 3rd Seat Shiro Kuni's shoulders.
"Everyone just shut up!" He boomed, silencing everyone in common room. All members of the Division were currently there waiting for some news. "I'm as confused as you, but panicking won't solve anything!"
"But we heard that our Commander was exiled, and Vice-Commander executed! Why the hell did C46 do that!" An outraged Shinigami yelled, followed by a choir of approval.
"I've just heard some rumors, nothings certain, but we need to say calm. We don't want to escalate things…" He wanted to add more, but a messenger came into the room.
"All members of the Kido Corps Division are to walk outside, C.C. orders." He announced, and left a crowd of dumbfounded Shinigami behind.
"All right you heard him." Shiro said. They left the building, and walked to the small square in front of HQ. They saw members of the 2nd and 12th Division lined up behind the C.C.
"To all members of the Kido Corps Divison." The C.C started. "From this day onwards your Squad is disbanded, and you will have to give up your Soul Slayers. You will be re-appointed to your new Divisions, and then you will get back your swords." He finished.
Immediately after he finished outraged cries erupted from the crowd of Kido Masters.
"C.C.-sama please tell us why are you disbanding our Division?" One of them pleaded, followed by others. Some of more the more courageous/stupid started to openly undermine the competence of the C.C.. Shiro sensing an oncoming catastrophe decided to interfere.
"Everyone shut the hell up!" He roared, silencing his comrades. "The orders were given…" His jaw clenched tightly. "…give in your swords." Like a balloon out of air his shoulders slumped. He walked to a random member of the 2nd Division, and handed over his sword. Begrudgingly his comrades started to follow him…
Flashback End
Present
"…and after that we were treated like common criminals, and humiliated like never before. Some of my close friends ended up in the Maggot's Nest, because they were fed up with their treatment and decided to go AWOL." He sighed. "That's why I don't want to go through something like that again, because of your selfishness Commander." He finished.
Ichigo pondered over his words. He could see that Shiro loved his Division, and wanted only what's best for it. He couldn't even imagine what he went through during the early times after the disbanding of the Division.
"I understand, and I will do everything in my power to prevent that from happening, but she's staying and that's final. Look I'm not keeping her here because of my whims, but because I didn't have choice. I had planned that position for someone else, however the circumstances changed drastically. And this was the only way for her to avoid prison or execution. The S.S. wouldn't let her roam free, and I won't allow anything to harm her." He said.
Shiro sighed.
"It looks like we both have our mindsets and we won't change them. When I came here I knew that I wouldn't change your mind…but I was expecting a green-horned brat, that just acted on his whims. Instead I found a man pressed to the wall. I can understand that you love her…but you also have your responsibilities to your men…Commander does my permission to speak freely still stand?" He asked.
"Yes." Ichigo replied.
"Then I want only to say….that I will do everything in my power to kill you if you force our comrades to go through the same shit again, just because of your selfishness. That's a promise." He looked so fiercely into Ichigo's eyes, that the latter had to use all his will power to not turn his eyes away.
"Noted." Ichigo replied. Shiro heard the dismissal in his tone and stood up. He went to the doors, but Ichigo wasn't finished. "Can I ask you for a favor?"
"You don't have you ask, just order me." He replied.
"No, I want to ask you." Ichigo stood and bowed. "Please don't turn her life into hell here. She's been through enough already." He said, shocking Shiro. It wasn't often that Commander's bowed to him. "Just give her a chance, you won't regret it."
Shiro looked at him with a calculating gaze. A faint smile appeared on his lips.
"Heh, an Arrancar as the Vice-Commander that's new." He opened the door, revealing a surprised Tia. He gave her an almost invincible smile. "Good day to you Vice-Commander." He passed her and left.
"Hey sleeping beauty what's up?" Ichigo smiled, but his smile fell at Tia's depressed expression. "How much did you hear?"
"Enough to know that my presence here will cause many problems." She muttered. Ichigo walked to her and hugged her. "You know? I really hate it…you always have so many pro…" He silenced her with deep kiss.
"And your worth every single one of them." He trailed his finger along her thunder-like tattoos. "Stop moping around. and make me even more proud."
"I will." She smiled at him.
"That's my girl. Now go and fill out all those documents." He pointed at her desk littered with papers. Her smile fell instantly.
"You set me up!" She accused.
"Me? Never." He laughed wholeheartedly at her expression. "And since we're speaking about problems, were is Yoruichi?" He asked.
"Well after we woke up she said that she had some things to do, and will be back in few days." She told him.
"She could at least of came and said goodbye." Ichigo pouted. Tia smirked and kissed him again.
"She said to say goodbye that way…and do some other things, but…" She blushed slightly. "...well we're in your office.." She said.
"You know that there is a lock on the door?" Ichigo smirked at her blush, and hugged her. He started to kiss her throat slowly trailing down.
"Ichigo…someone might see." She playfully pushed him away. "Head in the game Ichigo." She remained him, and walked to her desk.
"Why do I have such dutiful girlfriend?" He walked to his desk with a sigh. They spent some time on filling paperwork, mostly Ichigo instructing Tia on how to fill them. Before they knew it was already late afternoon.
"Ok Tia I need you to get those documents to the 1st Squad Office. You know the way right?" He asked.
"I do but…" She hesitated. "What should I do if I meet some, dissatisfied, Shinigami on my way?"
"Tia, there are about fifteen people in the whole S.S. who could hurt you, including me and Yoruichi, and you know we would never do it. So it's down to thirteen. You have all rights to self-defense, but don't go overboard." He smiled warmly.
"Ok see ya later." She said and walked out carrying a pile of documents. When she walked out Ichigo pulled out his mobile and dialed Urahara's number.
"Hello Ichigo, how can I help you?" He asked.
"Well I would like to speak with Tessai." Ichigo said.
"About?" He asked curiously.
"You know, stuff." Ichigo smiled with malice. He loved teasing old Hat n Clogs. Predictably he heard a whine, but nevertheless Urahara handed his phone to Tessai.
"Hello Ichigo-dono, how can I help you?" He asked.
"Tessai-san I heard those voices again." Ichigo stated. "But not just one. Several different ones, and...those things did something to the room…it suddenly got darker.."
"Ichigo-dono come to meet me as soon as possible." Tessai's voice hardened. "Drop everything and come here." He hung up the phone. Tessai's tone positively freaked Ichigo out. The only time he heard him that serious was when he told him the Legend of the Soul King.
He immediately headed to the library to find Hachi.
"Hachi!" He shouted, his voice carrying through the large room. "I need to speak with you!" The pink haired giant Shunpo'ed next to him.
"You called?" He asked.
"Yes, I have an urgent matter in the H.W., so I will be absent for some time. Listen I want you to take care of Tia in my absence. Show her how everything's done here. I just managed to show her basics. In case of some serious problems call me."
"Understood. Now don't let me stop you any longer." Ichigo nodded, and went out of the building to open a Garganta directly to Urahara's shop.
Somewhere in West Rukongai, District 9
Shin waited impatiently for his aunt to arrive. He had some news for her that she absolutely needed to her. He was currently hiding in a back alley in District Nine. His face was covered by a mask commonly used in the 2nd Divison.
"BOO!" Yoruichi yelled, startling him.
"KYAAAA!" He let out a girlish scream, and fell on his butt. "Kami, you almost gave me a heart attack!"
"HAHA, sorry Shin-bo, but I couldn't resist. Now tell me what info you managed to scramble together?" She asked growing serious.
"There was an assassination attempt on Yamazaki and Han." He stated. "They both survived. Albeit Yamazaki was wounded, but he killed all assassins. The assassins came from Fon family."
Yoruichi gasped.
"Who ordered them?" She asked.
"No one knows. There are rumors that it was Yamazaki himself. He increased the number of guards in the mansion, so he can...'protect us', but in reality he probably wanted to keep tabs on all of us."
"That's definitely not good, he's planning something." Yoruichi furrowed her eyebrows. 'What the hell are you planning you bastard?'
"We must be cautious aunty. Yamazaki may be many things, but not a fool." Shin said. "I will try to gather some more info, till then." He hugged her briefly and left. Yoruichi followed him with her eyes.
'Kids grow so fast these days.' She smirked, and thought about Ichigo. 'Oh yeah, very fast.' Her smirk grew even larger. 'Ok now it's time to visit my little bee.'
2ndSquad HQ, SoiFon's Office.
SoiFon was still sulking in her office after Zaraki's defeat. Her plans failed miserably the moment when Zaraki announced that he would vote for Tia.
'He's probably still fucking that whore, and doing god knows what to Yoruichi-sama.' She felt even more depressed after reading the newest Seireitei Communication magazine, which exposed his sick nature.
SoiFon imagined her beloved Yoruichi tied up and whipped mercilessly by that scum of a man Kurosaki, who was laughing at her humiliation. She could already see the angry wounds on Yoruichi's soft, tender skin. She could see the tears in her beautiful cat-like eyes. She could hear her pleas for mercy…
Once she gather enough evidence against him she will free Yoruichi form his sadistic clutches. And when Yoruichi was in SoiFon's care, she will tend to her every wound even the smallest ones. She will kiss that tender brown skin, easing the pain and slowly moving to Yoruichi's soft lips…
"Yo SoiFon, stop daydreaming." Yoruichi said. SoiFon jumped from her chair, blushing madly. The object of her recent fantasies stood in front of her smiling. "What's up?"
"N-Nothing Yoruichi-sama, just thinking." She stutter, embarrassed by her indecent thoughts. "How are you Yoruichi-sama, is everything fine?" She asked worried.
"Yes, why do you ask?" Yoruichi smirked, she had a suspicion.
"Is he really doing all that that was wrote in the magazine?!" She exclaimed. Yoruichi had the urge to play the victim of a sadistic master, but she knew that SoiFon might do something rash then. She knew that she should mend the relationship between her and Ichigo somehow.
"No it's not true. Ichigo is not like that, and will never be." She stated. "It's just bunch of crap."
SoiFon felt disappointment at that. She wished that those rumors were true…
"Good, I was worried that him and his whore…" She stared.
"SoiFon!" Youichi nagged her. "Give it a rest already." She sighed. "Listen we will have that talk, but not now. Are you aware that members of your family tried to assassinate Yamazaki and his son?"
"And that's bad because?" She never liked Yoruichi's brother, maybe it were all those unpleasant stares he gave Yoruichi.
"I want to know who pulled the strings behind it." She replied. "For obvious reasons I can't just go there and ask, so I need your help."
"Of course Yoruichi-sama I'm at your disposal." She smirked inwardly. It was time to show how much better she was than Kurosaki.
"Ok I knew I could count on you, but be careful. Yamazaki can't know that you're sniffing around." She replied..
"Don't worry Yoruichi-sama they won't see me coming." She smiled. Yoruichi patted her head, making her blush. SoiFon felt like it was the old times. When Yoruichi was Captain, and she was serving under her. All those moments when the two of them were together. Before that god damned Kurosaki, before the exile, before Urahara.
"That's my girl. Now I have to go do some investigation on my own." She flashed her a grin, and disappeared in a flash.
Seireitei, On the way to the 1stDivision HQ
Tia walked, carrying a pile of documents through the streets of the Seirertei. She wasn't in hurry, so she decided to do some sightseeing and went by foot instead of Sonido. Things had happened so fast in recent days that she really couldn't get a good look around, and now she had golden opportunity to see every thing.
So she enjoyed her walk, ignoring the stares and whisperers. To her it was a natural occurrence. People always seemed to be surprised by her presence, like she was some sort of walking freak show.
'Come on Ti-chan they are just jealous of you.'Ningyo stated. 'Most of them would kill for your looks.'
'Even men?' She asked sarcastically.
'They would kill for a piece of that naughty ass of yours.'Tiburon said.
'My ass isn't naughty! It's perfectly normal!' She protested.
'Aww, Master would protest. He loves squeezing that thing.'She laughed.
'Stop calling him that.' Tia ordered, feeling a blush creep on her face. 'You know that it was a joke.'
'We all know that you would love some spanking, by his big hands.'Ningy purred.
'Stop saying things that aren't true!' She growled. 'If you don't have anything constructive to say then remain quiet!'
'She definitely need some spanking.'Tiburon summed their talk up. Tia huffed. She really was getting ticked off by their comments. It not like she was a pervert that was turned on by some sort of kinky stuff, like spanking or tying up, or gagging, or blindfolding…
'Where the hell those things came from!' She shook her head embarrassed. 'Those thoughts should be illegal!' She was so absorbed in her thoughts that she bumped into someone. She managed to keep the papers from falling all over the place.
"I'm sorry I didn't see…" She started.
"Oh look it's Kurosaki's whore." The man she bumped into stated. His five comrades laughed. "Looks like you have some other uses than being a sex toy eh?"
Tia narrowed her eyes.
"I would appreciate if you refrained yourself from such comments in future." She stated calmly. She knew better than to get provoked by such things.
"What? You think that if you got your position by sucking his dick it allows you to give us orders?" He growled. "Know your place you dirty Hollow." He spat.
"Now, now don't be like that." His other comrade said. "I'm sure she's sorry for what she has done, and eager to make it up to us." He licked his lips indicating what making it up meant. Tia felt rage started to burn inside her. "It would be a real waste if you got into trouble on your first day here, proving that Arrancars can't be trusted. Oh I can almost see how fast they would dismiss Kurosaki from his position for such a folly." His words petrified her.
'He's right...oh well it seems that I need to move via Sonido from now on.' She sighed, and the day started so nice.
The Shinigami incorrectly interpreted her sigh as a sign of submission, and started to reach for her. Just when Tia was about to Sonido away, out of nowhere another hand appeared and grabbed the Shinigami's arm.
"Mind telling me what you are doing to our Vice-Commander?" Hashiro asked with a scowl.
"None of your business, now scram." He growled, trying to pry his arm free from his grip. Seeing that it hadn't made any difference, he threw his fist at him. Hashiro caught his hand, and in one swift motion broke his wrist. The man yelled in pain, but was silenced when Hashiro's foot connected with his face, throwing him backwards on his comrades.
"You little shit you will pay for that!" One of them yelled, and they pulled their swords. Hashiro was about to reach for his when…
"Enough!" Tia ordered harshly, she put the documents neatly on the ground. "You will get out of here now." She ordered.
"Or what!"
Tia just put her index finger into the hole in her sword hilt and drew it rapidly, making it spin in a windmill fashion. Just before it fell to the ground she caught it. She smirked inwardly seeing that the Shinigami, including Hashiro paled.
"Scram." She whispered menacingly, with an Ichigo-like scowl. It worked like a charm. In matter of seconds they ran like their lives depended on it….well it probably did.
Tia felt a little bit of satisfaction at their frighten expressions. She dropped her scowl, and turned to still a bit pale Hashiro. He already put on his mask of indifference again.
"Thank you for your help Hashiro-san, but I was about to use Sonido to avoid conflict." She said.
"Vice-Commander it's unbecoming that you have to run in case of any problems. Especially caused by those with a lower rank. I surely won't allow that to happen, and I believe that most of our Division have the same opinion." He said calmly.
"So you have no problems with me being an Arrancar?" She asked.
"No. As long as you don't harm anyone from the Division you're fine in my book." He replied. Tia smiled warmly at him, seeing that it caused him to blush slightly.
"Thanks you Hashiro-san, those words meant a lot to me." She walked to the pile of papers. "I have to go now to deliver these."
"Then allow me to accompany you Vice-Commander." He stated. "It would prevent such accidents."
"I don't want to interrupt your work." She replied.
"I just finished, and was about to go back when I saw those thugs bothering you." He said.
"If so then let's go." She replied with a smile. Her smile grew even more when he offered to carry the papers for her.
Human World, Underground Training Facility
Ichigo jumped out of the Garganta, and landed on the rocky terrain. He looked around, and saw Tessai sitting on a rock, deep in thought. He walked up to him.
"Hey Tessai" He greeted him. "I came asap."
"Good Ichigo–dono, we really need to speak." His face grew serious. "First question, are you sure that you have heard multiple voices, not just one?" He asked.
"I'm certain. One was clearly female and others were male." He said.
Tessai sighed.
"Then we have even less time than I anticipated…" He rubbed his chin.
"Is that about that test?" Ichigo inquired.
"Yes, the fact that you can already hear several of those voices, means that you are ready to take it." He stated. "While your knowledge about seals is lacking a bit, I think you will manage…" He paused, his face visibly saddened.
"Tessai? What's wrong?" He asked.
"Ichigo…You will take this test in week from now…I can't reveal what the test is…but it will be the worst experience in your life…So spend your time with the ones you love, and enjoy their company…You will need as many positive feelings as possible." He said ominously.
Ichigo gulped, looking into his eyes. He felt dread when he saw the haunted look in them.
"Is it really that bad?" He choked.
"More than you can imagine." The older man whispered. "Now let's see how much you have learned up till now." He stood. "Try to place a seal on me." Ichigo placed his hand on his arm and concentrated. He did the whole procedure, and applied the seal only to see it fail miserably. "Again." He did so, and put more Reiatsu in it, this time he succeeded. "Good, I see that you're fond of gravity seals. Like I told you, you have to gauge opponents strength before you put a seal on them. Aside from the basic set I've shown you, there are numerous ways to use seals. It's only limited by your imagination and skill." He jumped back. "Now let's test how well you can do it in combat."
"Fine." Ichigo grabbed his sword. "Ready?" Tessai nodded.
Both warriors jumped at each other. Ichigo slashed horizontally, hoping to gain an advantage, but Tessai ducked, surprising the young Commander with his speed. Using the momentum he rammed his knee into Ichigo's solar plexus. Ichigo gasped for air, but Tessai wasn't finished. He grabbed his wrists and threw him into the air in one swift motion.
'Damn he's so fast!' Ichigo regained his footing. "Hado no 54: Haien!" He shot a ball of purple energy at Tessai. He ducked it with ease, but it was all part Ichigo's plan. "Getsuga Tensho!" Ichigo fired his trade marked attack at him.
"Bakudō no 39: Enkōsen." A yellow shield appeared in front of Tessai, and blocked the strike. "Bakudō no 63: Sajō Sabaku!" He yelled and a chain shot at Ichigo with incredible speed. He jumped back, but was surprised to see Tessai behind him. What surprised him more was that he slapped both of his thighs. Ichigo jumped forward, making some distance, trying to understand the meaning of his action. He paled a little when he saw Tessai's grin. The latter snapped his fingers….And in that second Ichigo's body went crazy. One hand suddenly felt lighter and other heavier, the same was happening with his legs. Not to mention, that his hands were now glued together, and he was unable to free them.
"When facing a true Kido Master be wary when he or she touches you. Each time you were hit I placed a seal on you, messing your coordination, and cutting your Reiatsu flow. That's why most of Kido users decide to abandon their Zanpakuto, usually it gets in your way. That and dramatically increases their body's capacity, such as speed and stamina. The speed you saw now wasn't even my basic one." He said.
"What?!" Ichigo exclaimed, finally managing to break off all seals. "You were almost as fast as me in Bankai!"
"Glad to hear it. I have placed many gravity seals on myself so I can constantly train. I believe that now I'm moving under six times stronger gravity than you." He smirked.
"Hell, I really don't want to piss you off." Ichigo admitted. "You would level me to the ground in no time."
"Nah, I guess if we were fighting seriously, and going all out, you would give me a run for money...and if I was having a bad day, beat me. You lost this time because I managed to surprise you hehe. I still have some tricks up my sleeve, but you're getting better. Now get ready for round two!"
Soul Society
After leaving the papers in the office, Tia and Hashiro went to back to the HQ. Luckily they were undisturbed. On their way Tia asked various questions about the inner workings of the Division, as well as her comrades. She was relieved to here that most members of her Division weren't prejudiced against her. Only a small group was dissatisfied because of that. Tia wasn't complaining, after all everyone could hate her, so she was rather luckily that most people there were open minded. But still, she had a lot of work to do to prove herself worthy of her position.
They came back to the HQ and parted. Tia went to the office since she still had some paperwork to fill out. And that was how she spent her next two hours. In the meantime Hachi came, and informed her that Ichigo went to the H.W., and will be absent for some time. So the Division was left in her care.
She groaned when she heard the news. Luckily Hachi reassured her that he will help out. She really understood now why Ichigo hated paperwork so much. It was endless.
'Please anyone save me!' She whined. As if on cue she heard a knock. "Come in." To her surprise Toshiro entered the room.
"Hello Halibel–san, how's your day going?" He asked.
"Fine, thanks. I have to say that I'm surprised to see you here." She said.
"Well I thought I should check how are you fairing." He replied.
"I'm positively surprised. I thought that I would have more problems with adjusting here." She told him.
Toshiro chuckled.
"From what I heard the Kido Division always had specific kinds of members. 110 years ago they were almost autonomic, and I guess they are little more lenient than the rest of the S.S., sadly my squad included."
"Really?" She asked with a sigh.
"Yes, there were some very rude gossips about you and Ichigo. The last article in Seireitei Communication hadn't helped." He hung his head, ashamed for his men.
"I see…guess I just have to prove to everyone that I'm not here solely for Ichigo's pleasure." She smirked. Toshiro blushed at her comment.
"Well I was thinking, and I may have found a solution to that problem." He stated.
"I'm all ears." She said curiously.
"After our last fight was interrupted, I was regretting that we hadn't finished it. When I saw you alive I was wondering if we could fight again sometime to see who is stronger…and now the perfect occasion presented itself. We can kill two birds with one stone."
"I see, but wouldn't it damage my reputation if I lose to you? I doubt that you sat idly this whole time." She stated.
"To lose to a Captain is no shame, and as far as I remember last time you managed to hold me and two Visored off. So I should be worrying about losing here not you." He smiled. "But even if you lose people will see your skills, and will at least be too afraid to bother you. Some might even start to respect you for that."
Tia rubbed her chin, it was a really good offer, and it might boost her reputation a bit.
"Ok I agree. So where we will be fighting?" She asked.
"At the arena." He replied.
"Do we have to do it there? There will be so many people…"
"They need to see your abilities, all of them." Toshiro said firmly. "Or the gossips will never end."
"Fine." She sighed. "When?"
"I will arrange everything, and send a message to you. See ya soon." He walked out of the room.
'What have I done?' She hung her head. 'Ichigo is just few hours away, and I'm already getting into fights'
'Don't sweat it. We will knock the brat out, and make everyone lick our feet!'Tiburon exclaimed.
'Nah, the only person who can lick us is Ichi-chan'Ningyo said.
'I dare you to start another perverted discussion.' Tia growled.
'Just think what he will do to us if we win the match. I'm sure he will be more than happy to…reward us.'Tiburon giggled.
'Or maybe punish us? Either way we will enjoy it.'She added.
'Zip it! Ok Ningyo listen, do you have some other attacks than Ningyo no Nageki?' Tia asked.
'No, at this level it's all that I can offer. You would have to achieve Bankai to access my full strength.'She replied. 'But you can make badass joint attacks with me and Tiburon.'
'How?' Tia inquired.
'When, for example, he's shooting ice at you and your repelling it with water forcing a stalemate. I can adjust the vibrations I create so it will shatter the ice at contact, making it easier for you to melt it.'She explained.
'But it only works whey you are both in Resurreccion and released Shikai.'Tiburon added.
'Duh, thanks Captain Obvious.'Ningyo added sarcastically
'What was that bitch?! You wanna have a piece of me?'Tiburon snapped.
'Not only a piece, I want the whole.'Ningyo licked her lips. Tia decided to mute them since nothing worth hearing would happen next.
'Kami, what do I have in my head'
Human World
Ichigo trained with Tessai for next few hours, trying to learn as much as he could. While proficient with Hado, Bakudo, and barriers to some extent, seals proved to be the toughest ones.
He managed to place few seals on Tessai, but as soon he did the older man instantly broke them. He explained that it was a force of habit. He instructed Ichigo on how to train his body at detecting any foreign seals.
He explained that it required absolute concentration and awareness of your body's condition. He advised him to go to Unohana, and ask her to train him in that. He would additionally gain the knowledge to estimate the damage his body received.
After that Ichigo bid farewell to him, and went to fetch his body. He went to the room where they usually rested. Entering his body he stretched, feeling all his joints pop back to their places. He was about to leave when he looked at Tia's body. He walked to it, and kneeled.
'Do it. You know she will never know.'Hichigo whispered
'Shut up pervert. I'm not the type to take advantage of something like this.' He replied. He just moved the stray strands from her forehead, and kissed it caressing her cheek lovingly. 'Besides she's the best as a whole package, not just shell.'
He left the shop, and walked toward his home.
'Tsk whatever. Anyways, mind telling me what the hell was with that, "kill me if he takes control" shit?'He asked.
'I told you, I won't let you hurt them, one way or another.' Ichigo replied.
'I told you I wouldn't hurt them, just play with them.'Hichigo shot back.
'And that's why I can't let you free…you don't see the difference between fun and tormenting. While I realize that you're not all evil, you also don't see the difference between good and bad…you're primal just like a wolf.' Ichigo told him. 'While you saved Orihime in Las Noches, you also almost killed Ishida'
'He deserved it for interrupting me!'He snapped.
'And what will you do to Tia or Yoruichi when they refuse you something?' He asked, successfully shutting him up. 'That's why I'm fighting with all my power to keep you at bay. I know that you wouldn't kill them, because after all you share my feelings for them. However you have a lot less restrictions than me…and I wouldn't ever forgive myself if you forced either of them to have sex with you…I know you could, but think of what it would have done to them…especially to Tia.'
'I told you I wouldn't do that to either of them.'He growled, but it sounded weakly.
'But what about rest of my friends? You never think of the consequences of your actions, and leave me with guilty consistence.' He accused.
'Hey! Now yer exaggerating!'He shouted.
'Then think what would've happened if you killed Tia the very first time we met.' Ichigo could almost see his Hollow flinch. 'When you were pinning her body to the ground, and was about to rip out her throat…Think how many wonderful things we would have missed because of your hunger.' Ichigo felt sadness wash over him. 'That's why I am so afraid to lose control.'
A response never came. Ichigo shrugged, and noticed that he was already at home. As soon as he crossed the doorstep, he was tackled by his sisters.
"Ichi-nii we we're so worried!" They shouted. "Is Tia-nee alright!?" Ichigo hugged his sisters.
"Everything is fine, she's safe." He stood. His dad standing behind them with a relieved look on his face.
"Thank God. You did it again, huh Ichigo?" He patted his shoulder.
"Yes dad, now I think that things are finally starting to look up. No more hiding." Ichigo smirked.
"Good, now tell me exactly what had happened. I've only got short version form Urahara." Ichigo told them what had happened since their night at the festival. Excluding some more gruesome parts of the fight for Karin and Yuzu's sake.
"And that's all. Now she my Vice-Commander, and that should give her some protection." Ichigo said.
"But Nii-san don't Shinigami hate her kind?" Yuzu asked.
"They do, and I'm not saying that her stay there will be easy, but at least she won't be executed." Ichigo said. "She's strong, she will handle things."
"But what if someone challenged her to a fight?" Karin asked.
"Tia is not that stupid. She wouldn't accept such a thing." Ichigo said with confidence, oblivious to the fact that a certain Arrancar lady just sneezed, sweeping all the documents from her desk.
"Then it's ok." Isshin said.
"Ok guys I gonna go now to meet with Inoue, Chado and Ishida, and then I will be absent for a week. Tia needs some time to adjust." He said.
"You won't stay for dinner?" Yuzu asked with her cute pout.
"I think a few more minutes here won't do me any bad." His siblings cheered, and Yuzu went to serve dinner. In the meantime Ichigo called his group and told them to meet him at the riverbank. The weather outside was nice, and it was a perfect spot for their meeting.
After he ate, he went to shower, and get some clean clothes since he was still in his kimono from the festival.
After that he went to the riverbank, and saw all his friends waiting for him.
"Hey guys." He greeted.
"I'm so glad that you're alright Kurosaki-kun." Inoue said with a warm smile.
"So now all problems with Tia-san have been solved?" Chado asked.
"Yes and no." Ichigo replied. "The S.S. won't execute her now, but she will have a tough time adjusting there. I guess because of my reputation in my Squad they will go easy on her, but the rest…"
"It was kind of obvious you know." Ishida said. "They see her as Hollow."
"I know, we have plenty work ahead of us to do." Ichigo smiled. "But it will get better, I know it."
"Well unless you do something stupid." Ishida deadpanned.
A vein popped on Ichigo's forehead.
"What did you say?" He growled.
"Come on don't argue, we should celebrate." Orihime said. "Let's go to the cinema." She proposed.
"Good idea. I'm in." Chado said.
"Me too." Ishida said.
"Hmm, I need to get back to the S.S., Tia will need my help with the Squad." He stated.
"She will manage. You know Hachi will help her, it's just few hours." Ishida said. "Ok days in S.S, but I believe that she will manage."
"And since when are you so friendly towards her? I recall that you were quite an asshole to her." Ichigo said.
"I admit that I judged her too quickly, and I apologized to her." He shot back.
"See, told ya not all Arrancars are bad, same for Shinigami….well most of them." He added, thinking about his two favorite Captains. "Anyways let's go."
Soul Society
As promised, Toshiro sent Hell Butterfly, informing her that the fight will take place in three days. Somehow, an hour after she received the message she already heard people gossiping about it. She ignored them, and focused on her work.
Over the next few days Hachi helped her as much as he could with paperwork, and even with Kido. She was now capable of casting spells up to 30 from both Hado and Bakudo.
But not all things were bright, some members of the Division were glaring at her with hostility. While it wasn't anything open, she could feel that she was not welcomed in certain circles.
Luckily, most members seemed indifferent to her, and some were even friendly. Especially the seated officers, but Tia suspected that it's rather because they felt that they owed Ichigo, not because they genuinely liked her.
'No matter. In time I will gain their respect.' She thought.
Soon it was the day of her fight. She marched out some time earlier, so she could prepare for the battle.
She had walked towards the arena, and saw that the stands were slowly filling up. Tia noticed the stares, and whispers as she went inside the building. The guard let her directly to the room connected to the arena stands. She saw a small bench and sat on it. Then she took deep breaths, calming herself down. Clearing her mind from all unnecessary thoughts .
When that was done she ran an analysis of their previous battle, thinking about a suitable strategy to fight with.
'He won't be able to use his Tensō Jūrin here, since the damage area is too wide, and he would destroy everything within ten miles. So he's limited to his basic attack, which I can conquer with Hirviendo. Not to mention I can break his ice with my sound, and he's not aware of my Zanpakuto abilities.' She smirked. Tia was aware that the young Captain had some tricks up his sleeve, but now she knew his tactics, and had a few surprises for him of her own. She is also certain that he is now stronger than before, but she wasn't slacking off either. 'This fight will be interesting.' She was ripped out of her thoughts when she saw a Garganta opening.
Ichigo walked out of it with a pissed off look on his face.
"Tia…" He growled.
'Busted.' She gave him an uneasy smile. "Hey Ichigo…what are you doing here so soon?"
Flashback- Human World
The group left the cinema chattering about the movie.
"I have to say that I'm positively impressed with that movie." Ishida said.
"Yeah. Who would have thought that giant robots fighting monsters could still be entertaining?" Chado said.
"Well guys I had fun, but I need to go. I have work tomorrow." Inoue said.
"Me too. I'll walk you home Inoue." Chado said. The two of them left Ichigo and Ishida behind.
"So Kurosaki let's call it a day then." Ishida said.
"Sure, but I have one question. Have you found something out about that thing that will happened in two years?" He asked.
"Nothing solid, but my Dad's reaction was surprising…He looked pissed off, and ordered me to never ask about it again." Ishida said.
"So are there any matters in your family that could cause that reaction?" Ichigo inquired.
"Yes…all things related to…Quincys." He replied hesitantly. "But as far as I'm concerned my Dad and I are the last ones."
Ichigo furrowed his eyebrows. He recalled the talk with his father. Then he connected the dots.
"That sly bastard." He growled. "You remember our first spar, right?" Ishida nodded. Since that time they sparred few more times. "Isshin proposed to me that I should get to train with you so I could have experience with fighting various opponents like Shinigami, Arrancar, and…"
"Quincy." Ishida finished for him. "But why? Our family is the last. There are no more Quincy in the world." He mused.
"There's something big going on here, and we're still being kept in the dark." Ichigo sighed. "Anyways, I should get all the information in a few months…Until then we need to prepare. Ishida listen, we will continue our spars, but get Chado and Inoue too. They need to know all about your kinds fighting style."
"You know that we basing all this on assumptions. Nevertheless I will do that." He said.
"Good…hey I've got an idea. How about you ask your mother to tell us something?" Ichigo said.
"My mother is dead." Ishida replied, shocking Ichigo.
"Oh, sorry, I didn't know…" Ichigo replied, ashamed.
"It's ok. I have already moved on." He sighed. "After all, it's been almost eight years…"
"My Mother died almost eight years ago on the 17th of June…" He said, making Ishida's eyes go wide.
"What?" He asked flabbergasted.
"What?" Ichigo replied, not getting him.
"You said that it was on 17th of June?" Ichigo nodded. "My Mother fell into a coma that same day, and died three month later…"
"But my Mom was killed by a Hollow. I don't see a connection." Ichigo said.
"Don't you think that it's too much of a coincidence?" Ishida stated.
"Hell. Something is seriously fucked up here. We're missing too many of the pieces to that riddle." Ichigo rubbed his chin.
"Well I will try to get some more info, but I'm not promising anything. Till then Kurosaki." He waved his hand, and walked away.
"See ya soon." Ichigo walked toward his home. As soon as he arrived his mobile rang. It was from Hachi.
"Oh hey Hachi what's…...SHE WHAT!" He screamed, startling all members of his family. "Where is she?...Ok…I'll be there asap!"
"Ichigo what's going on?" Isshin asked.
"Toshiro challenged Tia to a duel, and that moron accepted." He face-palmed. "And I told her to not get into any fights." He took out a soul candy, and swallowed it. "Sorry guys, but I'll be going." He opened a Garganta, and jumped into it. After a short run he jumped inside the room where Tia was sitting.
"Tia…" He growled.
"Tia before we start a shouting match, I will give you chance to explain yourself." He stated, barely holding his anger at bay.
"Ichigo this was the only way for me to be accepted here…To be seen as an equal to them, not just some…." She thought about a suitable word. "...addition to you. The S.S. needs to see that you had valid reasons to appoint me as your Vice-Commander, and not just because I'm your who…"
"I dare you to say that word." He snapped. "I don't care what people say about you, and I'll be dammed if you start to think about yourself as such because of them." He hugged her. "I love you, and I don't want to see you hurt." She smiled at him.
"I know, and I'm grateful to you to no end, but I need this…I want to defeat him, and prove myself to them and especially to you."
"Tia you don't need to prove anything to me…" He started.
"I do. You need to see that your trust in me wasn't misplaced, and that I'm suitable for that position." She stated firmly.
Ichigo had sighed, and shook his head.
"I guess you already decided." He let her go, just in time to hear a gong calling her to the arena.
"I need to go, see you soon Commander." She whispered and kissed him. She was heading toward the doors when Ichigo suddenly slapped her butt. Tia yelped in surprise. It actually stung.
"That was for good luck." He grinned at her blush. "Come back to me safe and sound." He Shunpo'ed away. Tia smirked and left the room.
Grand Lodge
Ichigo appeared in the box, and saw that everyone, including the C.C. were present. He spotted a free place next to Byakuya.
"Hey guys." He greeted them, sitting there.
"Yo, Ichigo. It's seems that you GF is going to give us a nice show." Shinji said.
"Yeah titsy is gonna show off some moves." Hiyori suddenly popped up from behind Shinji.
"And what you are doing here?" Ichigo asked.
"Wha? We can't come to visit baldy?" Hiyori growled.
"Of course you can…is Lisa around? I need to speak with her." He smiled.
"No she isn't, she said that it wasn't safe for her to come here for some reason." She replied.
'Damn…she's crafty.' Ichigo sighed. He turned to Byakuya.
"I'm surprised to see you here, I thought something like this didn't interest you." He stated.
"If this was a normal fight I would agree, but to see an Arrancar with a Zanpakuto. It's very unusual, thus worth seeing." He replied. "It seems that your habit to wreak havoc passed on to her." He added with a ghost of a smile.
"Hey I do not wreak havoc!" Ichigo protested.
"Yes you do." Came the collective reply from the other occupants of the lodge. Ichigo was about to respond sharply, when he suddenly felt a weight on his lap, and a pair of arms wrapping around his neck. Before he managed to say anything Yoruichi kissed him.
"Hey Ichi-chan. It seems that Tia-chan is about to go wild here." She grinned.
"And you didn't know about it?" He asked incredulously.
"I'm innocent this time. It was only her and Toshiro's initiative." She replied with a slight pout. "But I guess it will be an interesting fight. Their powers are basically based on the same element." She said.
"Well I have to say that their fight was flashy." Kyoraku said. "Flooding the whole town, and creating a tower of ice flowers….I hope those two won't go all out here, or else we'll need to repair this whole place again."
"Anyway, when it will start? I'm getting impatient" He said. The C.C. turned his head to him slightly.
"About now." He replied.
On cue the gates on the opposite sides of the arena opened and revealed the duelists. Toshiro was greeted with cheers, and Tia…well most of the Kido Corps were doing their best to out shout the rest of the S.S., who were shouting less than pleasant words.
Ichigo and Yoruichi felt a pang of sadness and anger. They knew that she didn't deserve such treatment.
"Today we will witness a duel between Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya of Squad 10, and Vice-Commander Tia Halibel of the Kido Corps Divison. Are the duelists ready?" C.C. announced.
"HAI!" They replied
"BEGIN!"
Tia and Toshiro eyed each other for few seconds, gauging their strengths. It was obvious that they weren't the same people as last time.
Toshiro spent most of his time training with his Bankai, after his defeat at the hands of Aizen. Through all that time he drove himself to the very limits, and pushed past them, increasing his control and strength.
At the same time, Tia managed to find her true self, and gain new powers, while strengthening her old ones, since she wasn't bound by the past anymore.
(a/n Play Skillet's "Awake and Alive" song now a/n)
Tia slowly pulled her sword by the hole in it. Just when the sword was about to be pulled out she flicked her finger so it started spinning in the air, windmill fashion.
Toshiro smiled at that. It was almost like she mocked their previous fight. She caught the sword, and in that instant they both charged at each other.
Their sword clashed creating sparks. They were both pressing, trying to gain the advantage. Tia smiled.
"Hope this time no one will interrupt us." She said.
"Me too." He jumped back. "Sit Upon the Frozen Heavens Hyōrinmaru!" He shot several dragons made of ice. Tia skillfully dodged them, but to her surprise they instantly turned back, and tried to hit her from behind.
'It looks like he has more control over them now.' She smirked. "Ola Azul!" With one swipe of her sword, yellow ribbons of energy were released, obliterating all the ice dragons.
But that was only a distraction. Toshiro was already behind her, with his sword raised over his head. Tia jumped back closing the distance instantly, and elbowed the surprised Captain in the solar plexus, sending him flying back, gasping for air.
Toshiro quickly regained his breath, and raised his sword just in time to block a savage vertical slash. He grunted feeling the power behind it.
He shifted the balance on his sword so Tia's sword slid down, giving him an opening. Using his right leg, he kicked her shoulder sending her flying.
Tia grunted in pain. 'Looks like he's been working out.' She was thankful for her Hierro. She stopped in mid-air, and fired a blade-like Ola Azul at him. He dodged it with ease, but fell for her trap.
"Hado no 4: Byakurai!" A beam of blue light shot from her finger. Toshiro raised his sword to block the shot. Tia used more Reiatsu than required, thus strengthening the spell. The moment it connected with Toshiro it exploded, shooting sand and dust into the air. A second later the young Captain jumped out of the cloud, and landed in front of Tia. His shoulder was bleeding slightly.
"First blood." She said with smirk.
"I should have guessed that you'd know Kido now…" He jumped at her and slashed vertically, creating a wave of ice that dashed at her. Tia jumped out of the way, but to her surprise icicles shot out of it. Having no way to dodge, she crouched covering her head and mid-section with her arms and legs.
The icicles hit her, painfully ripping her robe and cutting skin. As soon as the attack ended she shot another Ola Azul at Toshiro, and forced him to make some distance.
"Looks like I was foolish to fight you with a sealed sword." She stated releasing her Reiatsu. Instantly she was covered by a yellow glow that shot into the sky, creating a pillar of light. "Utau! Ningyo!"
The crowd gasped when her sword morphed into a Naginata. Many of them hadn't believed the rumors that she had a Zanpakuto.
Tia started to spin the naginata above her head, creating a low whistling sound. In one swift move she sent a powerful sound wave at Toshiro. He shot several ice dragons at her, but they shattered like a glass when the sound wave reached them. Sensing the danger he jumped in air avoiding the wave, but Tia was already on him. She started to rapidly thrust her weapon. Toshiro avoided every attack, and tried to slash her legs, but her long weapon deflected the blow. Using the momentum Tia did a down-up slash grazing his chest. Toshiro withstood the pain an grazed her shoulder. Not finished he drove his knee into her abdomen.
Tia gasped for air, but he gave her no time to rest. He shot a dragon of ice point-blank at her. Tia just managed to block its jaws with her Naginata, but was pushed away until she hit the barrier. The dragon was still pushing her again the wall, crushing her.
"Hado no 1: Sho!" She used the most basic spell, yet put a considerable amount of Reiatsu in it, making the spell several times stronger. The dragon's head exploded, creating an icy mist. Tia managed to catch her breath.
'Looks like I underestimated him a bit.' She felt his approach. "Ningyo no Nageki!" She released a sound wave. Toshiro wasn't able to avoid the screeching wall, and was pushed back.
'Shit my ears!' He saw Tia approach, and went for a stab, but missed completely. With the grace of a dancer, Tia ducked to the side, and slammed the blunt side of her weapon in his back, sending him flying.
The force was so strong that he slammed painfully into the barrier.
'Shit.' He thought as he sensed her approach. He jumped to the side, narrowly avoiding an impaling. 'She's fast!' Tia did a gracious spin, and kicked his face sending flying. She briefly looked at the box where Ichigo was sitting. She saw him and Yoruichi sitting on his lap, their eyes were glued to her.
'Watch you two. I haven't shown you anything yet.' She smirked. Toshiro attacked again, but he notices that his aim is off, and he was having a hard time keeping his balance.
'What the hell is going on with me…and why doesn't that damn whistling stop…' His eyes widen in realization. 'She's assaulting my senses with her sound!' His decision was instant.
"Ban-kai: Daiguren Hyōrinmaru!" Toshiro shouted. His limbs and back were covered in ice, making him resemble a dragon. "It's time to get serious…" With speed greatly exceeding the one he had during their first battle, he charged at her. "Ryūsenka!" He hit the top of her weapon freezing it. "Hyōryū Senbi!" He froze Tia in a block of ice resembling a crescent. Tia fell to the ground frozen, but not for long.
The vibrations emitting from her weapon started to break the ice. The ice broke revealing her gasping for air.
'That hurt.' She trembled a little. 'And it's so damn cold!' She looked at young Captain flying above her. "Hunt, Tiburon!" Water, shaped into heart, appeared behind her, then it closed on her surrounding her in a water dome.
'Looks like she's getting serious too.' Toshiro thought. But you couldn't even imagine his surprise when instead of shark tooth-shaped sword, a slender blade shoot out of the water cutting its flow. What surprised him even more was that Tia's sword was now a dual-blade. One side resembled Tiburon other Ningyo. Toshiro reached a disturbing conclusion.
"You can use both powers simultaneously?" He gulped.
Tia smiled.
Grand Lodge
Since the fight started Ichigo had been nervous. It was clear that neither of them were playing around. This was a serious battle. He winced every time she got cut or hit.
"Now you see what both of us felt when you fought Zaraki." Yoruichi whispered to him, resting her head on his arm. "Now stop jumping at every scratch she receiving, she's tougher than that." She told him.
Ichigo sighed. Despite the many the wounds she got, all of them were minor so he shouldn't worry…but he barely held back an urge to jump in at briefest sign of distress.
"But that doesn't mean I'm happy to see her hurt. The same would go for you too." He stroked her flat belly.
"Aww, that's so sweet." She said. Their eyes widened when she released her Reiatsu.
"Is it just me, or did she get stronger?" Ichigo asked.
"Definitely." Yoruichi admitted. "Looks like she's about to show off her sound powers….Ugh, when I was hit by that I felt like my eardrums exploded." She cringed at the memory. At that moment Tia shot a wave of sound off.
"Yeah, definitely an unpleasant experience." Ichigo gritted his teeth at the high pitched sound. But he was quickly captivated by Tia's style. It was like she was almost dancing, her moves fluent and precise.
"Damn she's good." Yoruichi said. "Much better than when we fought."
"Don't remind me." Ichigo said. "I thought I would have a heart attack back then." Yoruichi giggled. "It's not funny."
Yoruichi wanted to say something, but then Tia Resurrected, increasing her powers even more. She couldn't hold back a smirk, when the crowd started to whistle in approval.
"Now that's a sight for sore eyes." Kyoraku said, ogling her.
"Indeed my friend." Ukitake added. Apparently most males, if not every one, had the same opinion, which pissed off Ichigo to no end. Tia shot a Cascada at Toshiro, and bent to add the force to the swing. The fact that she was just above the lodge, and had a very short skirt…
"I take back my earlier words. THAT is a sight for sore eyes." Kyoraku said leering.
"Indeed my friend." Ukitake replied, his eyes glued to Tia's rear. Ichigo looked around, and saw that every male was now shamelessly looking under her skirt. He turned to Byakuya, the last stand of morality, only to find him with the same look, and even a faint blush.
'Goddamn them all!' Ichigo growled.
"Chill Ichi-chan. Looking is all they can do." She laughed at the devastating effect her words caused. "Unlike you." The men turned to him, and stared at him with envy. Ichigo grinned. Their attention came back to the fight.
With Tia and Toshiro
Tia shot another Cascada at Toshiro, flooding the arena and turning it into a giant pool. Toshiro was using the water to create his attack, and she was melting it. The fight seemed to be at stalemate, but thanks to her Shinigami powers Tia was slowly, but surely, gaining the advantage.
'He's strong. Without Ningyo this could drag on forever.' She thought, yet one element was pissing her off.
The constant whistles and perverted screams. First they treated her like trash, and now like some sex toy.
'Yeah! Only Ichigo can treat us as a sex toy!'Tiburon shouted.
'Tiburon not now! I need you and Ningyo to give me as much power as you can….I want to make a statement.' She felt a surge of power rush through her. She released her Reiatsu completely. If not for the barrier some of the weaker Shinigami would've fainted.
Even Toshiro was looking at her with wide eyes.
'She wasn't that strong before.' He gripped his sword tightly. As predicted the whistles and shouts ceased. Everyone was focusing on her now in a tense silence.
"That was your last warning." She added with a coldness that sent shivers down many Shinigami spines. They knew that those words weren't meant for Toshiro. They realized that the woman they were insulting, and humiliating was the Tercera Espada, third strongest in Aizen's army. Only fifteen people in the whole S.S. could match her strength, and they were currently sitting in the Grand Lodge. Most of them realized how foolish it would be to challenge her….most of them. "It's time to finish it Captain Hitsugaya." She said, and dived with insane speed towards him. Toshiro shot dozens of icicles, but Tia melted all of them with her Hirviendo, and use the water to her advantage.
"La Gota!" She started shooting narrow steams of water. In comparison to the previous versions, they were slimmer and faster. The only minus was that the amount of water was smaller, so flooding the area with that was more difficult, but with a closed space such as the arena…
"Hyōryū Senbi!" He froze the water around him, and began shooting dozens of icicles at Tia. She avoided them all, and engaged him in close combat. Toshiro found himself pushed completely on the defensive. Keeping up with a dual blade was difficult enough, not to mention that irritating ability to disrupt his balance.
He slashed horizontally, but Tia blocked it, and instantly counter attacked with the other side of her sword. Toshiro jumped back, and felt that is was the time to use this trump card. He raised his Reiatsu to the very limits, making him glow blue.
"Hyōten Hyakkasō!" He shot a pillar of light to the sky.
"I thought you said it would affect everyone within ten miles" Tia stated. She felt a pang of fear. That technique was fearsome.
"Yes, and I spent most of my time practicing that move, and I finally mastered it. Now I can control the damage area up to ten meters, it's over." Tia could already see the snow petals coming down.
'Shit, he got m….' Then an idea hit her. She summoned Cascada, but instead of shooting it at the sky she surrounded herself with it.
"It's futile!" Toshiro shouted. To prove his words, the water in the water dome started to freeze, creating the tower of ice. All the water in the area froze as well. Toshiro landed on the ice. "I have won…C.C. can you melt that ice?" He exclaimed. "She shouldn't be hurt if we get her o…." His words stuck in his throat, when suddenly a sword shot from the ice below his feet, cutting his chin. Before he managed to do anything Tia grabbed his throat, and pointed her sword to the middle of his forehead.
"Yield." She ordered. Toshiro seeing no other way…
"I give up." He choked. Tia released him. "How? I thought you were frozen."
"The water dome I created was just a decoy. I dived into the pool, and waited at the bottom until your attack stopped, and melted the ice that came too close. Thanks to the fact that you landed, and were so sure of your victory, I managed to get you." She said.
"Looks like I've been completely outmaneuvered." He smiled. "It was an honor fighting you Tia Halibel, not as enemy but as comrade." He extended his arm.
"Likewise Captain Hitsugaya." She shook it firmly. Then she heard sound of clapping. She turned to the lodge, and saw Ichigo and Yoruichi clapping. Soon it was followed by the roar of joy coming from Kido Division. They even started to shoot various spells into the air. Soon the rest of the S.S. followed suit, albeit some Divisions begrudgingly.
Tia had to fight her tears. She looked at Ichigo.
'Are you proud of me?' She asked mentally. But his face told her everything. Ichigo was beaming with pride.
"The duel has ended, Tia Halibel of the Kido Corps Davison has won!" C.C. exclaimed. The crowd roared even louder.
The duelists turned to each other and bowed. Then they would've walked to their respective rooms, but they were flooded with ice, so they just headed to the Grand Lodge.
"Tia!" Ichigo hugged her as soon as she arrived. "That was incredible!"
"Yeah, you showed him whose is boss here." Yoruichi hugged her too.
"I just got luckly. Captain Hitsugaya is really strong." She complimented him. "If we weren't fighting in a closed area he would got me with that last attack like last time." She said.
"Nah, Tia your too humble! Gloat, it's your day!" Yoruichi exclaimed.
"And to honor it we're throwing a party!" Ichigo said.
"You really don't have to…" She stared.
"Tia Halibel." The C.C said, immediately attracting all attention. "I'm impressed with your skill. You are a worthy addition to the S.S., congratulations." He said. Tia. despite still holding him responsible for her fraction deaths, bowed.
"Thank you very much, it's an honor." She replied. The edges of the C.C.'s mouth went up.
"Kurosaki Ichigo, you were right about bringing her here…but try to keep your activities hidden. It's demoralizing the men." He added making Tia, Yoruichi, and Ichigo blush. They just couldn't believe that the C.C. would jab them like that. He Shunpo'ed away.
Silence followed his departure.
"He has a sense of humor after all." Ichigo deadpanned. His declaration broke the dam, and Tia was literally drowned in congratulations. Ichigo decided to inform his Squad about his party plans.
"HEY GUYS WE'RE HAVING A PARTY TONIGHT!" His men roared with joy, as well as the rest of the S.S. "KIDO CORPS ONLY!" He added with malice. His men screamed even louder, mocking the rest of the S.S.
"And what about us?" Matsumoto asked with a pout. "You won't invite the Captain and me?"
"Matsumoto-san please stop." Unohana said. "If we're not welcome there, then let it be." She said.
"Unohana–san it's not like that. You're always welcome in my HQ." He replied instantly.
"So it means I can come?" She asked. Ichigo nodded in defeat. "You guys can come too if you want." He told that to the rest in the lodge. SoiFon rose her eyebrows.
"Yes you too. If I'm inviting everyone I'm not petty enough just to point at you and say not you." He said.
"Hmph." Came her only reply.
"The party will start in the evening." He said. "Tia, Yoruichi let's go."
A/N
Ok guys I hope you enjoyed the chapter. I finally have good grounds to go with the plot!
Oh and one thing that people asked me repeatedly .Tia and Yoruichi will be only Ichigo's love interest in this story. There will be other pairings but bit later,
And I will spoil next chapter a little, I will introduce some very overlooked character in cannon… and visit everyone's favorite place Hueco Mundo!
And As always Review&Rewiew
awesomeconji1: thanks
SuperHyperShadic3000x2: I love to surprise. And yeah I too noticed the similarities.
LancelotQuanta: glad to hear it.
NeroMustDie15x2: Thanks and as for Ishida I re watched the anime and he had few moment when he snapped like that.
Discordian: Nope I will trample over every Holynes and Taboo with my sarcastic humor and cynical point of view so believe me when I'm around no ideology is safe. Of and kudos for the ,, And thanks for the explanation on Tia's hole" you know how awkward is sound ;)
vic boss: I just needed to slow down and set up a stage don't worry the action will start in full swing from next chapter.
Dragonheart: Thanks much for pointing that our I will try to watch over it in future.
Aman; I was not ignorant about that fact. I killed them off for purpose just as I did with Aizen .
Haydunn: Don't worry the action will speed up soon.
Dragonfang100: no one only Tia and Yoruichi.
99 luffy: Well it won't be easy but I have few ideas on how to solve it.
ThatGuy: Thanks
Tracyheart: Thanks
Chris:sorry due not in this fic
Vermiculus-umbra-chorus: yeah I had fun writing that.
InflatedChimp: glad that I have improved your mood
Ryan2212: thanks
Lightning Havoc: Basically it's unlocked his potential when Ichigo demanded more power, like he mention to him that IChigo should be careful with what he wish for.
Guest 1: YOU HAVE TO! ARROW IN THE KNEE 4 LIFE
Maverick Wilde: glad you like it.
Ghost131: there will be that and much more
Darthmasterbane: Your mind clouded is by your pervert-ness. Hots for Unohana you have I see.
JakMartheDarkWarrior: haha yeah no one's rep is save when I'm around and as for Tia and Yoruichi…who knows there's a lot going around in the back scene.
FrozenSpectre: we talked about it in PM so once more thanks for long review I always enjoy those
Kiwifan7: yep and they will have lot of fun
dragonlord1337: She have great personality so I hadn't had to change anything, she's hilarious
xTwistedCupidx 7: glad to hear it
SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan: haha thanks
sami217: nope just Tia and Yoruichi
Digitize27: You rather should be worried about Ichigo with two girlfriends like that
