So, exciting news about the anime finally making the much-anticipated return. I am looking forward to seeing the TYBW arc animated and hopefully (maybe) some other content too. I also hope this leads to a much-needed boost to the Bleach fanfic archive, as there are only a few stories coming out these days and being updated. Continuing on to fanfic news, while I only managed to get one update for AHTNK during the update cycle, I've squeezed out 5 updates for WHBTS, the first of which will be coming next month. Of course, they are yet to be proofread which is what I am in the process of doing right now, but if you want to read them now, they are up on my pat reon. Another thing, the bleach brave souls 6 Lastly, I have a total of 9 updates accumulated on my pat reon, helped greatly by my annual leave. Hopefully, I can keep some of this pace up, as if I ever manage to get a backlog of 12 updates (1 for each month), I will update as soon as I manage another update, meaning, I will never have more than 12 updates banked. With all that said, enjoy the chapter and the start of the deviation of my TYBW arc. SSJ3 Kyuubi Gohan.
Previously:
After reflecting on his decision to not go with Candice and Bambietta, Ichigo would return home, only to find his friends, family and all the Fullbringer, including Tsukishima, all gathered inside waiting for him. The group would pressure Ichigo, before Riruka warned him to run, causing him to flee in search for Uryuu and Urahara, only to have no luck finding them, being confronted by the Fullbringer at each place. Eventually, Ichigo would return home, only for the Fullbringer to gather and for Tsukishima to reveal how he had manipulated everyone's past and that their goal was to take Ichigo's Fullbring powers. Ichigo would try to attack Tsukishima, only for Chad and Orihime to protect him. Ichigo would then use his Quincy abilities for the first time, trying to attack the group, only to find himself unsuccessful. Candice would then intervene, stopping the assault on Ichigo, before Bambietta again told Ichigo to go with them, with Ichigo obliging after seeing that he was being viewed as the strange one by his friends and family, due to Tsukishima's abilities. The three Quincy would leave through the shadows, with Bambietta leaving them a present in the form of their building exploding. Tsukishima would then turn on Chad and Orihime, almost breaking their minds before Riruka intervened. Urahara would then approach the group and threaten Tsukishima, demanding he change everyone's memories back to normal, with Kenpachi, Byakuya, Toshiro, Ikkaku, Rukia, Renji and Isshin as back up. Tsukishima would refuse and attack Urahara, only for Kenpachi to bisect him, before doing the same to Shishigawara, who attacked Kenpachi for killing Tsukishima, before the remaining Fullbringer went to Soul Society with the Shinigami. Ichigo would arrive at Silbern with Candice and Bambietta, before being led to a man known as His Majesty by the two. Ichigo would then meet this man and upon seeing his face, called him Zangetsu.
Disclaimer – I don't own anything from the Bleach anime/manga. All I own are my original characters and plot twists.
'Talking'
"Thinking"
'Hollow, Inner Hollow or Zanpakutou talking'
"Hollow, Inner Hollow or Zanpakutou thinking"
*expression*
FlashbackChapter 11 – Reversal
'Zangetsu, the name of your Zanpakutou I believe.' Said His Majesty.
'I don't understand, how are you here in the real world?' Asked Ichigo.
'Perhaps before you start asking questions, let me clarify one thing, I am not a spirit, Ichigo. My name is Yhwach. I am what you would call the first and original Quincy.' Said Yhwach.
'Yhwach… but you look just like Zangetsu. Sure, you don't have a sword or visor, but you have the same face, even compared to Tensa Zangetsu.' Protested Ichigo.
'I see. It seems even without knowing the truth you have been a loyal son. I understand this may be something you would like to discuss further, but perhaps there are more pressing concerns than my identity at the moment.' Said Yhwach.
'My family and friends, how can I help them? How can I fix what Tsukishima did?' Asked Ichigo.
'It has already been fixed with the death of the one you call Tsukishima; their memories will return to truth shortly.' Said Yhwach.
'Just like that?' Asked Ichigo, feeling as though it was too good to be true.
'Just like that.' Repeated Yhwach, causing Ichigo to exhale in relief.
A short pause passed between the two, Ichigo mulling over his thoughts while Yhwach awaited his next question.
'What did you mean, the first Quincy?' Asked Ichigo.
'Exactly what you think it sounds like, before I existed, there was no such thing as a Quincy. There were only creatures of power and creatures without power.' Said Yhwach.
'So how did you become a Quincy then, if there were no Quincy before you?' Asked Ichigo.
'Tell me, Ichigo, what do you think a Quincy is? Are you one? How long have you been one for?' Asked Yhwach.
Ichigo mulled this thought over for a minute.
'I'm not sure how to answer that. I guess you could say I'm a Quincy, but also not and you could say I've been one for a year, or my whole life. What would you say?' Asked Ichigo.
'In my eyes, you have always been and always will be a Quincy, Ichigo. If you need something to confirm that, think only of how you referred to me when you first saw my face.' Said Yhwach.
'Zangetsu… so you mean since my Zanpakutou looked like you, I've always been a Quincy?' Questioned Ichigo.
'I don't mean anything one way or the other, I am merely trying to open your eyes to what you already know.' Said Yhwach.
'So you've been trying to help?' Asked Ichigo uncertainly.
'Help? Do you feel as though I have helped you?' Asked Ichigo.
'I mean, didn't you send Bambietta and Candice after me?' Asked Ichigo.
'I did.' Said Yhwach.
'So everything they've done was because of you trying to help me then, right?' Asked Ichigo.
'Incorrect. I sent them with only a mission in mind, given you are here in front of me, the mission was successful. Everything else that happened between their departure and arrival here was of their own will.' Said Yhwach.
Ichigo mulled this thought over for a minute, before coming to his next question.
'So why did you want me to come here?' Asked Ichigo.
'That is the question I would like to ask you. Knowing your friends will return to normal now, what do you hope to gain from being here, Ichigo?' Asked Yhwach.
Ichigo again mulled this question over.
'I don't think I really want anything from being here. I mean, if the threat is over, I wouldn't mind going home.' Admitted Ichigo.
'I see. When you say the threat is over, are you referring to the recent changes to your friends and family? If so, the threat is very much over. Alternatively, if you refer to another potential threat, then the threat is not over. So Ichigo, what threat are you referring too?' Asked Yhwach.
'That's right, I did hear about a threat that was coming, but I thought it was Tsukishima, you mean there are more threats to come?' Asked Ichigo.
'There will always be another threat, Ichigo.' Said Yhwach simply.
'Now then, I will repeat the question, what do you hope to gain from being here, Ichigo?' Asked Yhwach.
'I guess I want to be ready for the next threat then.' Said Ichigo.
'I see. Do you have anything specific in mind?' Asked Yhwach.
'No. Normally someone tells me what to do to get stronger and I do it.' Admitted Ichigo.
'I see… in that case, allow me to arrange for you to stay and become stronger with us. I know your Quincy abilities are new and unrefined. I will arrange for you to be properly guided in the abilities of the Quincy.' Said Yhwach.
'You mean it won't be you?' Asked Ichigo, causing Yhwach to hum.
'I see, you have tied my likeness to your sword's spirit very firmly. It is not always in your best interest to learn in a setting of comfort. Rest assured, those I will have supervise your training will be some of the best Quincy available.' Said Yhwach.
'Okay.' Said Ichigo, a hint of disappointment creeping into his tone.
'You may leave now, I will see to it that you have your own domain provided shortly. I know it may take some time, but soon you will come to think of this place as home and the others as family.' Said Yhwach.
Ichigo raised an eyebrow at this, remembering how Zangetsu had mentioned to Ichigo the value of family over friendship and wondered if this is what he meant. Ichigo lingered for a moment, wanting to ask what Yhwach meant, before deciding it was a silly question and with a small shake of his head, turned around and headed for the exit.
Passing through the large doors, Ichigo noted Candice standing up with her arms crossed behind her head, while Bambietta was leaning against the wall.
'Um, he said he is going to get me a domain, do you know what that means?' Asked Ichigo.
'Think of it like a big room, but it's actually more like a small house. I guess that means you are staying for a while then.' Said Bambietta.
'Yeah, I think someone will train me at some point as well.' Said Ichigo.
'What do you mean someone? I'm pretty sure we can teach you a few things. No offense, but it doesn't seem like you know a whole lot at this point anyway.' Said Candice.
'I'm not sure, that's what he said.' Said Ichigo, causing Candice to shrug.
'Well, guess we might as well show you around.' Said Candice, as she started to lead the group.
'I think we should go to my room first.' Said Bambietta.
'Yeah, that might be best, it is the quickest and the less people we bump into right now the better.' Said Candice, confusing Ichigo.
'What do you mean? Aren't all these people your family and friends?' Asked Ichigo.
'In a way… but even family can get on your nerves.' Said Bambietta.
'Not to mention, if we head to my space after Bambi's, there is less chance of anyone finding us. Bambi's room is kind of the unofficial girls' club.' Said Candice.
'Really? Is that why all of you are always barging in?' Asked Bambietta.
'It's also the biggest room you know.' Pointed out Candice.
'I never noticed.' Said Bambietta.
'Because you never go to anyone else's room.' Said Candice, causing Bambietta to shrug.
'I guess.' Said Bambietta.
Finally arriving at the door, Ichigo noticed a large stylised "E" emblazoned on the door.
'E?' Said Ichigo questioningly.
'Yeah, don't worry, not her cup size, it's her Schrift.' Said Candice.
'It stands for "The Explode".' Said Bambietta.
'Shouldn't it be "T" then?' Asked Ichigo.
'No because I'm "T", "The Thunderbolt".' Answered Candice.
'So what are these Schrift then? Nicknames?' Asked Ichigo.
'Not exactly. Let's just go inside first, then we can head to Candi's room next. We're less likely to be disturbed there.' Said Bambietta, opening the door to her room.
The room itself was both bare and lavish at the same time. There was a large bed off to the side and a table with a single chair next to it. All the fixtures were made out of a silver alloy and by weight alone, would be worth a decent amount of money. The rest of the room however was bare, with a small closet and a door leading to what Ichigo suspected was a bathroom.
'This is my official room and apparently our unofficial meeting room. If you need me, I will likely be here.' Said Bambietta, before ushering them back out.
'Unofficial meeting room?' Asked Ichigo, still somewhat confused at the discussion between the two.
'Since Bambi keeps the room bare, it also has the most space for people to gather, so when we have things to discuss we all go there.' Explained Candice.
'Really? I thought it was because I was the leader.' Scoffed Bambietta.
'Hmm, well, I'll go with my reasoning for now.' Hummed Candice uncaringly.
After a short walk down a line of rooms, the group reached Candice's room, evident by the large "T" on the door.
'Now Ichigo, I don't want you getting the wrong idea here. If you want to come into my room in the future, you better knock first, otherwise there is no telling what you might see.' Teased Candice, causing a small amount of apprehension in Ichigo, which eased once the door opened.
'After all, you wouldn't want to cause me to spill things when I'm baking, or you'll have to help clean up.' Said Candice.
Candice's room was somewhat more furnished, but still slightly bare. In addition to the bed, closet and door which led to a bathroom, there was a small vanity in the corner of the room, with a large mirror trimmed in silver and a long, rectangular wooden table, with two small armchairs on either end, made out of a beige-coloured, velvet material. Off to the side was a small kitchen set-up; there was a mini fridge, a small oven, an electric stove, and a kettle.
'I guess you weren't joking when you said you'd been baking before.' Commented Bambietta.
'Well, you've never seen my room before, so how could you know?' Shrugged Candice.
'Wait, hold up. What do you mean you've never seen her room? How is that even possible?' Asked Ichigo.
'You'll find pretty quickly that this is not a place for socialising, Ichigo. Truth be told, it is why I at least enjoyed our little vacation.' Said Candice.
'Yeah, not everyone around he is as friendly as us, you should keep your guard up, especially early on, some people would love to take advantage of newcomers.' Agreed Bambietta.
'I thought you said this was your home.' Said Ichigo.
'It is.' Both replied, causing Ichigo to frown.
Ichigo thought on this, wondering how the two girls he had come to know could be comfortable in an environment like this and little snippets of information started coming back to him.
'So the whole needing to defend yourself and being able to fight wasn't supernatural related, it was because of this?' Asked Ichigo, causing the two to nod.
'Well I'll fix that then.' Said Ichigo simply, causing the two to look at him in disbelief.
'Ichigo, not to be blunt, but you are one of the weakest people here right now. You don't need to worry about changing things here, you need to focus on surviving and getting stronger at the moment.' Said Bambietta.
'That was already part of the plan, this is extra.' Said Ichigo simply, astonishing the girls.
'You really are crazy, maybe you will get along fine here after all.' Said Candice semi-jokingly, but with a small expression of concern.
'Ichigo Kurosaki, I am pleased to see you have arrived.' Said a man from the doorway.
The three turned to the door and the two Sternritter gave small frowns.
'Jugram.' Said Bambietta flatly.
'This is what I get for forgetting to close my door.' Muttered Candice.
'Who are you?' Asked Ichigo defensively, shifting his body into a protective stance, coming to stand in-between the two Sternritter and the newcomer.
'My name is Jugram Haschwalth, second in command beneath His Majesty. I am here to start your training, please follow me.' Said Jugram.
Ichigo relaxed at this information, trusting that someone sent by Yhwach was someone he could trust. It did make him reflect back on Yhwach's words though. Sure, family had disagreements, but Candice and Bambietta made the place sound borderline hostile. Ichigo decided to go into things with an open mind, but also a raised guard just in case, as the girls had suggested. Once Ichigo had stepped out of the room, Jugram started walking. Ichigo prepared to follow, but noted Bambietta and Candice had remained where they were.
'Aren't you coming?' Asked Ichigo.
The two shared a look for a moment, before Candice gave a small nod.
'Sure, I think Bambi has some things to take care of now anyway.' Said Candice.
Bambietta nodded and exited after Ichigo, with Candice bringing up the rear and closing her door once exiting.
'Last time I leave my door open.' Grumbled Candice to herself.
Ichigo noted Jugram had paused walking, but didn't turn around, waiting for Ichigo to catch up. Bambietta headed off in the opposite direction and Ichigo quickly made his way towards Jugram, with Candice lagging a bit behind the two.
'So, you said you are second-in-command, does that mean you're in charge when Yhwach is busy?' Asked Ichigo.
Candice silently balked at Ichigo's words, while Jugram seemed unfazed.
'More or less. His Majesty generally only involves himself with matters of the utmost importance and allows me to manage things at my discretion. You can be assured that nothing I do will occur without His Majesty's consent.' Said Jugram.
'So who set up this training then, you or him?' Asked Ichigo.
'His Majesty personally selected both myself as your supervisor, and your training partner.' Said Jugram.
There was a slight pause as the group continued walking, before Ichigo asked the obvious question on his mind.
'Why do you call Yhwach "His Majesty"? I mean, the way it sounded, wouldn't calling him father make more sense?' Asked Ichigo.
'We refer to His Majesty as His Majesty, as he is the leader of the Quincy, the king.' Explained Jugram, who didn't seem to be overly bothered with Ichigo's questioning.
'So I guess this is his palace then.' Commented Ichigo.
'In a way, but also not. The Quincy are not only limited to Silbern, as you can personally attest.' Said Jugram.
'Silbern? So that's what this place is called. Guess that explains all the silver then.' Said Ichigo, before falling silent.
The three made their way to a small field, which looked like a tennis court in Ichigo's opinion, with lines seemingly distributed randomly along the ground. In the middle of the field was a tall, muscular man, with medieval-style armour and a cape.
'Salutations! You must be the one in need of training.' Said the man in a booming voice.
Ichigo looked to Jugram who nodded, causing Ichigo to step forward.
'Yeah, that's me. Ichigo Kurosaki's my name.' Said Ichigo.
'Well met, Ichigo Kurosaki, I have heard great things of your potential, let us see if it translates into combat. My name is Gerard Valkyrie, one of the personal guards of His Majesty himself.' Said the man.
'Is it okay for you to be here training me then?' Asked Ichigo.
'Haha, how benevolent! Rest assured that while His Majesty has a guard, there are none strong enough to combat His Majesty himself. He has personally assigned me to your training, so if you fear for his safety, be sure to grow strong faster. My training will only become harder from here and you will need to get better to keep up. I expect your best efforts, is that understood?' Said Gerard.
'Understood.' Said Ichigo.
'A man of few words it seems. Very well then! Let us start with a nice round of combat to see what your level currently is.' Suggested Gerard.
'How do you want me to fight?' Asked Ichigo.
'Hmm? In whatever manner you wish. This is to assess your current abilities, throw everything you have at me, I promise I will endure it all.' Said Gerard.
Ichigo paused for a moment, before withdrawing his substitute badge and activated it, clothing himself in his Fullbring and causing his badge to transform into a small blade.
'What an interesting ability. Come, let us see how your blade manages against Hoffnung.' Said Gerard, manifesting a black, double-edged sword with a black hilt.
'You use a sword too? Is that something the elite guards use?' Asked Ichigo.
'Hmm, what an interesting question. While it is true that those among us use swords and the greater the strength the greater the weapon that can be created, many among us can use swords. Why Jugram himself uses both a sword and a shield as do I.' Explained Gerard.
'Where is your shield then?' Asked Ichigo.
'Do not worry about my defence at the moment, let me see you attack first.' Said Gerard, brushing off Ichigo and encouraging him to begin the battle.
Ichigo suddenly dashed forward, appearing by Gerard's right side before trying to slash down on his arm. Gerard raised his blade up to block, before extending his arm out, launching Ichigo away.
'Haha, a good attempt to attack my right side where my weapon is held, but while I look quite strong, I am also fast!' Said Gerard boisterously.
Ichigo again rushed Gerard, holding his blade in a reverse grip before charging Gerard, Ichigo swung an uppercut at Gerard's midsection, momentarily catching him off guard at the change in tactic, before he caught the arm at the forearm. Ichigo then swung outwards with his blade, slashing at Gerard's chest, cutting the man, before breaking his grip and kicking off his body to create some distance.
'Marvellous, I thought it would have taken a miracle for you to land a hit on me so soon, but you've managed a strike already. Perhaps I shall bring my shield into play and see how you hold up.' Said Gerard, as he materialised a large, circular, bronze shield, on his left forearm.
Ichigo continued his clash against Gerard, but found himself suddenly having a much harder time.
'Come now, don't disappoint me. Here I thought you would be able to win, but I suppose you will need a miracle at this stage.' Said Gerard, sounding almost disappointed.
Ichigo frowned and stopped his onslaught, deciding to put away his substitute badge.
'Have you conceded defeat?' Asked Gerard.
'No.' Said Ichigo simply, materialising his remarkably thin, bright blue crossbow, only it had a tinge of black at both tips of the bow.
'How amusing, so you've switched to a bow now? A fair choice when facing the defence of a shield, but how will you get through?' Commented Gerard.
A green ring formed around Ichigo's feet, before he suddenly disappeared. Candice looked around, trying to spot Ichigo, only to find Jugram was staring behind Gerard and soon enough, Ichigo suddenly appeared there.
'A sneak attack.' Commented Gerard, turning around to face Ichigo, only to feel surprise, as he sensed numerous attacks encroaching upon him from nowhere.
Squatting down and placing his shield over his large frame, he felt multiple rapid impacts, with a few sneaking through and striking his limbs. Standing up a moment later, Gerard started laughing.
'How foolish of me. Not a sneak attack, but a rapid one indeed. You impress me Ichigo, but you will need a miracle to get another attack like that against me.' Said Gerard.
'I shall now take the offensive and see how your defence holds up.' Said Gerard, before slashing his sword at Ichigo.
Ichigo quickly leapt away, only to feel the battering force of the attack rush past him.
'Endure!' Said Gerard, appearing above Ichigo, before slamming his blade down on him and sending the two crashing into the floor.
'How odd, you endured the attack with your body. Quite a bold decision Ichigo.' Commented Gerard.
'I believe that is enough.' Said Jugram.
'Very well. It would be a miracle for anyone to be unharmed after an attack like that.' Commented Gerard, moments after which, Ichigo stood up, looking reasonably fine.
'Haha, until we do battle again next time, Ichigo. Go, be joyful in the meantime.' Said Gerard.
'Agreed, go and rest for we will be having our next training session tomorrow morning. Get some sleep now. Your chambers will be prepared soon.' Instructed Jugram.
'Come on, Ichigo.' Said Candice, ushering Ichigo over.
'Thanks.' Said Ichigo to Gerard and gave a small nod to Jugram, before following Candice away.
'He will make a fine Sternritter at this rate.' Commented Gerard.
'Indeed he may.' Said Jugram, causing Gerard to raise an eyebrow, before laughing.
'How amusing indeed.' Said Gerard.
-line break-
'Man Ichigo, you took one hell of hit back there.' Said Candice.
'It's ok… I actually feel fine.' Said Ichigo, causing Candice to look at him in disbelief.
'Seriously?' Asked Candice in confusion.
'I mean yeah it hurt like hell, but it didn't last long.' Admitted Ichigo.
'Come on, let's go and make something sweet, I bet you're hungry and I need to get my sweet production going again.' Said Candice.
'Would I really be any help?' Asked Ichigo.
'You could just watch me. Besides, if you think it'll be too hard, I can give you an easy job. Can you stir?' Asked Candice playfully.
'Yes.' Replied Ichigo with a small pout.
'That's even more adorable than your blush. Come on then, you can stir.' Said Candice, before pulling Ichigo along to move him faster.
'What's the rush?' Asked Ichigo.
'After what you just did, you want to get out of the hallway as quick as possible. There's no telling who might have gotten curious and come to see what was happening.' Said Candice, imperceptibly narrowing her eyes with a quick glance to the side.
'I'm coming.' Said Ichigo, picking up pace so Candice wasn't dragging him along anymore.
Once the two had made it inside Candice's room, an individual stepped out into the hallway.
-line break-
Riruka had no idea what to expect. For the most part, the group of Shinigami and humans had been marched straight through a large feudal looking town and made their way to the tallest building around. The general sense of unease Riruka felt didn't seem to be shared by the others. Kuugo Ginjou, their leader, looked resigned to what was going to happen next, almost as though he had expected things to end like this at some point. Yukio was holding his game and playing while walking, looking otherwise unbothered. Jackie looked livid, but was holding her composure and Giriko looked serious, but otherwise unbothered. It highlighted to Riruka again that she wasn't like these people. People who could watch close friends be brutally bisected and not feel fear, not possess an impossibly strong urge to flee and hide. Riruka mentally sighed, knowing that even if she did want to run and hide, there is no way that would be possible, while encircled by an entourage of stony face Shinigami. Eventually, they reached a door leading to a room inside the tallest building, which slowly opened from the inside. Standing in front of them was an old man with a cane. He looked unassuming, but the sheer heat coming from him quashed this idea. The group were led into the room, before those wearing white robes took up spots on either side of them, while those without stepped back, leaving the group of humans encircled once again.
Riruka looked around the room again and noted one person in particular had their gaze fixed on Kuugo, who was returning the gaze. It was a reasonably good-looking older man with white hair and a pale complexion. The way Ginjou looked at him though, he might as well have been the devil.
There was a tense silence in the room. Clearly the group of Fullbringer knew they were in trouble, but the Shinigami appeared to want them to stew for just a bit longer.
'Kuugo Ginjou, former Substitute Soul Reaper. You stand before the Captains of the Thirteen Court Guards to face punishment for your misdeeds.' Said Yamamoto, keeping his eyes shut as he spoke.
'For the crime of orchestrating an attempt to steal the Shinigami abilities of another former Substitute Soul Reaper, Ichigo Kurosaki, you are guilty.' Continued Yamamoto.
'You will serve out a sentence of ten years of servitude, or until such time that Ichigo Kurosaki is retrieved and brought before this council.' Said Yamamoto.
'Affiliates of Kuugo Ginjou, you have been deemed accessories to the above crime and are similarly sentenced to five years of servitude, or until such time that former Substitute Soul Reaper Ichigo Kurosaki is retrieved and brought before this council. Furthermore, the deceased affiliates of Kuugo Ginjou shall be placed under care of the Thirteenth Division indefinitely. They will be collected from you as you leave. That is all. Dismissed.' Finished Yamamoto.
'What do you mean dismissed? What about everything else?' Asked Ginjou in anger, causing Yamamoto to open his right eye.
'Hm. There is nothing else which requires sentencing.' Said Yamamoto.
'What do you mean?' Asked Ginjou.
'Had there been anything which required sentencing, you would have been brought before us earlier and received an appropriate judgement. As it stands, you have been judged for your transgressions. If you wish to discuss matters aside from this ruling, you may speak with Captain Juushirou Ukitake, official overseer of the Substitute Soul Reapers. Now then, dismissed!' Said Yamamoto, slamming his cane on the ground as the doors opened.
'I don't understand.' Muttered Kuugo as they were led back outside.
The group was briefly stopped as a few Shinigami in white coats took the remains of Moe and Tsukishima. Ikkaku and Yumichika headed off after this, while Rukia and Renji continued to follow the group once they resumed walking.
'Hmm, you don't mean to think no one knew where you were and what you've been doing all this time?' Commented Kisuke offhandedly.
'So what's going to happen to us?' Asked Riruka.
'I thought that was pretty clear back there. You work off a sentence here in Soul Society or you help retrieve Ichigo Kurosaki. Seems pretty straight forward.' Said Kisuke.
'Well if that's all, then why did Tsukishima and Shishigawara have to die?' Asked Jackie.
'They defied Soul Society and angered the most dangerous man in it.' Said Urahara coldly.
'So you mean to say we will not be punished?' Asked Giriko.
'Hmm, you five are quite the colourful characters, I always thought servitude was a worse punishment than death, guess I am more of a free spirit.' Said Kisuke.
'Death is always the worse option.' Commented Riruka.
'Hmm, I don't know, I'm pretty happy for someone who is dead.' Said Kisuke cheerfully.
'So who shall we serve for out sentence?' Asked Giriko, quickly accepting the judgement.
'Hmm, a certain clan which is both affiliated with the Shinigami, but not located in the Seireitei. It is actually kind of a fitting irony if you knew the truth.' Answered Urahara.
'I'm pretty sure your old acquaintance will also come by for a visit, Ginjou, I imagine you have a lot to discuss.' Said Urahara.
The group passed out of the Seireitei without any issue and were led deeper into the world of the afterlife, eventually arriving at a pair of large arms holding a banner.
'So, this is where we are going to stay?' Asked Ginjou in disbelief.
'I know it doesn't look like a prison, but it really is, just keep that in mind if you get an urge to go exploring.' Said Kisuke.
'I'll go let Kukaku know that we are here.' Said Kisuke, before turning to Rukia and Renji.
'Play nice, but don't let them go off on an adventure.' Said Kisuke.
'What does that mean?' Asked Riruka.
'It means we are your wardens, so the two of us will be watching you all constantly.' Said Rukia coldly.
'Especially after what you did to Ichigo, we wouldn't be reprimanded if we were a bit overzealous in reminding you of your position.' Added Renji.
'It isn't like I wanted things to go down like that anyway. Ichigo is… was… a friend.' Said Riruka.
'If that's how your treat your friends, I can't wait to see how you treat your enemies.' Scoffed Renji.
Rukia narrowed her eyes on the girl, finding her fidgeting to be suspicious.
'Why are you feeling guilty now? Hoping to reduce your sentence?' Questioned Rukia.
'I knew you Shinigami were dumb sometimes. This whole plan was mine and Tsukishima's. Ichigo really was Riruka's friend until her memories came back of our original plan… well, he was a friend to all of us before that, but it seems Riruka stayed that way.' Said Ginjou, causing Rukia to switch over to him.
'What do you mean you were his friends?' Asked Rukia.
'Up until a few days ago, Ichigo was helping us, and Tsukishima was the enemy. I doubt it is the first you've heard of someone you thought was a friend suddenly turning out to be an enemy. It isn't like everyone can just bounce back from that, so leave Riruka alone. I don't mind extending my sentence.' Said Ginjou, causing Rukia to frown, remembering her own similar experience with both her brother and Aizen, before drifting over to Hinamori's reaction to Aizen.
'I will go and bring Captain Ukitake here, please keep an eye on them for now Renji.' Said Rukia, to which Renji nodded, before the diminutive Shinigami left.
'Oh dear, it seems I was too slow for Miss Kuchiki, but I'm sure she will be back soon. Please follow me.' Said Kisuke, reappearing and escorting the group towards the house between the two arms.
'Now then, allow me to introduce you to your keeper for your stay here, Kukaku Shiba.' Said Kisuke, introducing the woman, who was seated on a pile of pillows.
'So, these are the ones who messed with your star pupil huh? Well, I'll be sure to drill them into shape.' Said Kukaku, surveying the group.
'Oh scary, I wouldn't want to be you. Bye-bye now.' Said Kisuke, before leaving the group.
'So, has Rukia gone to get Juushirou already? That's fine, I better lay down the rules here in the meantime. All of you do exactly what I say, when I say it. You want to moan and groan, go ahead, but you refuse to listen to me and that means trouble for you. I liked that kid, and it pisses me off that you've sent him into danger, but that's an issue for another time.' Said Kukaku, before taking a puff from her pipe.
'What do you mean we sent him into danger? Aren't we the danger?' Asked Riruka.
'You? Out of the whole lot of them you are the least dangerous to the kid and the rest of you are barely a blip on the danger scale. No, what you've sent him into is war.' Said Kukaku.
'War?' Asked Jackie.
'What did you think servitude meant? I'm missing an arm, but I don't need a crew of you to fill my pipe for me. You are the vanguard of this coming war and it's my role to make sure you survive.' Revealed Kukaku.
'So we're cannon fodder then?' Asked Ginjou.
'Not even close. Not. Even. Close.' Said Kukaku ominously.