Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach and do not own Final Fantasy Tactics.
Treachery
Within the 5th Division Barracks, there was a Shinigami that was walking through the corridor and it was actually Kosei Kotobuki. He was very pleased with what he was doing and what he was involved in. Nine years ago, Kosei left Takame and enrolled in the Shin'o Academy to be a Shinigami and it has only been three years since he graduated from the academy and officially became a Shinigami. He was now a member of the 5th Division under the command of Shinji Hirako with Sosuke Aizen as the Lieutenant, the same man that he was willfully working for along with Kaname Tosen and Gin Ichimaru who was the child genius who completed the curriculum in just one year and was already given the rank of the 5th Division's 3rd Seat. At the moment, Kosei was meeting up with someone and it was not long before he did just that. When he exited out of the barracks, there was a Shinigami that was waiting for him and it was a male Shinigami that had long silver hair who had his arms folded and eyes closed as he was pondering.
"Lost in thought again, are you?" Kosei spoke.
The long silver haired male Shinigami opened his eyes and turned to Kosei.
"Oh it's you Kotobuki," The Shinigami said.
"I'm curious, what are you thinking about?" Kosei asked.
"It's not something that is any of your concern," The Shinigami responded.
"Whoa, whoa, no need to be so cold," Kosei replied, "after all, we're friends, aren't we?"
"You and I merely entered and graduated from the Shin'o Academy at the same time and are just working together to aid that man that we're serving under but know that you and I are not friends," The silver haired man stated, "you have no understanding of that term anyway."
"Oh don't be like that," Kosei said with a grin, "it's true that we're now actually followers of him along with that guy and that kid but I see no reason why we can't be buddies with each other."
"You need to remember that I have my own goals and going along with that man is what will get me on the path to get what I desire," The silver haired Shinigami said, "nothing more, nothing less. But since you're here, I assume that he wants us to get ready for the experiments again."
"That's right," Kosei said, "this time the site is going to be in Fugai."
"…Very well," The silver haired Shinigami said, "then let us get ready."
"Sure thing," Kosei said.
Kosei and the long silver haired man walked together.
"Hey," Kosei said.
"What?" The silver man responded almost annoyed.
"You really are an interesting man," Kosei said with a grin, "Messam Elmdore."
"I don't want to hear it," Elmdore replied annoyed.
"You know who else is interesting?" Kosei asked and then grinned, "That guy who is still in the same district that I came from… Ramza Beoulve."
Elmdore was shocked when he heard that name and stopped and looked at Kosei.
"Ramza Beoulve?" Elmdore asked, "Are you saying that he is also residing in the Soul Society?"
"Uh yeah," Kosei replied and raised an eyebrow, "Wait, no way… don't tell me that you actually know him."
Elmdore composed himself and continued walking.
"It's nothing," Elmdore said.
"Hey, don't say it's nothing after you just reacted like that," Kosei said as he rushed to catch up with Elmdore.
Later on at the Research and Development Institute of the 12th Division Barracks, Kurotsuchi was holding a tube with a green liquid. Kurotsuchi looked carefully at the green liquid and was pleased with what he saw.
"Excellent," Kurotsuchi said and he turned while hitting his hand on the table, "Hey, I'm still waiting for container number 22!"
Hiyori was struggling carrying in the containers to give to Kurotsuchi.
"You're still over there?" Kurotsuchi asked losing his patience, "Hurry it up! You're too slow!"
Kurotsuchi continued to hit his hand on the table.
"For goodness sake," Kurotsuchi drawled, "at this rate, it'll be dark before you bring it here."
Hiyori lost her composure and slammed the containers on the ground angrily not able to tolerate the 3rd Seat's banter.
"Ah shut the hell up!" Hiyori said angrily, "I was being all nice and helping you so that's no way for to talk to me like that you bastard! You need to change your attitude!"
Kurotsuchi just looked at Hiyori puzzled not knowing as to why she was so angry.
"Why are you so angry all of a sudden?" Kurotsuchi asked, "Honestly that side of you… is quite a turn off."
"I said shut your mouth!" Hiyori reacted, "In the first place, why do I have to assist you? I'm a lieutenant!" Hiyori pointed at Kurotsuchi, "Tell me, what is your rank?!"
"Absurd," Kurotsuchi replied shifting and rolling his eyes showing to be uncaring, "Ranks means nothing for me. I have no need for such silly labels."
"And yet you have one," Hiyori pointed out, "and I'll tell you. You're a 3rd Seat, you got that? You're the third and I'm the lieutenant! I outrank you so you can't order me around!"
"My goodness," Kurotsuchi replied, "you've completely fail to understand the situation here."
"Huh?" Hiyori replied back angrily.
"Here in the Department of Research and Development, I'm the Vice President and you're the Laboratory Chief," Kurotsuchi explained, "therefore I outrank you. If you're going to insist on quoting division rules to me then as long as you're here you must obey my very command and not the other way around."
Hiyori turned her head and yelled, "Kisuke!"
The door opened and out came Kisuke holding something and yawning.
"Yes?" Kisuke spoke still feeling tired, "What is it now? I asked you to keep things quiet. I haven't had much sleep."
"Do something about this guy!" Hiyori complained pointing at Kurotsuchi, "You obviously haven't trained him well!" Hiyori noticed the thing that Kisuke was carrying, "Huh, hey what is that thing you have on your back?"
"Oh this?" Kisuke said looking over to the thing he had with him, "It's my prototype for a new Gigai."
"A new Gigai?" Hiyori asked.
"Yeah," Kisuke said, "you remember what Captain Hirako said this morning about the incidents in the Rukongai? He said that people were vanishing and not being able to retain human form. If what he says is true, then I thought that if we placed a soul that was on the verge of disintegration into a human mold, the soul would not vanish. I'm trying to see if I can apply Gigai technology into making the very mold."
"Oh," Hiyori responded.
There was a sudden knock on the door and they looked over.
"Excuse me," A male voice from the other side said, "I am Izaemon Todo, 6th Seat of the 9th Division. Is Captain Kisuke Urahara of the 12th Division in? I have come to convey a request from Captain Kensei Muguruma of the 9th Division."
"Hmm…" Kisuke responded.
Izaemon had entered and had explained the situation to Kisuke. After listening to Izaemon, Kisuke nodded.
"Okay, I understand the situation," Kisuke said, "I will select personnel immediately and send them tonight. In the meantime, I would like you to go back and assist your captain."
"Yes sir," Izaemon said being grateful, "thank you very much."
Afterwards, Izaemon left and headed back to the Rukongai to where his division was.
"All right then," Kisuke said and then turned to Hiyori, "now then Hiyori…"
"Huh?" Hiyori responded looking at her captain.
Fugai, Rukongai
It was night with the moon out in full and Izaemon had just returned at the place where camp was set up.
"You're late Izaemon," Tosen said.
"Sorry, I tried to get back as fast as I can," Izaemon said, "anyway I'll relieve you so you can go inside and rest."
"Don't be so lax," Tosen said, "now that you're back, the three of us can keep watch."
"We'll take turns one man at a time every two hours," Shinobu said, "Heizo is resting inside with the captain and the lieutenant. You take watch over there."
"Right," Izaemon said, "understood."
Meanwhile, Kensei and Heizo were sitting in the tent while Mashiro was sleeping. Kensei was thinking about things and then he looked at Mashiro as she was sleeping with a happy expression.
"How can someone sleep so nonchalantly?" Kensei asked, "Hey, part of your robe is coming off."
Kensei attempted to fix Mashiro's robe but Mashiro in instincts in her sleep grabbed Kensei's arm and chuckled in glee and talking in her sleep and it annoyed Kensei as he freed himself. There were sudden cries of pain outside the tent and it surprised Kensei and Heizo. They both went out to check.
"What happened?!" Kensei asked.
Kensei and Heizo were shocked at the scene of what they saw. What they saw was Shinobu and Tosen on the ground dead with their blood seeping from their bodies. They also saw Izaemon standing with his back turned. Izaemon turned his head to face Kensei and Heizo and the Captain and the 3rd Seat of the 9th Division were in shock.
"Izaemon," Kensei said.
Izaemon started to fall as it turned out he was fatally attacked as well with his blood sprayed from his body and he fell on the ground dead.
"Izaemon!" Heizo spoke.
"Damn!" Kensei said as he placed his hand on the hilt of his Zanpakuto, "Keep your guard up Heizo!" Kensei drew his Zanpakuto, "The enemy could still be nearby."
Heizo drew his Zanpakuto and Kensei looked back at the tent.
"Mashiro!" Kensei called, "Wake up Mashiro!"
Suddenly Heizo was fatally cut down as well much to Kensei's surprise and they didn't see the assailant as Heizo fell on the ground dead.
"Heizo…" Kensei said shocked.
Kensei looked around trying to see what was going on and who it was that just killed his subordinates. Suddenly Kensei was wrapped in darkness and it surprised and confused Kensei.
"What… what is this?" Kensei asked himself.
Kensei was suddenly stabbed from behind. Kensei was wide eyed as he saw that blade that pierced through his upper body. The darkness dissipated and Kensei looked behind him and saw the face of his assailant and Kensei was shocked to see who it was.
"N-No way," Kensei said, "not you," Kensei clenched his teeth, "You bastard… t-traitor."
District 40 of West Rukongai, Takame
Ramza was standing looking at the moon from a hill. He was surprised and glad that Meliadoul was around but there were still things that he was not sure of.
"I've been here in the Soul Society for nine years," Ramza said in his head, "but Meliadoul had just arrived here just this morning and from what she said, we all died after that battle so how it that this huge time gap occurred?"
Ramza thought about the Shinigami that he faced who was the one that had sent him to the Soul Society.
"I bet that Shinigami would have the answers," Ramza deduced in his head.
Ramza was picturing the people that he had traveled with in his days to rescuing his sister Alma and pictured Alma with her bright smile.
"My dear sister," Ramza said with worry.
Ramza had his head down and had a sad expression. Later on, Ramza returned to his small home and Meliadoul was there waiting for him.
"Ramza," Meliadoul said, "welcome back."
"Good to be back," Ramza said as he sat on the floor.
Meliadoul went and sat next him.
"Have an understanding of how things are here?" Ramza asked.
"I believe so," Meliadoul answered with a nod.
"Okay," Ramza said with a nod, "I'm glad to hear it."
"I have you to thank for it," Meliadoul said, "it seems that I'm always in debt to you."
"I didn't do much," Ramza said, "you were able pick things up quickly."
"I don't believe so," Meliadoul said shaking her head and smiled, "you really helped me out and I am grateful."
"I see," Ramza said and then he smiled, "thank you Meliadoul."
Outside Ramza's house, Satsuki was standing outside and was worried.
"So unfair," Satsuki said in her head with a sad smile, "Oh Ramza."
Seireitei
An emergency alarm was blaring across the entire city.
"Emergency assembly!" The announcer said, "All division captains are to assemble in the First Division Barracks immediately! There is an emergency with the 9th Division! The Reiatsu readings of Captain Kensei Muguruma and Lieutenant Mashiro Kuna have vanished! As a result an emergency meeting with division captains will be convened!"
In the 10th Division Barracks, Seigen along with Fujimaru and Matsuri heard the alarm and the announcement.
"What do you suppose happened?" Matsuri asked.
"It would seem that things have gotten worse," Seigen said.
"Father?" Fujimaru spoke.
"I need to head over to the First Division Barracks and learn what's going on," Seigen said, "Matsuri, Fujimaru…"
"We know Father," Matsuri said.
"We'll prepare just in case," Fujimaru said.
"Right," Seigen said with a nod and quickly left.
Meanwhile in the 12th Division Barracks, Kisuke quickly opened the door that led to the lab where the lab workers were working. The lab workers were surprised to see their president who seemed to be worried.
"Where's Hiyori?" Kisuke asked.
"Sh-She left a while ago," One of the lab workers informed.
Kisuke felt dread and cursed himself for the decision he made as he quickly left.
"I should have gone on my own," Kisuke said in his head upset, "Why did I send Hiyori to something so dangerous?"
Fugai, Rukongai
Hiyori was running as she was heading to Kensei's location carrying the equipment she was going to use. Hiyori was upset that she allowed herself to be convinced by Kisuke and she even wonders why she had to help with the work of the Department of Research and Development as she was sure that Kisuke and Mayuri could do what she was being sent to do. Dealing with the annoyance as she felt it was doing the assignment, she continues to head further. Suddenly Hiyori saw something move across and she stopped and wondered what it was. She suddenly saw something with glowing red eyes was wide eyed as she was shocked.
Seireitei
In the Captain Assembly Hall within the First Division Barracks, Yamamoto started the emergency meeting.
"We have an emergency," Yamamoto started, "according to the reports from the 9th Division's campsite standing by at the scene, the Reiatsu of Captain Kensei Muguruma and Lieutenant Mashiro Kuna who was out of the field has vanished. The cause is unknown. We need to consider the worst case scenario. What it seemed like a simple incident in the Rukongai has now become something we need to resolve, staking our pride as the Gotei 13," Yamamoto tapped his cane, "therefore I will be selecting five people of captain class to dispatch to the scene."
Seigen listened and was concerned. He thought about what he had just heard and was about to say something but didn't get the chance as someone had suddenly arrived and brought the attention of him and all the other captains present. It was Kisuke as he was panting having arrived late for the meeting.
"You're late Captain Urahara," Yamamoto said.
"Please sir," Kisuke said as he still panting, "Allow me to head over there."
It didn't take long for the Captain-Commander to give his response.
"No," Yamamoto simply said.
"I have to go!" Kisuke strongly insisted, "I just sent my lieutenant over there! She's heading there right now! For that I need to—"
"Kisuke!" Yoruichi strongly interjected stopping Kisuke in his tracks, "You're making a scene, pull yourself together! You made the decision to send your lieutenant out there! Do you not realize by being all in a panic and being insistent of going to help her is an insult to her and her abilities?!"
"I…" Kisuke spoke but was lost on words.
Kisuke had his head down and felt ashamed. Seigen looked on with sympathy and then he approached Kisuke.
"Kisuke, come on," Seigen said as he placed his hand on Kisuke's shoulder, "Let's just line up for now."
"Y-Yeah…" Kisuke said.
Kisuke stood in his spot as Seigen did and Yamamoto just looked and continued.
"Now then," Yamamoto said, "I shall continue. Captain of the 3rd Division Rojuro Otoribashi, Captain of the 5th Division Shinji Hirako, and Captain of the 7th Division Love Aikawa. The three that I just named will head to the site. Captain of the 2nd Division Yoruichi Shihoin, you are to stand by for further orders. Captain of the 6th Division Ginrei Kuchiki, Captain of the 8th Division Shunsui Kyoraku, Captain of the 10th Division Seigen Suzunami and Captain of the 13th Division Jushiro Ukitake. The four of you will be guarding the Seireitei. As for Captain of the 4th Division Retsu Unohana, you shall stand by in the medical facility to wait for the possible wounded and casualties that will come in."
"If I may Captain-Commander," Unohana said, "if treating the wounded and casualties are a concern, then wouldn't it make sense that I go out in the field as well?"
"As long as the situation remains unclear, we cannot risk sending the head of the medical treatment unit," Yamamoto explained, "therefore I will be sending someone to the scene," Yamamoto looked at the door, "Enter!"
The doors opened and in came in two men very tall and large men. The tall man that wore glasses wore a dark blue robe over his Shihakusho while the other larger and taller man had pink hair and wore long purple mantle over his Shihakusho. Most of the captains were amazed when they saw them.
"Hey, aren't they…?" Seigen asked in a quiet whisper.
"Yeah, it sure is," Kyoraku said, "Tessai Tsukabishi, the Commander of the Kido Corps and Hachigen Ushoda, the Vice Kido Chief."
"It's been a long time since he came out of the open," Ukitake commented.
"Yep and it just shows how extremely serious the situation really is," Kyoraku said.
"You have heard I assume," Yamamoto said, "I want the two of you to head to the scene."
"Will do," Tessai said.
"Understood," Hachigen said.
Kyoraku noticed the sad expression on Kisuke's face and the 8th Division Captain decided on something as he raised his hand.
"Hey, Old Man Yama," Kyoraku said which had Yamamoto look at the 8th Division Captain, "Pardon my interruption but I was thinking. Without knowing the situation, isn't sending both the Kido Commander and his lieutenant very risky?"
"Hmm, then what do you suggest?" Yamamoto replied.
"If it's all right, I would like to have my lieutenant sent to replace the Kido Commander," Kyoraku said.
"Hmm, you want to send Lisa?" Seigen asked surprised, "Are you sure about this Shunsui?"
"Of course," Kyoraku said proudly, "my little Lisa is very capable."
"Wait, are you going to summon her now?" Ukitake asked surprised.
"Yep," Kyoraku said and then he turned to window behind him, "Hey Lisa!"
"Yeah, what do you want?" A young woman with black hair and wore glasses replied as she quickly popped her head out and held the bars.
This surprised the other captains and Kyoraku guessed right that his lieutenant would be listening in and the one in question was Lisa Yadomaru, the Lieutenant of the 8th Division.
"See what I mean?" Kyoraku said and then he turned to Lisa, "Didn't I tell you that you shouldn't peek into a Captain's Meeting?"
"I couldn't help it," Lisa replied, "It's only natural that you want to see something kept hidden."
"Anyway Lisa," Kyoraku said, "the details?"
"I got it," Lisa said.
"Can you do it?" Kyoraku asked.
"Of course I can," Lisa said.
"Great, I'll leave it to you then," Kyoraku said.
Lisa nodded and gave a thumb up and she quickly left to head to the scene.
"Deciding things like that on your own?" Yamamoto asked.
"We don't get to see an incident this big very often," Kyoraku said, "I'm like a parent that wants to allow his children gain experience."
"Still even with this unknown and dangerous situation," Seigen said as he was worried.
"Not to worry," Kyoraku assured, "she'll be fine. She may not look it but my Lisa is very strong," Kyoraku turned to Tessai, "So what do you say Kido Commander? Can you sit this out?"
"Hmm," Tessai responded, "it's fine with me. Since that's the case, I will accept your offer and sit this out."
Tessai turned around and was about to leave when he noticed the look on Kisuke's face and right away he knew that Kisuke planning on something. Tessai then proceed to leave and Yamamoto tapped his cane again.
"Now then," Yamamoto said, "Rojuro Otoribashi, Shinji Hirako, Love Aikawa, Hachigen Ushoda, and Lisa Yadomaru. I'm assigning the five of you to investigate the vanishing soul case."
The four men assigned bowed and used Shunpo to head to the site.
"That is all," Yamamoto said, "Dismiss!"
The Captains started to leave with Kisuke still standing in a slump. Kyoraku placed his hand on Kisuke's shoulder and offered words of encouragement.
Fugai, Rukongai
Hiyori was running as fast as she could. Hiyori suddenly saw something coming to strike her and she dodged it and move back. The shadowy figure that tried to strike Hiyori growled and looked at Hiyori with glowing red eyes.
"Damn it," Hiyori said.
The shadowy figure charged towards Hiyori again and this caught the 12th Division Lieutenant by surprise. Someone suddenly arrived and blocked the attack and got in front of Hiyori. Hiyori looked and was surprised to see Shinji as he was the one that just shielded Hiyori.
"Shinji!" Hiyori said.
Shinji turned to Hiyori, "You fool, why haven't drawn your sword?"
Hiyori just looked away, "You idiot, how can I?"
"What do you mean?" Shinji asked confused.
"Just look who it is," Hiyori said upset.
Shinji looked as the moonlight revealed the mysterious attacker and Shinji was shocked to see the monstrous version of one their friends.
"Kensei?!" Shinji spoke shocked.
There standing before Shinji and Hiyori was the Kensei who had been Hollowfied. Later on, Lisa, Rose, and Love caught up and met up with their two friends.
"Hey Shinji!" Lisa called out.
Shinji and Hiyori turned to see their friends catching up.
"Hiyori, are you all right?" Love asked.
They suddenly stopped when they saw Kensei which left them in shock.
"Kensei…" Love said.
Kensei just looked at the others and growled.
"Just what in the hell is going on here?" Love asked.
"You mean to say that's really Kensei?" Rose asked, "With that mask… and that Reiatsu… it's almost like he's a Hollow."
"I'm not exactly sure myself," Shinji said, "it might be Kensei… or it may not but there's one thing I know for sure… if we don't draw our swords right now, we'll be dead for sure."
Kensei started to roar loudly as he released his Reiatsu taking the others back as he was bursting with power forcing everyone to move back. Kensei used Shunpo and reappeared behind Love who was in the air.
"What the hell?" Love spoke.
Kensei struck Love with a strong punch. Rose called out Love and Love blocked Kensei's second punch with his Zanpakuto. Love panted and couldn't help but be impressed.
"Whoa, I felt that one," Love said, "that's just what I expect of you Kensei."
Kensei growled in response. Hiyori was being held by Shinji and she looked on shaking her head.
"What're you all doing?" Hiyori asked, "You're fighting Kensei!"
Hiyori started to cough.
"Be quiet Hiyori," Shinji said.
Hiyori looked at Shinji who had a determined expression.
"We have to stop him," Shinji explained, "if it really is Kensei, that's the more reason to do so."
Hiyori was speechless from Shinji's words.
"Shinji's right Hiyori," Rose said, "Kensei's very important to us and that's exactly why as his friends, we need to stop him."
"Don't worry," Lisa said as she drew her Zanpakuto, "there are many ways we can stop him without killing him."
Rose drew his Zanpakuto as well, "Exactly."
"We'll cut the tendons of his arms and legs," Lisa said, "You take the right side Rose."
"All right then," Rose agreed.
Lisa and Rose went to different direction to charge and trap Kensei. Lisa got to Kensei and swung her sword towards Kensei. Kensei however was dodging all of her sword swings. Rose charged towards Kensei from above and swung his sword. Kensei blocked Rose's sword swing with his arm. Lisa charged and swung her sword but Kensei blocked it with his other arm. The Hollowfied Kensei forced back both Lisa and Rose. Rose readied himself and was about to try again. Suddenly someone appeared from the sky and charged toward Rose in which Lisa saw the assailant.
"Rose, behind you!" Lisa called out.
Rose reacted too late as he struck in the head by a heel and was sent crashing to the ground.
"Rose!" Lisa shouted.
Rose was on the ground and did not move. Lisa, Shinji, and Hiyori looked up and saw that it was Mashiro who was also Hollowfied.
"Mashiro!" Shinji said.
Mashiro charged towards Shinji and attack with her flurry of kicks and Shinji was blocking Mashiro's kicks with his sword.
"Shinji, let go of me!" Hiyori said.
"Idiot, if you talk unnecessarily, you'll bite your tongue!" Shinji replied.
Shinji continued to block Mashiro's kicks. Mashiro was able to move Shinji's blade away and was about to strike Shinji with her kicks.
"Gochutekkan!" Hachigen suddenly spoke.
The binding Kido crashed on Mashiro and held her down with Mashiro screaming. Shinji looked and saw that it was Hachigen.
"You guys really run fast," Hachigen said.
"Hachi!" Shinji said.
Hachigen was still catching his breath and then he sighed with relief.
"I'm glad I made it in time," Hachi said.
Love swung his sword at Kensei and Kensei blocked the sword attack with his arm. Hachi looked and raised his hand.
"Bakudo#63," Hachi said, "Sajosabaku!"
A yellow energy appeared taking the form of a very thick rope and it wrapped around and held Kensei which made him fall and hit the ground.
"Shinji, just what is going on here?" Hachi asked, "Kensei and Mashiro, what has happened to them?"
Kensei started to get up and was using brute strength to break free the binding Kido. Hachi was seeing happening and he couldn't believe his eyes.
"This can't be," Hachi said, "A level sixty Bakudo is being repelled with just brute strength? It shouldn't be possible."
Kensei used all of his might and was able to break free from the Sajosabaku much to Hachi's shock.
"No," Hachi said quietly.
Seireitei
Kisuke was leaving the 12th Division Barracks and he wore a long cloak.
"That's quiet an odd item you've created," A male voice said
Kisuke was surprised and saw that it was Tessai who was came by.
"Creating a cloak that that completely conceals Reiatsu is no ordinary feat," Tessai said.
Kisuke just smiled, "Oh dear, you caught me."
Tessai and Kisuke just looked at each other.
"You're planning to rescue her, aren't you?" Tessai deduced, "Your lieutenant that is. I had a feeling that was what you were planning from the time I saw how you were in the Captain's Meeting."
"Got to hand it to you Tessai," Kisuke said, "I actually didn't expect you to figure me out."
"You and I grew up together along with Lady Yoruichi back in the Shihoin Manor," Tessai pointed out, "How could you think that I wouldn't notice what was going on with you?"
"Will you let me pass?" Kisuke asked.
"Don't be unreasonable," Tessai replied, "I'm not willing to let you go alone."
Kisuke was surprised at Tessai's words.
"Not go alone?" Kisuke asked.
"Tonight like you, I also felt fear beyond words," Tessai continued, "that something disturbing is happening," Tessai extended his hand, "Come, let's us go together. Let us go and head to where the others are."
"Tessai," Kisuke said and then he smiled, "thanks."
Tessai nodded, "You're welcome."
Hueco Mundo
In the desert nightly realm of the Hollows, there was someone on the ground and it was the master of the Lucavi Ultima who was in her Arch Seraph form. Ultima slowly rose up from the sandy ground and then she looked around.
"Where am I?" Ultima asked herself, "What is this place?"
There was a sudden roar and Ultima was surprised and looked and saw several Hollows slowly approaching the female demon. Ultima glared at the Hollows.
"What's this?" Ultima asked, "There are those that would oppose me like this?"
One of the Hollows roared loudly and Ultima stood up and spread her massive red wings.
"So be it," Ultima said.
The Hollows charged towards Ultima with the intent to eat her and there was a loud bang and a pillar of light occurred.
Seireitei, Soul Society
Two Shinigami were doing their nightly patrol. They soon noticed Kyoraku who approached them.
"Thanks for the hard work you're doing," Kyoraku said.
"Oh Captain Kyoraku," The patrolling officers said.
"What brings you at this hour?" One of the patrolling officers asked.
"Well, I felt the need to walk," Kyoraku said, "I couldn't exactly relax."
Kyoraku noticed someone up on the upper floor of one of the buildings and saw that it was Aizen who was carrying a stack of books. Aizen saw Kyoraku and he turned and respectfully nodded at the 8th Division Captain and Kyoraku nodded back at the 5th Division Lieutenant.
"Hmm, maybe I'm just being paranoid," Kyoraku commented.
"Sir?" One of the patrolling officers asked.
"It's nothing," Kyoraku said, "anyway it looks like Lieutenant Aizen had trouble sleeping."
The patrolling officers looked and noticed Aizen and they both quickly bowed and greeted the lieutenant. Kyoraku left saying good night to the patrolling officers and headed back to his division's barracks. When he arrived back at the 8th Division Barracks, he noticed a little girl there holding a book. The girl had chin length black hair and violet eyes. She wore rounded glasses and her standard Shihakusho.
"Good evening sir," The little girl said.
Kyoraku approached the little girl.
"Hmm, let's see," Kyoraku said, "as I recall, you're Nanao Ise."
"Oh yes," The little girl named Nanao replied, "I'm honored you remember who I am sir."
Kyoraku chuckled, "Well you are the youngest member we have here. I make sure to remember the names of every girl we have here. Especially in your case, you would come and see me every first day of the month," Kyoraku realized, "oh yeah, today is the first day of the month."
"Yes Captain," Nanao said, "I was hoping that Lieutenant Yadomaru would read to me again today."
"…I see," Kyoraku said, "I'm sorry, Lisa isn't here right now."
"How come?" Nanao asked, "Where is she?"
Kyoraku looked up at the moon thinking about his lieutenant.
"She's on an important mission," Kyoraku said, "but don't you worry Nanao. She'll be back in the morning. I'm sure of it."
Fugai, Rukongai
Lisa was struck and fell on the ground hard. Kensei charged towards Lisa to finish her off but was blasted by Rose's Kido.
"Stop this Kensei," Rose pleaded, "you were never the type to strike a lady. You're better than this."
Kensei got up and growled angrily. Lisa got up and panted and Shinji just looked at Lisa.
"Lisa, are you all right?" Shinji asked.
"I'm okay," Lisa replied.
"You sure as hell don't look okay," Shinji replied back.
"Don't worry about it Shinji," Lisa said, "I can still keep going."
"But at any rate," Rose said as he got up, "if this keeps up, we won't last much longer."
"Hmm, Hachi," Lisa said, "there any other way to subdue him?"
"There is," Hachi replied, "however though… he easily broke through Sajosabaku. We'll need to get him at full force. In order to do that, I'll need all of you to create a sure fire opportunity for me to use a very high level Bakudo. However, this Bakudo I'll use may take all of us with it. It's a huge risk."
"Hmm, is that all?" Love simply asked.
The others looked at Love when he spoke.
"Love…?" Lisa spoke.
"I'll draw him to me," Love said, "while I do that, capture Kensei."
"Wait, I'm coming too," Lisa said.
"So am I," Rose said.
"With those injuries you have, you both have gone crazy," Love commented, "I can do this alone. You just watch my back."
"You're just showing off," Lisa said.
"Look who's talking," Love replied back.
Love charged towards Kensei and Rose signaled the others to stand back as he used the Kido, Sokatsui. Kensei was hit with the Sokatsui and Love swung and hit Kensei's shoulder but was surprised to see that there was no effect.
"Damn, how solid is he?" Love asked himself in his head.
Kensei countered by hitting Love with a strong punch and sent Love flying. Kensei looked and saw Lisa charging towards him and he blocked and swatted Lisa away. Love struck Kensei and forced the Hollowfied Captain to move back. Kensei charged towards Love but Love was able to use Shunpo to dodge Kensei's punch.
"Hachi!" Lisa yelled.
"Bakudo#99: Kin!" Hachi spoke clasping his hands together and with his finger intertwined intricately.
Spiritual fabric and iron shafts appeared and caused Kensei's arms to be bound to his back and he was brought down pinned on the ground. Hachi felt relived as he was panting and Shinji was impressed.
"Well now," Shinji said, "a level ninety Bakudo with no incantation. That's very impressive Hachi."
"Thanks, although I did overextended myself on this," Hachi replied.
"Okay then," Shinji said he and the others looked at the pinned Kensei and Mashiro, "how are we supposed to reverse what was done to them? Can't you do anything for them with Kido Hachi?"
"Even if I could, I don't how they got this way," Hachi explained, "I might actually damage them if I'm not careful."
Hiyori started to cough and Shinji noticed as the cough didn't sound good.
"What's wrong Hiyori?" Shinji asked, "That cough doesn't sound good," Shinji looked over to Hachi, "Hachi, forget about Kensei and Mashiro for a moment, we should heal Hiyori first."
"S-Shi… Shinji," Hiyori spoke, "Let go of me…"
Shinji noticed something was wrong with Hiyori and he was shocked when he saw Hiyori as some white substance coming out of her mouth. Suddenly Hiyori slashed Shinji's chest and shoulder area with her sword. Shinji's blood was spilled and a Hollow mask formed on Hiyori's face as Shinji fell with Hiyori letting out a loud scream and some strange Reiatsu. This shocked the others who saw it.
"Hiyori!" Lisa called out.
"What the hell is happening to her?! Love said.
Suddenly darkness formed and surrounded the group and all were confused on what was going. Hachi, Rose, Lisa, and Love were confused as they called out to each. Suddenly one by one, they were cut down. The darkness dissipated and the one standing was actually Tosen with his Zanpakuto in hand. Tosen had cut down the others and Shinji looked on and was shocked at what was seeing.
"Hold on a minute," Shinji said as he recognized his former subordinate, "it's you…"
Tosen looked at Shinji and took off his goggles.
"…Kaname!" Shinji said, "Tell me why did you do this… to Kensei? You betrayed him, your own captain."
"He didn't betray him," A familiar male voice said.
Shinji was shocked because he recognized the voice.
"He's actually quite loyal," The familiar male voice continued.
Shinji looked and he guessed right as he saw that it was his lieutenant, Sosuke Aizen who had his Zanpakuto in his hand and walking. Accompanying Aizen was three other people who were actually part of the 5th Division and it was Gin Ichimaru, Kosei Kotobuki, and Messam Elmdore. Aizen, Gin, and Kosei smiled while Elmdore had a stoic expression as they came forward.
"As a matter of fact," Aizen continued, "Kaname has been loyally following all of my orders. You of all people can understand that so please don't hold it against him… Captain Hirako."
"Sosuke," Shinji said, "I should have known. It really was you who was behind this."
"Oh, you mean you were on to me?" Aizen replied impressed as he, Gin, Kosei, and Elmdore stopped, "That's very impressive."
"Of course I was," Shinji shot back, "that's why I'm a captain."
"When did you suspect me?" Aizen asked.
"From the beginning," Shinji replied, "from the time you were in your mother's womb and maybe even before then."
"How witty of you," Aizen replied with a smile.
"To be perfectly honest," Shinji continued, "I've always felt you were someone dangerous and sinister, someone who couldn't really be trusted. And as long we're telling the truth, that's the real reason why I made you my lieutenant. I did it just so I can keep an eye on you Sosuke."
Aizen still smiled, "Yes and I appreciate it Captain Hirako. I depended on your deep distrust of me and made sure you kept watching. That what made misleading you so easy."
"You were never out of my sight," Shinji said, "What are you saying?"
"You were keeping an eye on the wrong person," Aizen interjected.
"What?" Shinji said puzzled.
"During this past month when you were so aware of my presence," Aizen said, "it wasn't me who was following you."
"What?" Shinji replied shocked, "What are you going on about?"
"I have a very unique and useful ability," Aizen said, "I can make anyone mistake anything for something else at will. That is the true power of my Zanpakuto, Kyokasuigetsu. The ability is called," Aizen held up his Zanpakuto, "Kanzen Saimin."
"Kanzen Saimin," Elmdore said in his head, "Complete Hypnosis."
"You're saying… you hypnotized me?" Shinji deduced.
"You're a sharp intellect man Captain Hirako," Aizen pointed out, "but you're also suspicious which gave me an opening to deceive you. You never really treated me as your second-in-command like the other captains do with their lieutenants. If you had, you might have been able to see right through me, however you did not. Because you didn't trust me, you always kept me at arm's length, never opening up to me or gave me any information and of course, you never tried to get closer to me and that's why I was able to take advantage of you so easily," Aizen slowly sheathed his Kyokasuigetsu, "the fact is that you never realized at a certain point, I switched places with a completely different person."
Shinji struggled to get up bitter of what he was hearing and Aizen recalled when he had an officer who was bald stand in as his replacement with the effect of his Kanzen Saimin.
"I made sure the man who took my place memorized everything about my normal behavior patterns," Aizen explained, "including my pattern of interaction when dealing with you and the other division officers. If you had really paid attention to me, even slight little differences in habits and behavior would have seemed off and out of place to you. You were too arrogant to believe that I was smart enough to be one step ahead of you because you didn't know who I really was, you now lie there completely helpless."
Shinji continued to be bitter hearing Aizen say these things to him.
"Do you understand the depth of your situation now my dear Captain Hirako?" Aizen asked.
"Sosuke…" Shinji spoke.
"Oh and one more thing," Aizen said, "let me enlighten you on something. Earlier you said you made me as your lieutenant to keep an eye on me but you see that's where you're wrong. It's actually the other way around."
"What are you talking about?" Shinji asked.
"Think about at the start of our relationship," Aizen said, "Just as captains have the right to select their lieutenants, division members have the right to refuse an assignment. So while that right is rarely exercised, especially when you're starting out, it still exists. I had the choice of not being your lieutenant. So why didn't I do that? Why did I still accept the position? The answer is simple," Aizen grinned, "Because it was the ideal situation. You didn't realize it at the time but your excessive suspicion and wariness of me was just what I needed. It played perfectly to the successful completion to my plans. Now do you understand what I'm talking?" You did not choose me… I chose you Captain Hirako."
Shinji was shaking in anger and was becoming more agitated at the things that Aizen was saying to him.
"I suppose in the end if you think about it, you owe your friends here an apology," Aizen continued, "because you were chosen by me, they ended up on the ground through no fault of their own."
Shinji had heard enough from his devious lieutenant and was set to make him pay as he quickly got up and drew his Zanpakuto.
"Sosuke!" Shinji yelled with anger.
Shinji was suddenly hit with the same white substance and a mask was forming on Shinji's face. Shinji was shocked and he looked at Aizen who had his smile.
"I wasn't actually sure it was going work but thank you Captain for going for my cheap taunt," Aizen said.
"What's happening to me?" Shinji asked as the mask was still forming.
The nightmare continued on that full moonlit night as white masks formed on the eight victims and it was the night that changed lives adding with the aftermath on the very next day as an innocent individual would be framed for the heinous actions. It would be a century later that the truth would be revealed.
One Year Later, District 40 of West Rukongai, Takame
In Ramza's small house, Ramza was sleeping and he slowly opened his eyes and saw Meliadoul who was looking over him.
"Good morning Ramza," Meliadoul said with a smile.
"Good morning Meliadoul," Ramza replied with a smile.
Later on, Ramza and Meliadoul left the house and were walking. On their way, they saw Takeshi who was swinging his long stick.
"Takeshi," Ramza said.
Takeshi stopped and looked at Ramza and Meliadoul.
"Oh, it's you two," Takeshi said.
Takeshi turned and just continued doing sword swings.
Ramza and Meliadoul stopped and looked at Takeshi.
"So Takeshi, how have you been?" Ramza asked.
"I'm fine Ramza," Takeshi said, "thanks for asking."
"…Okay, good to know," Ramza said with a nod.
Takeshi suddenly stopped swinging.
"Ramza, I need to ask," Takeshi said.
"Ask what?" Ramza asked.
"Are you still talking to that woman?" Takeshi asked.
"That woman?" Meliadoul asked confused.
"It's sad that you're referring Satsuki as that woman," Ramza said sounding heartbroken.
"Wait Satsuki?" Meliadoul asked.
"With the way you replied Ramza," Takeshi said, "I'm going to take that as a yes."
"Can't you just talk to her?" Ramza asked.
"How can I?" Takeshi replied upset, "I refuse to talk to someone who deceived me."
"I know you're upset for what happened but I know Satsuki wants to make up with you," Ramza pointed out.
"I see no point," Takeshi said, "There is nothing to talk about. You should stop associating to her, she's a lying noble."
"I'm not going to do that," Ramza said shaking his head, "Satsuki is my friend and I don't abandon my friends."
"Then you're naïve fool," Takeshi said bitterly.
Takeshi ran away and Ramza called out to him but it was met with deaf ears. Ramza was sad about it and shook his head.
"Ramza, let's just go," Meliadoul suggested.
"Yes," Ramza said with a nod.
Ramza and Meliadoul went on their way. They soon arrived at an area that was a graveyard and they prayed to the people that had died. Satsuki, Yuji, and Yashiro were already there and they looked and saw Ramza and Meliadoul and nodded at them. The five people had their hands together, closed their eyes, and prayed standing in front of the makeshift graves of the people who lost their lives over the course of the years. After some time, they finished their prayers and opened their eyes and had their hands down.
"Ramza, are you sure you want to do this?" Yuji asked.
"Yes I'm sure," Ramza said.
"I still can't believe that you're actually going to do it," Yashiro said, "personally I'm against this."
"I know you are Yashiro," Ramza said, "I feel that this is something I should do. I know I didn't think that it was a good idea for me in the past but now I feel different about it."
"Sounds like your mind is made up," Yuji said.
Yashiro sighed, "Fine, I won't say anything else then… I guess it'll be fine like with Yosuke."
"Thank you Yuji and Yashiro," Ramza said, "by next week, I will take the entrance exam to enter the Shin'o Academy and become a Shinigami."
That's it for this chapter. Next chapter: Ramza takes a new path starting with the Shin'o Academy.