Nero's feet hit heavily on the dirt as he ran towards a destination, all the while Rukia struggled. "Let go!" She struggled to remove herself from his grasp. "I need to help Ichigo!"
"Shut it midget!" Nero snapped. "Unless you can pull something out of your ass, your still powerless. Besides, he won't lose to Vergil's ripoff."
"Why are you so confident in him?" She asked. "He seems...different."
"You mean besides the new hair? Yea he is. He found his real Zanpakutos." He stopped when he found himself in the middle of the woods. "You guys around?!"
"Who are you-"
"About time Nero!" Lady spoke out as she laid on a tree branch. "We need to get that collar off the midget."
"I have a name! It's Rukia Kuchiki!" Rukia declaration made Nero snort. "Is there something wrong with my name?"
"I find it funny you still consider yourself family to the asshole who didn't try to help you at all." He set her down as Lady and Trish appeared from the treeline.
She was about to object, but Lady called out another name. "Nemu! Your up!"
"Very well Miss Lady," Nemu called out as she slowly joined everyone else. "Are you sure I am capable of removing her collar?"
"I'm sure you'll be fine Roboto," Trish mentioned. "Now put your back into it."
"Lieutenant Nemu?!" Nemu swarmed over Rukia and mechanically grabbed her neck and began to tinker with the collar on her neck. "What are you doing here?"
"Be silent." She ordered as she continued to manipulate the collar. "I am removing this collar to free you. It has a tracking device within it."
Rukia had several questions swimming in her head but remained silent in fear of being overwhelmed and let Nemu work on her collar.
Dante and Vergil were in a three-way stare down between Yamamoto, the old, but terrifying Head Captain of the Gotei 13, and the Captains of Divisions 8 and 13, Shunsui and Jūshirō respectively. Yamamoto slammed his cane down in anger.
"How dare you invade and prevent the execution of Rukia Kuchiki!" His face, flaming with rage as he turned to Jūshirō and Shunsui. "And how dare you two, Shunsui and Jūshirō, betray your master!"
Jūshirō and Shunsui soon disappeared with Shunpo, with Shunsui's lieutenant, Nanao Ise following. "Now where do they think they're going?" Dante said as he focused on their Reiatsu and used Sonido to go to them, with Vergil following suit, leaving a fuming Yamamoto.
They appeared side by side in front of Shunsui and Jūshirō, with Nanao noticing them. "Intruders." She snarled as she attempted to move to fight Dante and Vergil, but was stopped by her captain.
"Calm it down little Nanao." He said as he looked at them with a smile. "I say we may need their help if we want to fight old man Yama."
"And what makes you think that we're here to help you? We might want to take you out." His possible threat Jūshirō to reach for his sword. "Ah, we ain't taking you out yet."
"Why not help us against Master Yamamoto? It would prove more useful for us to unite against him."
"We do not wish to ally ourselves with the likes of yourself. That is simply that." Vergil answered as Yamamoto appeared, hunched over on his cane.
"Chasing after children...It has been many years since anyone could escape me." He soon stood tall and slowly walked towards them. "I shall take you all out for going against the Gotei 13!"
"Sorry, gramps," Dante smirked as he pulled out Rebellion, resting it heavily against his shoulder. "I don't think a cooky old man is doing much against us." Yamamoto's eyes widened slightly at his response.
"You Ryoka think so highly of yourselves to think you can take out the Head-Captain?" His skin soon danced with a flame aura as a monstrous pressure pressed against them. Nanao fell to her knees and started to foam at the mouth before Shunsui took her away and reappeared seconds after.
"Now that the kids are gone, can the adults have some fun?" Dante's taunt caused Yamamoto to raise his cane and turn it on its side, causing the wood to unravel into oblivion, revealing Ryūjin Jakka.
"It seems that children need punishment." His sword was stabbed into the ground as his haori was thrown off. With a flame enveloping him, Yamamoto stripped his upper body to show a muscular form with a myriad of scars running all around it. "If so, I shall deliver it to them!" His sword soon found itself back into his grasp before saying it's release command, "Reduce All Creation To Ash!"
His declaration was followed by the surrounding area being engulfed in an inferno out of hell itself. "Looks like gramps pipe has gotten an upgrade eh?" He turned to Vergil with a smirk. "How about we have some fun?"
"Please anything against me you would fail," Vergil said as he thumbed Yamato from its sheath. "But I'll humor you." The soon took off in opposite directions Vergil taking on Yamamoto and Dante taking on Jūshirō and Shunsui.
Dante unleashed a Stinger, pulling closer to Shunsui, who's swords clashed with Rebellion. "Not even letting us use Shikai? A bit rude of you ain't?"
"Who cares? I fight to win. If I get dirty, I get dirty." Dante pulled out Ebony and spun it, blocking Jūshirō's strike. "And you say I'm fighting dirty?" He pulled the trigger and a Bala was fired towards Jūshirō, who dodged it.
Whilst he was dodging, Shunsui pushed through Dante's defense and slashed his chest. Dante grunted as he jumped back and saw a deep cut on his chest. "You had to damage the threads? Come on man!" His complaints were interrupted as Jūshirō and Shunsui used Shikai, both now wielding two swords.
"Great." Dante's cut started to mend itself. "Guess I have to level the playing field."
"And how are you going to do that? You got a secret Zanpakuto or something?" Shunsui's question caused Dante to smile widely.
"Please surrender. We can ally against Master Yamamoto!" Jūshirō requested. Dante response was to hover his hand above his face.
"I've got a few tricks up my sleeves." Red sparks appeared across his face, forming a white mask with two down-facing ram horns, with a red jewel placed in the center of the forehead. It's "face", was a menacing skull with two stripes on each side of it. "Hate using this thing." Dante's voice began to distort as his eyes turned black with yellow irises.
"A Hollow mask?!" Jūshirō asked shocked. "What are you?!"
"Hmmm…" Dante's voice sounded before disappearing using Sonido, quicker than ever before. He then reappeared in front of them with Kafka fluttering quickly. "Don't know." The string was released, unleashing a volley of arrows, hitting them straight on.
Yamamoto looked on as Shunsui and Jūshirō were struck by Kafka's arrows. "Don't be distracted," Vergil spoke as he swung Yamato, causing Yamamoto to swing his own, causing a clash of steel and flame.
"I see that you still have strength," Yamamoto noted Vergil having burn marks across his body and wounds across him. "But what is the power of your ally?"
"That is none of your concern." Vergil disappeared using Hirenkyaku, appearing behind, but was blocked by Yamamoto. He repeatedly did this again and again, but couldn't land a decisive blow on him.
Vergil suddenly appeared in front of Yamamoto with Yamato sheathed. "Have you given up?" Vergil raised his palm high before it motioned down. Yamamoto looked up to see an incoming storm of spectral swords.
Ichigo and Byakuya clashed with each of their swords. Byakuya used Shunpo to disappear from Ichigo's view, but his blade was intercepted with Rebellion. "Looks like your slowing down Byakuya. Seems like your going to need your Shikai." Ichigo taunted.
"Don't delude yourself," Byakuya said. "You may have some meager power, but that is irrelevant." He held his blade, his hand hovering over it. "But if it death that you wish for, I shall oblige. Scatter, Senbonzakura."His blade split into fragments that reflected a pink color. It's hilt soon pointed towards Ichigo and swarmed like hornets towards him
Ichigo dodged the swarm with Sonido, leaving a sonic boom. Byakuya was surprised by the use of a Hollow technique but had to disregard his thoughts as Ichigo appeared just within his field of vision, Blue Rose already aimed at his head. Senbonzakura moved to intercept the dual shot.
"How are you using a Hollow technique?!" Byakuya demanded. "Are you one yourself?!"
Ichigo's respond was accompanied by a shrug. "Can't really say. My genetics are one hell of a cocktail. Bet it tastes good." Ichigo still held Rebellion in his right hand and used Stinger to drag him closer to Byakuya, who dodged using Shunpo.
When he reappeared, Rebellion was already glowing with red energy. "Drive!" Ichigo's declaration was followed with the energy being unleashed as an arc.
"Hadō #4. Byakurai." Byakuya pointed his index finger out and let out a pale lightning bolt that clashed with the Drive. Ichigo's attack was the one to succeed in the clash and head towards Byakuya, though weaker.
He was unprepared for the attack and was struck by it, resulting in a long wound on his chest. "A Cero being launched from your sword. How interesting."
"Aren't I blushing," Ichigo commented. "You can't beat me with your Shikai, so you might want to bust out your Bankai."
"Hrrh, if you desire your death, so be it." Byakuya's sword reformed and the blade was pointed down towards the ground. He let go of Senbonzakura and when it hit the ground, it passed through like it was water. The area surrounding him was enveloped in darkness as two rows with hundreds of colossal swords appeared. "Bankai, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi." The darkness disappeared and the blades broke into uncountable amounts of blade fragments.
They became a wave and came crashing towards Ichigo. He dodged the onslaught and disappeared using Hirenkyaku. When he reappeared above Byakuya, Ebony and Ivory were now wielded and fired out Balas at a breakneck pace. He disappeared after firing a burst, doing it over and over again, firing numerous amount of Balas.
Senbonzakura Kageyoshi's blades moved to defend Byakuya, eliminating damage the Balas could have done. "It seems like your abilities have little effect on me," Byakuya spoke as Ichigo stopped in front of him. "Do not be disappointed, Ryoka. Your abilities are impressive, but you have no chance of defeating my Bankai."
"I've got a few tricks up my sleeve." He holstered Ebony and Ivory before twirling out Blue Rose, namelessly turning it into Red Queen. "The best chance to beat a Bankai...is a Bankai."
"You act as if you yourself have obtained Bankai."
"Time to put on a show then!" He soon tossed Red Queen into the air, blue particles emanating from it. "Bankai!" Red Queen exploded into blue particles with a roar, causing a cyclone of the same color to cover the area around him. Red eyes peered from the storm. It dispersed, showing Ichigo with his own Bankai. "Dāku Supekutoru Senshi." His voice warped with each word.
"That is your Bankai?" Byakuya questioned. "You have no Zanpakuto to even wield, so what can you fight with?"
"Heh, like this!" Ichigo's wings unfurled and jetted him towards Byakuya. The waves of Senbonzakura Kageyoshi moved towards him, but a spectral arm smashed through the wave and Ichigo soon grabbed Byakuya with his right hand. He smashed Byakuya down and ripped the landscape, causing numerous wounds to him.
Byakuya tossed him and sent him tumbling into the ground. He slowly got up, blood covering his form. "It seems that you are quite powerful. But it shall not be enough against mine." He soon covered the area surrounding Ichigo and himself in a black void.
The blade fragments formed rows of pink glowing swords. "Senkei, Senbonzakura Kageyoshi. Do not worry. These swords will not attack you. They serve one purpose; to kill my opponent." A sword formed in his hand, resembling his sealed Zanpakuto.
"I can't form as many swords as you," Ichigo said as 12 summon swords, six on each side, appeared next to him. "But I'll give you a run for your money!" Ichigo charged quickly towards Byakuya, who matched him.
When Senbonzakura Kageyoshi and Yamato clashed, Rebellion followed it's brother with a downward strike, overpowering Byakuya, who disappeared and reappeared behind Ichigo, already pulling his blade down to kill him. The orbiting shurikens buzzed and struck against his sword, eventually causing it to explode in pink fragments. Byakuya retreated as another sword appeared.
The summoned swords Ichigo had been keeping disappeared before reappearing, circling Byakuya in two rows. They soon stabbed through him all at once. He breathed heavily as Ichigo gave a cocky smirk. "I thought that you would whop my ass?" He rested Rebellion on his shoulder. "Any more tricks up your sleeve or you gonna give?"
"Do not...think that you are victorious yet." Byakuya's breath ragged out the words as he stood on shaky legs. The surrounding blades disappeared as his Reiatsu glowed white in the form of a pillar. Pure white wings soon form from the pillar along with a white halo attached to his back. "Shūkei: Hakuteiken."
"Are you supposed to be an angel? How ironic."
"How is this ironic? With this form, I shall enact justice upon you and Rukia!" Ichigo snorted at his claim.
"And killing your sister is justice? Sounds a bit shit to me." He began walking towards Byakuya, Yamato and Rebellion glowing with blue and red energy respectively. "But let's finish this."
"It seems you manage to speak some sense." His soon matched Ichigo walk, which was now more of a dash. Ichigo's swords were now storming with energy. The energy that was soon unleashed as they clashed with Byakuya.
They soon were consumed with Reiatsu, Byakuya with white, and Ichigo with red and blue. They struggle continued as the area erupted in their energy, engulfing them both.
Vergil breathed heavily as he supported his weight on Yamato. His attack on Yamamoto did nothing, the summoned swords shattered the moment they hit his skin and he was slammed by Ryūjin Jakka.
"I must admit that your attacks were impressive," Yamamoto said as he stared down at the weakened Vergil. "The use of Quincy techniques is surprising, but I am afraid that your life will end here."
Ryūjin Jakka, the blade being coated in flames, came down to strike Vergil. But the blade was not met with flesh, but with steel. "Yesh Vergil. I thought you could take gramps. But I guess I have to save your ass." Dante spoke as he pushed away Yamamoto's sword. He no longer had his Hollow mask.
Defeating Shunsui and Jūshirō was rather easy with the addition of the mask. Despite the fact that they were Captains, they were also holding back most of their strength. Dante wasn't however, and completely thrashed them and knocked them out.
"Be silent," Vergil said as he got back up. "I will be...fine."
"Like hell, you will." Dante stood by his side. "Just pull the summoned stick out of your ass and let me help. Otherwise, neither of us will be walking out of here."
"...Very well." Vergil relented as he stood more steadily. "Just don't slow me down."
"You believe that both of you stand a chance against me?" Yamamoto questioned. "Two children will not-"
"Enough talk," Vergil said coldly. "We do not wish to hear any more of your monologue." Without another word, he and Dante split apart, circling to Yamamoto's sides. Dante unleashed a stinger, which nearly hit Yamamoto, but was sidestepped and Rebellion was hit into the ground.
Yamamoto's fists were clenched together and almost smashed into Dante's head, but Vergil's timing with Yamato's sheath deflected it. He jumped off Rebellion grip, sending it into Dante's grip, and began precisely cut Yamamoto.
Yamamoto grunted and swung Ryūjin Jakka towards Vergil, clashing with Yamato and sending him back to the ground. He skittered to a stop as Dante appeared by his side. "Got any ideas?" Dante asked.
"No, unfortunately," Vergil admitted.
"Lucky for us, I do." He pulled out Ebony and Ivory, intent on shooting Yamamoto, but a fireball from said person knocked Ebony out of his hand. but Vergil quickly caught it.
"I suppose I'll go with your way for once." Vergil had a light smile as he said that.
"Alright then!" They quickly went back to back, crossing their pistols. "Remember the magical word?"
"Jackpot." They said simultaneously as the triggers were pulled resulting in two energy shots, one blue and one red, spiraling around one another and hit Yamamoto, resulting in a small mark on his chest.
"Quite a powerful technique you two have, but it will not give you any advantage." Yamamoto began walking towards them. "It is time for you-" His declaration was interrupted by a voice coming from nowhere.
"This is Lieutenant Isane Kotetsu of Division 4. This is an emergency message from Captain Unohana and is for everyone, even the Ryoka. This message is regarding the traitor among our midst. As grim as it is..." The message soon revealed that Gin Ichimaru, Kaname Tōsen, and Sōsuke Aizen were the traitors. It also revealed that Aizen had been puppeting Central 46 and had slated Rukia for execution.
Dante whistled at the reveal. "Damn, heavy stuff." He commented and looked at Yamamoto. "Don't suppose that we need to fight anymore do we?"
"Hmm...I suppose not." Yamamoto agreed as he sealed Ryūjin Jakka, causing all the flames to disappear. "There are more pressing matters than disciplining children."
"Sorry about your students," Dante said. "Tough bastards if they didn't hold back."
"I taught them well. But I must go deal with the traitors!" He soon disappeared, leaving Vergil and Dante alone.
"You going to be alright?" Dante asked as he was tossed back Ebony, which was holstered with its counterpart.
"I shall be fine," Vergil answered. "I just need more...power."
"Nope! We're not going through the power-hungry asshole phase. We're better than Him!" Dante's object causes him to think. "You don't need more power, you need access to your own power."
"I suppose...you are right." Dante had a smirk at Vergil's admittance. "But we must discuss this another day. For now, we must go to Nero,"
"Whatever Vergil." They soon took off using their respective techniques.
Ichigo panted, his voice echoing with itself as he did so. His body was healing itself slowly, but surely. Whatever scraps of his clothes on his upper body were gone, besides Ebony and Ivory's holsters. He could see Byakuya, bloodied and with his hair freed from their constraints, standing across from him. "How's that asshole?" He insulted while pushing himself up with Yamato.
Byakuya remained silent before a large gash appeared across his chest. "It seems that I have lost." His voice was pained and strained.
"Damn right you have. Now sit your ass down."
"Do you know why I chose not to save Rukia? It is because of justice."
Ichigo rolled his eyes at his declaration. "That's bullshit. Justice is what you think for yourself. Not something people tell you. Do you want justice? Do it yourself."
"What an interesting philosophy." Byakuya turned to face Ichigo. "I wonder what will happen now." He soon disappeared, leaving Ichigo alone.
Ichigo collapsed, drained from fighting Byakuya and using his Bankai for so long. Said Bankai then dispersed. 'Guess I can't use it for too long.' He mused. His body felt pretty stressed when he was using it. 'Whenever I used it against Nero, I passed out. When I used it against Dante, it was more figuring it out. This was the first time I was pushed.'
"Kurosaki-Kun!" Orihime called out as she, Chad, Uryu, and Ganju walked up. When she attempted to get closer, Kikōō appeared in a burst of flames and landed on Ichigo's head and snapped at Orihime. "Ah!"
"Calm it down Kikōō," Ichigo grunted. "They're friends." Kikōō chirped before getting fluttering onto the ground.
"What is that Ichigo?" Chad asked pointing towards Kikōō, who snapped at him.
"It's my new pet." Kikōō rubbed its head against Ichigo's.
"Are you alright Kurosaki-Kun?" Orihime asked. "Do you need healing?"
"Nah, I'm tired." He grunted and got up, though was haggard. "Damn my Bankai is tiring."
"It seems that you won against Byakuya," Uryu said.
"No! I lost." He snarked off. "What the hell do you think I did! God, where are Lady and Trish?! Nero should have brought Rukia to them."
"Attention all..." They all heard the emergency message from Isane about the traitors.
"That isn't good," Ichigo said out loud before he sensed an ocean of Reiatsu appear where Lady and Trish were camping out. "That especially not good!" He attempted to start moving high speed, but his body felt like stone. "Guess I can't use Hirenkyaku or Sonido."
Uryu's eyes were widened at the mentioned of the Quincy technique but were silenced by Kikōō screeching before taking off and erupting in flames. When they died off, she was larger, enough to carry a few people.
"So that's your idea? I like it." Ichigo got up and jumped onto Kikōō's back. She soon flared her wings and took off towards the source of the Reiatsu.
"How much longer till that damn collar is off?" Nero complained as he stood to watch as Nemu continued to work on Rukia's collar. They soon heard Isane's message.
"Captain Aizen? He's a traitor!?" Rukia yelled under Nemu.
"Please remain still Rukia," Nemu asked. "I am nearly finished."
"I'm a traitor?" A voice asked, making everyone turn to see the men of the hour, Aizen, Tōsen, and Gin. "That quite an audacious claim."
"Keep your distance asshole!" Nero said as he pulled out Blue Rose, aiming it directly at Aizen. "Or you're going to need another pair of glasses."
"I would have hoped that Renji would escape and be the one to help you, but it makes no difference." He started to walk forward, but Nero's shot made him stop.
"Well aren't you kids just crazy." Gin had a sly smirk as he spoke. "But we're going to need little Rukia to come with us."
"Nah," Trish said as she stood by Nero. "The midget is kinda important to Ichigo."
"And here I wanted things to end well." Gin pulled out Shinsō. "Shoot to kill, Shinsō." His sword swiftly extended towards them. Trish jumped and kicked straight down, knocking Shinsō into the ground.
"Gin," Aizen spoke. "I would say that wasn't needed, but they may be somewhat of a hassle."
"Why thanks, Captain." Shinsō detracted back into its normal length. "But I wouldn't want to ruin your fun."
"Why thank you Gin." Aizen turned his attention to everyone else. "Please surrender Rukia to us. I would rather not fight over this."
"Sorry asshole," Nero said before pulling out Red Queen. "But I'm itching for a fight!" He soon dashed towards Aizen, his sword roaring as he did so. But before Red Queen could spill blood, Tōsen stepped in, blocking it with an unsheathed Suzumushi
"I will not allow you to kill Aizen." He spoke as Nero's spectral arm nearly grabbed him, only missing due to his quick reaction speed. "I see that you stand in the way of justice. I will strike you down and make your body a stepping stone for justice."
"Tch, I'd like to see that." Nero soon attempted to swat at Tōsen but failed as he uses Shunpo to use distance. "Trying to run? Nice try!" He soon followed him, leaving a man down on each side.
"So who do I get to fight? Is it the pretty blonde?" Gin asked.
"Thanks for the compliment, but your not my type." Trish soon pulled Force Edge off her back before dashing towards Gin, lightning arching off her and the sword. Gin held Shinsō in a reverse grip, blocking Trish's heavy broadsword. He jumped back just like Tōsen, mostly to use Shinsō's full capabilities.
Trish followed him, set on not giving him any room to use his weapon. With them leaving, Lady was the only one to face Aizen. She kept silent as she moved in front of Rukia and Nemu, holding Kalina Ann.
"Is this all that stands before me? An ant?" Aizen slowly stepped forward. "I'll have to be careful. Otherwise, you'll be crushed."
"I'll go with you Aizen, just leave her alone!" Rukia called out.
"Shut it!" Lady yelled back before turning back to a still encroaching Aizen. "Be careful of this!" She unleashed a rocket from her weapon. It screeched as it barreled towards him. Aizen's lip's twitched slightly at the miserable attempt at harming a God. He batted the rocket away with a mere flick of his wrist, it exploding in the background.
"Is that a human weapon?" He asked. "How pitiful." Lady was shaking slightly, despite her attempts at not doing so.
'Am I this useless?' She asked herself. 'Am I going to be the useless damsel in distress?'
"Don't despair. You'll life will be at its end soon enough." Lady felt indeed that. Despair. Her grip on Kalina Ann loosened as her will wavered.
'I'm just like the doe. Scared and Useless.' Kalina Ann slid further from her grasp.
"Don't worry Mary. You'll be reunited with your father soon enough." Lady's eyes widened at that mention of her actual name and of Arkham.
"How do you know that!?" She yelled, causing Aizen's pace to halt.
"It's rather simple, dear girl." Aizen's face contorted into a cruel smile. "Who do you think introduced him to Hollows? Oh, Hyne. Wanted the ability to protect his family after his wife was already attacked by a Hollow. Unfortunately the Hollow he "Summoned" was one of my creations. He must have screamed as it took over his body and forced him to kill his wife. And the experiment had such great information for my next one."
Lady's despair turned to anger as her grip turned on Kalina Ann tightened to a vice-grip. "You bastard." Her voice was low as flickers of green light appeared around her and Kalina Ann. "Your the reason my family is dead?"
Aizen was slightly interested in what was happening to her but decided it was of no importance. "Did you not hear me before. I am the one who introduced Hyne to Hollows, so yes I am." While he was talking, the light seemed to intensify around Lady.
Her anger boiled over as she narrowed her eyes and the lights fully intensified around Kalina Ann's barrel. "Then I'm sending you straight to hell!" The barrel rattled as a blinding beam shot out of it, slamming straight into Aizen.
When it stopped, Lady dropped, heavily drained from the attack. Aizen was merely holding his palm open in front of him, slightly hissing from the attack, all the while his face has not changed. "What an interesting attack, but it seems that is your only ace. It's is now time for your reckoning."
'Move!' Lady screamed, but her body didn't respond, instead of slumping further down. He crept closer until they heard a screech from above. When Aizen looked up, he saw a large orange bird high above and a speck that was rapidly increasing in size. It eventually grew large enough to make out a head of snow-white hair.
Aizen remained still as the speck grew closer to see it was Ichigo, feet firmly aimed at his head. The wind howling as he gained more momentum, his feet crushed into what he assumed was Aizen's skull. He looked down to he was standing on a translucent barrier, with Aizen's hand raised up.
"That was rather close. I didn't expect you to enter into the battle in such a manner." Aizen spoke as Ichigo kicked off the barrier and landed next to a still slumped Lady.
"You alright Lady?" Ichigo asked her, earning a weak nod. "Just get some rest and let me handle this asshole." He began walking towards Aizen, a smirk forming on his face. "So you're the asshole who hit the hornet's nest?"
"I suppose I am. But why are you so intent on attacking me? I have never harmed you in any manner. If anything, it would be more beneficial to ally with one another"
"No thanks asshole." Without another word, Rebellion was drawn and dragged Ichigo closer to Aizen, who remained passive as he did so. 'This guy is a dumbass.' His blade soon clashed with the defense of Aizen. A single finger. A single finger raised and calmly holding back Rebellion. Ichigo felt like he was slashed with a million blades. Like a puppet without strings, he collapsed in a heap.
Aizen's walk was uninterrupted as Lady and Ichigo were down. "Please stand back Lieutenant Nemu." She attempted to stand against him, but he simply grabbed her arm and tossed her a ragdoll. A struggling Rukia was held by her collar.
He began rambling on about how the Sōkyoku was supposed to burn Rukia's soul in order to get something called the Hōgyoku buried within it. He also revealed that Kisuke was it's creator and had shoved it into Rukia. Ichigo had little trouble listening to it due to feeling his spinal cord being cut. It was healing but was dipping into his already low reserves. Though he was pissed at Kisuke and Aizen. 'I'm going to shove Cerberus up his ass. On fire!'
Aizen soon pulled out a small capsule and activated it, causing several thorns to protrude from the ground, the tops sparking with purplish lightning. His arm gained a similar look: thorny and rough. That arm was plunged into Rukia and removed, showing a small glass with an orb within his grasp. The hole that was formed in her chest closed and looked like nothing ever happened.
"So small. I was expecting it to be larger. The Hōgyoku" Aizen mused as he held Rukia in midair. "Now that your purpose it up, I have no use for use." His sword was drawn from its sheath and cleanly placed on Rukia's neck. Its blade was nearly stained red, but a figure moved quickly and grabbed Rukia, taking the slash that was meant for her.
The figure stopped a ways away, showing a ragged Byakuya with a cut across his chest, and a surprised Rukia in his grasp. "Brother," Rukia said quietly.
"What a surprising twist," Aizen commented as he pointed his sword at them, the intent of killing them. When he disappeared and reappeared right in front of them, Aizen's sword was blocked with a heavy broadsword, wielded by Dante.
"Aizen," Dante growled under his breath. "Now why are you trying to pick on the midget. Kinda rude of ya, don't you think?"
"Oh, who are you? A friend of Kurosaki? How interesting." Aizen attempted to move back but felt a sharp blade across the back of his neck. "It seems that I am in checkmate."
"You are correct, Sōsuke Aizen," Vergil informed as he pressed Yamato down, drawing a small amount of blood. "As much as I would enjoy finishing you, it is not our wraith that you must face, but that of the ones you betrayed."
"In short, don't move an inch." Several of the Captains, including Yamamoto, and Lieutenants appeared around them. "And speak of the devil. Despite them not actually being devils."
"Sōsuke Aizen!" Yamamoto yelled as he slammed his cane down. "For betraying the Gotei 13, you shall be detained, where your fate shall be decided!"
"Alright gramps, the asshole is yours." Dante must have screwed with Lady Luck somehow as the sky ripped open with several black voids, Hollows spewing through. A box made of yellow light appeared around Aizen, forcing Dante and Vergil to move.
"It seems that I will still survive, Head-Captain." Aizen's voice dripped with smugness. "And I won't be the only one." Accompanying his yellow box, was two others, holding Tōsen and Gin. Where they originally stood were slightly weakened, Nero and Trish.
"Damn!" Nero swore as he stared at the retreating Tōsen. "I thought I was going to the pavement? Guess your all talk."
"Bye Rangiku clone!" Gin gave a wave to Trish, whose sword had transformed. Gone was the traditional broadsword. Instead of having a gore-covered sword with a red gem in the middle of it and a single, large curved blade. "You truly look and act like her to!"
Trish was about to grab her sword but was stopped by Yamamoto. "Halt! It is useless to attack them. The moment the Negación came down, they belonged to Hueco Mundo."
"Let's try to attack anyways," Ichigo grunted, his wounds finally healed enough. "Vergil. Think you can get an opening. I want to give him a memento."
Vergil gave a nod before bending his knees slightly and rapidly unsheathing and sheathing his Yamato. At the same time, Ichigo pulled out his own Yamato from its sheath and pulled his arm back. The area around Aizen was enveloped in a bubble as the Negación was interrupted for a few brief moments.
Ichigo's arm swung with great might, with the payoff being Yamato sending a wave of blue energy towards Aizen. It hit his face and had a small explosion. When the explosion died down, Aizen was now sporting one eye, with his left having being destroyed.
"Ah!" He clutched his face as the Negación stabilized and carried him towards Hueco Mundo. "I shall get you Kurosaki!" That was the last words spoken by him as he went to Hueco Mundo.
"How's that for a payback," Ichigo said to a now absent Aizen. He stumbled to Lady. "How are you holding up Lady?"
"...Better." She drawled after a short breath. "Still a bit tired from...Whatever the hell I did."
"Nice to see you guys aren't dead," Trish spoke up. "And even having a moment without me? How rude!?
"I'm oh so sorry Trish," Lady said sarcastically. "Are you fine?"
"I could use a kiss to make myself feel better. The creepy captain hurt my feelings." She moved closer to them. "Think you could make me feel better Ichigo?"
"Kiss, kiss, kiss." Dante chanted, earning a slap on the head, courtesy of Vergil.
"I'm going to pass out," Ichigo said. "Right...about...now." He soon collapsed right onto Lady's thigh.
"How do I respond?" Lady asked. "It's not like I can move to much."
"Guess it's time for you to return the favor for him being the pillow," Trish commented. "But you're not going to complain. Are you?"
"Shut it, Trish." She ordered as she felt Ichigo's hair plaster itself across her leg. "If you're going to complain, just use him as a pillow."
"Maybe I will." She soon tossed herself onto Ichigo, laying on arm. "Nice and comfy."
"Not to intrude." A calm voice called out, belonging to Retsu Unohana. They turned to see her calm face and her front braided hair. "But we must heal those that are injured, so you may need to move."
"Fine," Trish said with a frown as she stood up and heaved Lady and Ichigo over her head, causing Lady to blush in embarrassment. Dante snickered at the spectacle. "Where can I drop these guys off?"
"I would not mind if you were to rest at the 4th Division's barracks. I will soon depart there to admit those that were injured."
"Hmm...Alright, Doc." Trish agreed. "Just tell us when we're entering the ambulance."
Unohana gave a light laugh at Trish. "It shall happen soon. Just wait." She soon turned to gather those who were injured.
"You mind putting me down?" Lady asked. "It's a bit uncomfortable being held by you and having Ichigo crushing me."
"Nah. You two look so adorable like this!" Trish's teasing caused Lady to huff. "Oh don't be like that."
"This is a real nice show, but we're going to be hitting the hay," Dante spoke up. "More specifically, we're hitting the hay in Ichigo's soul. Toodles." He and his brothers glowed a bright blue and turned into blue particles and rushed Ichigo, being absorbed by him.
"Now we wait," Trish said, waiting for Unohana to be ready.
Ichigo felt himself floating in a black void. "Ichigo." A voice called out, the man's calm voice echoing. "Find me..."
'Who the hell is that?' Ichigo found himself confused. 'He sounds...familiar ' The darkness in the void was soon filled with light, rapidly blinding Ichigo. He felt his own weight hit him as he awoke. His vision focused on his room, which was a hospital.
'Where am I?' He pushed his upper body up and looked around, seeing his bundle of mass destruction sitting on a chair, covered with a jacket. 'Don't see Trish or Lady. Or Vergil, Dante, and Nero. So where did they go?'
He got out of the bed he was on and noticed he didn't have anything on the upper body. "Great. Now I need to replace my jacket. I actually like that one. Guess I could take this one."
He swiped the jacket from the mass of weapons and noticed it was a replica of Nero's. It also had a note saying, "Replacement jacket for you until we get your own badass one. Dante." There was a scribbling of Dante on the bottom. He put it on and looked at his weapons. "I need to do something about this stuff."
"Dante did something with his bow. I wonder..." He grabbed Revenant and held it over his Devil Bringer, causing it to be absorbed into it with a blue particle effect. "Neat." He repeated the process with most of his weapons, the only exception being Blue Rose. "Need to keep some sort of protection."
Ichigo jumped slightly when the door rattled open, showing Lady and Trish. "Hey, sleepy head." Trish greeted. "About time you woke up. Thought we would be in Sleeping Beauty situation."
"How long have I been out? And where are we?"
"You've been out for about a day and your in the 4th Division's barracks. The Captain let us crash here." Lady answered. "Your spirits showed up and left. God knows where they are."
"I need to go find Rukia. She's the entire reason why we came here." Ichigo moved past them and stood in the hallway. "Any idea where she is?"
"Don't know where the midget is," Lady said with a shrug. "Do know where her dickhead brother is. Might know."
"Let's find Byakuya then." They quickly moved down the hallway, with Lady leading them. The door they stopped in front of was closed. Ichigo soon opened it, showing a recovering Byakuya and Renji, who had his head and abdomen covered in bandages.
He turned his head to see Ichigo. "You." He growled out as his hand reached for Zabimaru. "Why are you here?"
"It's not to beat your ass again, but if you're tempting me, I'll bite." Ichigo turned his head to an annoyed Byakuya. "Any idea where your sister is?"
"I do not have any knowledge of her whereabouts." He admitted. "I would prefer if you don't barge into my room."
"Why do want to know where Rukia is?" Renji demanded.
"A bit of a whiner, aren't you? If neither of you know where she is, we'll be moving on." He started to move towards the window, but Zabimaru's blade in front of him prevented him from moving.
"You aren't leaving until you answer my question." Ichigo gave him a bored look as he sighed.
"I'm looking for Rukia. Can't pick that up, can you?" He moved past Renji's blade and quickly ran through the open window.
"Break a leg Lady!" Trish elbowed her as she mimicked Ichigo's actions.
"They're crazy," Lady uttered under her breath. "But I'm not being outdone." She followed suit and ran out the window, and when she was near the ground, Ichigo grabbed her from the hair. "My hero."
"Think your running out of sarcastic comments, Lady?" Ichigo said while he set her down. "Think I know where Rukia is."
"And where would she be?"
"Remember the psycho who shot us out of a cannon?" Lady nodded, remembering Kukaku. "She's probably at her house."
"Why would she be there?" She quickly remembered Ganju yelling about her killing his brother. "Never mind. I've got a decent idea on why she's there."
"Kurosaki-kun!" Orihime called out, earning annoyed sigh from Lady. "Do you know where Rukia is? Uryu made her a new dress as a way to proclaim his feelings for her!"
"What is the doe yapping about? I swear she's got a few screws loose." Ichigo swatted her lightly to discourage her comments.
"I know where Rukia is. She's at the Shiba household." Ichigo started walking in a seemingly random direction. "You know where that is, so you know where she is. Follow me if you want to."
"Okay, Kurosaki-kun!" Orihime's chipper tone gave Lady a headache.
'How is she so happy!?' She vented to herself as she followed Ichigo towards the Shiba household. She felt a hand tap on her shoulder. Her head turned to see Trish having a raised eyebrow.
"You look like your about to burst? What's up?" Her voice was quiet, not drawing the attention of Ichigo or Orihime.
"It's the doe. Her innocent act is pissin me off!? Her whisper ended with a slight hiss. "She doesn't realize that we were pretty much in a war. And she acts like this is a game."
"Just ignore her. I can't give any more advice since the clash comes from your personality. And I particularity like how you are Mary."
"Of course. And here I am right about to hit the brain drain lever and make myself stupid and giddy."
"Oi, if you guys are down whispering about whatever, we're here," Ichigo said as they stood in front of the Shiba household. "Now where specifically is she?" A pulse of Reiatsu later and he found Rukia standing meekly in front of Kukaku.
"Don't worry about it! You've been holding your fair share of burdens." Kukaku's words brought a relief look to Rukia's face.
"Thank you, Kukaku Shiba. I'm just so sor-" The apology was blown off its tracks by Kukaku's fist smashing straight into her face.
"I said no apologies!"
"Oh I'm sorr-No I mean...thank you?" Rukia's stammering was cut off by Ichigo and company walking towards her.
"Yo, midget," Ichigo said. "And pyromaniac. Sorry to interrupt, but we should get some sleep. Going to leave tomorrow."
"Ichigo." Her voice was quiet as the words left her tongue. "I've decided to stay here in the Soul Society."
"Good for you? Your life and your choice, but these guys are weird." Ichigo said with a shrug. "I guess we'll be going. Orihime will probably want to talk to you." He soon turned on his heel and began walking away.
"What the hell is wrong with her?" Lady asked. "Why would she stay here?"
"I have no clue. But if she wants to stay here, let her stay. But I want to know what's your problem with Orihime?"
"What do you mean?" She feigned confusion.
"Don't try and hide stuff from me, Lady." He asked. "Now what got you pissed at Orihime."
"It's her entire being!" Lady's rage finally burst. "She acts like a complete moron who can't think her way out of a paper bag! She also can't fight for herself and she constantly relays on others. Why would I like her?!"
"Calm it, Mary," Trish said. "You can't exactly listen to Ichigo if you're in a rage."
"Hmmh." She gave a deep breath and exhale. "That's why I don't like her. I find her to be a foolish girl who can't wake up from a dream."
"Are you sure it's not self-hatred?" Trish suggested. "That she doesn't remind of yourself before you know what happened."
"Like yell she does." Her voice wavered slightly as she said that. "Or...she does?"
"Lady, you okay?" Ichigo walked close to her and wrapped his arms around her, giving her a tight hug and patted her lightly. "You're fine just the way you are."
"...Thank you." Her words were muffled in his chest. "Does this mean that your fine with me...disliking the doe?"
"That's a loaded question. You don't like Orihime because of her personality. If I was how I was a few months ago, I would have disagreed with you. Probably wouldn't like you guys." He sighed as he continued to pat Lady's back. He looked at his Devil Bringer with narrowed eyes. "But I'm not the same as I was. Not even excluding my looks. I'm...Different. If that makes any sense. My bonds with certain people have changed, thus also changing me."
"Is that a bad thing?" Trish asked. "Having your reality flipped on its head?"
"Don't know. I use to be a hotheaded dumbass, not thinking ahead. Having Dante, Nero, and Vergil released also released something in me. But to answer you, Lady. I'm closer to you guys then I think anyone."
"Really?" Lady's voice became unmuffled as she got out of Ichigo's grasp. "But you've known them for a hell of a lot longer!"
"True, but you guys fought alongside me. Nearly died because of me!" He gained a mournful expression as he looked away. "I never wanted you two to do that for me."
"Sorry for you, but we wanted to." Lady's stubbornly said. "We did that because-well-we love you goddammit!"
"Wait wait! Wha-why? And both of you?"
"Yeah, we've both got a thing for you," Trish spoke behind him. "You don't feel the same?"
"Yes! I mean no!" He began to slightly freak out before breathing deeply, calming himself. "I don't want to put you guys in danger. Nearly everyone I've interacted with has been hurt in some way. Orihime, Chad, and Tatsuki were attacked by Hollows. They got screwed up because of me somehow."
"Do we look defenseless?" Lady walked closer to him, Trish mirroring her actions. "This entire thing disproves your idea."
"I know damn it! I know!" Ichigo's rage-fueled him punching a tree with his regular hand, breaking the trunk in half and sending the upper half tumbling down. "Doesn't help that I feel the same."
"Then why are you making it such a big deal?"
"Just...Why me? And why both of you?"
"It's very simple Ichigo," Trish said, walking even closer to him. "You did something for us that no has ever done before; accept and trust us. So shut it. Didn't your mother say to keep a woman happy?"
"She did. Urgh! Why is such a mess?" He slumped against the remains of the tree.
"Turns out when you get involved with supernatural stuff, life is thrown into a storm," Lady said as they mimicked his actions, slumping against him. "But we'll help you pick it up?"
"Heh, I guess you guys will." He wrapped his arms around each of their shoulders. "Does this mean that this entire thing has been the first date? How would you rate it?"
"8/10," Trish answered. "Didn't particularly like the creepy waiter. Constantly comparing me to a Rangiku."
"Same here. Though I do like the gift I got. Turns out a laser if a really good gift."
"What is that exactly?" Ichigo asked. "The entire shooting a goddamn laser from your rocket launcher?"
"I...don't know." Lady rested a hand on Kalina Ann, which had been placed against the tree stump. "I just felt anger because of the bastard. I think I was covered in the green light, and all of that went into its barrel. Then the laser came out."
"Wonder if you could use it on command?" Ichigo murmured to himself. "Whatever. We can figure it out later." He soon got off his hunches. "We need to get some rest. The Sun is about to go down and we're leaving early in the morning."
Trish and Lady nodded, following his example and walked with him, being closer to him then they had before.
"What the hell is taking everyone so long?" Lady grumbled as she, Trish, and Ichigo stood in front of a Senkaimon. "It's not like they don't know where this is?"
"They're probably saying goodbye to a few people," Ichigo said, his pockets were stuffed with his hands. "I just want to get home."
"Kurosaki-kun!" Orihime chirped, waving animatedly as she was followed by Chad, Uryu, Jūshirō, and Yoruichi in her cat form. Lady's throat growled slightly at Orihime, though a light jab from Trish caused her to relax.
"About time you guys got here," Ichigo said as they approached closer. "Can we get going now?"
"Oh, so impatient Ichigo." Yoruichi teased, her deep voice reverberating along with the air. "What do have at home? A girl waiting in bed for you?"
Ichigo cracked a slight smirk at her teasing. "I didn't know you were a stalker Yoruichi. Urahara should get a spray bottle for you."
"Kurosaki." Uryu interrupted, pushing his glasses up. "We still need to have that discussion."
"Not exactly the right time for that."
"Where're your spirits?" Trish asked. "They didn't pop back into your head, did they?"
"Negative." Vergil's cold tone cut through the air. He walked towards them with Nero and Dante. Though it was more like dragging Dante along with the help of Nero. "We still are summoned."
"What happened to him?" Ichigo asked as he looked at the state of mess Dante was. The bandages wrapped around his head and the large cuts across his body made it look like he had been through a war zone.
"The dumbass thought it was a good idea to fight against Kenpachi Zaraki," Nero answered, hoisting Dante up. "Decided not to use regeneration cause it would make it too boring. Look where it got him."
"Still beat him." Dante croaked, weakly raising his hand in victory. "Though let's never do that again."
"Seems that fight didn't knock out any of his intelligence. Not that he had much, to begin with." Vergil said. "We shall be moving back into Ichigo for convenience."
They soon disappeared with blue particles and shot into Ichigo, making him glow blue before it disappeared. "So that is what he is," Jūshirō muttered. "Before you leave Ichigo. Please take this." He held out a piece of wood with a skull and crossbones design. "It is a Substitute Shinigami Badge. Over the years, there have been several humans who have been deemed useful. That badge has been given to them. It allows one to split their spirit from their body. It also detects hollows."
"Interesting." Ichigo grabbed the badge and put it in his pocket. "Thanks."
"It can certainly not repay you for what you and your friends have done." Jūshirō's eyes turned downcast, ashamed.
"Calm it. I did this thing to save the midget." He thumbed behind him. "So don't get sad over something out of your control."
Jūshirō's face reversed, gaining a small smile. "Thank you."
"Your welcome?" Ichigo's back soon faced Jūshirō and started to walk towards the Senkaimon, which began to glow blue. "See ya Rukia. Try not to have a wishing rock shoved into you again."
Rukia remained silent as she smiled at the departing Ichigo. The Senkaimon soon engulfed him and everyone else.
Within the Dangai, it was complete anarchy. Due to the little fact that the cleaner had been scheduled to clean while Ichigo and everyone were traveling towards the Human World.
"Just had to come while we're going!" Ichigo's complaint echoed with they stampeded towards the other side of the Dangai.
"Quit your complaining!" Yoruichi snapped. "Just keep running and you'll be fine!"
"Sorry if I don't like being chased like a rat!" The light came closer as they raced towards the opening. The light soon engulfed them as the chilling air of night enveloped them, welcoming them back into the Human World. The scene was cut short due to the several dozen feet that separated them and the ground. Gravity quickly kicked in and they were sent down towards the earth.
A net that was launched was their savior as they tumbled upward. "Jinta Homerun!" Jinta's voice called outside of the net as it was slammed downwards. It unfurled on a giant fabric that was hovering atop the town.
"Well hello there everyone!" Urahara greeted, his usual jovial tone preset. "How was your trip?"
"Just great. Learned how much of an asshole you are." Ichigo said with a frown.
"Ah, so you heard about me." Kisuke's face turned downtrodden as he knelt in front of him with his hat removed, being placed in front of Kisuke. "Please forgive me. For all of the things I have done."
Ichigo's mouth was about to open, before he remembered something, contorting his face into a smirk. "I'll forgive you if you do one thing for me."
"What precisely would give me your forgiveness?"
"Let me shove a burning rod where it doesn't shine!" The statement caused several stares to focus on Ichigo.
"How lewd of you Ichigo!" Urahara looked up with a grin, which was soon swiped off his face as he saw a burning Cerberus in Ichigo's grip. "Oh, you're serious."
"Completely." Ichigo soon stood up and walked closer towards Kisuke, but was stopped by Trish's and Lady's arms holding him back. "Let me get payback!"
"Calm it down Ichigo," Lady said, struggling to hold Ichigo back. "I would prefer you not enact a scarring scene."
"Ruin my revenge why don't you." Ichigo sat down reluctantly and dismissed Cerberus. "I guess you're forgiven for shoving a magic rock in Rukia. Just don't go going around doing it."
"Thank you, Ichigo," Kisuke muttered as he placed his hat back upon his head. "Thank you so much."
"Whatever."
"Mr. Kisuke. Do you mind dropping me off here?" Uryu stood as he spoke.
"Give me a moment and it'll be done." Urahara flipped open his fan as the fabric set itself down lower, allowing Uryu to jump down.
"Kurosaki. We will be discussing a certain subject soon."
"Maybe, maybe not. I don't like being told what to do." Ichigo responded. "So see ya."
Uryu's voice growled as he walked off. "Don't you think you were a bit rude Kurosaki-kun?" Orihime asked.
"He's a big boy. He can handle a little denial. Just because he's a Quincy doesn't mean I'm sucking up to him."
"That's rather harsh Ichigo," Chad spoke. "Why is it that you're being like that to Uryu?"
"Cause I thought about him and found him to be an asshole. Guy tries to soothe his ego about how Quincy are better than Shinigami by summoning Hollows! Which proceed to attack literally everyone I know!"
"Sounds like an asshole." Lady agreed. There were no more words spoken as the fabric took off and made it's stops, dropping of Chad and Orihime. Ichigo suddenly got up and looked over the edge.
"Eh, this should be good." He said before crooking his head to everyone else. "We'll be stopping here." His form soon dropped off the fabric, rapidly meeting the pavement. He landed with a thud. Trish soon followed. Ichigo held out his hands and caught Lady, who was quickly set down.
"Developing a sixth sense for me falling?"
"God knows I need to if you want both of your legs." They began walking towards Ichigo's home. The clinic soon stood ahead of them. "Home sweet home ladies!"
He opened the door silently, letting Trish and Lady in. The way towards his room was uninterrupted. The door to his room was pushed open by him and they piled in, Trish closing it behind them.
"So how are we going to solve this?" Ichigo asked, his gaze fixed upon his bed, which now seemed too small.
"How have we been sleeping for the past several days Ichigo?" Lady asked, opening his closet and setting Kalina Ann in there. "You act as our pillow."
"If I have to." Ichigo submitted, he tossed off his borrowed coat. He tossed himself onto the bed, with Lady and Trish piling onto him. "Nighty night girls."
"Night handsome." Trish's voice said, muffled in his right side.
"Night Ichigo," Lady said as well, though her voice held a twinge of reluctance.
"It'll be alright Lady," Ichigo whispered, as he rubbed her shoulder.
"Thank you, Ichigo," Lady whispered back, slowly falling asleep. Several minutes passed as Lady drifted into dreams.
"You're welcome...Mary." Ichigo responded, slowly drifting off to sleep himself.