HUECO MUNDO
In the beginning Nymeria thought her master was a sadistic person who enjoyed the pain of others or at the very least enjoyed inflicting as much pain on her person. But after repeated training sessions she felt herself improving at a steady pace in her powers. Like most of the Arrancars she thought the powers she obtained from the transformation was the peak power she could achieve but her master Indra once again proved her wrong. With his help and guidance she has been able to raise her powers to match or even outright surpass Harribel's power within a short time.
After the incident with Harribel and her Fraccion they also joined with Nymeria to train their powers. It was then she realized the true power of Harribel's Fraccion. Individually they were weak and could be dealt with easily but together they equaled the power of an Espada. If Harribel also joins with them then they would be unbeatable for an Espada or a Shinigami Captain. That was what she thought until her master defeated them and Nymeria together with ease.
Even if they failed spectacularly before her master she could see that Indra was very impressed the fight they put up. Nymeria and Harribel had even used their resurrection against Indra but he proved how vastly inferior their power was compared to his own. While Harribel controlled water Nymeria controlled the winds. The sky maybe her domain but the whole world bowed before her master. Even the Primera Espada was no match against her master.
Nymeria thought Coyote Starrk and his young Fraccion to be a weird as they would regularly observe her and Harribel's training with master Indra. Strangely enough most of the time Starrk seems to sleep over a sand dune while his young Fraccion whose name was Lilynette Gingerbuck jumped around in joy as she observed their battles. In the end the little Fraccion managed to rope in Coyote Starrk to fight her master. The sheer power the Primera possessed took her by surprise briefly. Starrk threw around ceros so effortlessly and for a time she thought Starrk would prove to be a real challenge for her master but Indra was very calm and collected in facing all of the attacks from Starrk. Eventually her master defeated Starrk by binding him down with Kido spells.
Until that moment the hollows of Las Noches were very much dismissive of Indra as Aizen had not marked him as an Espada. Then there was also the fact that there was no mask fragment and hollow hole on Indra which the Arrancars held as a symbol of their previous hollow forms. These two reasons resulted in Indra being alienated from the rest of the Arrancars but after defeating Starrk so easily he proved his superiority and power over the other hollows earning him their respect and fear.
Right now her master was meditating in their quarters. For some time her master has been regularly meditating with his Zanpakuto on his lap. Suddenly she heard a knock on the door. She stood up and opened the door to find Harribel outside.
"Lord Aizen has returned from Soul Society. He is asking for Indra to attend a meeting of the Espada." Harribel said
"I will inform him right away lady Harribel." Nymeria replied with a smile
Harribel nodded and left the hallway to the throne room of Las Noches. Nymeria immediately went near Indra. She found him awake from his meditation.
"Lord Aizen has called a meeting of the Espada. He asks that you attend my lord." Nymeria informed her master.
"Very well… While I am gone meditate yourself. It will help you to unlock a unique power within you which will be very useful in the near future." Indra stood up and put on his white jacket and left the room.
"As you wish my lord" Nymeria sat down and started meditating despite the doubts she had about its use.
XXXXXXX
Indra entered the throne room and found Aizen sitting on his throne which was elevated so high that he had to strain his neck to look at the Shinigami captain.
"Now that Indra is here we can begin this meeting. I called this meeting to brief you about some of my plans for our coming conflict with Soul Society." Aizen stopped and observed he had every Espada's attention and then continued.
"The captains of the thirteen court guard squads can be easily dealt with by the Espada in this room. The only threat that we will face is from the head captain of Gotei 13, Gnryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto. He is an old Shinigami that has lived for a thousand years since the founding of thirteen court guard squads." Aizen said as he pressed a switch on the arm of his throne and suddenly a holographic image of the head captain appeared before them in the middle of the throne room.
"I already have a plan to deal with him which is coming along successfully so far. But one of the real threat that will be posed is by this man." Aizen pressed on the switch again and Indra saw the image of Kisuke Urahara appear in the room.
"His name is Kisuke Urahara. He is the former captain of squad 12 and the most brilliant man I have ever come across in Soul Society. Right now he is in exile living in the human world but this man's intellect is very dangerous. He is very unpredictable and a patient schemer. This is why I am changing my plans slightly to ensure our success no matter what."Aizen stopped as he waited for any response from his audience.
"What did you change lord Aizen." Ulquiorra asked
"My original plan was to arrive in Hueco Mundo after my role in Soul Society comes to an end completely cutting off any ties. But now that we have Indra who cannot be recognized by the shinigami as an arrancar, he will be in soul society posing as a Shinigami among them. If I know Urahara correctly he has the ability to close access to the soul society from outside which will be problematic. So I need someone on the inside to open the gates of heaven and this can be only done by a very skilled and resourceful person. So, I hope you are ready for the task ahead of you Indra." Aizen finished his explanation
"Even if I cannot be immediately identified they can recognize me as someone that is not in their database easily." Indra pointed out
"That is taken care of. I have made the necessary paperwork and back stories as well along with a healthy dose of real memories courtesy of Kyoka Suigetsu." Aizen explained
Indra thought for a while but nodded in the end showing his agreement to the plan.
"In that case I will have to debrief you about your back story" Aizen stood up from his throne and stood before Indra in a flash step.
"This meeting is dismissed."Aizen declared and waited as the Espada exited the throne room
"Come, there are several things you should be aware of before going to soul society." Aizen said as he led Indra to another room explaining his plans and necessary measures to take before their departure.
XXXXXXX
Indra entered his chambers and found Nymeria sleeping on the floor. He pointed a finger at his Fraccion "Hadou 1: Sho"
The force behind the Kido knocked her into the opposite wall. Nymeria woke up with a groan and immediately stood alert as she saw her master before her.
"You fell asleep instead of meditating as I have ordered." Indra intimidated her with a hard tone.
"I am sorry my lord. It won't happen again. I promise." Nymeria bowed her head in apology
"I am not so sure about your promises especially now that I am going away to soul society with Aizen." Indra said as he walked past her
"Wait! You are going to soul society with lord Aizen?" Nymeria asked as she followed him into the library.
"Yes. It is part of his plan and I can easily blend in among the Shinigami easily. He needs someone on the inside after the war starts incase the soul society manages to ward off any outside entries to their dimension." Indra said as he searched for a book
"Then let me come with you." Nymeria panicked
"No. You will be immediately recognized by the Shinigami. You will stay here and support Harribel and her Fraccion. That's my order." Indra asserted his stance
"As you wish…What are you looking for lord Indra." Nymeria asked as she watched her master continued to search all the books in the library until finally he took a book and a small smile graced his lips.
"I was looking for a special type of seal that can seal away some of my reitsu like the limiters the Shinigami captains use while they visit the human world and now I have found it. This will be needed soon enough and Nymeria don't think I am abandoning you. We will meet again soon and I expect you to discover the power that is buried deep in your soul." Indra said as he patted on her head in a rare show of affection and walked out of the room leaving a stunned Nymeria.
She absently placed her hand on top of her head. That was the nicest thing her master has ever done for her and slowly a smile blossomed on her face.
XXXXXXX
Indra stood at the very top of Las Noches alone. He sat down and closed his eyes and he was immediately pulled into his inner world. Indra entered the city that was filled with skyscrapers but he noticed several changes immediately. There were a group of huge rocks floating over the city and the light from the full moon reflected off its polished surface. Indra moved closer to inspect the strange addition and found Kagetsu standing there gazing at the moon.
"An unexpected twist in the plot you didn't foresee has happened isn't it." Kagetsu asked serenely
"Yes. I didn't expect Aizen to take such an action. I thought he would be keeping me under observation in Hueco Mundo." Indra commented as he too joined to gaze at the moon
"Perhaps you saw Aizen in a different light. Perhaps he is intimidated by your presence in Hueco Mundo especially as he is close to obtaining Urahara's Hogyoku. Until he manages to transcend the boundaries of hollows and Shinigami you represent a much greater threat to him than anyone could. Your presence in Soul Society leaves him free to mobilize the Hollows and you yourself will be under the observation of Shinigami of Soul Society after Aizen's betrayal." Kagetsu sat down on the rock after the explanation
"What do you think I should do?" Indra asked
"You have three options. One, kill him now and take control of the Espada. Two, follow his command and enter soul society but kill him the moment he obtains the other Hogyoku and return with it to Hueco Mundo and rule as king. Three, stay in Soul Society just as he asks but use that time to prepare for real threats like Yhwach and possibly the Royal Guard. Aizen is a small fly compared to the other beings. So prepare and learn. Your disadvantage is that you are inexperienced than all your enemies. Staying in Soul Society will change that somewhat." Kagetsu expressed his opinion
"What could I learn in soul society?" Indra asked with a scoff
"For instance I am sure you would be eager to know what happened to your mother." Kagetsu said as he stood up and turned to look at Indra
"What? Why would I be interested in that?" Indra asked in confusion
"Don't think you can lie to me Indra. Don't forget that I am a part of your soul. I know you didn't plan on her death when you confronted Grand Fisher. That was never your plan in the first place. You thought by delaying the hollow with your meager Quincy powers you could save her at the expense of your life and thereby you calculated that the hollow inside you will take over as the predominant entity thereby crushing the Yhwach's influence. But your plans fell apart when you realized Masaki died as your father and Urahara were late. Now tell me don't you really want to find your mother or not." Kagetsu asked
Clouds formed over the night sky and shielded the full moon partially.
"I accept what you are saying is true but remember, I have lived a life before." Indra pointed out
"So what, you still consider Masaki as your mother. If you are thinking your attachment as a weakness then don't. She is the source of two of your powers. You are indebted to her for your whole life and I know you love her in your heart. The power that you possess is her gift. Let me tell you a little secret. Your soul has never been joyful except for one moment and that was when you stood before your mother bravely and protected her with your life. It was that act that shattered Yhwach's influence on us. Masaki will not make you weak she will only make you stronger. I have said my piece and now you must decide the next course of action." Kagetsu said and pressed his thumb on Indra's forehead.
With a gasp Indra woke up from his tranquil state and found himself at the top of Las Noches. His heart was racing as certain emotions that he buried deep in his heart began to resurface. It was true that he felt a weight settle on his heart when he learned about Masaki from Aizen. Indra had not planned for her death that day. In fact he was trying to be the one to replace her that day and when he learned that he had failed, he ruthlessly suppressed the urge to strike down Aizen as he knew that Aizen was the one to send Grand Fisher that day to target them.
He spent the rest of the time there on the rooftop as he revaluated his decisions and plans. Kagetsu's words might have been harsh but he knew the spirit was expressing what his heart has been trying to communicate to him. He must find a way to balance his ambition and heart somehow otherwise he will be torn apart from the inside.
XXXXXXX
Aizen waited in the throne room and he was not disappointed as Indra walked into the room in a sedate pace.
"I am ready." Indra declared resolutely.
"Good. You remember the back story I have fabricated." Aizen asked
Indra nodded.
"Very well then, let's go." Aizen said as he opened a portal directly into Soul Society and walked into it.
Indra looked at the throne one last time and followed after Aizen. He stepped into a brightly lit room which was surrounded by many monitors showing various readings about various dimensions.
"Welcome to our little hideout. This is where we monitor certain interests of mine and you will need a change of clothes." Aizen said as he looked at Gin who was standing near him.
"You can change in that room." Gin handed over the standard black uniform of Shinigami to Indra and pointed to a small room nearby.
Indra took the clothes and changed into the standard Shinigami attire and stepped out of the room.
"So who are you now?" Aizen asked with a smile
"Kurosaki Indra of Kido corps, reporting for duty Captain Aizen." Indra answered
"Where are you from Kurosaki?" Gin asked
"I am from Hokutan district of West Rukongai, Captain." Indra fell into his role smoothly
"How long have you been in service." Aizen asked
"Five years in the Kido Corps since graduating from the academy Captain." Indra answered
"Good enough. The Kido Corps is very secretive of its members so there will be no problem for you to get familiar with soul society. After you have familiarized with the Soul Society I will be transferring you to the tenth division. You have a week until that happens. Gin and Kaname will help you with all other necessary information. " Aizen said as he left the room
"Come here Indra. All the data that is relevant to your position is here." Kaname said as he pointed to a screen.
Gin typed a few commands into the system and Indra saw the detailed information of all places like his supposed home district, all the captains and lieutenants, all the 13 squads, some members and many other spots and laws of Soul Society.
"You have a lot of work to do so we won't disturb you. Study everything in there and memorize this as much as you can. Visit these spots and places that are mentioned here by yourself and engage subtly with several low profile people. If you have any doubts I will be waiting down the next room." Gin said with wide creepy smile and left with Kaname Tosen.
Indra looked at the information and smiled. He was a professional assassin in his previous life and he knew information was the key to victory. At last he was in his element now, he thought with glee.
SOUL SOCIETY (After one week)
"Captain Hitsugaya, a moment of your time if you will." Aizen said as he walked behind the captain of squad 10 with Indra by his side.
"Captain Aizen. How may I help you." Toshiro asked politely as Aizen was one of the few captains he respected.
"The last time we spoke I mentioned a Kido Corps member who I thought was wasted there. Well this is that young man."Aizen pointed at Indra
"Kurosaki Indra, sir. It is an honor to meet you Captain Hitsugaya." Indra bowed his head in respect.
"Hmm….Don't know if this is a good idea, Captain Aizen. You have more experience and track record in shaping up others than me." Toshiro modestly said
"That may be but I think Indra's talent is wasted in Kido Corps. He is very good at Kido but I think he has far more than that to offer for the thirteen court guard squads. In your division he will get more field experience and you yourself will get a good training partner. Trust me you will be amazed with his skill." Aizen promised
"Very well… I will accept him into my division. Please send the transfer paperwork to Matsumoto." Toshiro said looking at Aizen
"Will do and thank you Captain Hitsugaya." Aizen said
Toshiro nodded and looked at Indra "Report for duty tomorrow at sharp eight in the morning."
"Yes sir." Indra once again bowed his head
Toshiro nodded to Aizen and left to his squad barracks.
"That is just the start. Slowly gain his confidence but always speak of me in a negative light with him." Aizen whispered to Indra
"As you wish Captain but I have a doubt." Indra said as they walked back to squad five barracks
"The academy instructors will never identify me as will the class which I supposedly graduated from." Indra said
"I have already taken care of that. Most of your batch mates were dropouts and you yourself are reported as a reclusive person. So there is no problem in that front. As for the academy instructors, they hardly remember everyone that graduated. But to alleviate any suspicion I have been subtly speaking with them about you and your stellar performance. They are hardly very intelligent creatures my friend. If they were they would be working in the squads not as a teacher in the academy." Aizen said with a smirk and he disappeared in a flash step.
Indra waited for some moment but followed after Aizen in a flash step. Tomorrow will be a new beginning for him.