Chapter 48

Battle From Within II

"OH, SO YOU THINK YOU CAN JUST COME HERE WHENEVER YOU FEEL LIKE, BALDY?! DUMBASS! THIS AIN'T A HOTEL!"

Blind, unadulterated fury. Aaron, whimpering like a sad dog, expected nothing less. And yet, he still underestimated how pissed off Hiyori Sarugaki would be. Already beaten to a bloody pulp, he questioned how long she would use him as a punching bag before being satisfied.

"Don't look at me like that, punk!" she roared. "You wanna die that badly?!"

"S-Sorry…"

"YOU THINK AN APOLOGY IS GOING TO HELP YOUR SCRAWNY ASS?!"

A stiff, right hook sent Aaron to the floor again. With his head ringing, he groaned, unsure of why he kept tempting fate.

"Idiot! Who gave you permission to Hollowfy in a fight knowing damn well you still haven't finished your training?!"

"I-I thought it was a good idea considering…"

"DID SOMEONE GIVE YOU PERMISSION TO BARK, DOG?!"

Cries of terror and anguish flooded the warehouse. For those watching Aaron's torture session, there were mixed feelings.

"If she missed him so much, she should just say so," said a smiling Rose Outoribashi.

"It's always noisy whenever that kid comes around," stated Love Aikawa, sighing. "Besides, the only thing Hiyori missed was kicking his ass."

"He likes getting beat by the sound of it," grumbled Kensei Muguruma. "He really was stupid to Hollowfy in a fight this early. His Inner Hollow could've taken over when…"

"Relax. Don't you think Hiyori is teaching him a good enough lesson right now?" Shinji Hirako, no longer keen to watch Aaron plead for his life, added, "Oy, Hiyori! Just confess already if you're that in love with him!"

One of Hiyori's sandals smacked him right between the eyes. Like Aaron before him, Shinji hit the ground a broken mess.

"Mind your own business, baldy!" Hiyori snapped. "I can treat my property however the hell I want!"

"How long have I been her property?" wondered Aaron.

Overhearing him, she answered, "Since you came out of your momma's snatch. Since you still have enough energy to talk shit, get up and give me one hundred pushups! I'll show you what happens to dogs who don't listen to their master!"

"Haven't I already done enough pushups for one day?! I-I can't even feel my arms!"

"What was that?! You want to do a thousand then?! You should've said so from the start!"

A thoroughly defeated Aaron groaned before getting to work. He wouldn't give her the chance to make it one million.

"Speed it up, baldy! My grandma would be halfway done by now!"

Aaron bit his tongue to prevent himself from saying something nasty. Hiyori plopped a seat on his back as if his training wasn't difficult enough.

"This is masochistic," mused Lisa Yadoumaru, her nose between the pages of a risque magazine. "We should probably stop it."

"...You don't sound all that concerned," said Kensei. He could've sworn she was smirking from the corner of his eye. "And what the hell are you reading this time?"

The magazine's cover depicted two scantily clad women in rather gratuitous poses.

"Oh! Let me see!" said Mashiro Kuna.

"Hell no!" Kensei swatted her greedy hands away. "That ain't no leisurely reading material!"

"Aw, you're no fun, Kensei…"

"She's right. If you want to read so badly, you'll just have to wait your turn," said Lisa.

Kensei, about to explode, never got the chance. That's because Love cut him off by saying, "You can borrow my issue of Jump after I'm done with it, Mashiro."

"You mean after you're done spoiling every panel?" said Rose wearily.

Love wasn't listening. Instead, his eyes filled with tears as he guffawed at his manga. "This is hilarious! Hey, Rose! Tell me you've read this part already!"

"How could I when you've been hogging that issue to yourself all day?"

Still splitting his sides, Love leered at Aaron, "Hey, what about you? You've read it, right?"

Aaron, sweating like a stuffed pig, bitterly replied, "...No, I haven't."

Finger pushups were the very definition of sadistic in his opinion.

"Who said you could hold a conversation?!" Hiyori whacked him upside the head. "You've still got five hundred more pushups, baldy!"

"W-When did I have to do that many?!"

"I don't speak dog! Hurry it up!"

Again, Aaron stayed his tongue. He had worked harder in one day than he ever had in a semester's worth gym class.

Is this even going to help me master my Hollow powers?

"I'm back, everyone."

Hachigen Ushouda's large frame stepped into the warehouse. The sight of Hiyori working Aaron to the bone gave him pause.

"Thanks for going shopping, Hacchi," said Shinji. "Now we can all celebrate Hiyori's boyfriend coming back safe and sound."

"What was that, baldy?!"

A snickering Shinji managed to dodge her sandal before blowing her a raspberry.

"Oh, I'm gonna kill you!" she hollered, rolling up her sleeves. However, she discovered herself trapped behind one of Hachigen's barriers. "H-Hey! What gives?! Let me outta here!"

"Sorry, ma'am. Stay in there until you settle down," Hachigen said with a sigh.

"I think you just saved my life…" Aaron stood, stretching his aching arms. "I might kill myself if I ever have to do another pushup..."

His stomach made a voracious growl. It not only embarrassed him but reminded him he hadn't ate since that morning.

"I guess it is time for lunch," said Shinji. "We'll get Kensei to whip you up something good. So, how do you feel?"

"Like shit. Uh...no offense, but...can't you get someone else to help me train?"

"Hiyori's a slave driver, ain't she?"

"You can say that again…"

"S-Stop talking about me just because I can't beat your stupid faces to a pulp!" cried Hiyori, pounding on her prison.

"That wasn't what I mean though," Shinji added. "How did it feel to use your Hollow powers for the first time?"

The question caught Aaron off guard. So did Shinji's toothy grin. Faltering, Aaron shifted his gaze elsewhere. Deep down inside, he had hoped the subject wouldn't be brought up.

"...Good. It felt good. I mean...really good…"

That was strange, even wrong, to admit. But...it was the truth. He imagined it must've been what a wild beast felt in the middle of a kill. That wasn't normal. He wasn't the sort that enjoyed fighting. He only did it to protect his friends. And yet, fighting the Fullbringers had gotten his heart pounding in excitement.

"You ain't weird."

From the way Shinji spoke, Aaron could have sworn the man had read his mind.

"Everyone here knows that feeling. You can think of your powers as a curse if you want. We're only here to help you control them not preach like saints. Even so, don't you think it'd be better to put them to good use? You seem like one of those hero types, so I'll give you some advice—just because you've got a Hollow in ya doesn't make you some kinda villain."

"B-But…"

"Do whatever you want with your powers. After all, they're yours to wield now that you can use 'em without going crazy. You've been filled in about the Arrancar and the Hougyoku, right?"

Aaron nodded. "While I still have some questions about all that, I get how serious the situation is. I'm going to have to train even harder if I want a shot at protecting my friends and family. That's why I want to ask another favor."

"Oh?"

Lowering his head, Aaron spoke with conviction, "Please, keep training me! I have no intention of running off again. I...just can't afford to be blindsided by these Arrancar again. If my friend hadn't show up when she did, I would've died last night. From the sound of it, even stronger enemies are waiting in the ranks, so I need to get stronger too."

For a long while, Shinji said nothing. Aaron, meanwhile, kept his head down.

"Yeah, you're the hero type alright. Just like that other idiot…" Shinji wrapped his arm around Aaron's shoulder, giving the latter quite the fright. "Unlike him though, you don't got your head between your ass."

"Uh...thanks?"

"We'll take care of you, kid. After all, you…"

Shinji's head, alongside everyone else's, whipped over to the warehouse's entrance. Aaron felt it too.

Someone was coming.

"...Looks like we've got company," said Shinji. "Get ready, everyone. I've got a feeling this ain't gonna go down smoothly."

"Is that...who I think it is?" asked Aaron.

"If you've got time to open that mouth of yours, you've got time to go stand over there!"

The person speaking made their point rudely, kicking Aaron's backside. Yelping, he hurried over to where the others were gathered.

"...Who let you out?" he muttered upon spotting Hiyori.

"What was that, baldy?!"

"Nothing…"

The warehouse's gate flew open. Light poured inside. Aaron, grimacing, shielded his eyes. Given the tense look on the other Visoreds' faces, he felt he should've been gearing himself up for battle.

Rather than an enemy, however, an all too familiar individual came into view.

"So, it really was Kurosaki…"

Aaron wouldn't have believed it if he weren't looking at the person in question. They quickly locked eyes, with Ichigo's face flooding with both anger and surprise.

"Higuchi? What the hell are you doing here?!"

"This is awkward…"

Aaron felt like he had been caught committing some heinous crime. He never anticipated Ichigo Kurosaki showing up out of the blue like this.

"What the hell is this, Hirako?!" Ichigo bellowed. "Why's Higuchi here?!"

#

"Thank you for your patronage. Have a nice day, sir."

With another customer taken care of, Izumi Higuchi kicked her feet on the counter and yawned.

"How in the hell does this place stay open? That was only the third customer all day."

Given how dark, dusty, and lonely the Urahara Shop must've appeared to an outsider, she wasn't too shocked.

"You shouldn't be too concerned with the lack of profits, Miss Higuchi. We often get plenty of children coming to buy candy once they get out of school."

Izumi shot her hand over her mouth to muffle a scream.. Where Kisuke Urahara had come from, she hadn't the faintest idea.

"Don't do that," she hissed. "And why wouldn't I be worried? How do I get paid if no one comes to this dump?"

"...That's quite harsh, don't you think." Urahara frowned. "How are you enjoying your first day of work?"

"Besides having to deal with all these dust bunnies, I guess I can't complain. H-Hey! Don't try to change the subject! I'm serious about my money, old man!"

She showed just how by pulling him close. Urahara gave a half hearted laugh.

"Listen," she continued through clenched teeth. "If you were just screwing with me with this whole 'working at your shop' business, I swear I'm gonna break your…!"

"O-Of course not, Miss Higuchi. Please, calm down."

"Is he really a Shinigami? How come that girl always makes him shake in his boots?"

Call Jinta Hanakari unimpressed. Urahara wasn't the only one depressing him. A sullen Ururu Tsumugiya stood at his side, seemingly ignoring him as he shook her arms vigorously.

"Come on, Ururu! Get it together already!" he screamed with vigor. While he was as hyped up as could be, Ururu remained wholly apathetic. ""YA-AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-AH!"

"Goodbye eardrums," groaned Izumi.

"Ow…" was all Ururu had to say.

"Stop making that face!" Jinta demanded. "You're all healed now, aren't you?"

"I was...um...thinking about making a happy face, but since I'm still recovering, I thought it better to stay quiet."

Jinta thought that unacceptable. He shouted yet again.

"Y-You're hurting my arm, Jinta…"

"And he's hurting my soul. Why is that kid so loud?" Izumi voiced as Jinta continued to

"He was really worried about poor Ururu," whispered Urahara, visibly humored. "This is just his way of showing it."

Izumi couldn't help but smile after hearing this. In spite of Urahara's speaking quietly, Jinta overheard him. "I-I wasn't worried at all!"

Him blushing up a storm didn't convince anyone. Izumi grinned even harder.

"So, you're just a cute kid in the end. That tough guy act is just that."

"S-Shut up, hag! What do you know?!"

Suddenly, Izumi wasn't smiling. "...For you sake, I'll pretend I didn't hear that."

"Play nice with our new employee, Jinta," said Urahara, still looking far too entertained for Izumi's liking. "And don't get too excited with Ururu over there. One of you might trip and fall."

The warning didn't stop Jinta from tugging on Ururu's arms once more.

"She needs her exercise!" he proclaimed. "Since all she's been doing is sleeping!"

"How does bullying the poor girl count as exercise?" asked Izumi.

"...You got a pretty loud mouth for a hag. It's only your first day here, so you shouldn't get so big for your britches!"

Izumi tried pouncing over the counter to strangle the life out of him but Urahara held her back.

"You little punk! Come and say that to my face!"

A defiant Jinta gave her a rather rude gesture, one that got a sharp gasp out of Ururu. "Don't wanna! Your face is like a hairless gorilla's!"

"I WILL SKIN YOU ALIVE, YOU LITTLE…!"

"C-Can't we all be friends here?!" cried Urahara, struggling to keep her contained.

"What did the Boss say about causing our new employee trouble, Jinta?"

"OW!"

Tessai Tsukabishi driving his fist atop Jinta's head put an end to the latter's reign of terror. The mere sight of him made Izumi gulp. Never had she seen such a large man. Jinta couldn't have been human to survive his wrath.

"W-What was that for, you big oaf?!" the boy hollered. "And she started it! Tell 'em, Ururu!"

"Um…" Ururu fidgeted around and looked as if she would rather be anywhere else at the moment. "T-That's…"

"Come along now, Jinta." Tessai scooped the flailing boy up. "You two, Ururu. I think there's some chores that need your attention. Sorry for the trouble, ma'am."

"You certainly keep an interesting cast of characters around here," Izumi told Urahara. "What are those kids doing here anyway? Something tells me they aren't your illegitimate children."

"They're...like our store mascots!"

"I really doubt that…"

The bell above the shop's door rang before Izumi could continue the discussion. The idea of having another customer so soon was a pleasant surprise.

"Welcome to the Urahara Shop," she said as she returned to her place behind the counter. "How can we help you today?"

Perhaps the huge man standing opposite of her didn't need any assistance. Her jaw hung agape as she peered up. She took back her earlier remark of Tessai being the sole giant around.

"What in the world do you drink?"

The new arrival turned his head in confusion.

"Don't mind her, Mister Sado," said Urahara, much to Izumi's chagrin. "What a pleasant surprise it is to see you! You're certainly a sight for sore eyes."

A bead of sweat rolled down Yasutora Sado's head. He eyed as warily as she eyed him.

"If this is about recent events, don't worry. Miss Higuchi here is fully aware of the circumstances."

Chad nodded. Already desperate-looking, he suddenly got down on his hands and knees. Izumi and Urahara glanced at one another in confusion.

"Please, Urahara! Take me as your student! I need to get stronger!"

"E-Excuse me…?" a vexed Urahara said.

"You know, when most people come here, they just ask for candy," mused Izumi, just as flummoxed.

#

"What the hell is going on, Hirako?! Why is Higuchi here?!"

Ichigo Kurosaki wanted answers, and he wasn't leaving without getting them. Aaron made haste to lower his head, feeling the heat rising to his neck. He doubted any explanation would be enough to sate Ichigo's ire.

"Are you telling me you joined up with these guys, Higuchi? What the hell?! Answer me already!"

"What are you moaning about?" said Shinji. "This ain't about him, is it? I can tell from that stupid face of yours that you've been searching high and low for us. We've been throwing out our spiritual pressure all day, so I guess that ain't a surprise. Why not join up with us? That's the reason you came here right?"

"Hell no!"

The resolute declaration echoed across the warehouse. Like Shinji, the other Visored looked upon Ichigo in total surprise. No longer smiling, Shinji now frowned quite bitterly.

"...What was that?"

"You heard me, Hirako! I don't know how you tricked Higuchi into becoming one of your flunkies, but count me out! The only thing I want is to use you guys."

Aaron noted everyone's shock had turned into anger.

"You wanna repeat that?" said Shinji testily.

"You heard me! While there's no why in hell I'd join up with you guys, you're the only ones who can teach me how to control the Hollow inside of me."

"Man, this guy is nuts," Aaron said under his breath. "Kana might've been right about him…"

He didn't know many who'd march straight into enemy territory on his lonesome and then start barking out demands.

Shinji agreed. "You talk a tough game, but I ain't buying it for a second. Just who do you think is retarded enough to teach you anything?"

"I don't care if you agree! I'll just force it out of you!"

"Is that so? If you're trying to scare us, you can forget it. We won't just…"

Right before everyone's eyes, Ichigo transformed into a Shinigami. He launched himself like a rocket at Shinji with Zanpakutou in hand.

"Dammit! I knew it'd turn out like this…" moaned Aaron.

"Agreed." Shinji kicked his own sword off ground, catching the spinning blade and ripping it out of its sheath. "I'm glad you ain't a hothead like this dumbass."

Without so much as budging, he blocked Ichigo's opening attack. The force of their swords colliding shattered several windows.

"You sure are one crazy kid," said Shinji. He pushed his foe back, smacking his lips. "...How long ya think you can keep this shit up?"

"Uh...are we really just going to let this happen?"

No one answered Aaron. In fact, Visored seemed keen on letting Shinji and Ichigo make a mess of things.

"This boy must think highly of himself to cross swords with Shinji," said Rose.

"You aren't looking carefully. It's obvious Shinji is only screwing around," said Lisa.

Hachigen countered, "Ichigo doesn't appear to be going all out either."

"Is this even necessary?" Aaron asked as the battle resumed. "I guess Kurosaki really wants to show how serious he is."

"Serious my ass! He's just scared," noted Love.

"Scared? Scared of what?" asked Mashiro.

"His Inner Hollow," replied Kensei, shaking his head. "Does that kid have a death wish? Why wouldn't he Hollowfy before attacking Shinji? Since when did our group become a daycare for misbehaving brats?"

Aaron curled his lips. "Gee, thanks."

Since no one else clearly was going to, he opted to stop the fighting himself.

"Don't move!" Hiyori shouted, shoving him back. "I'll kill you otherwise!"

Aaron took the risk of presuming that just a threat. "What are you doing?! They're going to kill each other at this rate!"

"Shut that mouth of yours for once and just watch!"

While usually keen on following her orders, Aaron snarled and placed a hand on his Zanpakutou.

"Do it and I really will kill you!"

Aaron froze. That time, without a doubt, wasn't a jest. He could literally sense the bloodlust radiating from her. She shoved him aside, drawing her own blade.

"Huh? What's Hiyori~n up to?" said Mashiro.

Aaron replied, "...Nothing good. That's for sure."

"Hacchi, strengthen the barrier by five layers," the person in question ordered.

"Yes, ma'am."

Hiyori jumped into the fray. In the midst of catching his breath, Shinji didn't notice her creeping up on him.

"You know, you're starting to be a pain in the ass," he informed Ichigo with a slight smirk.

"Move it, baldy! You're in the way!"

Sucker punching him, Hiyori sent him sailing across the warehouse. Even Ichigo cringed when Shinji's spinning body finally stopped upon slamming into a wall. The impact broke even more windows, leading Hiyori to glare down at Hachigen.

"I thought I told you to strengthen the barrier!"

Holding his arms up defensively, Hachigen answered, "Y-You didn't give me a chance to ma'am!"

"Whatever. Ichigo!"

Ichigo tensed up, gripping his blade even harder. It might have been even taller than she was, yet, that didn't stop Hiyori from inching toward him.

"While it's clear you're screwed in the head and want us to cut your head off," she began, "you're going about this all wrong."

"...Wrong? How?" asked Ichigo warily.

"We've been thinking about adding you to our ranks. Nobody ever said you had a choice in the matter."

"What?"

Hiyori grinned. "What I'm saying is we've been the ones calling the shots on whether or not you join us. We don't give a shit about your opinion. We heard about you and simply decided you would become one of us. It's as simple as that."

"Hey, isn't that going too far?" voiced Aaron. "I mean…"

"Didn't I say I don't understand barking, dog?!"

"B-But…!"

"Oh, so you wanna die before him then?! I can arrange that!"

Aaron shook his head, giving up. There was never any talking sense to her, but that was especially the case at the moment.

"Why are you going along with what she says, Higuchi?!" cried Ichigo.

"Because he's a good dog. Well, sometimes," said Hiyori. "I know you're an idiot, Ichigo, but try to use your head a little here. You came all this way here on your own. If we wanted to kill you, we could do it without blinking. You aren't worth the effort though, so the smart thing would be joining up with us. You said it yourself—we're the only ones who can help with your little Hollow problem. It's going to kill you at this rate. You'll die like a pathetic dog. If you're dead set on that happening, take a hike. That way, we won't have to keep looking at your sorry ass."

Aaron wasn't sure how anyone could speak so harshly yet sound so sure of themselves. Regardless, Ichigo held his ground.

"...Dumbass." Hiyori shook her head. She then turned her venomous stare upon Aaron, who flinched. "Get over here, dog! Now! This idiot won't get it without you showing him!"

He joined her side on the double.

Dammit! I really am acting like a dog. I almost wish she'd go back to calling me baldy…

At last, Aaron and Ichigo stood face to face. The former found it difficult to make eye contact.

"What's going on, Higuchi? Be straight with me."

"It's...not what you think. I came here for the same reason as you."

"Why are you following all their orders then?"

"...Because these people have done good by me. And they can do the same for you. Trust me—these guys are telling the truth when they say they can help with your Inner Hollow. Mine probably would have taken over by now if they hadn't gotten to me in time."

"That's…!"

"Just watch."

Aaron held his hand up to his face. He took a deep breath and then brought his fingers down. His Hollow mask formed on command, surprising him at how easily he willed it to. Ichigo had a similar reaction.

"H-How did you…?!"

"Get it now?" said Hiyori. "If we could get this chump up to speed, imagine what we could do for you?"

Aaron, removing his mask, said, "If you're going to insult me, at least don't do it while I'm standing right here."

"Quiet, baldy! I'm done with you, so get back over there!"

Grudgingly, Aaron returned to the sidelines.

"So, what's it going to be, Ichigo? Understand now?" Hiyori backed away from him, tapping her sword across her shoulder. "If you do, then hurry up and Hollowfy so we can see what you're made of."

"...No."

"You still don't get it, huh?"

Aaron wished the warehouse shaking was his imagination. It obviously stemmed from Hiyori summoning her mask. Waves of spirit energy swept across the area, nearly knocking Aaron off his feet.

"J-Jeez! Was she always this strong?!"

"I really am gonna kill you if you don't Hollowfy already!" Hiyori declared. "If you're scared, I suggest you get it together already because I'm gonna come right at you and rip your Hollow out of your soul!"

"Of course she's going overboard," Rose groaned.

"Shinji took it easy on the kid, but Hiyori doesn't know the meaning of holding back," said Love. "This is gonna get ugly."

Ichigo drummed his fingers on the hilt of his Zanpakutou. He wasn't eager to make the first move, something Hiyori quickly picked up on.

"Don't be scared. We're called Visoreds because of our masks. You're one of us...whether you like it or not. Changing into a Hollow isn't tough despite all your bitching. You seem like a pretty strong guy, so don't think for a second I'm gonna hold back."

"Yep, I knew it," said Love. He didn't sound so pleased to be right.

Hiyori pulled her mask over her face. Ichigo took a defensive stance in response.

"I ain't gonna say it again. Hurry up and Hollowfy. Otherwise…"

Ichigo blinked. In that short time, Hiyori managed to close the gap between them.

"...you're gonna die."

An explosion rattled the warehouse. Everyone braced themselves, grateful Hachigen managed to get up a barrier at the last moment. The close call drained the strength from his legs.

"Are you alright, Hacchi~n?" Mashiro inquired.

"N-Not alright…" he muttered, wiping the sweat from his brow.

"She really is trying to kill him!" Aaron cried in disbelief. "Okay, screw this! We've gotta get up there and stop her!"

"If that Kurosaki kid gets killed, it's his fault," said Kensei without an ounce of sympathy. "Hiyori's right—he's the one that stormed into our base. If that kid really does die because he's too afraid of his Inner Hollow, that just means he wasn't worth adding to our group."

"What kind of messed up logic is that?!"

"Since you believe in Ichigo so much, why not just keep that faith up?" suggested Lisa. How she could casually leer through the pages of a dirty magazine at the moment was beyond him.

"...It's going to take more than prayer."

A battered and bloodied Ichigo made that clear. He alone wasn't going to be enough to sate Hiyori's wrath.

"Well, we can't say you're not durable," Hiyori chimed. She stepped toward a heavily breathing Ichigo with an air of nonchalance. "Too bad your head is just as hard. Didn't I tell you not to be afraid?"

Ichigo wiped a trail of blood out of his cloudy vision. "I'm not afraid."

"I'll give you a tip—use that Bankai of yours."

"Shut up."

"You think you'll lose control of your Hollow if you use Bankai against someone as strong as me? You're a little too kind hearted for your own good, kid."

"Shut the hell up!"

"Don't you think that's enough of the tough guy act, baldy! Just looking at you is pissing me off! You're so damn scared, I bet you're pissing your pants! Whatever! Don't use Bankai! I'm just gonna kill your ass!"

"Stop it, Hiyori! Please!"

She paid Aaron's desperate plea no mind. Rather, she shot at Ichigo like a bullet out of a gun. He deflected her sword by the skin of his teeth. The blow, however, left a crack in his Zangetsu. The revelation gave him pause, though he had little time to dwell on it. Hiyori's attacks came fast and furious. So did the blood flying from his numerous wounds. Fending her off was impossible. She moved faster than he could keep up with. The best he could do was prevent her from landing the finishing blow.

"O-Ouchies…" Mashiro felt compelled to cover her eyes. "Hiyori~n really isn't holding back, huh? Do something already, Kensei!"

"W-What do you want me to do?!" Kensei argued. Usually stern, even he couldn't help but feel disgusted by the proceedings.

"D-Dammit!" Aaron snarled as Ichigo's blood rained onto the ground. "I'm going up there!"

"Good luck," Love told him. "She's liable to kill us all if we jump in."

"What exactly is Hiyori hoping to cause with this brutish display?" questioned Rose.

Bringing her sword down, Hiyori left a devastating gash across Ichigo's torso.

And then...nothing. Ichigo floated in place. Hiyori had done the deed at last.

...Or so the others thought. That opinion changed when Ichigo lifted his head. Half a mask had already formed on one side of his smirking face. The rest followed suit, and he emitted a roar that chilled everyone to the bone. The sight of him becoming a Hollow stunned Hiyori long enough for him to lunge forward and wrap his fingers around her throat. He nearly broke her neck. Instead, he dragged her across the warehouse, driving her into a wall. No amount of scratching and clawing loosened his tightening grip. Hiyori, gagging, felt the life draining out of her. This unyeilding strength belonged neither to a human nor a Shinigami.

Hiyori got her wish. Ichigo had Hollowfied per her demands.

And she was about to die because of it.

"Alright, Ichigo. You've made your point."

Ichigo's demented smile vanished. A bevy of swords surrounded him. So did the Visored, who readied to cut him down if he made the slightest move. Shinji, with a sigh, shattered Ichigo's mask. As the pieces rained to a ground, Ichigo blinked and came back to his senses. Having so many Zanpakutou aimed his way left him naturally confused.

"That good enough for you, Hiyori?"

Sniffling, Hiyori wiped her misty eyes. She didn't bother answering Shinji, not that anyone felt she needed to.

"Are you okay?"

A hand shot out to her. Her bloodshot eyes widened at Aaron standing over her. She wasn't sure why he too looked to be on the verge of tears.

"O-Of course I'm fine, dumbass!" She swatted his hand away. "It'll be a cold day in hell before the likes of you pity me!"

Her coldness got a laugh out of Aaron. If she could shout his ear off like usual, she would live.

"What the hell is so funny, baldy?! You trying to die?!"

At the expense of seriously losing his life, Aaron held back another chortle. "I really was worried about you."

Hiyori found herself blushing. Turning her head to hide the fact, she spat out, "W-Well, who told you to be, baldy?! Get the hell outta my face already!"

Aaron did as ordered, unsure of why he ever though he could hold a normal conversation with Hiyori Sarugaki.

Looks like the situation is under control at least.

"Get it now?" Shinji crouched down to Ichigo. "You've got a lotta willpower, but that means jackshit to that Inner Hollow of yours. You can't use that alone to tame it. Still, I'll congratulate ya on passing the test."

"What?"

"I said you passed. You wanna get control of your Hollow? Sure, we'll pound the essence of it into your very soul. With that said...Hiyori!"

"Don't call me like I'm your servant, baldy!"

"Yeah, yeah. Hurry up and get 'it' ready."
"'It?'" Ichigo didn't like the sound of that. "G-Get what ready?!"

"Don't worry about it, Ichigo. I'm sure you'll come to really enjoy it."

Shinji's sadistic smile did little to reinforce the point.

#

Heavy rain fell over Naruki City. With it pounding its quiet streets and the night sky being obscured by storm clouds, Sasune Ishida had great difficulty navigating.

But, eventually, he arrived at his destination.

Nothing stood out about the tall apartment complex. In fact, it was no different from the others in the neighborhood. And yet, Sasune peered up at it as if it were some towering fortress to scale.

It was an empty fortress, however. He smacked his lips at being unable to sense even a shred of spiritual energy coming from its numerous floors.

"So, those jerks were smart enough to move their base."

The group known as Xcution proved to be a tricky quarry to hunt. Sasune went on his way, his boots splashing the rain-soaked streets. His enemies could run, but he wouldn't allow them to hide, not when they still held Konoka Mitsumi hostage. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't detect her nearby either.

"CT is gonna kill me if I don't find her and soon." He stopped under a street lamp, the only source of light other than the lightning illuminating the sky every now and then. There wasn't another soul in sight. It would have been easy to confuse Naruki City for a ghost town. Despite this, Sasune knew he wasn't alone. Xcution was there somewhere, hiding like the rats he felt they were. "Speaking of CT, I wonder where he's gotten off to. I can't sense his spiritual pressure. What the hell is going on? Even that punk Uryuu has gone off the grid."

Something strange was going on. Sasune zipped up his coat a bit tighter before turning the corner down another eerily quiet street.

"I bet everyone is off doing some super secret training! Jerks! They just didn't invite me because they don't want me being even more awesome than I already am!"

He would give his friends and family a good kick in the rear. Dealing with Xcution came first.

"Enough of this hide and seek crap…"

He closed his eyes. Concentrating, the ground at his feet began to glow. Ribbons sprouted all around him, all of which were white.

Save for one.

"Gotcha, Shuukurou," he declared, gripping a green spirit coil. It stemmed from the west side of town, meaning that was his new destination. No longer taking his time, he dashed with a full head of steam. "As if the world's greatest Quincy needed anymore training in the first place! It's time to crack some heads!"

#

Aaron paused. He leered all around, attracting Hiyori's attention.

"...What are you doing?" she asked. "Trying to swat a fly?"

"...No." Aaron shook his head. "I just got this funny feeling someone I know is doing something really stupid right now."

"It's obviously that idiot over there."

'That idiot' busied swinging around on the alleged 'Super Hiyori Walker.' Ichigo, fuming with ire, wasn't sure how long he had been doing so, only that all his limbs were numb. As he wheezed for air, he noted none of the Visoreds paying him any mind. That was in spite of them hours ago promising to train him.

"Whoa, it's this late already?" Shinji took a brief break from lounging around to peer at the night sky through a window. "Yo, Hiyori! Get off yer ass and fix something to eat already. It's way past lunchtime."

"Why the hell should I, baldy?" Hiyori argued. "Even if I did, who said you'd get any? Hey, dog! You do it!"

Aaron pointed to himself, realizing she intended on treating him like a pet. "Uh...sure. I guess I could…"

"Don't guess, dumbass! Just do it!"

Aaron half near snapped his pencil in frustration. Catching up on his calculus homework mattered more than filling her stomach.

Rose strummed on his guitar as he said, "Hey, Love? Did you manage to check out the new Prince of Darkness single while you were out in town earlier?"

A cackling Love didn't hear a word his friend said. "Hey, Rose! You've gotta check this manga out! It's hilarious!"

"I'm sure it is, but what's the point when you're spoiling it right now?"

Love, unable to breathe, rolled about on the ground. The sight of a grown man doing so was both odd and humorous to Aaron.

"Is he always like this?"

Rose cracked a smile himself. "Unfortunately, yes."

"Hey, make sure to keep an eye on the newbie," Kensei instructed Lisa as he taped up his wrists. "You're the one on duty this week."

Knee deep in another questionable magazine, Lisa rolled her eyes. "I'm doing it. Shut up already."

"The hell you are! You're just reading another porno!"

"Shut up. You're ruining it."

"W-Why you…!"

Aaron overhead the strange exchange of words. It reminded him just how weird the Visored were. As intimidating as they could be at times, they were a dysfunctional family otherwise.

I wonder how long they've been together. They're obviously Shinigami, but…

"Hey, dog! Why are you just sitting on your ass?! Didn't I tell you to get in the kitchen and start making some grub?! I get in a bad mood when I'm hungry!"

"As opposed to...what?"

Aaron dared not say anymore lest he get socked in the mouth again.

"Didn't Hacchi and Mashiro go out for groceries?" said Shinji, picking his nose. "What are ya screaming yer head off for? It's not like he can cook air."

"Weren't you the idiot that brought up food in the first place?!" Hiyori snapped. "Besides, how many times does a day does Hacchi have to go to the store before your fat ass is satisfied?!"

"Uh...I don't mean to interrupt, but," said Aaron, who was actually more than happy to change the subject, "shouldn't we be helping with Kurosaki's training? He's been on that walker thing for a long time."

"Oh, I guess you're right." With absolutely no enthusiasm, Lisa added, "And a one, and a two, and a one, and a…"

Her droning tone, combined with Love's insistence on filling the warehouse with laughter, prompted Ichigo to shout, "SHUT THE HELL UP ALREADY!"

Everyone did so, training their eyes on his seething form. He tossed the Super Hiyori Walker toward its namesake. She threw Shinji in front of her, busting his nose open in her place.

"W-WHY…?!" he howled in anguish.

"You've lost your damn mind, huh?!" Hiyori spat at Ichigo. "If you wanted me to come over there and kick your ass, baldy, you should've said so!"

"That's my line!" Shinji hollered.

"Screw that! It's mine!" countered Ichigo. "Even though you guys promised to help me control my Inner Hollow, all you've done is screw around and make me run on this phony machine all day!"

"Yeah, it's pretty horrible." Aaron shuddered, and Ichigo thought he looked like someone picturing war flashbacks. "My legs are still sore…"

"Are they idiots for making us use it, or are we the idiots for believing them?!"

"You're the idiot, baldy!" Hiyori said.

"H-Hey! Let's not…"

The Super Hiyori Walker crashed into Aaron, cutting off his cry of peace.

"W-WHY…?!" he hollered, striving to keep the blood gushing from his head where it belonged.

"Oh, you're gonna pay for that!" said Ichigo as he drew his sword.

Hiyori followed suit, replying, "What was that?! I don't like it when my dogs have the nerve to talk back me!"

"I'm not your…!"

"What are you bitching about?! We're going out of our way to train your sorry ass! You should be down on your hands and knees thanking us, baldy!"

"How is forcing me to ride on that piece of crap training? And quit calling me baldy already, you buck toothed freak! Isn't it obvious I have a full head of hair?!"

"He's got a point, you know," said Aaron. He regretted expressing his opinion when Hiyori used him as a stepping stone to stand face-to-face with Ichigo.

"Say that again, baldy! I dare you! And I'm not talking about your stupid hair! I'm talking about your shitty face!"

"Doesn't...that make even less sense?"

Hiyori jabbed her foot into Aaron's stomach a few times, shutting him up again.

"H-How dare you make fun of my most charming feature, baldy!" she cried at Ichigo.

"Why are you still calling me that?!"

"Hello? We're back," announced Mashiro. She and Hachigen made their way into the warehouse holding bags of food and snacks.

"I'll call you whatever the hell I feel like, baldy!" Hiyori proclaimed. She jabbed her finger into Ichigo's chest as she spoke.

"Enough with all the shouting!" Aaron voiced, yelling himself. "You two are giving me a headache!"

Stomping a mudhole into him, Hiyori smiled sadistically and said, "Oh, I'll give you a headache alright!"

"Leave him alone already!" Ichigo declared, aiming a kick at her head.

She responded with one of her own. "Make me, baldy! I've had more than enough of your smart mouth!"

"I brought you back a bento," Mashiro told Love in the midst of Ichigo and Hiyori beating the crap out of one another. "Do you wanna eat it now?"

"Sure thing! Let's eat!"

"Say, why are Berry-tan and Hiyori~n going at it?"

Love, stuffing his face, replied, "I don't think the newbie likes the Super Hiyori Walker much."

"Huh? Why not? He wasn't complaining about it before…"

"None of this would have happened if Hiyori had simply explained what the machine did," said an exasperated Rose. "I can't even practice my musical chops with all this clamor!"

"You just wanted brag about that, huh?" said Love. Rose, grunting, chose not to answer.

"Anybody wanna check if he's still alive?" Lisa asked, pointing a finger at Aaron's groaning form. No one jumped to the task.

Hiyori lifted the Super Hiyori Walker over her head and chucked it at Ichigo. It made him its third victim for the day. "Quit whining and just work on that thing until your baldy bones crumble to dust!"

"D-Damn you!" Ichigo, quick to his feet, held his bleeding mouth. "I'll…!"

"Hold on a sec, Ichigo." Shinji placed a hand on his trembling shoulder. "Despite what you think, we aren't messing around with your training. In fact, that Shitty Hiyori Walker is the foundation of it, so you should take it seriously. We'll decide on how to train you next after a few days of you working out on. Even though Hiyori is going on about it like an idiot, she's right. So, shut up and get back on the Shitty Hiyori Walker already."

"Call it by its right name or I'll kill you, baldy!"

Paying Hiyori no mind, Shinji added, "You might think all of this is nothing but crap, Ichigo, but we made Aaron get on the Shitty Hiyori Walker for a few days too."

"Super Hiyori Walker! Super!" Hiyori, red-faced, bellowed.

"...Whatever. You've already seen the results of Aaron's training, so that should convince you. Stay on the Shitty Hiyori Walker for at least three days, and we'll move on to telling you how to subjugate your Inner Hollow."

Ichigo drew everyone's attention again when he yelled, "Are you out of your mind, Hirako?! No matter how long you want me to stay on that thing, it's impossible! I already know because I rode it all day! It eats up spirit energy, and you guys are probably trying to see how long I can stay on it to gauge how much of it I have! That's why it's a waste of time! I could last at least five days on it! Didn't you say you weren't feeding me crap?! Just tell me how to control my Inner Hollow already! I don't have time to play around with you Visored!"

"Shut your fucking mouth!"

Shinji's comment had been directed at Ichigo. Even so, everyone in the warehouse fell silent. Pure malice burned in his eyes, enough so that Ichigo didn't argue for once.

"You don't have time, huh? Before you keep talking shit, get a clue. You don't even know how long it'll take the Hougyoku to awaken or even when the enemy will attack, but here you are talking like some fucking big shot!"

The only part of Shinji's rant that got through to Ichigo was the part about the Hougyoku. "How do you know about the…?!"

"Urahara was right then," remarked Aaron. "But...you guys know about it too?"

Shinji smacked his lips. "Just who do you brats think you are? Whether it be Hollowfication or the Hougyoku, you guys don't know jack shit. Ichigo, Hiyori's right—rather than doing all this complaining, you need to shut up let us decide how to train you. After all, we know about everything. The Hougyoku. The Arrancar. And even what Sousuke Aizen was plotting before he went and got himself captured. We knew about it long ago, long before you guys came into the picture."

If that really was the case, Aaron had about a million questions he craved to ask.

"The details can wait until later. ...I guess we were dumb to think you would go along with our training all nice and quiet like Aaron. Your style is to blaze through everything as quickly as possible, ain't it? Maybe it's not so bad to adapt to such a haphazard style. After all, you've learned all sorts of things at an unbelievable pace. Shikai and even Bankai."

"H-How could you guys know that?!"

"We'll cut the crap then, Ichigo. Let's just go ahead and skip to the part where you take care of that pesky Hollow of yours. That's what your best suited to, right?" Shinji held his hand up to Ichigo's pale face. "It's time to go."

As Ichigo blacked out, he managed to catch Shinji say, "And good luck. You're gonna need it, kid."

"Yep," Aaron said with the shake of his head. "I knew things would turn out this way too."

"Congratulations. You have ESP," Shinji informed him jokingly.

"Are you sure we should skip the Shi...erm Super Hiyori Walker step? I mean…" Aaron cursed, narrowly dodging Ichigo's unconscious body. "W-What the hell?!"

"Don't just stand there like a dumbass, dumbass!" said Hiyori. "Pick that idiot up and let's go!"

Baffled, Aaron granted her request, too curious to argue. He hoisted Ichigo over his shoulder and followed the other Visored across the warehouse. There, they arrived at a staircase. Wordlessly, everyone headed down. Aaron trailed them cautiously, fearing they were heading toward danger.

"You're heavier than I thought, pal," he told Ichigo. "Anyone wanna fill me in on what's going on?"

No one answered him, though he hardly cared. The new area they arrived in marveled him more.

"What in the…?"

The open and rocky area reminded him very much of the training grounds under the Urahara Shop. It even had a painted sky like that one. He never imagined such a place would be underneath a worn down warehouse.

"You guys know Urahara then?"

"Here." Rather than clarify, Shinji pointed to a spot on the ground to drop Ichigo. "Good."

"So, now what? What's with this place?"

"You ask a lot of questions for a mutt," grumbled Hiyori.

"Ah. That's right. You Hollowfied so fast that we didn't have a chance to bring you down here," said Shinji. "I guess this is also your first time on the other side of this whole subjugation thing. Just follow our lead. It should go smoothly. ...Probably. Hopefully."

Aaron, already anxious, felt Shinji had said too much.

"Alright, Hacchi. Not that I have to tell you by now, but go ahead and put up a double dislocation barrier."

"Yes, sir."

"And put one up over here too."

"Ee-eeeeee-eh?"

"Don't give me that crap. There's nothing cute about an old man like you making that sort of noise. Just do it already. And while you're at it, bind Ichigo's arms and legs. I want this to go smoother than with Aaron."

"...Understood, sir." Hachigen clasped his hands together. Instinctively, Aaron took a step back. Something big was about to happen. "Walls of iron sand, a priestly pagoda, glowing ironclad fireflies. Standing upright, silent to the end. Way of Binding Number Seventy Five! Five-Pillared Iron Weights!"

Five orbs of light flew from Hachigen's hands, floated high above, and then formed a circle. Hachigen raised and then lowered his arms. This prompted the orbs to form into iron pillars, ones that slammed into Ichigo's unmoving form.

"Relax," said Shinji upon seeing the concern on Aaron's face. "That's only a binding spell to keep Ichigo sitting still. Trust me. You'll be glad we thought ahead in a few moments."

"What now?"

"Nothing. We wait."

"Right. Waiting. Sure."

That sounded simple enough. Aaron's instincts told him it would be anything but. He prepared to draw his Zanpakutou at a moment's notice. Despite his pounding heart, he forced himself to keep it sheathed.

The seconds ticked by slowly. No one said a word. Sweating, Aaron glanced around at the others. All of them looked calm, as if they had done this more times than they could count. He supposed they had.

Unable to stand it any longer, Aaron began to ask, "So, how long are we supposed to…?"

A surge of energy erupted from Ichigo. Considering he should have been out like a light, Aaron wasn't sure how it was possible.

"It's showtime, ladies and gentlemen!" Shinji shouted over the all the noise. "Look sharp over there, Aaron!"

Ichigo wasn't 'out like a light.' Rather, Aaron watched him gradually make his way to his feet. The other Visored took fighting stances.

"Um...I know we didn't do it last time," said Mashiro, "but maybe we should go ahead and take Berry-tan's Zanpakutou while we still have the chance."

"Too late," said Love with a forced laugh. "We dicked around too much. Getting close to him now would just put us in harm's way. ...Again."

"Just consider this 'expert mode' in a video game," Rose joked.

"Yeah, you guys have done this too many times," moaned Aaron. He wished he could share in the pleasant mood. "I'm with her. We should've taken his damn sword. I don't know what sort of trouble you guys had with me, but I bet I'll be a pushover compared to this."

A ghastly, white mask formed across Ichigo's face. The pitch black aura around him, meanwhile, grew larger. Aaron found it hard to breathe, not to mention his legs were trying to collapse on themselves.

With a tremendous cry, Ichigo broke free from Hachigen binding spell. It crumbled to dust, unable to withstand his immense energy.

"Heh. He just...made a level seventy spell...look like a chump," Aaron squeaked with some equally frail chuckles. "Oh boy…"

"So much for that buying us some time." Shinji sighed. "Alright, who wants to…"

"Open the barrier, Hacchi. I'm going in."

Lisa Yadoumaru stepped up to the plate. Aaron thought her eagerness clashed with the lazy image she normally displayed.

"Try not to kill him, Lisa," Shinji warned her while she stepped through the doorway Hachigen crafted for her. "We kinda need him alive."

Lisa faced Ichigo. He retrieved Zangetsu from the ground, breathing in a bestial fashion. "...Who's to say he doesn't kill me first?"

"W-Wait." Aaron chose to speak up again. "Why are we fighting him? I don't get it."

"What do you get?" Hiyori snapped.

"...Ouch."

"Cut him some slack, Hiyori. It's not like he saw any of this while he was busy tussling with his Inner Hollow," said Shinji. "We're killing for time. While we deal with him, he deals with his Inner Hollow in that thick skull of his. The only reason we have the barrier up is so he doesn't break out of here and cause havoc on the poor townspeople. Something like that anyway…"

"Why...do you sound so casual saying that?"

The Hollowfied Ichigo sped toward Lisa in the blink of an eye. While doing so, Aaron found it difficult to imagine his own Inner Hollow subjugation going the same way.

"I'm Lisa Yadoumaru." Lisa tossed her sheath away. "Pleasure to meet you."

She blocked Ichigo next attack, though the force from it sent her skidding so far backward, it would've been easy to confuse that for a direct hit. Shaken up, Lisa glanced at her now sprained right arm.

"That was quick."

She realized taking Ichigo head on had been a mistake.

"Hey, are you...all sure she's going to be alright?" asked Aaron. "I don't get why we don't just gang up on him if we're really just stalling. Considering how strong Kurosaki is, we'd stand a better chance of all coming out alive."

"Just so we can kill him in two seconds?" Hiyori rolled her eyes. "Didn't you just hear Shinji tell her not to kill him?"

"I-I get that, but…!"

"You know, you could be making food instead of talking our ears off, baldy."

"That sounds good actually," said Shinji. "My stomach's eating itself."

"Thirded," said Lisa, backflipping out of the way of Ichigo's Zanpakutou. "And make it good, kid."

"Does anyone around here know my name?" Aaron bitterly mumbled. "And is this really the time to be stuffing our faces?"

"Yes," Shinji and Hiyori said at the same time. Out of all the things they disagreed on, Aaron though eating was the dumbest thing for them to be on the same page.

"Forget it," he stated. "I want a turn against Kurosaki too."

Hiyori said, "If you wanna die, then just let me kill you. You've only just gotten a grasp of Hollowfication, so don't get too big of a head! Just sit back and let us grownups take care of things!"

"You look even younger than me though…"

He wished he could take back his absent minded claim. Maybe that would have stopped Hiyori from punching him in the gut. As he hunched over and struggled to breathe, he changed his mind—she would have found a reason to hit him regardless.

"I-I meant to say you're an attractive young woman that's clearly more mature than me."

Playing it safe with a compliment usually worked out. He was relieved to see Hiyori grinning from ear to ear.

"They really get along, huh?" said Love.

"It's nice to see Hiyori has made a new friend," added Rose.

A Hollow hole formed in the center of Ichigo's chest.

"Here's where the fun really begins…"

Shinji comment came right after Ichigo activated his Bankai.

"How high can this guy's spiritual pressure go?" wondered Aaron, who really didn't want to know the answer. "I still think ganging up on him would be best."

"You know what would really be great?" said Hiyori.

"Don't start."

"You in the kitchen."

"I'm warning you!"

"You making my god damn dinner, baldy!"

"God dammit!"

"Just great," said Lisa, sounding anything but pleased. She lost sight of Ichigo thanks to his increased speed. Her head darted behind her, where Ichigo was about to lop off her head. Backflipping to safety, she eyed the blood leaking out of a cut on her forehead. "This is starting to be a pain…"

"Hey, what are you doing?" Aaron asked Kensei. The latter was checking a stopwatch every other minute.

"We each get ten minutes against that guy. I'm keeping track of Lisa's time."

"Ten minutes? That's it? That doesn't sound too…"

Ichigo's black blade split apart the ground. Fortunately for Lisa, she remained whole on account of leaping out of the way. The amount of destruction the Hollowfied Ichigo was capable of made Aaron change his stance in a hurry.

"...No. Even five minutes in there is suicide…" he remarked, groaning. "Ten minutes must feel like an eternity for Lisa. I'd give anything to know what's going on inside Kurosaki's head."

If it was anything like his own battle with his Inner Hollow, it meant Ichigo was in for a rough time.

#

The spirit coils eased Sasune's job. Naruki City still required him weaving his way through its many blocks and alleyways. The rain had only gotten worse in the midst of his search. Sneezing, he noticed himself soaked to the bone.

"I hope I don't get sick…"

Even if he did, it would be worth it. After all, he stood in front of his destination at last. The apartment complex before him was more run down than the last. To a less savvy individual, they would have thought it abandoned for years. Sasune, however, gazed at the green coil still between his fingertips. It no doubt stemmed from the building.

"So, those creeps are hiding out here. No wonder I didn't notice it before. There's some sort of barrier blocking off spiritual pressure surrounding the complex.

His eyes scanned the bevy of floors. He would have to check them one-by-one.

"I guess it's time to bust some doors down."

"You look lost. Something tells me your house isn't this way, kid."

"...Ah. Perfect. And here I thought I wouldn't have any company on this fine evening."

Whirling around, Sasune already had his crimson bow drawn. He let loose an arrow, only to have it kicked aside.

"Ah. I remember you," said the dark-skinned woman standing across from him. "You're the kid who attacked our base way back. So, you're still alive and kicking then?"

"Indeed. I remember your face as well. I don't believe we've had the pleasure of formally meeting though, Miss…?"

"It doesn't really matter what my name is. You might not leave here with your life, after all."

"Spicy. That's not the worst thing a pretty lady has said to me, though…"

Jackie Tristan smirked. "You're a strange one alright. You know, killing helpless kids isn't really my thing. Why don't you run along? I'll pretend I didn't see you."

"...I think we both know that's not going to happen." Sasune couldn't help but pay more mind to her strange white and black outfit than her words. "...Something tells me you didn't buy that getup at the mall."

"That's for you to figure out."

"Fair enough." Sasune circled around, leading Jackie to copy his movements. "I wonder if Xcution is feeling the heat if they sent you out here to greet me. Not that I can blame them. I too would be shaking in my boots if I knew the world's greatest Quincy was on my tail."

Jackie laughed. "Yeah, you're strange alright. You're also either too dumb to realize how much trouble you're in, or...nah. It's probably the first thing. I don't get why Ginjou is so worked up about you."

"Like I said, I'm the world's greatest Quincy, so…"

Sasune bit his tongue, a byproduct of Jackie vanishing behind a flicker of green light. By the time he realized it was Bringer Light, Jackie had already driven her leg into the side of his head. His body went skidding against the ground, crashing into a light pole.

"I-I always let people get the opening blow, so…" Coughing up blood, Sasune wiped it away before asking his head to quit ringing. He threw off his jacket, revealing a red and black Quincy garb, the very same one he wore during his voyage to Soul Society. Aiming his bow at Jackie, he said, "So, let's just get to the point. I need you to bring me Miss Mitsumi, preferably as soon as possible. Otherwise, I'm afraid I'll have to rough you up, ma'am. While you're at it, I'd like some intel on that gang of yours."

Jackie, staring up at the gathering storm clouds, replied, "I guess all you know how to do is talk. Well, can't say I didn't warn you."

The rain began to fall with enough force to sting. A crack of lightning momentarily illuminated the street that would soon become a battlefield. While Sasune lamented Mother Nature ruining his outfit, the way Jackie hopped about made it clear she was intent on getting hers as dirty as possible. The mud clung to her white boots, leading Sasune to raise an eyebrow.

"Sorry," she said, "but it looks like the elements are on my side tonight."

END