Chapter Eight-Teen: Moving Forward
*Two days after battling Baraggan*
Mila and Yoruichi both sat at the edge of Takeshi's bed. As he still laid unconscious after the beating the Segunda gave to him. When Yoruichi arrived at the house holding Takeshi's battered form. Everyone not yet aware was horrified by it. Orihime wasted no time in healing him, as everyone else could only look on.
As bad as Mila and Yoruichi had taken seeing Takeshi in such a state. It arguably hit Karin and Yuzu even harder. Not just seeing their brother in such a bloody state. It was also the realization of what dangers they were facing and the potential outcomes that could be had when facing them. It was a sobering experience for the two rookie soul reapers.
Halibel and the rest of the girls were noticeably worried. Sung-Sun and Ichigo tried to comfort one another over the situation. While Apacci and Chad did the same. Halibel spent her time plotting out the next plan of action alongside Urahara. Knowing simply standing in constant worry would do no good to help the current situation.
Meanwhile the two newest residence of the house. Coyote Stark and Lilynette Gingerbuck were doing their own thing. Everyone had been surprised yet relieved when it was explained to them. The Primera had switched sides after Halibel's talk with him. Stark for his part had simply found a spot out of the way of everyone else, not really feeling like he'd be much help in the current situation.
Lillynette on the other hand had managed to quickly find new friends in the Kurosaki sisters. Despite the uncertainty of Takeshi's current state. All three girls found themselves being able to let off, some of the tension of the situation by hanging out with each other. Lilynette seemed to fit in just fine alongside the two sisters.
Isshin was practically beside himself at his eldest son's condition upon arrival at the house. However after Orihme's extensive healing and checking his son over himself. He had started to relax a bit after the first day. Orihime had healed the worst of Takeshi's injuries and more. From what he could tell Takeshi simply needed some time to finish healing what few injuries were left and regain his energy. He was glad that his daughter's and the child arrancar Lilynette had found friends in one another. Someone needed to find some silver lining in the situation of things after all. Mila and Yoruichi both had refused to leave his side the last few days, despite the assurances that Takeshi would be fine. The eldest Kurosaki looked up towards the room of his oldest child. He could only hope things would start to turn around soon.
"He looks so peaceful as he sleeps." Mused Yoruichi to Mila as they both watched over Takeshi.
"I know." Replied Mila. "It reminds me of when he was still just a kid and I was only base level hollow. when we first started traveling together in hueco mundo. The way he would curl up next to me against my mane as he slept. It was pretty cute I have to admit. I just wish the current situation was under better circumstances."
"True enough." Spoke the werecat. "Even so, we need to have faith that he'll turn out fine. I know this may sound a bit cliché, but he survived worse than this. I saw what he was like after he was forced through hollowfication. Physical injuries are something Takeshi has always handled well. We need to have trust in Isshin's assessment in all this."
Mila let out a sigh. "Yeah you're right in all honesty. we need just need to have faith and keep strong for him. For ourselves and for our soon to be new arrivals." The lioness spoke putting a hand over her stomach.
Both gave another look at Takeshi as he slumbered. Yoruichi let out sigh as if she was deep in thought about something. An action that didn't go unnoticed by Mila.
"What's on your mind now?" Questioned the lioness.
Yoruichi gave a shrug before answering. "well, I just suddenly had a thought of how someone his age shouldn't be having to go through this sort of madness. He should be more worried final exams and going to school dances. Not saving the world as we know it and almost dying in the process. It's easy to forget that despite everything he's already been through. He still only 16 year old kid at the moment." She finished speaking before she seemed to scowl at herself.
"What now?" Wondered Mila.
"Thinking about how young he is in comparison to how much older I am. It makes me feel like a cradle robber in way. Easy to think considering I'm only a few years shy of 300 after all. Now that I think about it more, the fact I got myself knocked up by a teenager. I suddenly realize I might have inadvertently broken a few laws." Finished the werecat. To which Mila laughed a little in response.
"I know the feeling." Chimed Mila. "That thought crossed my mind briefly when I first considered confessing my feelings to him. Counting the years from my time as a living human. I'm almost a hundred myself when it comes down to it. Though I didn't let it bother me. I just sort of figured since I'm technically a spirit being of sorts. Such rules sort of held less meaning in a sense, when you consider how long we can actually live if something doesn't kill us at some point."
"You make a good point." Said Yoruichi. "So going by what you said, I take it you remember your human life?"
"Bits and pieces only." Said Mila. "All I remember is that I was born around 1915 in a village that bordered the ocean in Greece. Papa was a fisherman and mama, was a seamstress. I think I had a few younger siblings too, but I can't remember clearly enough to say for sure. The only other thing I remember for sure was that around my early 20's a sickness rolled through the village and I was one of the unfortunate victims of it. After that I just simply remembering hanging around until my chain of fate eroded away and I became a hollow. Fortunately, I had better control of myself than most others when they turn. So instead of hanging around in the living world to prey on things. I immediately took off to hueco mundo to hunt there instead."
"So you were stuck as a basic hollow for a while until you ran into Takeshi then." Mused Yoruichi.
"True I was, granted that was because being a female hollow, I was automatically considered easy prey by pretty much all the male hollows." Stated Mila. "More low level hollows tend roll in pairs or packs then you would think. I could never find someone who was also by their self. Who wouldn't just attack and try to eat me on sight. so I had to be very careful and choosey with how and who I hunted, it was honestly pretty frustrating at times. Though once Takeshi came into the picture, that all made massive 180 thankfully. What about you?"
Yoruichi gave a small smile. "Not much to say really. I was lucky to have been born the heir to one four most powerful clans in all of soul society. Though I never let my status go to my head like a lot of nobles do. Granted, the Shihoin clan tends to be pretty laid back and open minded in general compared to almost all the other noble clans in soul society. while I didn't mind the noble life, I always had the most fun hanging out with non-nobles. That's where all the real fun was to be had in my book. That's how I met Kisuke and Tessai. Next thing you knew we were an inseparable team."
"Takeshi once mentioned you and Kisuke go way back." Stated Mila.
"It's true. He my oldest friend, he was my most trusted subordinate back when I was captain of the second division. Before he eventually went off to the 12th. He was also my first and only true romantic partner before Takeshi. Though after we fled soul society and had to keep separate for decades for our own safety. Whatever we previously had wound up dead between us as a result. Though we still remained very good friends." Finished the Shihoin princess.
"He isn't upset you hooked up with someone else?" Questioned the lioness.
"Nah, Kisuke isn't petty like that. If he was, we never would have been friends. Though he was admittedly surprised when I told him who I had eyes on." replied Yoruichi.
"I imagine. Though I have to admit I was more surprised with myself when I realized how I really felt about him. Being what I am, the idea of actually having feelings of love towards someone. It just seemed like a such a foreign and weird concept to understand." Chime Mila.
"Hey now." Cut in Yoruichi. "Just because you're technically a hollow, doesn't mean you automatically are incapable of such things. While it may be harder to feel and understand at first. You have clearly shown that it's a possibility, hell your friends are proof of concept as well. I've seen Takeshi's memories of his time with you. I'm honestly not that surprised you two eventually found love with each other. I sort of feel like at times I kind of forced my way into things. I feel like sometimes you're far more deserving of him than I am."
Now it was Mila's turn to cut in. "Ok, don't you start going on like that. After all I already accepted you as a part of this all. Plus, I can tell Takeshi truly does love you like he does me. Just because the history between you two isn't like what it is between us. Doesn't mean the bond between you two isn't just as strong. Takeshi wouldn't have extended his feelings for you if he didn't truly feel that way for you. Takeshi cares deeply for everyone he holds close to him. He has familial love for his next of kin, hell he loves Sung-Sun and Apacci like older sisters. He views lady Halibel as a mother figure. The thing is though, he isn't the type to toss around true romantic feelings casually. He would only give that away to those he truly feels such a way for. So don't go doubting yourself about your place in this crazy little triangle of ours."
Yoruichi was quiet for a moment before smirking a little. "Yeah, you make a fair point there." Spoke the werecat before letting out a sigh. "Geez, I can't recall the last time I was so moody about things."
"Probably the pregnancy hormones." Answered Mila. "They can kind of be a bitch like that at times."
Both women couldn't help but laugh together at that remark. However their laughing halted when they heard a certain someone start to move about and groan themselves awake.
"uggghhh…." Groaned Takeshi as he finally began to come too. He groggily opened his eyes and slowly sat up in his bed. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes as he did, though he did so carefully. Still feeling sore from the beating he took, though he noted he didn't feel all that bad all things considered. No doubt thanks to Orihime he quickly concluded. However he was broken out his thoughts when he suddenly felt two sets of arms wrapping around him. He knew right away who they belonged to.
"Glad to see the two of you." He spoke softly "And I'm sorry for making you worry as much as I'm sure you've been."
The two women pulled away and all three shared looks of caring tenderness to one another. Nothing needed to be said at the moment between them as Takeshi planted a tender kiss to both women.
"How are you feeling?" Asked Mila.
"Like I just got the shit kicked out of me by a pissed off elderly person." Replied Takeshi. "I don't remember much of what happened towards the end of the fight. I can only recall glimpses of fist and feet colliding into me and lots of pain to go with it. I wonder if this was Aizen's way of sending a message?" Mused the fullbringer. "Just because you, Sung-sun, Apacci and Halibel deserted him. He still has plenty of other powerful people under him to send at us."
"I wouldn't doubt it." Said Yoruichi. "However, thanks to Halibel's wonderful negotiation skills. We have new allies to have at our side."
"Who?" Wondered Takeshi.
"Mistress Halibel managed to convince the Primera espada Coyote Stark to join our side. Along with Stark's subordinate Lilynette Gingerbuck."
"Wait!" Exclaimed Takeshi. "So you're saying we now have the strongest of all known arrancar on our side?"
Both women nodded.
"Holy shit." Muttered Takeshi. "I knew Halibel had a way with words but that is honestly pretty impressive. I can't imagine Aizen is very pleased with now having lost his number one and number three. Even if the ice cold bastard doesn't show it on his face."
"At the very least, he's annoyed by it I'm sure." Chimed Yoruichi. "Though that means we need to be that much careful about what his next move will be. He won't take what has happened lightly. Aizen simply isn't the type in my eye's, however we probably have some time before he makes his next move."
Takeshi made a nod of agreement to that statement. "Well we better not waste any time and start getting ready for that then. I have to get better before my next confrontation with Baraggan."
"Everyone is downstairs." Piped Mila.
Takeshi got out of bed and cracked his joints and stretched a little before heading downstairs alongside of Mila and Yoruichi. As he reached the bottom of the stairs, he could hear the rustle of the house's other occupants. He reached the bottom of the stairs and rounded the corner leading into the living room. He recognized everyone there except for brown haired arrancar and a small child looking one by his sisters. Everyone who was in the room immediately stopped what they were doing once they noticed just who was standing before them.
"Yo." Casually spoke the fullbringer with a slight wave of his hand.
"Takeshi!" Roared many of the room's occupants. Before he knew he was barreled into by his Younger sisters, nearly knocking him down. The twins hugged there brother tightly as a few tears of relief fell from their eyes. Takeshi hugged his little sisters in return.
"Glad to see you're finally back up." Spoke Ichigo with a smile as he approached.
"Hey, we both know that I'm rather stubborn when it comes to death." Retorted the eldest Kurosaki sibling.
"Thankfully for us all." Mused Ichigo.
Takeshi suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to see his father who had a look of relief on his face.
"How are feeling son?" asked Isshin.
"A bit sore still but I should be good to go after another day of rest." Said Takeshi.
"I'm quite glad to see you've finally managed to come out of your previous state." Spoke Halibel as she approached.
"I'm sorry for making you all worry so much." Replied the fullbringer.
"It's alright Takeshi. It's quite a relief in its own right that you survived your encounter with Baraggan to begin with. I wish to not think about the implications of what would have happened. If the Segunda had accomplished his task." Mused Halibel.
"Yeah, I'm gonna do my best make sure I don't put you all in that kind of situation again. By the way." Said Takeshi as gave head nod in the direction of Stark. "Great job with the 'Talk no Jutsu'".
Halibel raised in eyebrow in confusion, not understanding the reference.
"Don't worry about it. Anyways I think a few introductions are in order." Said Takeshi as he gently broke out of his sister's hugs and went over to Stark.
"You must be Coyote Stark, correct?" Spoke Takeshi as he approached the Primera.
"Indeed I am." Mused Stark. "Halibel has told me fair bit about you. I'm glad have someone so strong as a more trustworthy ally."
"I wouldn't say I'm that strong." Said Takeshi trying to be humble.
"Don't sell yourself short." Replied Stark. "Very few people could have taken a beating like that from Baraggan and lived. That alone is a testament to your strength."
"Well, thanks."
"Hi! I'm Lilynette." Chimed in the small green haired childlike arrancar as she walked up to Takeshi.
"Hi, I'm Takeshi Kurosaki." He replied as he patted the girls head. Which she seemed to have childlike approval for. After briefly catching up with Chad, Orihime, Sung-Sun and Apacci. Everyone sat around the living room as Kisuke proceeded to go over what the next course of action would be.
"Now that we're all together again, plus some new friends. It's time go over our next course of action." Spoke Kisuke. "Now then, overall our actions against the little party Aizen was a success. We took out quite a few enemy arrancar. Sent his sixth highest ranked soldier packing and managed to convince his most powerful to join or cause. However, we still have the issue of having to deal with the Aizen's second and fourth ranked. From what both Stark and Halibel have stated, these were also vasto lorde before becoming arrancar. Stark, Halibel how would you rate yourselves compared to them."
Both arrancar took a moment to think about before speaking.
"Well the fourth ranked is Ulquiorra, I can handle him without much issue. However Baraggan is a little different. While my raw power does exceed his own, his ability over time can be problematic even for me if I'm not careful about things." Replied Stark.
"While I am ranked above Ulquiorra it is only by a single rank and thus a fight between the two of us would be rather fierce even if I ultimate have more raw power then he himself. As much as I hate to admit it, Baraggan is beyond my capabilities for the time being atleast. Dealing with the Segunda will need to fall upon Stark in likely hood." Answered Halibel.
"I want in on dealing with Baraggan." Cut in Takeshi. "And before anyone tries to argue it, don't bother. You're not going to budge me on this one. After what the old bastard did to me, I'm entitled to a little pay back, plus it also made things too personal for my taste to ignore." He finished with a bit of a growl.
"Fair enough." Replied Kisuke. "After all that has happened, we shouldn't expect Aizen to make another move anytime soon. If the man is anything, he certainly patient. However, now we need to discuss the other thing about the other day's incident and what it will bring."
"Soul society." Ichigo simply stated.
"Exactly." Mused Kisuke. "No way they didn't notice what happened. Why they haven't arrived yet, it's only because their most likely still trying to piece it all together on their end. However, I would expect them to arrive here within the next few days at the latest. Which means we will have no choice but to deal with the implication of what will come to light when that happens." He finished motioning to the arrancar in the room.
"Be real Kisuke, how a good are our chances of dealing with them peacefully?" Questioned Takeshi.
Kisuke hummed to himself briefly as he mulled things over in his head. "I won't lie it will be a precarious situation. Though, considering everything going on and once we explain everything to them. I think they will be willing to give us the benefit of the doubt. Granted, the tie-breaker of sorts will be my next point." He said looking towards Mila and Yoruichi. "How they choose to react to Mila and Yoruichi's pregnancies by Takeshi will be the thing that tilts the scale I feel. More so, Mila than Yoruichi in all honesty."
"And if things go negative for us when we come to that point?" Wondered Takeshi a bit grimly.
"I already have a plan in case of that. Let's just say there's other soul reapers that were forced into exile by Aizen's plotting. If push comes to shove, we can go hideout with them." Explained Kisuke.
"You sure that's such a wise idea Kisuke?" Spoke Yoruichi with some uncertainty.
"Don't fret!" Chimed Kisuke. "Hopefully, we won't have to take such measure but should we. Just leave the talking to me at that point. Now going back to the previous point of the pregnancies. My device to safely progress the gestation is finished. The machine is all set up and ready to go at the shop. I've calibrated it so it will place you two in the window of being able to go into labor within a few days. Once the process is complete."
Mila feeling a little unsure, spoke up. "At that rate will be unable to do anything if something happens."
"True and I understand your concern." Replied the shopkeeper. "It's important to keep in mind that we simply don't have time to wait. While the possible threat form soul society is there, it's only a possibility. Aizen is a guaranteed threat and the much larger one at that. He's highly unlikely to move again anytime soon, thus this is our best window of possibility to do this. Don't worry, if thing get heated with plenty of captain level and above people here to handle things."
Mila understood where the Kisuke was coming from, but she couldn't help to feel some uncertainty still. She felt a hand touch her shoulder and looked to see it was Yoruichi.
"Have faith in Kisuke on this." Said the werecat. "I share similar feeling on the matter but what he is saying is the truth of it. While there's some risk, with the way things are. We don't really have a choice but to risk it."
"Don't worry." Cut in Takeshi. "I'll be here for the both of you no matter what happens. It'll be a cold day in hell before I allow something to happen to the two of you on my watch." He finished with a matter of fact tone.
Mila couldn't help but smirk a little at that. "Alright, I get it. The sooner the better, I'd say."
"Excellent!" Chimed Kisuke. "With all that settled, we should head off to the shop. Unless anyone has anything, they would like to add beforehand."
"I do." Announced Karin. "Me and Yuzu have discussed things between us, and we believe we need our shikai's. We're close as it is but feel like we need that final hard push to help us finally get them. With that said, we'd like you to be the one to do it for us Kisuke. We know you pushed our brother Ichigo into getting his and we want you to do the same for us."
"No offense dad." Spoke Yuzu before Isshin could speak. "It's just me and Karin feel that you'll have a hard time pushing us as needed. Seeing how in your eyes we'll always be 'your little girls' to you. So that's why we feel like we need Mr. Urahara to do it for us."
Isshin opened his mouth as to argue the statement but then closed it. As he realized his daughters were completely right.
"Very well then. Understand though, that I will be putting you through the ringer of sorts." Stated the shopkeeper.
Both girls didn't flinch at his words and simply nodded with determined looks. Kisuke couldn't help but smile a bit at that response.
'So much like their brothers.' Kisuke mused mentally to himself.
"Well then, we better get going on all this then." Said Takeshi as he stood up.
With that said everyone began heading out of the house and made their way to the shop. As they approached, they noticed someone waiting patiently outside for them. Namely one Uryu Ishida.
"I figured if I hung around here you'd all show up at some point. Tessai gave me a bit of a rundown on what happened." Piped Uryu as the group approached.
Takeshi took a moment to study Uryu and smile spread across his face. "You have your quincy powers back I see and with a significant power boost too." Said the fullbringer.
"Indeed I did." Retorted Uryu. "Granted my father said that he would only help me get my powers back. If I promised to stop helping soul reapers."
Takeshi raised an eyebrow at that remark. "If that's the case then why are you here?"
"Simple, I'm not here to help soul reapers. I'm here to help you and you're not a soul reaper. The fact that you happen to associate with some is simply coincidence." Said Uryu with a smirk.
"You, sly bastard." Snarked Takeshi. "Come inside with us and I'll update you on what the current plan is."
Uryu nodded his head an followed the others inside the shop. A short time later, everyone was down in the training grounds and Uryu had been updated on the current plan at hand.
"I see, so that's that plan at the moment." Mused the quincy. "While, I see the certain risks involved. It's still the most viable thing to be doing at the current time. I'll be hopeful things work out in a positive manner."
"You and me both." Replied Takeshi.
"Ok everyone! Your attention please!" Announced Kisuke. "If you'd all kindly follow me. I'll lead you to my latest device to help with things."
Kisuke lead the group to the far end of the training grounds to where the device was. Once it came into view, Takeshi was rather intrigued by it.
Sitting in front of them was three black large human sized containers raised up on a table each. The center had what he assumed was the main control box of the device. Connected to the center container was a tube on each side that connected to each of the other two containers.
"Allow me to explain how this will work, I'll skip of the scientific detail stuff and cut right to the chase." Stated Kisuke. "Mila and Yoruichi will each lay inside one of the side containers here. While we have Ichigo here in the middle container. I would've had Takeshi do it but seeing how he's still needs more recovery time. It would be best for someone else to take his place. Once I activate the device, it takes Ichigo's reiatsu as he lays in the center container and be fed into the other two. The side containers are designed to take inflowing reiatsu and the reiatsu of the respective mothers. In order to safely move the gestation process of the baby's growing inside them at a much faster pace. The control box will have constant monitor of everything and is programmed to automatically adjust as needed until things reached their designated point. By my calculations, the whole process should last roughly a few hours. Once it begins the occupants inside will drift into a slumber until it all finishes."
Everyone else was looking at what Kisuke made in silent wonder. Even those who were already very aware of how big of a genius Kisuke was. Like Yoruichi, Tessai and Isshin were still blown away by it all.
"Damn Kisuke, I have to admit. I knew you were a genius but this's something even for you." Chimed Isshin.
Kisuke merely plastered a huge grin of satisfaction across his face in response. "Any questions?" Asked the shopkeeper.
"I can get why you don't want my brother to do it but why me instead?" Questioned Ichigo.
"Quite simple Ichigo!" Mused Kisuke. "Firstly, your energy reserves are fully charged. Secondly, your energy reserves are deep enough to work for this. Lastly, since you're a hybrid as well. Your energy is the next best suited for this after your brother."
Ichigo mulled the words over in his head for moment. "Makes sense enough to me. Let's do this thing." The orange haired teen spoke.
Mila looked at the device with some nervousness, something that didn't go unnoticed by Yoruichi.
"It's ok to be a bit nervous about this sort of thing. Don't let it get to you though, I've known Kisuke for a very long time. He wouldn't be offering this to us, if he wasn't completely sure it was safe and ready for us." Spoke Yoruichi reassuringly.
Mila let out a sigh. "Ok, let's get this over with already."
Takeshi walked up to his two lovers and gave them both a kiss. "I'll be here waiting for you two, when it's over." He spoke.
"You better be, if you know what's good for you." Retorted the werecat.
"Damn right." Mused Mila.
"Like I would ever do anything to disappoint you two?" Takeshi replied Jokingly.
This brought a smile of amusement from the two women before they broke away and took their respective places. Kisuke proceeded to go around and close the containers once everyone was positioned inside them before going to the control panel.
"Here we go." Spoke Kisuke as he made a few button presses on the device. Nothing happened at first before a mixture of black and blue reiatsu. Passed through the tubes from the container Ichigo was in. Before reaching Mila and Yoruichi's containers. Mila's container began to glow with a slight glow of orange reiatsu while Yoruichi's had a slight glow of red. All was quite as Kisuke eyed the control panel of the device, getting various readings from all the different gauges on it.
"Everything is running smoothly." Kisuke ultimately announced after a few minutes. Much to relief to all the others gathered. "Now since that is going on it's way. Karin and Yuzu, if you would be kind enough to follow me. So that we can begin the final stage of you two obtaining shikai. Of course one quick thing we need to do first however." Stated Kisuke before he walked up to both girls and quickly knocked them out of their physical bodies with his cane.
"Could you give a little more warning before you do that!? Instead of doing it out of the blue like a jackass!?" Gruffly spoke Karin as she and Yuzu now stood in their soul reaper forms.
"When did you learn to speak like that!?" Questioned Isshin, shocked by his daughters' sudden use of coarse language.
"Must have picked it up hanging around Apacci." Answered Karin honestly.
All available eyes shifted to the mentioned arrancar. Who in turn sheepishly scratched the back of her head and took a few steps to hide herself behind Chad.
"It doesn't matter really anyways." Muttered Karin as she went off to follow Kisuke. Yuzu simply shook her head and sighed at her twin's antics before following as well.
Once they walked a fair distance away Kisuke stopped to face the twins. "Alright you two, draw blades and take a stance." Chimed the shop keeper. Almost everyone else still available minus Isshin and Tessai. Had also followed and stopped a safe distance away to watch the training.
"Mr. Urahara." Piped up Yuzu. "What exactly do have planned to have us finally obtain shikai?" She wondered as she drew her blade and took a stance alongside her sister.
"Well Yuzu, zanpaktuo generally respond best to their wielder's. When said wielder is under intense stress in the midst of combat. So I'm going to push you two to your absolute limits until you awaken shikai." Finished Kisuke as he drew his own blade and released shikai.
"One more thing." Spoke Kisuke as he narrowed his eyes and let some his bloodlust radiate out. Sending a chill down the spines of the twins. "Do try your best not to die." He said in an icy tone.
"Maybe letting Kisuke be the one to do this was a bad idea in hindsight." Muttered Takeshi as he watched everything about to unfold.
"Yuzu, keep here and back me up with Kido as I make a move for him." Said Karin. Yuzu nodded her head in response and Karin took off in flash step towards the shopkeeper.
Karin neared and made a swing, that was blocked by Kisuke.
"Making the first move eh?" Mused the former captain. "How bold of you."
"Shut it!" growled Karin as she pressed her assault. However Kisuke quickly countered and forced Karin on her heels. It was taking everything she had to block or avoid the strikes coming at her. she didn't even have time try and make a counter of her own.
"Hadō #33. Sōkatsui!" Spoke Yuzu as she saw her chance and launched the Kido, without even needing the incantation.
This caused Kisuke's eyes to go wide a quickly whipped around and dove out of the way from the blast of blue energy as it passed by and left a sizeable hole in ground some distance away.
'she didn't even need the incantation for it and the kido hardly lacked any power despite it! Tessai wasn't kidding when he said Yuzu showed talent in kido that could come to surpass his own.' Kisuke thought to himself.
He was broken out of his thoughts when Karin appeared before him to take another strike at him. Kisuke made a lunge at the Kurosaki girl. However Karin seemed to be expecting something like this. She dodged the strike as narrowly as possible. Then she grabbed Kisuke's sword arm with her free hand much to his surprise. Karin the whipped her body around blade arm first at Kisuke.
The shopkeeper had no choice but to lean his back in order to avoid the blade but left him vulnerable to Karin's foot. That soon whipped around as well and planted squarely in Kisuke's gut. Karin released her hand as her foot connected and drove it as hard as she could into the shopkeeper. Kisuke let out a grunt as he was forced back from the kick and then took a small jump back in order to put safe distance between him and the twins.
'And Yoruichi wasn't kidding when she said Karin as incredible potential in close combat fighting.' Mentally mused Kisuke. 'between them and their brothers…. jeez. Isshin all your children will be nothing short of a force of nature to be reckoned with once they all fully grow into their powers.'
Kisuke broke out of his thoughts to quickly address the girls. "My, my it seems I underestimated just how far you two have come in your training." He chimed. "Looks like I will need to get more serious for this." He finished.
Kisuke suddenly took off in flash so fast Karin didn't catch it until he was right in front of her. Before she could make a move Kisuke planted a firm kick to her chest. Tossing the dark haired Kurosaki twin back through the air as the wind was knocked out of her. Kisuke quickly turned in the direction of Yuzu, bringing his blade around as he did.
"Scream, Benihime!" spoke Kisuke as a blast of red energy shot out his blade towards Yuzu.
Yuzu quickly brought her own blade up and chanted another Kido.
"Bakudō #39. Enkōsen!" she said as yellow energy built up at the tip of her blade and formed a circular shield. Kisuke Attack hit the shield and dissipated, destroying the shield in the process. The force of it was still strong enough to toss Yuzu on to the ground. Yuzu didn't have any time as the shopkeeper appeared above her and brought his blade down. Yuzu using both hands quickly brought her own blade up and blocked the strike. However Kisuke was the much stronger of the two and steadily applied more pressure. Causing his blade to steadily get closer and closer to Yuzu. Until the edge of his blade lightly cut into her cheek.
Kisuke suddenly turned around in order to block an incoming strike from Karin. Yuzu used the opportunity to quickly roll to a safe enough distance to quickly get back up on her feet.
"I'm gonna kick your ass for that one you bastard!" Roared Karin.
"That remains to be seen." Retorted the shopkeeper.
Karin tried to make another move but Kisuke was faster and caught her sword arm with his free hand. He quickly brought up a knee and planted it harshly into her gut with enough force to raise her off the ground. He then quickly brought the elbow of his sword arm around and planted it in her chest. Before then swinging her around and throwing her harshly away. Karin tumbled on the ground before sliding to a stop.
"Son of a bitch that one hurt." Growled Karin as she began to get back onto her feet.
Yuzu seeing that Kisuke still had his attention on Karin made her next move.
'Time to use the most powerful kido spell as I was able to learn from Tessai.' She thought to herself as she brought a hand up and chanted the incantation.
"Carriage of thunder, bridge of a spinning wheel. With light, divide this into six! Bakudō #61. Rikujōkōrō!" Yuzu Shouted. Suddenly six beams of yellow light appeared and slammed into Kisuke pinning him in place. Needless to say, Kisuke never expected Kido of that level from the girl.
"Tessai just what the heck have you been able to teach this girl!?" Kisuke couldn't help but cry out.
"Karin use that trick Yoruichi was able to teach you! While he's restrained!" Roared Yuzu.
Karin reared her Free hand back and focused her energy as much as she could in her fist and arm. Her usage of the technique was shaky still, but she was confident enough to be able to atleast give Kisuke a damn good scare.
"Ikkotsu!" Yelled Karin as she charged forward at Kisuke with flash step. She appeared above the above shopkeeper and thrusted downward with all her might. Sadly, Kisuke broke free of Yuzu's kido right before her fist connected and dodged the strike at the last moment. She flew down and her fist hit the ground and immediately made a large crater from the sheer force of it.
"Dammit he got away!" Grumbled Karin as she shook her arm to try and rid the numbness out of it from using ikkotsu.
"I thought for sure you had him too Karin." Mused Yuzu.
"Ok, I am officially more intimidated by those two girls then I am their older brothers." Kisuke said to himself.
As the fight continued, those watching were currently left rather stunned by what they were watching. While they were aware that Karin and Yuzu had progressed at a very fast rate, similar to Takeshi and Ichigo. No one who hadn't been training them directly was aware they had grown by the amount they were seeing.
"I…. who… wha…. how?" Words were currently failing Takeshi.
"Holy shit!" exclaimed Apacci.
"Took the words out of my mouth." Mused Uryu. "Takeshi, I think I'm officially more fearful of your sisters. Then I am of you and Ichigo."
"Can't say I blame you. Even I'm a bit scared of my little sisters at the moment." Retorted the fullbringer.
"I swear the insane growth curve you and your sibling's have is beyond fathomable to me." Stated Uryu.
"You know." Began Takeshi as a stray thought suddenly entered his mind. "All things considered, just imagine the kind of power growth rate my soon to be kids will have. Once they're old enough to start training."
Uryu being that sort of person he was, immediately began calculating in his head. Considering Takeshi and his family and the other side of his soon to be kid's parentage. He quickly came to conclusion on their potential power growth rate. He instantly shuddered at the thought. It was a truly terrifying prospect. His attention was soon brought back to the fight currently happening.
Karin and Yuzu found themselves standing beside one another. The fight had been going for they didn't know how long at this point. The big issue at the moment was the fact the fight was starting to take its toll on the twins. They had sweated through there cloths and were breathing deeply from all effort they had put into things. Both of them were starting to regret having used such strong attacks earlier in the fight.
Kisuke eyed they the twins carefully he could tell they were both starting to get very tired from everything. However he could also tell they were extremely close to finally unlocking shikai. All they needed was one more good push and he knew just what to do for it.
Quickly moving in a burst a flash step that the twins couldn't track. He appeared above them with Benihime at the ready.
"Shibari, Benihime!" He spoke as he swung his blade. Blood red colored netting quickly flew out wrapped itself around the twins. Binding them rather securely in place.
"What the heck!?" Cried Karin.
"I can't move!" exclaimed Yuzu.
"Nor will you be able to unless you manage to somehow break free on your own." Mused Kisuke. "Though you better hurry, you see this technique has another part to it called 'Hiasobi, Benihime, Juzutsunagi'. To summarize, I simply stab the tip of my blade into the netting currently holding you. Then it will explode along with anything trapped in it at the time!" he finished far to casually as the sisters looked at him like he was nuts. Then he narrowed his eyes at the sisters and spoke in with a much darker tone. "So you had better hurry if I were you." he said as began to move the tip of his blade towards the netting.
Karin and Yuzu both were freaked out by this. They weren't sure if Kisuke was bluffing or actually being serious. It damn near impossible tell with someone like him most of the time. As the twins struggled to figure something out, both of their respective zanpaktuo reached out to them. Time seemed to freeze around the two as the connection between themselves and their blades was made.
"What's wrong my wielder?" asked a familiar silky male voice in Karin's head.
"Don't play your damn games with me! Me and my sister are about to be blown up here! I've already given as much as I can give, and it still isn't enough! I need to be stronger; I need more power. So I can protect, so can bring down my foes, so I can do what needs to be done!" Karin cried out to her blade.
"I see." Said the male voice before he chuckled to himself. "About damn time you were ready. So, then what are you waiting for? SAY MY NAME!"
During the same moment Yuzu was speaking with her own blade.
"You are troubled little Yuzu." Softly spoke the female voice to Yuzu.
"Yes! I've been trying so hard, but it isn't enough yet! My sister, my brothers, my father and everyone else. I feel like they're counting on me to succeed and I can't let them down! I… I need to be better than what I am! I need to be able to help battle against the things that have come! The things that will continue to come for the foreseeable future! I…. I need help…. I need your help. I just want to be able to protect what I love."
"Very well." The voice replied in caring tone. "You have proven yourself worthy and thus, I shall grant the help you desire. Now call forth my name Yuzu!"
The next thing anyone knew, both suddenly yelled out.
"Reap the Heavens: Dangetsu!" Yelled Karin
"Illuminate the Night: Hikarugetsu!" Yelled Yuzu.
A massive blast of dark red and light blue reiatsu erupted around the location the twins were. The blast completely blew away the netting and Kisuke moved away.
"They managed it." Kisuke mused with a smile on his face.
They burst of reiatsu disappeared revealing the sisters with their respective shikai.
Karin's resembled an odachi with a long handle around 20 inches long. The handle was same blood red and black as before, and the guard remained the same. The big difference was the blade itself. It was now around 48 inches and had slightly more curve to it then what a blade its type would typically have. On the back of the blade right against the guard of the blade. Was a small protruding blade that was connected to a series of grooves. That ran all the way down the blade to the tip and down to the blade edge as well on both sides of it.
In Yuzu's hand was what resembled a Chinese jian sword, the hilt and guard was pure white. At the end of the hilt was a sky blue colored tassel that was 16 inches in length. The blade itself was around 28 inches long and double edged with a pointed tip.
Kisuke eyed the girls and took moment to feel the strength of their power. He couldn't help but raise an eyebrow in curiosity.
'They both feel slightly stronger than Ichigo did when he left to rescue Rukia.' Kisuke thought to himself. 'At this rate, it won't be long at all before their ready to take the three day bankai training. Should they choose to go that route.'
"Well done you two. I must admit I'm quite impressed by your efforts." Chimed the former captain as he approached the sisters.
He immediately had a foot planted firmly to his balls by a pissed off Karin. "You were going to blow us up! You jackass!" Roared Karin.
The rest of the group was approaching as this happened. Some could of swore they heard something pop when Karin's foot connected.
"I…I needed to…. give you…. one last push…." Choked out Kisuke in a squeaky voice as he laid on the ground in pain.
"Threatening to blow us up seemed rather extreme regardless Mr. Urahara." Stated Yuzu.
"Whatever, we got our shikai's now. So it all worked I suppose." Spoke Karin as she rested Dangetsu on a shoulder. "Gotta say I really like how Dangetsu looks like this."
"Likewise about Hikarugetsu." Mused Yuzu as she held her blade out in front of her.
"Wow! Your blades are so cool in shikai!" Spoke Lillynette as she and the others reached them.
"Good work both of you." said Halibel.
"I must say." Started Sung-Sun. "Yuzu's blade embodies beautiful elegance with a deadly edge. While Karin's looks like something perfect for cutting through droves of enemies with each swing."
"Won't argue that." Spoke Uryu.
"What are their names by chance?" asked Stark, genuinely curious.
"Dangetsu." Replied Karin as she held up her blade.
"Hikarugetsu." Spoke Yuzu as showed of her sword.
"Slaying Crescent-Moon and Shining Moon." Mused Apacci. "Very fitting I'd say, looking at them."
"Makes me wonder just what their abilities are?" Mused Takeshi.
Karin and Yuzu gave one another a quick look. "Gives us a sec and we'll ask." Spoke Karin as she and Yuzu both seemed to space out for a few minutes. As they both spoke to their respective blades.
"Hikarugetsu say's not to worry about that today." Said Yuzu. "She said me and Karin both have had a long day as it is. Though she did mention quickly a technique shared amongst the Getsu zanpaktuo's."
"He told me something like that too." Replied Karin gesturing to Dangetsu.
Both sisters leaned into to the other and whispered so no one else could hear them. Once they pulled away, they had small smile each and walked a few feet away from the group.
"What do you think they have planned to show us?" Wondered Orihime.
"Oh I think I know what they have going on, let's just watch." Spoke Takeshi with a smirk.
The twins had positioned themselves and brought their blades back. Karin's began to glow with dark red reiatsu, and Yuzu's glowed a light blue. Then both girls swung their blades around.
"Getsuga Tensho!" Both sisters yelled together as arcs of dark red and light blue flew out leaving their own deep cuts in the ground as they traveled. Before both each hit a large boulder each completely obliterating the massive rocks into nothing. Both sisters turned to face the rest of the group with smiles on their faces.
"You know, I would say I'm surprised but that would be a lie." Snarked Uryu.
"I've the most kickass little sisters ever." Piped the fullbringer.
Before anything could be done, Isshin had come walking over to the others. "Hey Kisuke, the machine is starting give a type of count down. Things are almost done." He then turned his head and noticed his daughters holding their shikai released zanpaktuo. He practically began to glow with fatherly pride at the sight as walked up to his daughters.
"I thought I felt you two finally unlock shikai." Cheerily spoke Isshin, as he then looked at the blades his daughters were holding. He honestly felt the blades perfectly suited each girl. Then he noticed the destruction in the ground behind them. "How'd you do that girls?"
"We both used getsuga tensho dad." Answered Yuzu.
"Wait! Both your zanpaktuo are Getsu's!?" Exclaimed Isshin.
Both girls nodded.
"Oh my precious daughters! You make me so proud and happy as both a soul reaper and a father!" Spoke Isshin with overtop pride as some fake anime tears streamed down his face.
"As much as this sight is enjoyable to see." Cut in Kisuke as he walked over with a slight wobble. "We should get over to the device, as it will be done very soon."
Nothing more needed to be said. The twins deactivated their shikai's and everyone took off together back to the machine. Once they all appeared Kisuke walked over to the control panel and looked it over. Before long a loud beep went off for several seconds before stopping. The device automatically shut down as the energy glow coming from it ceased.
"It's all finished!" Chimed Kisuke as he then pressed a button on the panel which automatically caused all three containers to open at once. Everyone watched in anticipation as the occupants of the containers began to stir and sat up.
All eyes went to both Mila and Yoruichi. As both women sat up it was evident the device worked like a charm. Just Kisuke had said both bellies of the women were now large as they were now in the final stages of pregnancy. Both of their already sizeable chests were now even larger due to being filled with breast milk. Plus, they had also developed some baby weight as well. Not that any would dare be crazy enough to point that one out to them.
"So, how are you all feeling?" Questioned the shopkeeper.
"A little energy drained but alright." Spoke Ichigo.
"Excluding the fact I feel a lot heavier. I feel perfectly fine." Piped Yoruichi.
"Same here." Spoke Mila.
"Good to hear. Now let's get you all out of those containers." Said Kisuke.
Takeshi walked over to Mila and helped her out, while Isshin did the same for Yoruichi. Ichigo was left to get out on his own. Takeshi walked over with Mila to Yoruichi, he paused to look at the large pregnant bellies of his lovers.
"Wow." He muttered. "I'm amazed just how well it worked out. Hey dad, how close are they to giving birth would you say?"
"Well as a doctor and someone who experienced being around two pregnancies from start to finish. I'd say they both could go into labor any possible moment at this stage. Kisuke did say the device would put them in that time window." Answered the elder Kurosaki. "With said I'd like to head to the clinic and do an ultrasound on them both. Just to get a solid look at things."
"Sounds like a solid plan to me." Chimed Mila.
"No arguments here." Spoke Yoruichi.
"Might as well head off then." Retorted the fullbringer.
With the next plan of action agreed upon everyone started to head back up to the shop and file out back to the house at a leisurely pace. Once they arrived back, Isshin, Takeshi, Mila and Yoruichi headed to an examination room in the clinic. Both women laid back on a separate examination table as Isshin prepared the ultrasound machine. Takeshi was sitting in between the two tables as he watched his father start with Yoruichi.
"Ok let's take look here." Began Isshin as moved the ultrasound device steadily over Yoruichi's belly. He watched the screen of the machine, which was facing away from the other occupants at the moment. After a few moments, his face suddenly took on a shocked look.
"Something wrong with the baby dad!?" Asked Takeshi with concern.
"Oh no, nothing is wrong at all with the babies." Chirped Isshin with a grin.
"Did…. Did you just say babies?" Wondered the violet eyed teen. "Please tell me that was a slip of the tongue on your part dad."
Isshin simply grinned as he turned the monitor of the machine around so the others could see it. Sure enough right there on the screen was the outline of two babies inside of Yoruichi.
"Congrats! You're having twins! Also from what I can tell on the ultrasound their both girls as well!" Exclaimed Isshin with joy.
"I thought my belly seemed a little large for a single kid." Chirped the werecat. "Twin girl's eh? Unexpected but still welcome."
"Karin and Yuzu are going to go nuts when they hear this!" Said Isshin.
"Alright, now let's check on Mila." Went Isshin as he then looked over Mila with the ultrasound machine. Nothing was spoken as everyone eyed the screen of the machine closely. Soon enough, the image of baby came up on the screen. Before anything could said however as Isshin continued to move the ultrasound along Mila's belly. A second baby appeared along with first on the machines screen.
"Son of a bitch! I have twins as well!" Exclaimed the lioness.
"Not just that Mila but it looks like you also have twin girls just like Yoruichi!" Stated Isshin with glee.
"Wow Takeshi, you really are a man amongst men." Joked Yoruichi.
Takeshi on the other hand couldn't seem to speak at the moment. He had a thousand yard stare on his face. As his mouth opened and closed in a goldfish like manner, like he wanted to speak but words simply wouldn't come out.
"You with us still son?" Pondered Isshin as he waved a hand in front of his eldest son's face and getting no reaction.
"I think he's a little shell shocked at the moment." Mused Yoruichi.
"Can you blame him?" Said Mila.
"No, not really."
"Four…..Four…..Four Kids…..Four…" Sputtered the fullbringer as words finally started to find him again.
"Well then, I think we better go share the news with all everyone else." Proposed Isshin.
The two women nodded, and everyone walked out of the room. Takeshi was being led out along by his two lovers as they each held one his hands. Seeing how he was stilling trying to slowly come out of his shock. Once they met up with all the others in the living room and shared the news. As one could expect reactions were rather varied.
"What!? You're both pregnant with twins!"
"Oh my goodness! How exciting!"
"Holy shit!"
"My oh my, that's certainly something."
"You'd better saving up now for all that college tuition money."
Karin and Yuzu seemed to be most excited about the news. Karin couldn't help but smirk at the idea of Niece's that were twins like her and Yuzu. Yuzu meanwhile was literally twirling with excitement at the news.
After all the excitement of the news died out, everyone took it easy. Yuzu began to work on dinner. While the others relaxed in their own ways. Most notably Apacci, Orihime and Lilynette. Who took it upon themselves to look at Mila and Yoruichi's pregnant bellies with curious wonder. Eventually dinner was had and not long after everyone started to head off their separate ways for the night.
Takeshi made his way to his room that he now shared with Mila and Yoruichi. Getting ready for bed in the now king sized bed Kisuke had been kind enough to provide a few weeks earlier. He laid out in bed soon followed by his lovers, who snuggled up against him. Atleast as much as their large bellies would allow them too anyways.
"How are you holding up? Todays news was quite the bombshell after all." Asked Yoruichi.
Takeshi was quiet for a moment, as he processed the news. Now that the initial shock had gone away, he was able to think more clearly on it all.
"It's rather interesting when I think about it in all honesty." The fullbringer mused. "I was prepared for two kids in my head and now that number has suddenly been doubled. It was something none of us had even considered a possibility and it already makes an already delicate situation. All the more delicate and shaky when you get down to it." He then placed a hand on the belly of both women. He could feel the aura of the children inside, his children. He couldn't help but have a smile cross his face. "In the end, I will love them with all that I can muster. I don't care if it's Aizen, soul society or even if some crazy secret quincy army randomly pops up out of the blue. I'll protect them from anyone and anything that tries to harm them. While this was both unexpected and unplanned. I none the less thank you both for blessing me something so wonderful. I promise I won't fail you or them no matter what."
Everything was quiet for few moments before both women began to giggle a little. Takeshi raised an eyebrow in slight confusion at this.
"What's so funny?" He asked.
"Oh nothing." Spoke Mila as she stopped her giggling. "it's just what a way to take question and go running with it."
"Regardless." Cut in the werecat. "What you said was still very sweet and we both appreciate it." She finished as she leaned in to give a quick kiss.
"Just remember, you'll have us here to help too." Chimed the lioness as she gave a quick kiss as well.
Takeshi simply smirked as he wrapped an arm around each of them and they all proceeded to drift off to sleep.
*Next Day*
It was midday on a Saturday at the Kurosaki house. Nothing much was happening as after the excitement of yesterday it was agreed that some relaxing was needed.
Kisuke was back at the shop attending to things there. Chad, Orihime and Uryu had all come over a little after breakfast to keep close to everyone. In the off chance something were to happen unexpectedly. Suddenly, Takeshi got a text on his phone. Noticing the sender was from Kisuke, he opened up the message.
'You and Ichigo need to come to the shop A.S.A.P.' Was all the message said, Takeshi's instincts instantly told him something was wrong.
"Ichigo, we're needed at the shop for some reason." Stated Takeshi.
Ichigo came over and took a look at the message. He scowled immediately at it, he also felt something wrong about the text.
"Something feels off, but I don't know what." Mused the orange haired teen.
"Likewise, though I don't think we can avoid this." Retorted the fullbringer.
"We might as well get going and see what this is about." Muttered Ichigo.
"I'll be going with you as well then." Announced Isshin having overheard the whole conversation. "And before you two try arguing it, don't bother. Chances are seireitei is waiting for you two at the shop. It was only a matter of time before they showed up after the battle. I won't allow my only two sons to stare down seireitei on their own. With everything going on, seireitei was going to find out about me soon enough. Might as well reveal things on my own terms."
"We're coming too!" Announced Karin.
"That's right!" Spoke Yuzu.
The three Kurosaki men opened their mouths to object but were cut off before they could speak.
"Don't even bother." Said Karin. "We're soul reapers ourselves now. Which means they'll find out about us sooner or later too. Might make the reveal ourselves. Besides, we're not about to sit back and let our only family walk off to face this alone."
"Exactly, if we're going to face this, it's going to happen as a family!" Exclaimed Yuzu.
Isshin let out a sigh and ran a hand through his hair. "Fair enough but if things go south, I want you kids to take off back here as soon as possible and make your escape. Before any you say anything. As your father it's my job to keep you safe and alive no matter what. Even at the cost of my own life if need be."
None of the Kurosaki children said anything, they didn't like what their dad was implying but understood it none the less.
"We'll count us in too then." Piped Uryu. "If your fathers' hunch is correct, then you'll need as much back up as you can get away with. Whether to help prevent a fight or assist in one."
"We have your backs." Spoke Chad.
"We won't abandon you." Said Orihime.
"Alright, then I suppose that just leaves one final thing to figure out." Spoke Takeshi as he turned to Halibel. "You may hate this, but you and the others should stay here for the time being. If we're right, then your presence would very likely make a shaky situation even shakier. It's best we try to avoid an unneeded fight as much as possible. Plus by keeping back here you could act as a little surprise force if things do get heated."
Halibel closed her eyes and gave out a sigh. "Very well, I will concede to this plan. However the moment we detect things getting violent if it does. We will come as fast as we can to assist you all. Blades drawn and ready to strike."
Takeshi gave smirk in return. "I'd expect nothing less from my protective shark mom." He mused.
Halibel smiled a little behind her mask from the comment.
"This sounds a little too risky." Spoke Mila.
"To be fair since when is anything, we do these days not risky?" Retorted Takeshi. "I know your worried, but we all knew this confrontation was coming. If that's what it truly is waiting for us, it has to be done."
Mila had a sad expression cross her face. "I just don't want to see you dragged back to the house broken and near dead again."
"Have faith Mila." Cut in Yoruichi. "They understand what their most likely walking into. Have trust that they will be able to handle it." She finished before she then turned the group about to leave. "That being said, if I hear any of you having done something incredibly stupid. Pregnant or not I will kick your ass!" She threatened.
"Understood, it's time we get going I think." Chimed the violet eyed teen.
With that done, everyone who was going to the shop. Filed out of the house and made a steady walk to it. As they neared closer and closer, the tension seemed to steadily rise. Soon enough the entrance to the shop came into view.
"I'll take the lead inside." Spoke Takeshi.
They reached the entrance to the shop and Takeshi stepped inside and headed towards the backroom. Where Kisuke tended to have his meetings in. As he opened the door to the backroom, he was greeted by a sight he had been dreading.
Positioned in Kisuke's backroom was the former captain and Tessai near the back wall of the room. However it was all the occupants in the middle of the room that quickly drew his attention. Positioned in the middle of the room was every captain and vice-captain that remained in the Gotei 13. He also noticed Rukia and his mother Kayda also in the room. His attention was soon drawn to the head captain.
"Takeshi Kurosaki!" Spoke the head captain in his powerful commanding tone. As his eyes opened in a narrow glare that seemed to bore down to the core of the fullbringer's very being.
"You have a great deal to explain to us!"