Hello everyone, here's your precious Dakan69.
Hope you enjoy my new story.
Since it's cristmas, This time the Chapter will have the double length. Merry Christmas everyone!
Disclaimer: I don't own anything, not even the soundtracks. Bleach belongs to Tite Kubo while the soundtracks and anything else copyrighted belongs each to their originator.
Vaizado no Ashido
Chapter 16: The return at present
(OPENING: Aimer – US feat. TK from Ling Tosite Sigure)
HARRIBEL'S CAVE – LAS NOCHES
Sung-Sun was the first one to open her eyes. She looked towards Appaci and Mila-Rose for a second. Compared to her two teammates, she was usually quiet, eighter when sleeping or waking up.
But what Sung-sun saw next was quite shocking, surprising, and interesting at the same time:
Sung-sun saw how Harribel was sleeping while leaning her back on Ashido, who held her on her stomach.
Even from a safe distance, Sung-sun could see how peacefully they both were sleeping.
What's more, she heard how Ashido himself was waking up, making Sung-sun herself go back, pretending to still sleep while Ashido himself lifted the still sleeping Harribel away.
Ashido himself, meanwhile, seeing how the three adjucas were still sleeping, started to go back to his sleeping spot as soon as possible.
"you slept well? "Ashido suddenly stopped after hearing Sung-sun speaking out of nowhere. He then turned his gaze towards her.
"you're awake … "Ashido stated while Sung-sun lifted herself again while slithering towards the Visored.
"how about we both take a fresh breath outside? "Sung-sun suggested quietly.
Ashido looked first towards Harribel, Apacci, and Mila-Rose before looking again towards Sung-sun.
"Alright, "he agreed with an emotionless voice.
After both left the cave, they looked towards the desert.
"you know I'm actually surprised, "Sung-sun stated, "that Harribel-sama actually allowed you to sleep beside her. "
Ashido remained silent for a moment before speaking,
"Are you upset because of it ? "he asked Sung-sun with a shyly sounding voice.
Sung-sun then chuckled at this question before answering,
"no, no, since Harribel-sama allowed it, I have no right to disobey, so you can continue with it. "Sung-sun answered with her playful manner.
"continue with what? "Ashido wondered what she's talking about.
Sung-sun then turned towards Ashido.
"Don't take me for a fool. I saw you and your 'excitement' during your battle with Harribel-sama. " Sung-sun stated clearly towards her male comrade,
Ashido then became beet red, knowing what Sung-sun is referring to. So that meant for Ashido that she saw it. Ashido then looked down at the ground. He was about to deny it, but since he was terrible at lying, he dismissed that thought, one of his most significant weaknesses.
"do the other two know? Was it that obvious? "Ashido wondered if Apacci and Mila-Rose saw it as well.
"luckily no. Since you're with us for a while, you should already know that they both lack the ability to notice such things. "Sung-sung stated mockingly about her two teammates.
"don't you think it's pretty mean to describe your fellow comrades like that? "Ashido stated, somewhat disappointed with Sung-sun's statement.
"that may be true, but because of that, I can assure you that you won't have any trouble with them regarding your relationship. "Sung-sun explained, "because if they knew it, they would become much warier of you, which brings me to what I've actually wanted to tell you. "Sung-sun added while turning her whole body towards Ashido while she became much more severe.
"If for some reason I would find out that you're about to cheat and/or to abuse Harribel-sama's trust, you can be sure that I won't let you go away with that. "Sung-sun threatened Ashido with her waring in a severe voice,
"Mila-Rose also stated a few times that she would be willing to 'bite of a man's pride,' maybe she'll do this even to you and your boss if necessary, am I clear? "
"I understand. "Ashido answered honestly while being shocked about Sung-sun's statement about Mila-Rose.
Sung-sun then laughed, knowing that Ashido might be slightly intimidated by her words.
"then we've nothing to be afraid of, I guess. "Sung-sun said with a happy thought.
"But if I'm being honest, I'm afraid for you three, actually. "Ashido stated, much to Sung-sun's surprise.
"why? "Sung-sun wondered surprisingly.
"Obviously because you don't devour any Adjucas. I understand that you're following Harribel-sama's orders, but in the long run, you three may turn back into Gillians, which I doubt is in any of your interest, or am I wrong? "
"well, thank you for your concern, but it's actually unnecessary, and you're wrong to think that we 'don't eat at all,' "Sung-sun stated, much to Ashido's surprise.
"so you do devour? I never saw you doing it. " Ashido said surprisingly
"because Harribel-sama allows us only to eat when we have that 'certain feeling which Adjucas can have. " Sung-sun stated.
"certain feeling? " Ashido wondered what she meant by that.
"yes, female Adjucas will have a certain kind of 'deep hunger' much sooner than male Adjucas when they're on the verge of turning back into Gillians. If that's the case, Harribel-sama allows us to devour our enemies. But everything beyond that, Harribel-sama defines eating more Adjucas as 'unnecessary sacrifices, which is why none of us three won't consume any further. "Sung-sun explained to Ashido,
"Oh, and before you ask, right now I'm not feeling 'that kind of hungry, which means that you'll wait to see us eating, "Sung-sun added with a rather playful manner, thinking that Ashido might be somehow exciting to see them eat.
"I see … "was Ashido's answer before it became quiet again, both, Ashido and Sung-sun looking at the distant Landscape of Hueco Mundo.
A few seconds later, Sung-sun and Ashido saw how Apacci, Mila-Rose, and Harribel arrived as well out of the cave, the latter carrying Ashido's Zanpakuto with her.
SOMEWHERE IN LAS NOCHES
During their hunt, the group was confronted by an Adjucas named Gagamel, who stated that the self-proclaimed Ruler of Hueco Mundo, Baraggan Louisenbairn, himself seeks a meeting with them, thus have to follow him.
It didn't take long to reach a specific location where Barragan awaited them.
"so it's you again. What do you want ?"
"don't make me repeat, Harribel, it's annoying to see you playing around in my sight, as if that's not enough … "Baraggan said while now looking towards Harribel,
"you've allied yourself with a Visored, which makes you all even more annoying it alreadyForrestaraggan stated arrogantly,
"And yes, I also know that you were the Shinigami who hunted the menos forest for a while, Ashido Kano if I remember correctly. " Barragan added
"I'm honored to hear that the 'King of Hueco Mundo' knows my name. Even more, I'm surprised to hear you're familiar with the Visoreds. " Ashido stated politely, but Baraggan knew that he was just mocking him, especially how Ashido pronounced 'King of Hueco Mundo.'
"don't underestimate me, brat, "Barragan stated offendedly, "I've ruled long enough to remember encountering various beings other than hollows, the likes of yours included, like your leader Seireitou Kawahiru for instance, what's more he even reminded me about the 'agreement', did you know that ? "
"agreement? "Harribel wondered while looking towards Ashido.
"and since your boss seeks to keep standing to our agreement as well, I'm willing to give you both two choices:
first, join my army, if you agree, I'll allow you to continue playing around Las Noches as much as you like, and of course I'm willing to strengthen my relationship with the Visoreds as well. "
"and the second ? " Harribel questioned.
"you have to Vanish to a place where I cannot see any of you. I wonder how Kawahiru will react when I tell him that he didn't stand to his part of the agreement. And, of course, there's no place in Las Noches that I cannot see. "Barragan stated before he started laughing loud in amusement.
What's more, his fellow present adjucas started laughing as well, while Harribel, Appaci, Mila-Rose, and Sung-sun became angry but didn't show their anger openly.
As for Ashido, he pressed both his fists in anger while looking down at the sand, which was noticed by Harribel.
"you should agree to Lord Barragan's very lucrative offer, Ashido, "a male confident yet arrogant voice could be heard, which was familiar to Ashido.
When looking up again, he, Harribel, and the three adjucas suddenly saw one of Baraggan's Adjucas with a hammerhead and, surprisingly, another Vasto-Lorde landing in front of them.
"Alvaro … "Ashido stated while looking towards the previous Adjuca, now Vasto-Lorde he frequently confronted in the forest of Menos.
"it's been a while, Ashido. Believe it or not, I've actually missed you since you've suddenly vanished, making me believe that you bit the dust somehow, but for you to smell like one of us now is something I didn't expect, which is why I'm willing to forgive you for all the hard time you gave my brothers and me at the Forrest if you join us, what do you say? "
Ashido stood for a while, remembering all the times he remembered confronting Alvaro as an Adjucas in the forest of Menos.
"I'm sorry, but I don't make the decisions here. "Ashido stated towards Alvara before pointing with his head left towards Harribel.
"then this makes it a lot easier, I guess, "the Hammerhead adjucas named Conorade spoke while coming closer towards harribel after Ashido's statement,
"and you indeed realized that you have no other choice than to submit to Lord Baraggan, do you understand Harribel? "Conorado stated towards her while touching her arm.
"don't touch me "were Harribel's words before slicing his face before Conorade started to scream in pain and fell to the ground.
„STOP !" Barragan demanded imperiously from Conorade and Alvaro to stop each of their attempts, making Conorade stop screaming immediately.
"How bold of you to strike one of my subordinates in front of my eyes. "Barragan started towards Harribel,
"you both will regret that decision. "were Barragan's final words before Harribel turned around.
"let's go, "Harribel ordered towards Ashido and her fellow Adjucas move, which they obeyed, of course. They've started to run relatively fast while their distance from Barragan and his horde begun to increase rapidly.
As for Ashido, he suddenly turned his head left after feeling three reiatsu's coming from the nearby cliff's peak.
To his surprise, he saw three Shinigami, what's more, each with a Captain's Haori, staying on the cliff, making him stop running.
When he looked closer towards them, he saw that the Shinigami in the middle had brown hair and glasses on his face.
But then, that particular Shinigami then seemed to have noticed Ashido's gaze, making him look towards Ashido as well. What's more, the Shinigami with the glasses appeared to look directly towards's Ashido's eyes as well.
"Ashido, "he heard Mila-Rose shouting towards him before he turned his head towards the group,
"what are you looking for out there ?" Mila-Rose still wondered.
"Shinigamis, "Ashido answered.
"WHAT? … where? "Appaci immediately wondered where he saw them.
"Right there at the … "Ashido pointed at the cliff's peak, only to see that there was no one to be seen.
"well, I see no one. Are you really sure there was someone? "Sung-sun asked after confirming it herself.
Ashido stood for a while.
"must have been my imagination. "Ashido answered uncertainly.
"Anyway, "Sung-sun spoke, "I believe you have to explain yourself. "
Ashido then looked again towards the group,
"what exactly? "
"what did Baraggan mean by the 'agreement' and by 'fighting Termino and Averian'? Tell me everything. " Mila-Rose demanded form him.
Ashido stood for a while again before answering,
"Am I right to assume that you know about the 'Arrancer'? " Ashido asked them for sure.
Harribel nodded while remembering how she had already spoken with her fellows about the Arrancar.
"This agreement was made between Barragan and the soul society around 900 years ago, after soul society experienced a never before seen attack. "
"you mean the 'Espada', right ?, Yes we've heard about that story before. " Sung-sun replied while remembering how Harribel told them that story not too long ago.
"well, the first thing you need to understand about the 'agreement' is that my both superiors, Raian and Seireitou, were both directly involved in the 'summer war', as the battle against the Espada from 900 years ago is officially referred to in the soul society. "Ashido stated, much to their surprise.
Ashido then started telling more about the 'Summer war' from the Soul Society's point of view. The first significantly interesting fact Ashido stated to the menos-hollows was that the Espada's assault is considered to be soul society's most significant defeat of all time, since out of 13 Shinigami-Captains, the Espada managed to defeat and kill 6 Captains.
Harribel's and the three Adjucas's eyes widened after hearing that the previous Shinigami himself confirmed that the Espada weren't as disappointing as they've believed at first.
Ashido then continued, stating that the 10 Espadas were led by an individual named 'Sariel', whom Ashido referred to as the very first Visored, even though the term 'Visored' was actually invented centuries later.
Even though the Shinigami succeeded in killing 4 Espadas, including one by Seireitou himself, 5 of them were able to Escape, which brought too great shame to the Gotei 13 and the soul society, which is the reason the 'summer war' has been heavily censored in the official Historical records of the soul society, making only a few Shinigamis remembering and knowing the truth, like Seireitou and Raian themself, who told Ashido this story after he became a Visored.
When Harribel asked Ashido how exactly the summer war is taught, he answered that officially 'there was no Sariel, and there were no 10 Espadas either, only that 'one strong Arrancar' was the mastermind behind that war, who has also been taking prisoner, which was Arturo Plateado, making Harribel's eyes go wide since she has heard that name before as a member of the Espada.
Ashido added that Arturo is officially considered to be 'the very first Arrancar' in existence in the soul society's records, despite the fact that there most likely existed Arrancars before him.
After the 'summer war' ended, Ashido stated that the high authorities of the Soul Society decided that, in order to prevent such wars in the future, they need to pay closer attention to what's happening in Hueco Mundo as well.
When Sung-sun asked Ashido what he meant, Ashido said that the soul society made a secret agreement with Baraggan that only a designated number of Vasto-Lorde shall exist in Hueco Mundo.
"a 'designated number'? You mean … "Sung-sun said in shock, already knowing what Ashido was about to say.
"Yes … "Ashido answered, "if that number is exceeded, then the soul society gives permission to 'regulate the overall numbers', which is the reason I'm here. "he added.
Now Sung-sun's, Apacci's, Mila-Rose's, and also Harribel's eyes went wide after hearing Ashido's explanation after hearing that The reason Ashido is in Las Noches in the first place is to kill a Vasto-Lorde.
Her mind filled with anger, Apacci then jumped towards Ashido, pushing him at the sandy ground with her hooves.
"now answer honestly … after you reach the strength of a Vasto-Lorde, do you intend to kill Harribel-sama."
Ashido remained silent before answering,
"I already gave you my word. " Ashido replied calmly.
"but does that also count for your allies? " Apacci asked still angrily.
"Yes, "Ashido added, "I'll make sure of this. "
"You … " Apacci replied. Still not convinced of his words.
Not stopping being angry, Apacci was about to kick Ashido with one of her feet, only to be blocked by Mila-Rose,
"Skip it ! " she replied while holding Apacci's feet with one of her own.
"But Mila-Rose, he … "Apacci wanted to tell that sooner or later Ashido has to kill a Vasto-Lorde, making Harribel the easiest target.
"I know what you think, "Mila-Rose stated, "but if he really would do that, he already would've done. After all … " Mila-Rose turned her gaze towards Ashido,
"do you still think he's a coward? " she asked Apacci while looking towards Ashido, making Apacci look towards him again as well,
"But why didn't you tell us everything from the start. " Apacci asked him, her anger slightly decreasing.
"well … it's complicated, as you've heard. " Ashido replied honestly,
"do you two still not understand "both heard Sung-sun suddenly speaking, "your both brains wouldn't have been able to process the amount of information if he had told us everything from the start, so you both should be thankful instead. "Sung-sun stated mockingly towards them both, like always.
""WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY ! ""both, Apacci and Mila-Rose shouted towards Sung-sun in anger.
"But anyway, I agree with Mila-Rose that he never won't 'cheat' on Harribel-sama and us. "Sung-sun proclaimed with a playful manner while looking towards Ashido, remembering how they've both talked after Ashido and Harribel slept together peacefully before they had to separate because of Apacci and Mila-Rose waking up.
Both Ashido and Harribel, meanwhile, looked down while their face was beet red right now, something which wasn't noticed by the other two female Adjucas, luckily.
"TEN DAYS "LATER
Compared to most "days, "this "day, "Harribel decided to take a break from hunting and fighting, which means that they will just relax for one day. The reason for that was that, for some reason, there weren't many Menos Hollows encountered in the last few days.
While the three Adjucas were inside the cave, Ashido and Harribel were sitting undisturbed, together embraced, at a hidden spot somewhere around their hideout.
"Are you sure that the others won't mind when we tell them? "Ashido, his face without his fake mask, which was on the ground on his right, asked concernedly.
"Sung-sun already knows, and she doesn't seem to mind. "Harribel answered, her head on Ashido's chest while both still sat on the sand, embracing each other.
"Appaci and Mila-Rose still don't know, right? Because otherwise they surely wouldn't let me stay near you, I believe. "Ashido added while chuckling.
"I'm sure Sung-sun won't tell them eighter. "Harribel added as well while smiling beneath her mask.
This was one of the few moments Ashido and Harribel wished would last forever.
After encountering each other, both got slowly but steadily attached to each other.
Ashido remembered how long he was alone fighting in the forest of menos, without anyone to come to rescue him. Back then, despite feeling eternal loneliness in this forsaken forest, he killed as many hollows as possible because he believed that he would at least make soul society and the human world safer than before, which was the right thing to do back then.
But now? Not only he has encountered female Menos-class hollows, but he also became quite close to them like close comrades, not to mention falling in love with a beautiful female Vasto-Lorde.
Even though Ashido does enjoy this moment, he is still conflicted about how his Comrades would think of this. He could guess that Seireitou might show understanding to a certain degree since even Ashido knows how that Seireitou values' romance and love' very highly, his current Visored comrades would think similar.
But what about his dead comrades? How would Kuruyashiki-Aniki, Ibuki, Yuya, and the others react if they all saw their still alive Fukutaicho like this? Would they be upset? Or laugh? Is Ashido perhaps somehow bringing dishonor to them by loving Harribel?
"something wrong … Ashido? "Harribel asked loudly, bringing Ashido back from his thoughts.
"sorry … "he said, "I was suddenly thinking of the past again. "Ashido added while looking towards her face.
"your fallen comrades? "Harribel wondered concerning while looking back to him.
"yeah … "Ashido replied, his eyes fixed on Harribel's.
It was silent again after Harribel turned her face again towards the sand on their ground before she spoke again.
"you once asked me if I remembered my mortal life as a Human. I believe I can tell you now. "Harribel stated, much to Ashido's surprise.
Harribel then took his Hands, putting them at her lower blue belly, where the lower part was surrounded by her hollow armor structure, like most of her body.
She then somehow pressed, As Ashido suggested, her abdomen, making Harribel moving Ashido's hands further down.
Ashido then realized that his fingers were suddenly feeling nothing, which was strange for him, before moving his fingers further.
'that's strange. It's like there's a big …' Ashido thought before he finally realized it.
(soundtrack: Attack on Titan OST – Call of Silence)
Harribel suddenly flinched when Ashido touched the verge of her lower belly, making it more evident to Ashido.
"sorry … "Ashido replied before taking his hands out, "so that's where your hollow hole is. I've already wondered why I couldn't see it before. I believed hollow holes could only be positioned around the upper body," he added before Harribel started correcting him,
"the hole's position can vary by how that person had died, which means that when a person died an 'unusual way' before becoming a hollow, the hollow hole will also appear on an 'unusual spot'. "Harribel stated before putting her left hand on her hollow hole's position.
Harribel then remembered her past as a living Human in the Kingdom of New Spain in the so-called 'new World'. Even though she lived in a relatively good farmer family, even marrying another wealthy family, this wasn't a guarantee that life would show her more mercy, proven by her pregnancy.
"I sacrificed my life for my child to live on … "Harribel stated while she put her left hand to her hidden hollow hole, which was seen by Ashido.
"When I turned into a hollow, I couldn't remember it at first, but when I became a Vasto Lorde much later, those memories returned. "Harribel stated before Ashido could see how a tear from Harribel's left eye dropped on his bare hand.
"may I ask … the name you gave her? "Ashido asked as tactfully as he could.
Harribel hesitated at first before answering,
"Ramona … "Harribel answered while looking towards the crescent at the sky, making Ashido do the same.
"Since I've remembered it again, I keep wondering how she's been. Could she live the fulfilled life I couldn't? I know that probably a lot of time has passed, maybe even she may have reached her end, but I keep wondering if she, and therefore I, have descendants? I really wish I could see Ramona again, only once, to know how she's been. "Harribel stated while Ashido noticed how she slightly sobbed beneath her mask.
"but at the same time, I fear that Ramona too might as well die too early and that I or another hollow might have devoured her. "Harribel added with a much more saddened expression.
"That's why I've decided that I won't devour any hollows anymore. I don't wish to sacrifice the lives of others for my benefit. "were Harribel's final words before.
Since Ashido didn't know what to say anymore, he just kept hugging her tightly since he thought this may be the only comfort he could offer.
(end of soundtrack)
They remained like that for a while until both opened their eyes rapidly when feeling a rather intense reiatsu coming closer.
"That's near our cave. "Ashido commented before both he and Harribel stood up.
"let's go … "was Harribel's command before both used Sonido and Shunpo to come out of their spot.
But before they could reach their cave's entrance, they noticed that intense reiatsu coming closer before a familiar Vasto-Lorde appeared in front of them,
"so you both were outside? Well seems that Coronado's visit is relatively futile. " Alvaro, the ex-Adjucas now Vasto-Lorde and Guardian of the Menos forrest spoke.
"well, I guess he will deal with those three followers of yours while I deal with you both, Ashido and Harribel. "Alvaro stated excitingly and arrogantly.
At this comment, Harribel became startled, running immediately towards the cave.
Alvaro then used Sonido to attack her but was stopped by Ashido's fists, blocking Alvaro's hands from reaching Harribel, who continued running inside their cave.
"I'm your opponent. "Ashido stated rather angrily, since not only Alvaro was about to attack Harribel, but also because he spoiled his beautiful moment with Harribel.
"This will be the last time. "Alvaro stated excitingly while increasing his reiatsu even further.
"I agree. "Ashido stated before putting his right hand on his face, making his actual hollow mask appear on his face before putting his fists ready.
ASHIDO VS ALVARO – LAS NOCHES – HUECO MUNDO
Alvaro looked rather curiously, seeing that Ashido didn't draw his Zanpakuto.
"I see, so you believe that you'll defeat me only with your hollow powers? THAT'S USELESS ! "Alvaro shouted before teleporting via Sonido behind Ashido, who still manages to block his sudden attack.
Both started now using their hand-to-hand combat abilities, along with Hierro, so that they could damage each other more.
Alvaro then jumped back before activating his red-colored balas and throwing it towards Ashido, who managed to dodge them all of.
Ashido then used Sonido to teleport near Alvaro, successfully kicking Alvaro's head with his feet, resulting in Alvaro flying away.
"still tough like ever, I see … "Alvaro commented, to which Ashido didn't reply with words but with running towards him.
Ashido was about to use his hands to breach through Alvaro's body, but the latter saw this coming, activating his Hierro before using Sonido to teleport away before staying nearby, using his right hand with hierro to breach through Ashido's stomach himself, while Ashido started spitting blood from his mouth with his hollow mask.
He then jumped via Sonido away before holding his stomach, letting it regenerate with his hollow abilities.
Alvaro was about to stop his regeneration before both, Ashido and Alvaro heard an Explosion from nearby, which was from their cave.
"seems that idiot Coronado enjoys his newfound power too much. "Alvaro commented with a scorning voice.
"TIA ! "Ashido shouted before he started running towards her and the other female Adjucas for support, only for Alvaro to appear in front of him via Sonido.
"leaving so soon? "Alvaro shouted sarcastically before kicking Ashido with his feet vigorously, making Ashido flying away, afar from Harribel and the others.
Even though Ashido managed to regenerate his stomach surprisingly fast, he still hardly managed to stand up after Alvaro's kicks.
What's more, when he was about to stay again on both feet, Alvaro appeared again via Sonido.
Alvaro then took Ashido's neck by force, putting it near his own head,
"They could've been a lot safer. By hook or by crook, as soon as I've would hear that you've returned on the surface, I would've temporarily left the Forrest beneath us just to get you. "Alvaro explained before starting to 'grin,'
"But those females? Maybe they would've needed to 'satisfy' Barragan and his followers, but as I said already: they could have been a lot safer if you just agreed. Now they will face their end, like you now. "Alvaro added.
Ashido, meanwhile, became angrier by Alvaro mentioning the word 'satisfy' , resulting in him finally taking out his sealed Zanpakuto.
Alvaro, who saw this coming, immediately went with his left hand towards Ashido's Zanpakuto, but to avail.
Ashido then wounded Alvaro's upper torso heavily, resulting in the latter letting Ashido go from his right hand's grip.
But the heavily caused cut wasn't much of a deal for Alvaro since it started regenerating relatively fast.
"So now you've drawn your sword at last, but this won't help you eighter against a Vasto Lorde like me. "Alvaro proclaimed proudly about himself.
Ashido didn't listen and attacked him with his Zanpakuto.
The fight went on longer than Ashido and Alvaro expected. Both focused only on the battle while forgetting what was going on outside of their struggle.
But then, when both started to breathe heavily, it was Alvaro, who again managed to take Ashido's neck, this time, however, with his left hand, and he also pressed Ashido's neck harder while also putting him on the ground more challenging as well so that he can't escape easily,
"you know, even though you suddenly disappeared, I somehow knew that you would've returned much stronger one day. This was the sole reason I decided to consume other adjucas. This means that I became a Vasto Lorde because of you, for which I'm very thankful. Now this long rivalry between us finally ends. "Alvaro proclaimed while he suddenly started a Cero out of his right hand while putting it closer towards Ashido's head.
Ashido, seeing Alvaro's red-colored Cero, saw no other choice than to create his own Cero out of his hollow mask, which in turn took the color cyan.
Alvaro, who was at first surprised and alert at first, became calm again, believing that Ashido's Cero was much weaker than his.
And then, when Alvaro was about to fire his Cero towards Ashido's head, Ashido surprisingly took Alvaro's right hand, resulting in both Ceros colliding.
This resulted within seconds cause a large shiny explosion of nearly 1 Km/0,62 miles.
NEARBY THE BATTLEFIELD
This large explosion was seen afar by two individuals on a cliff.
The first one hid his appearance beneath one green cloak. But his yellow eyes were visible, along with parts of his hollow mask on his right cheek.
The second one, however, was a Vasto-Lorde with a complete white mask, along with long grey hair, two long, forward-pointing horns protruding from the sides of its head, and his Hollow hole, which is located in his upper chest. He also had two blades in place of his forearms.
"seeing this battle is quite interesting, don't you think so too, 'sempai'? "the male Vasto-Lorde commented excitingly.
"it's entertaining at most, "the cloaked one commented more calmly, "but it's still a shame that Ulquiorra and Starrk couldn't have witnessed it as well. "
"I also wished for Luppi, Loly, and Menoly to see it as well, but as you know, they wouldn't have been able to 'stay that close' as we both. And I'm sure taking Ulqiorra and Stark along would've caused envy to them, and what's more, Starrk isn't the type to enjoy this. "The Vasto Lorde commented.
After they both saw how the explosion ended, they both decided that they'd watched enough, jumping down from the cliff on the other side, away from the battlefield.
"Sosuke is nearby. He and his two followers. "the cloaked one stated rather coldly since he didn't hold that Shinigami in high regard.
"Father mentioned something that they'll make a visit to Barragan before to us. I hope they'll be happy with those we've gathered. "the Vasto-Lorde commented somewhat concerning since he knew that both Sosuke Aizen and his father are pretty sophisticated if it's about finding worthy followers.
It was at this moment that the green cloaked one suddenly stopped before looking behind him since he could feel someone else being present near the explosion.
When he turned around, his yellow going wide,
"Sempai ?" the Vasto-Lorde replied after noticing him turning back.
"go ahead, tell the others I want to check something." were his final words before disappearing via Sonido.
ASHIDO VS ALVARO – MENOS FORREST – HUECO MUNDO
(Soundtrack: Attack on Titan S3 OST - ThanksAT (Armin Reborn Theme))
After Alvaro had woken up, he wondered at first why he was again at the Menos Forrest.
It was at this moment that he remembered using Cero against Ashido, who used his own as well. Did this cause the large hole on the surface he saw and the sand on the lower ground?
But then his eyes went wide in disbelief,
"I … I can't move, why … "Alvaro wondered loudly, only to hear a strange noise coming from nearby.
(soundtrack at 1:16)
When he saw the source of that noise, he realized that it was Ashido, but something was strange,
The hollow mask he had put on suddenly had a wide-open mouth, making Alvaro look in horror as Ashido suddenly started coming closer.
"aaahhhhhh, "Alvaro started crying while trying to stand up, but for some reason, he couldn't.
Then, Ashido made his first bite towards the lying Vasto-Lorde, causing him to make a loud scream, followed by a lot more screams which all could be heard in the Forrest. After the screams ended, only Ashido could be heard how he still continued chewing while nothing except a little bit of the blood remained on the ground.
(soundtrack at 2:10)
After Ashido finished chewing minutes ago, his hollow mask suddenly disappeared before he started falling on the hard ground.
(soundtrack at 3:03)
But then, the hard ground, as the whole Forrest, became black. What's more, Ashido started to fall like he'd never reached the bottom.
(end of the soundtrack)
Ashido was about to close his eyes in this pitch-black darkness, only to see a small light in front of him.
As he fell, the light became much brighter until he saw Lady Konoka smiling warmly again.
Ashido, whose mouth gaped slightly in surprise, saw how Konoka was holding his shoulders while he himself had the feeling that the 'fall' had indeed stopped.
What's more, he saw how two more hands were suddenly holding his both arms.
When he looked around, he saw two familiar Shinigamis, the first one with long black-purpled hair, the other with a white band on his bald head, whom Ashido immediately recognized as Ibuki and Yuka, who like Konoka, were also smiling warmly. As if that isn't surprising enough, Ashido suddenly felt two strong arms wrapping his whole torso from behind.
When he turned around, he saw none other than Kenpachi Kuruyashiki smiling warmly as well.
"Aniki … "he said in disbelief while noticing how his other fallen comrades suddenly stood all near beside him.
Then, he saw how his comrades were pushing him back as if telling him to 'not give up so early.
While the whole darkness started to fade away from the upcoming light, Ashido saw how Konoka came closer to his ears,
"Please take care of them. "were her words before the darkness disappeared.
GUEST BEDROOM – URAHARA SHOP – KARAKURA TOWN
Ashido opened his eyes widely before he lifted his body from the Futon he was lying on.
"you're awake … "Ashido heard a familiar voice saying calmly from the left corner of the room.
When he turned around, he saw a familiar long dark purple-haired woman.
"Saori-san, you're here? "Ashido asked her in disbelief.
"Maybe I should've told Naibu that I'll arrive as well, anyway … "Saori said before Ashido turned his head, seeing a sobbing Matsuri and Shiyo holding their hands in front of their mouths before they suddenly embraced Ashido.
The two girls started crying as Ashido pulled them together.
"I'm sorry … "Ashido suddenly stated uncomfortably of himself, "I'm sorry that we hadn't the strength, to be honest with you … "he continued,
"But I'm happy that you're both still well. Is Fujimaru also as well? "
"Sumeragi-san told us that he went to Shinji and the others. "Matsuri stated sobbingly.
"She also told us everything. About the Visoreds, the Ankoite, about uncle … "Shiyo stated while her own and Matsuri's wellbeing started to become uneasy again, "… and also about mother. "Shiyo managed to say it while both started to cry again on Ashido's clothes.
"How are the others? And how long was I asleep? "Ashido asked towards Saori while looking towards her,
"they're all safe, luckily, and about you, I think it's around 24 hours. No one has since then left the shop. Urahara himself mentioned that everyone was waiting and sleeping here for your sake. "Saori said with a warm smile on her face, the same kind of smile he saw on Konoka during his dream as he now remembered. What's more, he also now remembered Konoka's words,
'please take care of them' were the words, as if it was really her who said it and not a dream.
Ashido, along with Matsuri, Shiyo, and Saori, stood up. All four left the guest room before going towards the main room of Urahara's shop.
As Ashido opened the main room's door, except for Mashiro, he saw most of his Visored comrades along with Urahara, Tessai, their two children, Ururu and Jinta, every one of them suddenly standing up before the present Visoreds came closer towards Ashido.
"you can walk? "Love asked with a surprised expression, only for it to turn into that of a slight smile, "it seems we've been worried too much about you, aniki. "he added before slightly tapping Ashido's back with his right hand.
After Rose and Kensei did the same, Ashido noticed that Shinji, Naibu, and the two Fujimarus were missing.
At this moment, he noticed that Kenji had just come inside the room as well.
When Ashido turned his head towards Kenji, he immediately went towards him,
"Hiroshi? … "Ashido said while being surprised when he had arrived here.
After Ashido and Hiroshi both sat down on the tatami floor, Hiroshi briefly explained that he appeared along with Kusaka, Urahara, Ikumi, and Sanosuke, right after Ashido fell unconscious due to Seigen's cut, but luckily he didn't slice Ashido's limit seal, which would've caused much greater causalities as both knew.
Ashido was more shocked and angered to hear that Seigen even attempted to hollowly the three youngsters, only for Kenji himself to stop the hollowfication at the right time before Seigen and Bansui fled from the human world. Kenji also mentioned the fight between the two Fujimarus in the study chamber.
Urahara himself, meanwhile, decided to come closer towards them both,
"None of us could prevent what happened … "Urahara stated, trying to comfort them somehow, "no matter if sooner or later, they would find out the truth and wouldn't have reacted any differently than just now. "he added.
"And where are they now, still down there, and what about Ikumi and Hosen? "Ashido asked if they're still at the study chamber while standing up.
"no, both are taking Fresh air, along with Naibu and Shinji. As for Ikumi and Hosen, they've returned each their home after we've brought you here. After all, Ikumi and Hosen have a business to run. What's more, Ikumi has a son to take care of as well, "Kenji answered calmly while staying up as well.
"I see … well, there's one more question I have for you personally. "Ashido stated surprisingly,
"you appeared here in Karakura in person. Does that mean that the 'Ryu Order' will support us? Wouldn't that be risky, given the fact that this will mean a two-front war for you? "Ashido asked instead concerned, to which Kenji surprisingly smiled,
"well, given the fact that the 'first front' is most likely won, it will be no issue for us. "Kenji answered before putting something out of his clothes, which made Ashido's eyes open wider slightly when he saw his fake hollow mask.
"I know how much it means to you, which is why I restored it as much as possible. "Kenji stated before he saw how he is approached by Matsuri and Shiyo, who bowed rather profoundly in front of him,
"thank you very much for saving my brother and us and for helping us to return to the soul society. "Matsuri stated politely while she and Shiyo remembered how Saori explained to them how they'll return and how they need to behave when returning.
"Don't mention it, "Kenji stated while smiling warmly before looking towards Urahara,
"Are you sure that the latter will work out as you suggest? "
"please don't worry. I'll make sure that, except for Naibu and your Fujimaru, none of the Ankoite will be mentioned as you're requesting. Mashiro will also arrive soon with the masks. "
"About that, I don't mind for my name to be mentioned. After all, our 'guest' already saw me. "Saori stated
"I'll leave the details to you both while we bring the others back. "Kenji stated to Saori and Urahara while going towards the exit of the Urahara shop before turning his face again towards Ashido and the two girls,
"shall we … "was Kenji's final statement before being joined by Ashido, Matsuri, Shiyo, and Saori.
AREA OF KARAKURA TOWN
"you know where they are? "Ashido asked Kenji while all 5 were sky-walking towards the west.
"Since Kusaka ordered them to be nearby, I believe they won't be far away from the Karakura Hospital either. "Kenji answered.
"let's hope that there won't be any hollow attack again. "Saori stated while looking at the cloud-free sky, along with the new crescent moon.
Ashido also looked towards the crescent moon, only to briefly remember the similarity with the Moon of Hueco Mundo. With that, he remembered again that dream he had about Harribel and the other three: Apacci, Mila-Rose, and Sung-sun.
'I hope they're alright,' Ashido thought, not only remembering his time with them but also what he had seen on the device he got from their informant.
It didn't take too much until all 5 of them saw each their Fujimarus, along with Shinji and Naibu sitting on the roof of a building nearby the Karakura Hospital.
"Fuji-nii … "they four surprisingly heard Matsuri's voice from behind.
Not only Fujimaru but also Namikaze looked behind, feeling for a moment as if Heiwajima was calling him, making his mouth gape slightly.
"everyone … "Fujimaru said before running towards them both, embracing them while being relieved that they were safe.
Namikaze, meanwhile, looked away with his eyes slightly while becoming slightly red as well, which was noticed by Naibu, who for a moment smiled somewhat, knowing that Namikaze is relieved as well for the three.
Ashido, meanwhile, saw Shinji's black eye on his right eye, looking especially towards there.
"what are ya looking, aniki? "Shinji asked rhetorically, knowing that Ashido was looking towards his black eye.
"your doing? Kenji explained everything to me, your both battles included, "Ashido stated towards Fujimaru and Namikaze, proven by Fujimaru turning his eyes away while remaining silent,
"that was for hiding the truth from us, "Fuimaru said, "maybe I would've given you one as well if you've woken up earlier. "he added rather excitingly, only to be punched by his upset twin-sister, who didn't like her brother's current behavior.
"I'm sorry, Matsu-nee … "Fujimaru cried in pain, before lifting his gaze again towards Ashido,
"Anyway, I'm glad that you're fine as well, Ashido-Sempai, And yeah, I and my 'other me' are getting better along again. "Fujimaru stated while pointing with his both forefingers towards Namikaze, whos Veins started popping on his head,
"more or less. Just don't forget to keep your word. "Namikaze stated as calmly as he could since he obviously didn't enjoy being referred to as the 'other me.'
"yeah yeah, I won't. I'll try to find out as much as possible. " Fujimari said.
"since this issue seems to be settled, for now, I will leave you for, since I can't let Kusaka wait alone. " Kenji stated.
"oh right, I remember that the Hospital is directed by that Ishida guy " Shinji remembered, "you sure you can convince him for support? Because Urahara once stated that he's hardly the 'supportive type'. "
"that will be our concern, Hirako-san. As for you both … " Kenji spoke while looking towards Naibu and Namikaze, "I'll give you both home fine, I don't mind if you go along with them. But I only ask you both neither to call Kori nor me until morning. "
"of course, Taishogun, "Namikaze stated while saluting in front of his superior, which made Kenji smile slightly before jumping towards the Hospital's balcony before going inside one of the balcony doors.
"wait, Ishida … I'm sure I've heard that name before. "Shiyo tried to remember,
"OH NOW I KNOW, isn't that the last name of that Quincy who went along with Ichigo Kurosaki into soul society? Uryu Ishida was his full name, I believe? "
"that's correct. "Namikaze replied, "And Ryuken Ishida, the director of this Hospital, is his father," he added, much to Shiyo's surprise.
"Now that he mentions it,did that Ishida guy tell you something about Ichigo Kurosaki ? " Shinji asked while looking towards Naibu, who has talked to Ishida yesterday.
"he did, even though he was quite discreet. " Naibu stated.
"REALLY? What did he tell? " Shinji wondered curiousley.
"He admitted that Ichigo Kurosaki's deceased mother, Masaki Kurosaki, and Ishida had known each other in person and that she too was able to see ghosts, which is the reason his mother was regularly visiting Ishida's hospital in the past," Naibu explained to them.
"And that Ichigo's mother presumably never revealed that fact to anyone in her family, neither her husband nor to her three children, who inherited that ability. Thus taking that fact to her grave. " Naibu added, knowing that he lied about a particular detail. While the four youngsters became slightly sad again, Ashido and Shinji were surprised to hear that Ichigo's mother and Ishida knew each other in person.
"as I already said, Ishida was discreet while explaining. That's why Kori-dono and Kenji-dono are meeting him right now. " Naibu added further,
"to get further information, I see …." Ashido concluded while realizing that there might be more to Ichigo's mother than explained.
"but nevertheless, Ichigo Kurosaki also aroused interest in Kenji-dono as well after I've explained about him. And Ishida-san also told me that his son also became directly involved with Ichigo Kurosaki as well, even going within into Soul Society. " Naibu explained
"Urahara also explained to us about a Quincy fellow of Kurosaki. He also explained about the 'incident' both have caused. "
"Wait a moment … "Fujimaru interrupted Naibu, "Didn't his father mind for his son putting himself in harm's way? " Fujimaru wondered in disbelief.
"I also asked him about that, but he basically stated that his relationship with his son is 'complicated'. " Naibu replied, making the youngsters look down sadly again, realizing that Naibu meant that father and son didn't seem to like each other that much.
"Anyway … sooner or later, I believe we'll meet Kurosaki and Ishida in person ourselves, right now …." Ashido stated,
"… we need to prepare how to bring you home to the soul society," he added, much to the youngster's surprise, who already had many questions about how this will be done.
THRONE ROOM – LAS NOCHES – HUECO MUNDO
In the throne room, a male Arrancar was looking towards the room.
The Arrancar is slender, yet fairly muscular of average heigh. He has messy black hair, pale white skin, a black upper lip, and green eyes with small slit-shaped pupils. Like most arrancars right now, he wears a white jacket, black sash, and a white hakama, but his coat has longer coattails than others, and the collar is higher.
After noticing a distortion of space-time behind him, the Arrancar then turned around, seeing how a Garganta had been opened.
From this Garganta-portal, hisquicklyrent two superiours, Seigen Suzunami and Bansui Amatsuki appeared. While Bansui seemed relatively calm, Seigen, on the other hand, seemed somewhat strained.
The Arrancar then immediately came closer towards the two before he bowed before them.
"Welcome back. "the male Arrancar greeted them politely while bowing.
"Oh, it's you, Ulquiorra. "Bansui greeted him rather warmly, "I assume there weren't any 'incidents' during our abscene ? "he asked the male Arrancar.
"no, my lord, luckily, no 'incident' has happened. "Ulqirorra answered, only for him to be touched by a tense Seigen on his right shoulder.
"Tell me, did you've recorded everything. "Seigen asked Ulqiorra, somewhat intimidating, but Ulquiorra still looked calmly.
"yes, my lord, as you've ordered, Szayellaporro Grantz is right now analyzing the records for possible flaws. "Ulquiorra answered.
At this answer, Seigen let go of Ulqiorra's shoulders, calming down a little bit.
"Good, "Seigen responded, "tell him that we'll visit him soon, oh and one more thing … "Seigen added, "give everyone order from me that Gin, Tousen, and Aizen-sama will arrive soon and that therefore everyone has to be prepared. "
"yes, my lord. "was Ulqiorra's final response before he disappeared via Sonido.
A while later, Seigen and Bansui were walking towards the corridors of the palace before they felt three very familiar near the entrance of Seigen's room, which made Seigen rather angry, since, compared to Bansui, he didn't come along with both individuals from them they're about to encounter, each for their own reason.
When Seigen and Bansui finally reached the entrance, they both finally saw the two individuals, Arrancars in particular.
The first one is 'quite troublesome if he was our enemy' as Bansui would claim.
His name is Arturo Plateado, a name even remembered by the soul society as the 'first Arrancar in existence. He wears long, turquoise hair and yellow eyes. The remains of his Hollow mask are on his right cheek on what appears to be the upper jaw, and it goes around the back of his head and has a sort of crest. His Hollow hole is located below the base of his neck. He wears the basic Arrancar uniform but with a belt worn just underneath his sash, which held his sealed Zanpakto.
The second one's Name is Ckaius Amatsuki, son of Bansui Amatsuki. Besides his long grey-colored hair and tall height, his eyes and upper nose area and ears were hidden by the remnants of his hollow mask, which included two long, forward-pointing horns protruding from the sides. What's more, there were two slash wounds going down vertically from his eye area. His white clothes look like a mix between the formal attire of a Shinigami and an Arrancar. His sealed Zanpakto looked like a usual Katana. Its 'Tsuka' handle was purple-colored.
"Welcome back, Seigen, oyaji. Did you fulfilled what you intended to ? "he greeted them both with a relatively relaxed manner.
Hearing that, Seigen immediately took Ckaius' neck out of anger, choking him.
"that's 'Suzunami-sama' for you. " Seigen stated imperiously.
Ckaius, breathing heavily, meanwhile turned towards his father, who didn't seem to intend to step further to save him. Instead, he just said
"Please apologize, Kai-chan. Just because I don't mind being greeted casually by you doesn't mean that others like to be greeted the same way. I already told you that. "Bansui reminded his son as calmly as possible.
"I'm sorry, 'Suzunami-sama' "Ckaius immediately apologized, making Seigen break the choking slowly. Before he stopped it, he looked towards Bansui, his angry expression still on his face,
"shouldn't you also demand from him to be addressed more politely? " Seigen wondered while asking Bansui.
"well, I just can't get angry with my son for such a small trifle …." Bansui admitted.
"judging by your behavior, I assume that your 'trip' ended in failure? " Arturo now questioned.
Seigen, however, was looking towards Arturo eye-to-eye, obviously troubled by his presence here.
"And what are you doing here, Arturo? "Seigen asked him with a calm voice but a serious expression.
Arturo, on the other hand, turned his head away, looking towards Seigen's door,
"the thing in your room, I could feel it as well … "Arturo stated calmly while his yellow eyes were gazing towards Seigen's own brown eyes,
"Ckaius confirmed it to me, which made even me quite curious, "Arturo added politely while looking towards Seigen and Bansui.
"someone else came back, right? You know you could've asked for support if you were serious about eliminating the Visoreds in Karakura. "Arturo asked them while knowing that both Seigen and Bansui just came back from the human world, which made Seigen even angrier on the inside that Arturo seemed 'too curious', resulting in Seigen touching his Zanpakuto's handle.
Because Seigen seemed about to draw his Zanpakuto, Bansui interfered between the soundr three men, hitting the floor with his cane, surprisingly releasing a more tremendous amount of Reiatsu, making not only Ckaius but also Seigen and Arturo tremble slightly in fear.
"now, now … "Bansui stated with a calm smile on his face, "I believe it's not a good idea for two gentlemen like you both to behave that childish while expecting for my son to behave the opposite. "Bansui added calmly before looking towards Arturo,
"as for your question, Arturo: yes, there were three individuals who've returned. According to the scouts, They first appeared somewhere in the forest of menos, only to have suddenly disappeared, which was obviously the work of the Visoreds. Because we suspected that they'd arrive in the mortal world soon, Seigen and I went to the human world to get them. We also reconsidered taking others with us, but since Aizen didn't wish for us to cause too much attention in the Human world, especially in Karakura town, we both decided to go out on our own along with some weak hollows. Does that answer your question, Arturo? "
"The Garganto Broadcast showed us that you've caused quite A LOT of attention, at least that's my impression. " Arturo calmly explained his opinion on the matter,
"good that you mentioned it. Right now, Grantz is preparing the recordings. We'll meet with him soon to discuss them. You both should be present as well if you wish to hear the details. How does that sound? " Bansui suggested to both Arrancars.
"When should we be there, oyaji ? " Ckaius wondered while somehow being excited to see the recordings of the battle and why both of them failed.
"you shall both go in advance to Grantz. " were Bansui's words before he and Seigen went each for their chambers.
After Seigen entered his Chambers, he went into the showers. While showering, he remembered the visit to Karakura again. How he saw Matsuri again in the middle school's yard. He even remembered their speechless expressions when they saw him again. What's more, he also started to remember how he saw Fujimaru Namikaze. Not only in Karakura, but also back then, when he had to fulfill his duties as a Captain of the Gotei 13.
After finishing the shower and putting on fresh clothes, he looked towards a strange-looking round mirror.
"tell me finally… why does that have to happen … one-san … "Seigen stated while still looking towards the mirror.
(ENDING: The Anix – Fight the Future)