Lifted Up

by Tomas the Betrayer

Sequel to 'Hammered Down'. Under the shadow of a heaven ruled by monsters, Rukia Kuchiki continues to fulfill her duties with new lives and hearts added to the mix. And above all, there is a mother's love.

17. Rebirth: Duty and Vengeance

Ichigo Kurosaki lay in bed reading when a knock came at his door. A premonition passed through him. He shut the book and sat up straight. "Co…" The word came out as a whisper, like he hadn't spoken in days. Ichigo coughed to clear his throat. "Come on in."

The door opened, and Nanao Ise entered with his father close behind. For a second they just stood together looking at him. At last Isshin Kurosaki rubbed his bearded jaw gloomily before declaring, "We got word from Soul Society. They've set a date."

Ichigo could have screamed at them to stop stalling and spit it out. Instead he restrained himself and simply nodded. "Alright. When?"

Nanao adjusted her glasses. "Next Sunday."

A queasy feeling in his stomach came at this declaration. At the same time, though, he could actually feel the anxiety in the back of his mind release. He found himself smiling at this news. They had waited over a month. Now less than a week remained.

If he failed, Rukia would be forced to marry Katsurou Arashi. Imagining this made bile climb up his throat. Ichigo swung around to plant bare feet on the floor. He didn't rise. Instead he stared down at his hands. "Am I ready?" he asked softly.

Nanao crossed over to sit beside him on the bed. "I've seen you perform miracles, Ichigo-san. And that was when you hardly knew anything about being a shinigami. There's no doubt in my mind that the outcome will be in your favor again."

"Thanks, Sensei," he gave her a wan smile which she returned, reaching up to place a comforting hand on his shoulder. All of a sudden the bespectacled shinigami frowned. "Mercy, are you always this tense?" she demanded. "Feels like a bundle of ropes!"

"Hey, I've had a lot on my mind!" he protested lamely. "Between school, our training and everything on top of that, there wasn't really…"

"Just stop." To the teen's surprise, Nanao drew up on the bed behind him to sink her fingers into his stiff shoulders. Grimacing at the resistance, she rolled up her sleeves and proceeded to apply a practiced elbow into that mass of corded muscle. Ichigo was about to protest when it struck him what unbelievable relief such treatment afforded. Only now did he truly realize just how much stress he had been laboring under over the past few months. Shock and bliss served to rob him of any volition to escape. "How… are you… doing that?" he demanded, afraid she might stop if he made the slightest move.

Nanao pressed both thumbs determinedly up the sides of his spine. "When your captain winds up passed out drunk in the oddest positions and strangest places, you learn to work the kinks out or he'll be incapacitated for days."

Any attempt at words transformed into a groan as Ichigo submitted to his kidō instructor's assiduous ministrations. The sudden realization of how this must look made his head start up guiltily to focus on his father. Far from appearing angry, however, Isshin had leaned back against a wall to gaze thoughtfully at the ceiling.

"In terms of skill, Ichigo," the older shinigami mused aloud, "there's a lot you have yet to learn. Nobody can figure out combat in just a few years unless it's ingrained in their bones like Zaraki. But what you're dealing with isn't a fight to the death. Or at least, it isn't meant to be. A yurei is more formulaic, archaic, rule-bound. In a way it's a lot like kendo. Your experience in that sport might serve you better than any amount of training, however brief it's been."

"Are you… agh!" He threw a pleading look back at Nanao, who ignored him while concentrating on her task. Ichigo returned to the conversation at hand. "Are you trying to say I'm at a disadvantage?"

Isshin just shrugged. "It's hard to say. Historically Katsurou was deemed a failure as a shinigami owing to him being unable to achieve bankai in a timely manner. But he's had five centuries to practice. I think it's safe to assume you're fighting against someone who's at least a captain-class shinigami. To say nothing of whatever eclectic techniques his clan might have developed since they broke from the Gotei 13. The use of kidō is forbidden during yurei duels. That doesn't mean he might not have a surprise or two up his sleeve. Reserve and patience are what's needed in the battle ahead."

"Thanks for… erk!... the advice."

"We've provided you with all the information we have available," Nanao spoke up as she continued to work on his shoulders, finally kneading some semblance of human flesh out of that solid steel mass. "Your father will attend as proxy to the duel. I'll remain here to keep an eye on things. Since Lady Kuchiki has elected not to leave the mortal realm from this point on until the baby is born, you can expect Captain-Commander Kuchiki will be in evidence as well to represent the clan."

It was still hard not to think of Byakuya as a lord. Which was a little irksome in and of itself; as if the guy exuded some kind of aura that demanded he be officially recognized for his superiority. But as things stood, he was more like an ambassador or a token representative or… an advisor. Meanwhile, Rukia was the High Lady of the Kuchiki.

Like I really needed another reason to put her out of my reach. Maybe the universe is trying to tell us something? Well, Universe, you can just bite me.

He was swift becoming a limp noodle thanks to Nanao's painfully spot-on massage. Meanwhile Isshin crossed over to pick up the book he had been reading. Examining the cover, both eyebrows rose in surprise, and he swung about with a huge grin to regard his son.

"What?" Ichigo demanded in surly teenage fashion.

Isshin turned the paperback to display its cover: Household and Money Habits for New Parents. Without waiting for an explanation, the teary-eyed widower spread his arms wide and strode over. "My boy!" he roared in approval. "You've truly become a man!"

Perhaps she sensed his instinctive urge to commit violence, because whatever Nanao did next caused every muscle to lock up. This prevented Ichigo from resisting when his father proceeded to catch him in a warm exuberant embrace. All he could do was grind his teeth while contemplating the best way to cripple the bawling buffoon once feeling returned to his limbs.

It's worth it, he told himself. Remember who you're doing this for. She'd just better appreciate it.

---

"Please." Crouched on his knees, Kon bowed forward to touch the tatami mats with his forehead. "I beg you to grant my request."

Before him Kukaku Shiba reclined on some cushions smoking a pipe. She frowned at the sight of the penitent abasing himself. Lifting her head to blow out a stream of smoke, the mistress of her fallen house gave a sour groan and pressed hand to brow, contemplating. For a while all was quiet.

"Any other time… I'd think you were joking."

He flinched at the tone of voice she used. There was a very strong sense of imminent peril in the air, like facing a she-wolf in her den. Could it be I made a mistake coming here?

"After my brother died, I resolved to have nothing more to do with the nobility or their shinigami. They liked to pretend we Shiba no longer existed. Suited me fine, so I did the same. Now you're asking me to put my family on the line, against an opponent who could easily wipe us out if he were so inclined."

Her bare foot tapped against the floor restlessly. Kon remained crouched down without moving, and after a while he heard Kukaku stir.

"But I know what this means to you, Kon. And how could I hold myself with any trace of pride if I let this affront to an ally of the Shiba go unchallenged? So…" She rose upright to tower over him in all her glory. "What the hell. My answer's yes."

He couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief. Eagerly Kon sprang to his feet wearing the happiest smile anyone could imagine. "Thank you, Shiba-sama!"

Green eyes blazed, and in an instant that beautiful face lapsed into a vicious thug profile which made him cower back. Kukaku chewed on her pipe stem while regarding him with a baleful look.

Definitely a mistake coming here.

At last that menacing figure took a step forward to get right up in his face. She was nearly a foot shorter than him and missing an arm, but Kon couldn't rid himself of the impression that it was he who would be at a disadvantage if push came to shove.

Not to mention, like this her stupendous boobs were hovering right up near his chest.

Better enjoy it while you can, cuz after today…

"Don't push it," Kukaku warned, jolting him out of that pleasant reverie. "I don't need to be buttered up, especially from someone in your position."

Good advice. Except now he was imagining a stick of butter melting between her cleavage. Nice and slippery and oh my Lord, what is wrong with me?! Is this some kind of lizard-brain reaction to having my life threatened? Okay, Kon, just give yourself a mental cold shower. Like picture all that hair clogging the drain every time Ganju finishes taking a bath, which he never bothers to clean out meaning I have to do it. Or the way Ichigo's dad likes to walk around the house in just a thong when nobody's home, which I know about because I spent a lot of my time pretending to be a stuffed doll and couldn't move even though it turns out the freak knew about me all along and…!

Ahhh… down periscope.

His relief lasted right up 'til the moment an elbow connected sharply with his chin, sending the mod soul pitching hard to the floor. The pain left him seeing stars, although it didn't prevent Kon from registering the view when Kukaku stepped right over him, that long skirt swishing around her bare legs.

"Keep it in your pants," she warned him darkly before exiting the room. "Now get off your ass and follow my lead."

Kon scrambled to obey. Outside he almost ran right into Ganju Shiba, who stood at military attention as his sister stalked by. The look he gave Kon clearly demonstrated he did not share his certainty as to the wisdom behind this course of action. The two of them took up step behind their leader.

"I hope you know what you're doing," Ganju palmed out of the side of his mouth.

"How bad could it be?" he murmured back.

"Next one of you to whisper something gets a round on the Steel Wheel!"

The what?

You know what, considering the shade of white Ganju just turned, maybe it's best I don't know.

"Yes, Big Sis!" he announced loudly. Really big. Gargantuan-sized. We're talking…

Kukaku's head spun about to send him a glare so chilly it iced his libido. Holy crap, she can read my mind!

Maybe she's into it?

WHAM!

Not sure where that foot came from. But I think I've got a new fetish.

Thoroughly discombobulated but seeing no other recourse, Kon picked himself off the ground and followed the Lady of Shiba into the depths of her lair.

---

She was reaching for another meatball with her chopsticks when Orihime suddenly asked, "Tatsuki-chan, are you a drug addict?"

Arisawa took a moment to verify she had heard that correctly. With deliberate care she settled back in her seat to regard her host. Sitting across the table, Orihime Inoue appeared troubled, twisting a napkin between her fingers and staring down at the table. She had invited Tatsuki up to her apartment for dinner. The semester was almost over, and soon it would be time for summer break, which meant they wouldn't be seeing as much of one another. This offer made sense in that regard; a bit out of the blue, but nothing to be concerned about. Far more perilous was whatever the little bubblehead might be serving to eat. The grub turned out to be not quite as bad as normal, which had left Tatsuki feeling relaxed and off guard. Maybe that was intentional?

"Orihime…" she began slowly.

"You're in trouble."

This startled Tatsuki more than the previous accusation. Tongue-tied, she could only stare openmouthed as her old friend's eyes rose sadly to train on her. "I know it. You look… scared… a lot. Like you're being followed. And when you turn your phone off and I can't find you… I know something's wrong. I just don't know what, and I was afraid if I asked you'd… lie to me."

A lie was actually halfway out her throat. 'I'm attending a prep school for the university entrance exams next January.' That would explain the absences and not having a phone on during cram classes. Orihime didn't know that she had already been scouted by several high-ranking academic institutions, including Meiji University and Nippon Sport Science University. They all wanted her for their sports programs. She had half a dozen different excuses ready to fly at any given moment. But none of them would work now. Orihime would know.

'Say nothing.'

Her spine stiffened as Ulquiorra's presence intruded once again.

Butt out, Nosferatu! This is my life!

'Speak a word and she dies.'

Cold fear brought her up short. Tatsuki stared trembling at the innocent girl sitting there all unaware of how close she was to dying. My friend could be killed right in front of me. Because I made a terrible mistake. I realize that. But it's too late to back out now. Tatsuki's teeth ground in anger. Dammit, I have to do something!

"Does it have to do with Ichigo?"

All trace of dread was swept abruptly away. "W-what?" Tatsuki asked, distraught for a different reason.

Orihime regarded her speculatively. After a while she shook her head. "No… that wasn't it. Your whole body language shifted the moment I asked. You were scared before. Now you're just… anxious."

A clock shaped like a cat on the wall ticked the seconds away with every swing of its tail. Meanwhile the two girls regarded one another silently. At last Arisawa collected herself enough to speak. "Orihime, I'm not on drugs."

"Okay." She accepted it so matter-of-factly. Maybe because she knew something even worse was coming.

"You asked me about this before, and I wouldn't tell you. Nothing's changed. I'm not going to talk about it."

That lovely face took on a new shade of grief and worry, tempered by rejection. It reminded Tatsuki of the way she looked after Ichigo turned her down. I pounded him for that. Now I'm the one making her feel this way. Resolutely she knuckled down and continued.

"Because I know you'd try to help me. And the whole reason I'm doing this is to keep you and all our friends safe. If things go wrong, then hopefully that means only I get hurt. But it is bad, Orihime. Really bad. And I'm really scared." Here she drew in a quivering breath at the utter enormity of that statement. "I'm terrified. Usually I can forget about it, until something reminds me. So I try to tell myself there's no other option available even when I know that's not true."

"Can't I help?" Inoue whispered, and the desperation evident in her voice cut Tatsuki with its familiarity. She shook her head no.

"I just have this feeling like… like things are coming to a head, you know? As if all the pieces are falling into place, and when they do, the only thing that determines whether the life we know will be allowed to continue… graduation, university, finding a job, making a family… that all might depend on what I'm doing here. I hate the thought of sitting there helplessly as our future goes down in flames without being able to do anything to stop it. I felt that way in the caves of Hueco Mundo. That'll never happen again."

"But there are so many people defending us already!" Inoue protested. "All the shinigami, and the captains, and Ichigo. Don't you think that's enough?"

A frown crept up Tatsuki's face. "Ichigo shouldn't be the only one who has to put himself at risk. We're all owed a future, him included. I might just be able to ensure that he gets one."

"But then you might die," Orihime declared, to which the young martial artist only shrugged.

"I've spent my life learning how to fight, you know? Maybe it was just a way to honor our culture, or as a career, or even a means of exercise. When it comes right down to it, though, I want to fight! Not just to say no one did it for me, but because I can! Karate let me stand up to threats. Learning there were actual monsters out there… it was scary, sure, but at the same time, like…"

Tatsuki threw up her hands, and now she found herself grinning in a mad energetic way. "AH! Suddenly I realized everything I worked for had a purpose! The training, the focus; it all made sense if I knew there was an enemy worth pitting myself against. So when the opportunity arises, why shouldn't I step up and lend a hand? There might never be another chance to make good on what I've been given. It's weird, I know, but still, I… I'm happy!"

It had never occurred to Tatsuki simply talking about her predicament might lead to an epiphany. Still, that's exactly what just happened. She had come to her feet without even realizing it and now stood beaming down at a shocked Orihime. The prospect of a future battle made her blood run hot. Maybe this is how the old samurai felt whenever war rolled around, allowing them to pick up the tools of their craft and put them to use, come what may? Not every battle led to victory. At the same time, fighting in and of itself was their way of life. I can appreciate that. I didn't just throw a die when starting this gig; I put myself on the front lines. And there's no place I'd rather be.

The expression on Orihime's face caused Tatsuki to regret her outburst. It was eerily similar to how she looked after her brother died; bereft, as though the whole world had shrugged off her existence. She retook her seat feeling distinctly uncomfortable. "Hey, it's not like I'm dead yet. Have a little faith in me, okay?"

Orihime dabbed at her eyes and made an effort to appear happy. "You're right. I'm sorry." They went back to their meal with no words exchanged between them for a time. All of a sudden Inoue said, "Tatsuki-chan?" Her old friend looked up with a half-chewed dumpling in her mouth, causing her to smile much more sincerely. "I'll do my part too."

Arisawa swallowed and returned the grin a bit uncertainly. "Yeah." Whatever that means, she thought privately to herself.

Orihime offered to let her spend the night which Tatsuki accepted. They talked to one another after going to bed until both girls fell asleep, neither willing to be completely honest about their intended paths.

---

It sat alone on a hill overlooking an endless ocean of sand. Skin white as the landscape, the creature's eyes were an unhealthy combination of black and orange. It fingered a thin golden string emerging from the hole in its chest to go winding off into the distance.

After a time, Ichigo's Hollow put its head between its knees and squeezed both arms around them, as though trying to crush its own skull. At a certain point self-preservation kicked in, forcing it to slack off. A flare of anger followed. Without hesitation the creature grasped its index finger and yanked hard, ripping it off. The pain proved soothing, and it stared at the severed digit, watching blood drip down to be immediately gobbled up by the sands. While doing so the healing factor kicked in, which saw a new finger emerge even as the old one disintegrated. Eventually the Hollow held nothing in its hand, and the pain was only a diminishing memory, easily forgotten.

Will Ichigo feel the same when I'm gone?

"Damn you!" it hissed. Black teeth ground with fury. The Hollow slammed its fists wildly into the ground and howled at the starry sky, a cry of rage that broke down to become sobs at the end. It sprawled forward in misery upon the dunes, bereft, despairing, desolate.

If I just sit here, I'm going to die. But I can't do anymore. They're not letting me. Which wasn't so bad when I thought I had time. Then the bitch went and got pregnant, and all my plans were shot to hell. Things went by so fast after that. Thought for sure there'd be another chance to kill at least one of them. I'm running out of time.

A faint, eerie sound came to its ears. Mindless. Multitudinous. Mad.

The Hollow looked up. Looming on the horizon like a black picket fence, the Wild Hunt spread out in all directions screaming a demented song. In their midst crouched Cernunnos. Even from this distance, it could feel the Hunt Master's eyes watching it with obsessive intensity.

Slowly the Hollow stood.

I'm really down to this? The only play left? Fine. Screw it. I'm sick of waiting, on Ichigo, on Aizen, on anybody.

In an instant Ichigo's Hollow had crossed the divide separating them to stand before Cernunnos. The big brute lowered its horned head to regard it, making no sound, as though the bastard had been expecting this all along!

"I know what you want," the Hollow rasped.

The crown of antlers tilted at a curious angle.

"And if that kid is born, you'll never get it! This might be the last chance. For both of us."

Its breath came harder, faster. The Lord of the Hunt bent over until its gigantic bear skull loomed right before the Hollow expectantly. For one thunderous moment inside its head there came an overwhelming urge to leap forward and destroy this sinister apparition with all its fellows! Rend them limb from limb and go roaring mad running across the desert killing everything it could, drunk on slaughter… until its own end came…

That would be better. For everyone involved.

Instead it tore a long gash down one white arm with its nails and held it aloft. Black blood dripped free. Ichigo's Hollow looked up to meet Cernunnos' empty black sockets and snarled, "Kill the baby! Kill her too! At least with you I've got a shot at winning. So just… go!"

Without hesitation Cernunnos' tongue came out to lap at the blood, dry and hideous to the touch. The Hollow felt a connection as a result, a sort of contract forming between them, filled with horrible promise that made the remorseless doppelganger shudder in fear.

Cernunnos reared upright to let loose an eerie wail. The Wild Hunt's lesser members left off their senseless cacophony as though hearkening to this call. Thousands strong, they all suddenly went tearing away, passing around the immobile Hollow without giving it any heed, jostling and snapping at one another in an ecstasy of bloodlust. The Hunt Master joined them to eventually come out at the head of this murderous pack. Once it had, that mighty army of Menos Grande flew along, buoyed by madness and ancient magic.

As they sped into the distance, the Hunt became a flailing conglomerate of twisting forms. From its perch Ichigo's Hollow could have sworn this black mass was shrinking, or somehow folding in on itself from the sides like a huge mouth closing. Whatever the case, after a few moments it was left completely alone once more.

It settled in to wait, keeping a hand enclosed tightly on the cord binding it to its master. I might have just signed my own death warrant. But who cares at this stage? Even if they succeed, I won't lose out to that horned fuck. No one's going to control me anymore.

The Hollow somehow felt certain it would know when the Hunt located its target. When that happened, it must be ready to strike. Ichigo had no idea just how deeply their connection went. He thought a little kidō spell or two put him out of my reach. Well, I've got a few tricks of my own. And when I think the time is right, I'll come to you, no matter where you are.

No more master. No more Hollow. Just me. All me. Forever.

---

On the eve of the yurei duel, Rukia found herself unable to sleep. She sat alone in her room gazing out a window at the slowly lightening sky. This was not an uncommon occurrence. Lately she seldom got more than three hours of uninterrupted rest. The discomfort of being locked inside a gigai had only been amplified with time, such that she felt weak and heavy for the most part. More than simple bodily discomfort prevented her from taking to bed, though. Worry and anticipation served to rob the anxious young woman of respite.

By the end of the day tomorrow, the fate of the Kuchiki clan would be decided. To say nothing of her own.

Even now it seemed ridiculous. How could I rule the Kuchiki? That honor belonged to Nii-sama. It was his right and heritage. Yet by some archaic combination of rules so outdated even the clan elders were taken aback at the revelation, I am without a doubt the High Lady of the Kuchiki.

The changes this wrought in her life were both unexpected and innumerable. For two months she had been attended every day by a veritable fleet of accountants, legal scribes and petitioners. Most of them were ostensibly there to lighten her duties, a claim Rukia found hard to lend credence. If being barraged with a thousand technicalities and niceties concerning all manner of obscure undertakings conducted under the auspices of the Kuchiki counted as aid, it seemed incredible Byakuya could have found any time in his daily life to perform the role of a shinigami captain. There was always something to sign; a memorandum needing her approval, a promise of surety regarding negotiations between vendors, or a decision about deploying resources in maintaining the Halos. Having undertaken this very same position during her brother's convalescence following the revelation of the Three Traitors, Rukia was not without experience in the running of her household. But back then there had always been the comforting reassurance that eventually her Nii-sama would return to take the reins. He would then clean up any mess she might make. Now that reassurance was absent, and overseeing the most powerful family in Seireitei rested solely on her shoulders. Next to his performance, her own efforts seemed woefully amateurish at best.

It was all a farce anyway. 'Lady Rukia Kuchiki?' Her power extended only into matters that paled in comparison to the big challenges facing her. Over those she had no control whatsoever.

The decision to remain in the mortal realm for the last few months of her pregnancy had contributed to the overall sense of inadequacy. But on this course of action she would brook no issue. The child's condition remained a mystery, and Rukia would not risk the slightest chance that she might go into labor while in Soul Society. She was resolved not to let her insecurities impede her responsibilities regarding Soul Society, and had made careful arrangements to safeguard her assigned Halo, her lieutenant duties in Heron, and even her status as Patroness to Ibis Company. Some representatives from the latter came regularly to keep her informed regarding certain developments she had an eye on.

You're stretching yourself thin.

Believe me, I feel it.

I know there's no point in telling you to take it easy. But would you at least consider maternity leave?

Without even knowing whether or not I will be raising the child?

You mean you still haven't come to a decision? I thought for sure you'd… you know, give him to Ichigo.

Katsurou afforded me control of my baby's future prior to the revelation of his underhanded dealings. I intend to retain hold of that concession 'til the end.

And you seriously believe he'll keep his word? Having seen what that man is capable of? He's as devious as Aizen, and about as trustworthy.

Oddly enough, I do. Our marriage was simply an effort to strike against the Kuchiki and Nii-sama in particular. The baby holds no part in those matters. Ultimately it is as unimportant as anything else unrelated to Katsurou's designs. He has no reason to go back on our agreement.

Unless it suits him.

Rukia had no response for that. Instead she continued to contemplate the gradual approach of dawn. On the rooftops and within alleyways surrounding the Usagi Shoten, ten armed Kuchiki retainers lurked out of sight. They represented a round-the-clock honor guard assigned to the current head of the clan. This was a detail previously unknown to her. Had Byakuya always afforded himself such security? Or had it been considered unnecessary for one so powerful? She had to admit it came as both comfort and mild nuisance. Much like so many things she was forced to deal with nowadays.

The night had never seemed so long. Rukia rocked back and forth while the stars grew ever more faint. The moon was now a mere circle of paler blue. Today two men would fight for her sake. And for yours, she thought, hands resting on her stomach.

After a while she stood up. Some matters still required her attention. Of late daily running of the shop had been taken in hand by the team of Ganju, Kon and Ururu in order to lessen the number of tasks demanding her attention. This was a concession she was only too happy to make, especially since Ibis Company had always handled the financial side of things since she took over. There was actually a regular competition amongst those devoted researchers to see who could plumb the depths of the hopelessly convoluted Japanese business code and secure the most advantageous arrangement come tax time. Mortal professionals trembled in fear at such a prospect. Apparently the Ibis crew considered it a simple and diverting little game. Compared to the pursuits they normally engaged in, that made sense.

Rukia shut the door behind her and headed downstairs. She took the steps carefully, unwilling to risk overbalancing. Doing so allowed her to hear the sound of someone else moving down below. Curious, she headed off to investigate, finally reaching the entrance to the underground training area.

"Kon?"

The mod looked up. "Nee-san. Good morning."

"Good morning."

He finished closing the door and stood there with his hands on the latch. Rukia didn't stir, feeling more uncomfortable than usual. Despite living under the same roof most of the time, she hadn't spoken to Kon much since his confrontation with Ichigo. This was not by choice. Oddly enough, he seemed to be avoiding her, which was cause for alarm in and of itself. Usually he took every opportunity to keep her company. Far from being a distraction, it was welcome, reminding her of how Yumichika used to stop by whenever the mood struck him. The absence of Kon's presence had not gone unnoticed. While there was much to consider of late, for him she felt a strange sense of… one might call it obligation.

Because he loved her. She knew that. And it would be easy to overlook such feelings in the face of everything arrayed against her. But she need only think about Ichigo to be reminded that, even with the whole world at stake, love should never be discounted.

"Did you go to Soul Society?" she asked.

He looked nervous all of a sudden, only giving a quick nod. "Had some business to take care of there."

"I see." Apparently he felt no need to elaborate on that statement. "Is Ganju with you?"

"Yeah. He came along."

Those two had been spending a lot of time together recently. Perhaps this was Kon's way of coping with everything going on?

Poor kid loved you even before Ichigo was in the picture. Now you might have to get married to somebody else. That has to hurt.

I know. But what can I do for him at this point? I can't even control my own life.

"Today's the day, huh?" Kon asked unexpectedly.

She left off considering. "Yes. Today everything will be decided."

Kon crossed his arms and fidgeted, face twisting in obvious consternation. He seemed on the verge of saying something, and so Rukia waited patiently. That much she could do for this perplexing soul whose future had always seemed as much in doubt as hers was now. What will he do with himself when I'm gone? I could offer him a position in the Kuchiki household, however that would probably serve only to exacerbate his troubles. Once again I am unable to make a difference when it counts.

"Rukia…"

Rukia gave a start and gazed at him in surprise. Did he just…?

"…nee-san… Rukia-neesan…" Kon quickly amended before she could speak. The way he said her name sounded like he was forcing himself to add the honorific. "I wanted to… tell you something."

"Yes, Kon?" she inquired in a soft voice.

"I…"

He closed his eyes. When he did, tears slid swiftly down his cheeks, and he opened them again just as fast.

"I'll never give up."

Grief settled in her at hearing these words. "Kon…"

"I'll always support you," he pressed on determinedly. "No matter what. And I'm going to be there. When Ichigo fights that guy. I'll s…" His voice broke on this word; Kon shook ever so slightly. "…s-support him too. For your sake. Because I… need you to be happy. And I won't let someone take that away, from either of us. Not now, not ever. You can count on me. I… that is, my soul… has value because of you. Please, when you're feeling low, remember that. It might not be much, but it's something. I won't say anything else because there's nothing left unsaid between us. You know the rest."

An ache struck Rukia in the chest. Seeing him standing there pouring his heart out, she was compelled to confess to him how weak and helpless she felt. Just rush forward and wrap herself tight in the embrace of this person who loved her. Being strong all the time only brought loneliness. If you appeared unflappable, no one thought they needed to help you. Was this true even for Byakuya sometimes? Would he have appreciated my help if it came unrequested? Dammit, there's just so much it seems like I messed up in all this! Isn't there anything I can claim to have done right?!

Sweetheart… you're looking at one of those things right now.

Hearing this caused her breath to hitch. Then a strong sense of relief and accomplishment spread through her whole body, leaving it tingling and warm. Rukia closed her eyes in unexpected bliss at this feeling of pride in herself. After basking in it for an achingly short time, she looked at Kon with that same triumph sparkling in her eyes. "Thank you," she whispered.

The beautiful shinigami stepped forward and placed her hands over his. At her touch Kon shuddered, as if whatever lingering remnant of that experience had passed through her into him. All trace of unease melted away, and he gripped her hands in return. He looked at such peace.

Kon bent down and kissed her.

It didn't last long, but while it did, nothing else mattered. Like both of them took a chance in that moment to feel… something.

Everything.

He stepped away, breathing heavily. Before him Rukia stood with mouth partly open and dark purple eyes half closed. She touched a hand to her lips, still flushed from the shared experience. Her eyes drifted up to his face.

Before she could say a word, Kon turned and whipped open the door. He sped over to wrench up the trapdoor, letting it fall shut behind him as he dropped inside without looking back. Moments later, she felt a pull on her soul as the portal in the training area opened, only to close a second after.

Several seconds passed. Outside, the sun finally peeked over the horizon, a blazing band of orange gold greeting this part of the world. The Kuchiki guardsmen were approached by their daytime replacements and reported on the day's happenings before taking their leave. Elsewhere the people of Karakura Town began to stir.

Eventually Rukia remembered her original purpose. She continued on that assignment, bidding greeting to Ururu as the tiny defense system came out into the halls rubbing an eye sleepily. The shop was closed today, but there was still much to do. The two girls went about their business with due haste. And all around them, a new day dawned.

---

"On your feet."

Rudobon Chereute bolted upright, casting about in trepidation for the source of that voice. His Calaveras turned in recognition of their progenitor's distress. The hissing sound of nearly fifty swords being drawn from identical sheathes only served to make him more on edge.

"Grimmjow's on his way back," Enfain Tezima informed him from an empty patch of air two meters to his right. Try as he might the former Exequias captain could not divine any sign of her presence whether visually or not. "Spread the word."

"Understood," he bit out, wishing for even the slightest indication of where to aim an attack. As usual this did not take place, and he was soon left with the impression that their second in command had withdrawn. Her tendency to spy on them unawares was normal given the sense of mistrust common with Hollows. Which didn't make it any more bearable. Sullenly Rudobon turned to his ripened offspring and gave an authoritative sweep of his hand. "Inform the others that we will be departing soon."

The Calaveras hastened to obey, leaving a dozen behind for his personal protection. Watching them go, not for the first time he found himself chafing at the lack of respect afforded him in this company. Even the other loyal vestiges of Aizen's forces who cooperated with the presumptuous Jaguerjaques treated him like cannon fodder. He often wondered if it had something to do with how many of his clone soldiers they had seen get taken apart. Like they were so used to seeing a virtual copy of him get destroyed it left them used to thinking of him as inferior. Granted, Rudobon's strength lay in quantity, not quality. But power such as he had been granted would put even a large force of enemies to rout if properly applied.

Unfortunately among this crew he never got the opportunity to show what he was really capable of. They mainly relied on him to send messages or scout the terrain ahead. Which left him a useful but marginalized member of a very diverse crew.

Rudobon paced back through the forest of bone-white spikes that littered this section of Hueco Mundo. From a distance he could see the gateway rising up slightly higher than all the rest. It bore a similarity to their environment in that it looked like a portico composed of two thin limbless tree trunks sprouting from the soil whose tops curved together to form a lintel. It had taken them a while just to locate the blasted thing. First time the gate came shooting out of the ground he nearly attacked on instinct. Apparently it only revealed itself to Grimmjow as a result of that 'prize' he received performing the task set them by the vasto lorde Halibel. So far only he and a handful of the higher-ranked members were permitted to see what lay beyond that portal.

For the most part the remaining pack was left to their own devices until their leadership returned, forbidden to stray too far from their ostensible base. After two months coming and going from here, Rudobon had a strong grasp of the land's layout. Despite which he still had no idea what this place might be. The pillars decorating the landscape were too clean and regular to be naturally formed. Why would anyone go to the trouble of creating something like that anyway? Ein Vogel had theorized this was once part of the dead zone until very recently. It was true they weren't far off from that dread borne where only the mightiest Hollows dared to tread. But did that mean the dead zone changed in size, growing and shrinking from one day to the next? Rudobon could never recall seeing any evidence of this.

Up ahead the horned hunter could pick out a soft white glow which meant their alpha was back. Already he sensed the former Espada's terrible power, enough to make him shiver. As soon as they left here the gate would disappear underground until Grimmjow returned. Whoever made the thing clearly didn't want for it to be stumbled across by just anyone. But that only begged the question of just who had constructed such a means of dimensional travel. Hollows had no need of such a device, which left only the shinigami as an option. Could Lord Aizen have used this cleverly hidden means to disguise his movements between here and Soul Society whilst he was deceiving them? Would certainly explain how Halibel learned about it. I wonder where it might lead?

"Pardon me, but you're the prime Exequias Rudeborn, right?"

Rudobon stopped and looked to one side. His bodyguards did the same. Leaning with one hand against a bone spire and a bare katana draped over his shoulder was what appeared to be another Calavera. He was dressed in the same white uniform as all the rest and had a bone mask that resembled a human skull. No eyes gleamed from within the pits of his sockets. All the same, it was clear right off the bat this was not one of his own.

Swiftly he drew Arból and pointed his blade at the imposter. The true Calaveras did likewise. "Identify yourself."

"I'll take that as a yes." Their opponent reached up and lifted away his skull helm. Doing so revealed a plus spirit sporting short-cropped hair, a mustache and dark shades covering his eyes. He then opened the front of his coat to stand there regarding them with a distinct lack of fear.

Unnerved, Rudobon found himself wondering what was going on. He could sense no power coming from the man as a shinigami. Yet what else could he be? The living legion hesitated at sending any Calaveras to report this phenomenon until he could say more clearly what it might bode. "I will not ask again. Explain who you are before my minions parse the flesh from your bones."

"Please forgive my rudeness." The bare-chested enigma scratched his stubbly hair. He actually contrived to look embarrassed. "I'm Tetsuzaemon Iba, fukutaichou of Viper Squad. Pleased to meet you."

The Hollow executioner considered. So this was indeed a death god. But how did he get this close without being spotted? And more importantly, how did he locate us in the first place?

These questions could be answered later. For now he knew his duty. At a silent admonition from their commander, several Calaveras pelted forward in a lightning-swift display of sonido to disable their target.

Moments later a pile of dismembered corpses lay at the feet of the unharmed lieutenant.

"We were told pretty much all we needed to know about you, but I still had to make sure we got the right one. Not to sound racist, but you'll understand when I say you all look alike to me." Iba took a step forward to confront the numerically superior force. "Anyway, I'm going to have to request you come along now before things get out of hand."

This time nothing was left to chance. Even as he sent his remaining fighters streaking forward to attack, Rudobon also dispatched two couriers to inform Grimmjow and all the rest what was transpiring. At the same time the former Exequias had already released his resurrección. "Grow, Arból!"

Vines sprouted from his lower body to dig deep into dry soil and propel him off the ground. The soul cutter changed into a lightning bolt shape, further armor wound around his torso, and three branches grew from his shoulder. Skulls sprouted out of these limbs like fruit, almost instantaneously flowering into full-grown Calaveras. Now a contradictory picture of both fertility and barrenness, Rudobon towered over his newly created army. This ever-replicating mass of copies surged like the tide to overwhelm their lone opponent.

Before the first wave even reached him, Tetsuzaemon had his response ready. "Unhinge, Kingyosou!"

The bloodied sword he held glowed with wild red energy that swiftly limned the man's whole body. Moments later that slender implement was transformed into a great square chopper sporting a small spike sticking out of the tip. Iba hoisted this fearsome weapon up in a two-handed grip, an eager smile on his face. Despite the increase in strength as a result, it seemed obvious he was about to be utterly overwhelmed. Rudobon felt pleased at the prospect.

With a glad shout, the shinigami swung his Snapdragon at the approaching Calaveras.

As he did, the blade split in half right around the middle, its upper half whipping backward as though on a hinge. What came next happened too fast for the eye to follow. One second a mob faced him. And the next, there was blood and pieces of white-clad bodies soaring everywhere.

Rudobon stared in disbelief. Back and forth swept the shinigami's grisly weapon, dismembering whole ranks of Calaveras with every swing. And as he watched it dawned on him the blade seemed bigger than he initially thought. At the point where it split open the whole thing had sprouted an enormous quantity of what could only be teeth; gleaming sharp spikes the length of swords protruded out in every direction, far more than that relatively small opening should be able to produce. It was like a giant dragon's maw full of fangs had spread itself wide, complete with a long tongue dripping saliva. And at the center of that red fleshy maw there stared a round yellow eye with a slit pupil that rolled madly in its socket. This terrible apparition chomped down on the Calaveras and chewed them up greedily before sending their remains spewing in all directions.

Despite the awesome destructive power on display, though, it clearly wasn't enough. The shinigami gave ground even as he appeared to have sustained no injuries to speak of. Any effort to reach the source of this army proved futile as the distance between him and the Exequias captain grew by the second. Chereute was not lax in pressing his advantage, continuing to send more and more of his prodigious horde on the attack. Soon their numbers had increased to the point where they had the man totally surrounded despite his best efforts. He was now barely visible from Rudobon's vantage, even if his weapon could not help but be apparent due to its ruinous effect.

Iba gave no sign of tiring, that same berserker smile plastered on his face as he cut down whole swaths of enemies. In vain; now ringed by an armed host several hundred deep, he would soon be overwhelmed and disarmed. After which the matter of his presence here could…

Something exploded high overhead. Rudobon's head snapped up. At the same moment he registered a huge drop in temperature.

"No!" he whispered in disbelief. Not again…

There came a great cracking sound. White mist swept across the graveyard. It cleared swiftly to reveal every last one of the Calaveras had been frozen solid where they stood. In seconds they all shattered to lie in a lawn of broken pieces. For his part, Rudobon Chereute did not suffer quite the same fate. He instead found himself encased in a large block of ice that completely nullified his reproductive powers. Now helpless and unable to escape, the last thought in his head before losing consciousness due to intense cold was: 'All we needed to know about you; should've guessed that damn Ice Queen would boast about beating me.'

Tetsuzaemon Iba closed Kingyosou for the time being and nodded in appreciation of the sight. Moments later a winged figure dropped down beside him. The Viper Company lieutenant bowed courteously to his superior officer. "Splendid shot, Taichou."

Clad in his bankai, Tōshirō Hitsugaya of Leopard Company nodded a response. "Well done holding his attention for that long. I had to wait until you were sufficiently far from him to make sure you didn't get caught in the Ice Prison." He looked Iba up and down. "You weren't injured in my attack, then?"

"Not at all!" The Second Seat puffed out his muscular chest. "A little cold never bothered me!"

"Who are you calling little?"

"N… No, Taichou, I merely meant to say…!"

As he spoke a tremendous blast of unleashed spirit spiked a short distance away. Immediately Hitsugaya took to the air to hover overhead. "Get him out of here," he snapped grimly. "We'll cover your escape."

The boy captain then went soaring towards the source of that malevolent pall. From up here he could see several large worm-like creatures had burst through the ground. Out of their thick mouths came streaming a huge amount of shinigami from three divisions as the combined forces of Viper, Siamese and Leopard moved in to engage with Grimmjow's pack. The transport worms came courtesy of Neliel's servant Dondochakka, kin to their trusted pet Bawabara. These sub-human Hollows had also been instrumental in locating the enemy's new base, having traveled undetected beneath the sands all over Hueco Mundo in search of them without raising any alarms. By bivouacking in their guts the strike force's presence was masked entirely, preventing the Hollows from sensing their approach. It was now up to them to give their fellows enough time to spirit the captured Rudobon to safety.

Tōshirō took note of several fierce pockets of resistance, Grimmjow chief among them. The Sexta Espada found himself confronted by his old enemy Captain Neliel tu Odelschvank. Both Hollows were swift to engage their released forms and the collision of phenomenal energy on both sides served to keep all weaker fighters at bay. The dangerous ones who might have intervened were being held back by Renji Abarai and Soifon. Hihio Zabimaru was readily evident as a titanic bone snake raging across the battlefield. The head of Viper Squad apparently scorned such theatrics as she engaged her opponent with only her shikai. Regardless the rotund Hollow and the one who resembled a monk proved formidable in their own right.

Even with the element of surprise and facing a numerically superior force, the pack fought back with animal strength. He hated to admit it but Hitsugaya had to give Grimmjow credit. Most Hollows would be put to rout under such circumstances, yet his followers shook off any shock at the sneak attack and managed to form a solid core of defense that held its ground. High aloft, the young captain kept an eye on the entire engagement as was his assigned job. In spite of all the strength they were deploying in this operation, their primary objective was not to wipe out Jaguerjaques or his resistance cell. The cost of doing so was deemed too high considering the current state of things in Soul Society. And anyway, this was primarily a locate-and-retrieve mission, which was why they had opted not to involve Tiger Company. No way to be sure the target would survive if Zaraki and his boys got involved. Whatever damage they might inflict on the pack was a bonus; once Rudobon was transported a sufficiently safe distance away, he would send out the call ordering them to fall back, at which point Tōshirō would unleash the world-shattering power of Daiguren Hyōrinmaru to cover their retreat.

That strange portal had closed, possibly signifying a lack of egress. Grimmjow and Neliel looked to be evenly matched. All Hitsugaya's comrades were at risk to be sure. With what had happened between them, though, he couldn't help but be a little more deeply concerned for the female general's safety. By Tōshirō's estimate in just under two minutes they would have the prisoner past the point where pursuit might be an issue. The shinigami forces seemed to be working well together down there, in testament to the solid battlefield unity promoted through the new Gotei 7. Renji was hammering his opponent by the look of it, his all-encompassing bankai preventing the arrancar from even getting close. The fact that Soifon hadn't killed her foe yet was rather surprising, since no matter what the mission, she did not hold back in a fight. Without a doubt these heartless spirits were far more dangerous than the average breed. He found himself now staring intently at the two leaders locked in pitched combat, willing Nel not to miss a step or come to any harm.

All of a sudden Hihiō Zabimaru let out a tortured scream and collapsed all along the ground.

WHAT?!

Hitsugaya focused in quickly on Renji. Sure enough the red-headed brawler was injured without a doubt. He clutched one hand to his stomach, doubled over and flailing wildly at empty air. Was there something there? From this height Hitsugaya couldn't tell for sure. But Neliel had also noticed her man's distress and went galloping to the rescue. Rather than pursue, Grimmjow took advantage of this to speed back to the portal, which activated at his approach. He then emitted a shocking roar that almost split the boy captain's ears even at this height. In response his followers began a swift but orderly retreat to his position. They disappeared inside the glowing gate while the pack head stood beside it covering their retreat.

Anxiously Tōshirō turned his attention to the shinigami. Neliel had taken up guard of Renji while fighting off the big Hollow, who was slow in responding to his master's order. A blow from the charged-up Gamuza sent the brute tumbling. When he looked ready to try his hand again, another bellow from Grimmjow got his attention enough to go scuttling away. Most of the Hollows had made it through the portal, however the one engaging Soifon proved slow to give up the fight. The lady herself didn't seem interested in allowing any sort of escape regardless of the plan.

Perhaps in response to this, Grimmjow uttered a sharp bark. He then lifted one bleeding claw to his face. Hitsugaya felt his blood run cold. He knew what that meant. "Retreat!" he yelled, a latent casting of Tenteikūra transmitting his words throughout the battlefield. "Grimmjow's using a Gran Ray Cero!"

Moments later the world was lit by a turquoise flash. A concussive detonation followed, so strong it even flung Hitsugaya back and left him struggling to stay aloft. Down below the panther demon had almost completed charging. Horrified, Hitsugaya abandoned any notion of staying removed and rocketed down to attack, a casting of Sennen Hyōrō already charging strong enough to put the one which held Rudobon to shame. Soifon made her own effort to attack as the monk mage scurried by his master and entered the portal.

All too late. With a primal scream, the Espada's Grand Ray Cero exploded across the battlefield, annihilating everything in its path. Hitsugaya's 1,000 Year Ice Prison evaporated before it could even converge on him. Then things somehow managed to get worse, as rather than dying out, Grimmjow began to slowly swing his blast around in a tracking shot. Shit! He can do that?! Shinigami scattered desperately before that unstoppable attack. With swift-mounting horror, Tōshirō realized the Cero was slicing towards Neliel and the injured Renji. Uttering a cry of rage he abandoned any notion of subtlety and dove straight towards Jaguerjaques with ice sword extended for his heart. Monster! I'll kill you…!

Suddenly the world rocked on its axis. This threw the vengeful captain for a loop. He righted himself midair and looked over in amazement. Across the way stood Captain Odelschvank. Both arms were extended before her, almost seeming to catch the entirety of the ultimate Cero and hold it quiescent in midair. This whole raging mass of energy gradually formed into a tremendous ball.

Oh, yeah. Forgot she could do that.

It would seem so did he.

The attack petered out. Grimmjow looked taken aback by this development. Both Hitsugaya and Soifon needed no further warning and got clear fast. As the Espada stood there shocked, Neliel opened her mouth. His captured energy beam was sucked inside to disappear completely. For a moment she just stood there, front hoof pawing the dirt and head flung black with eyes closed.

Then she opened them to look directly at Grimmjow. Her eyes glowed, and with a roar, Nel unleashed her Doble Cero.

Tōshirō got a final glimpse of Jaguerjaques before it hit. He seemed to have gotten the message rather late, for just as he seemed about to make for the portal behind him, the titanic eruption hit. An awful howl arose over the warzone, filled with savage pain and fury. The green death beam continued unrelentingly. Caught directly in its path, the portal seemed to bend and stretch. Its posts abruptly shattered into fragments under the brunt of that awesome power. At this a tremendous explosion of dimensional energy blew straight up to the pierce the heavens. Grimmjow's scream cut off abruptly, leaving only a lingering echo ringing across the fields of Hueco Mundo.

When the smoke cleared, Hitsugaya descended to earth where he rejoined Soifon. Before them the gate was completely gone, along with any trace of the Sexta Espada. Whether he was annihilated by that head-on attack or got caught in the gate's destruction before he could make it through was not readily apparent. For the nonce at least he would pose no further threat. They made their way over to the Siamese Company leaders. Nel looked somewhat worse for wear, but both she and Lieutenant Abarai claimed to be fine, the latter despite having his stomach nearly cut open. With the other captains' help they got him onto the centaur's back then went to check on the remaining forces. Losses were bitter, but could certainly have been much worse. Lieutenant Shuhei Hisagi came up to report that Rudobon was safely in custody. For these reasons, the operation was deemed a success. Having verified this for themselves they proceeded to abandon the site of Grimmjow's last stand and headed home.

Time passed. Superheated sand and dirt cooled and congealed. After a while the area returned to rest, leaving nothing but the strange spikes protruding from the barren earth as they had for countless ages.

Then something moved. In a seemingly empty stretch of air there suddenly appeared Enfain Tezima. She looked carefully around before heading over to check on the site where the gate had once stood. No trace of it remained, nor could she find any indication one way or another that Grimmjow had survived. Considering everything she had just seen, that seemed highly unlikely. He was probably dead and the pack consigned to oblivion along with him.

He said they would be too caught up in their own mess to bother with us. But he was wrong. Those damn shinigami never give up. They just keep taking everything away from us like they think it's their right before traipsing off to get praised by humans without any repercussions.

Time to share the pain.

So resolved, Enfain opened a Garganta and disappeared into it.

---

"Ganbate, Nii-san!" Yuzu clenched both fists by way of encouragement. "You can do it!"

Reclining against the doorsill alongside her sister, Karin Kurosaki made less of an effort. "Take an umbrella," she remarked dryly, glancing up at the heavens. "Kind of cloudy today."

"I'll be back sometime this evening." Ichigo opened the door of the taxi and dropped in his equipment. He turned back to the girls standing outside the clinic. Giving a somewhat embarrassed cough, he managed to grit out, "Thanks. For the support. And everything."

"Take care of yourself, Kurosaki-san," Nanao spoke up from her place by the door. "We'll be waiting when you get back."

"You girls behave yourselves with Nanao, now!" Isshin popped up on the other side of the idling car. "Mind your manners, treat her with respect, and don't worry!" He then flashed a confident smile and winked, extending them his most enthusiastic thumbs up. "Your dear Papa will bring Ichigo back safe!"

Yuzu was practically in tears by this point. She might have rushed forward to embrace him if Ichigo didn't slip into the passenger seat and close the door. His father got in after him, tapping the window to let the driver know they were ready. With a final wave goodbye, the taxi pulled out and drove down the road.

After a minute of gripping his knees, Ichigo finally said, "Yuzu got pretty emotional for just a kendō tournament."

Beside him Isshin had grown calm for a change, gazing out the window with arms crossed. "She's starting to realize you'll be leaving us soon," he responded. "This next summer break will be your last under our roof. Graduation's just around the corner, and then it's off to college."

"I honestly forgot about that." Ichigo copied him in staring at the sky. "Life just crept up on me. The whole thing feels… far away." After a while he added, "You know you called her 'Nanao' instead of 'Nanao-san', right?"

The Kurosaki patriarch grunted noncommittally. The rest of the trip passed in silence. There was only so much they could say with the driver listening in. After a few minutes they arrived at their destination. Ichigo collected his things and got out while Isshin paid the fare. The taxi slipped quietly away, leaving both men standing in front of the Usagi Shoten. Ichigo headed forth, only to stop when he noticed Isshin still staring at the sky, a small frown on his face. When he noticed his son watching, the older death god just shook his head and moved to lead the way forward.

Ururu waited patiently for them by the opening to the shop. Seeing her reminded Ichigo of the time they trained together when he first became a shinigami. That same sense of queasy uneasiness descended on him, like he was right back where he started in spite of everything that had happened since. An urge to ask Ururu if she thought he would win in a rematch felt patently absurd, but all the same, he almost found himself doing so. Instead he opted for nodding to her in a friendly manner as he passed. The sad-eyed waif acknowledged the gesture.

By contrast Isshin actually picked her up and spun Ururu in a circle. "There's my little Tsumu-chan!" he exclaimed with delight. "You're looking hale and hearty as always!"

"Welcome back, sensei," she said without a change in expression. "Your bill is ready for you."

The doctor grimaced and deposited her back on the ground before following Ichigo inside. Both he and Ururu stopped upon finding the shinigami substitute still standing in the center of the shop. Before him stood Rukia.

They were just staring at one another. Eventually Isshin glanced down at Ururu and gave an indication with his head. Together they slipped past the pair without bothering to announce themselves. Something told Isshin neither of them would have noticed. Best give them some time together either way.

Alone now, the man and woman remained silent. Ichigo took note of how big she had gotten. Her belly protruded out a great distance through her kimono. It gave her posture the shape of a question mark. Which was a stupid observation to make, but damned if it didn't feel prophetic. Like everything about their future remained unclear.

"How are you feeling?" he said at last.

"Worried." She patted her stomach. "Tired." Then in a much quieter voice, "Scared."

The corner of his mouth lifted. "Same here."

She took a few steps off to the side to brush her hands over the colorful merchandise on display, from home remedies to souvenirs and snacks. "I can't remember a time when I wasn't afraid of something. Or someone." Rukia picked up a small statue in the shape of a fox and held it up to dangle before her face. "Not just for myself, but for the sake of those I loved. This is different." She put it down and rounded on him, face sad and uncertain. "Our baby… the Kuchiki… and you. There's never been so much at stake. And I'm putting it all onto your shoulders."

"So what else is new?" Right away Ichigo could tell that was the wrong thing to say. He cursed himself. Stupid! Use your head. "I mean, who better to stand up for you? And if I save the Kuchiki, there's no way Byakuya can voice any objections to us from now on. Besides, our kid'll be born soon; might as well live up to my name and get started defending the little guy… or girl," he amended hastily. "No pressure either way."

Her smile told him he had gone a long way to making up for that previous tactless remark. Impulsively Ichigo crossed the remaining distance between them to place his hand tenderly over her stomach. She slipped her slim fingers over his own, causing Ichigo to shudder from pleasure. Only now did he realize how long it had really been since they touched. The memory of the night that started all this came back to him. Acting on that pleasant recollection, he bent down to kiss her.

To his surprise, Rukia turned her head away.

"What's up?" he asked, feeling confused and a little hurt at this rejection.

"I'm sorry." His beloved hadn't let go of him, sliding her warm hands over his skin as though eager to drink in this contact. It only left him more bewildered. "It's just… my emotions… are all a mess. If you kiss me, I might start crying for no reason." She brought his hand up and pressed her lips tenderly to it. "I don't want you to go with that image of me in mind."

"There's nothing to worry about," he sought to reassure her. "Believe it or not, I've actually got a plan, one that involves more than just winning this fight. I'll let you in on it when I get back. Try not to worry too much while I'm gone, okay?"

"Give me some credit. I don't plan to sit around here pining and moping all day." Having decided to brook no more delays, Rukia began to walk towards the rear of the building where their allies where waiting. She still didn't let go of his arm, forcing him to follow obediently along. "I'll be visiting a temple later. Under the circumstances, praying to the gods seems like a safe bet. You'll need all the help you can get."

"I'm already invincible, what more do you want?" That last comment reminded him of something, though, and he looked around the bare hallway. "Is Kon here? I wanted to ask him to keep an eye on my house just in case."

"He left earlier for Soul Society. To cheer you on, he said."

Something about that didn't sound right, but whatever. They came at last to the door leading to Urahara's underground cavern. It was already open, and the trapdoor gaped wide to beckon them. Climbing down that ladder was certainly not in the cards for Rukia, so it was here that they must part. With that abnormally bright light illuminating them from below, the two lovers stood on the lip of separation.

"Be careful," Rukia whispered. "I have this horrible feeling there's more going on that we don't know about."

"Just keep everyone safe here while I'm gone, shinigami," he quipped in reference to their first fight.

"That's Lieutenant Shinigami now." A finger jabbed him sharply in the chest, causing Ichigo to grin. Much to his surprise, Rukia reached up to clasp the back of his neck and bring him down to eye level before proceeding to kiss him fiercely. She pulled away with a gasp before he could really get into it. "For luck," she offered by way of explanation, cheeks flushed and not a tear to be seen.

"Th-thanks," he managed to mumble. Shuffling unsteadily towards the ladder, he nearly tripped over his own feet, which felt uncommonly heavy. After getting his bearings he began to descend the ladder. With his head just above the rim, Ichigo paused to look up at her standing with hands crossed and gazing down.

"I love you," he said without thinking.

"I trust you," she responded back. While not what he had been expecting, this statement served to warm him all the same, dispelling that previous clumsiness and permitting him to clamber underground. Rukia passed out of view. All the same, he knew she was still there. It made him want to hurry so he could get back to her faster. Better not risk a broken neck, though. Wouldn't that be a funny way for all this to end?

Upon reaching solid ground he cast about to get his bearings. Everything looked the same; mesas and barren rock as far as the eye could see. He spied the gateway in the distance and jogged over. Isshin waited there alongside Ururu and Jinta. His father had on a red glove with a flaming skull symbol. Upon his arrival they exchanged a nod, and without preamble the former shinigami officer reached up and smacked his son lightly in the forehead. He caught hold of the falling body as Ichigo emerged in full shinigami regalia, Zangetsu strapped securely to his back.

Isshin guided the mortal remains down to earth, then lay beside them and struck himself in the cheek. He arose as a shinigami to stand beside his firstborn. After opening the gateway, Jinta and Ururu would remain here to keep guard over their vacated vessels until the owners returned.

"All set?" the older man asked, looking stronger and more dangerous than when he was technically alive.

"Just try to keep up," Ichigo responded. Ahead of them the two golems had activated the gateway, and a hell butterfly already fluttered out to greet them. They then passed out of this world and into the next, leaving behind far more than just their bodies.

---

A dog came running up to the bushes surrounding its yard to bark as he passed, causing Saijin Komamura to peer at it morosely. While he knew likely no one hereabouts could see him, this only served to increase his feeling of apprehension. The dog-headed spirit floated away as his furry admirer continued to seek attention, running excitedly around until its owner came out and ordered it to be quiet.

"See? I knew you'd be popular! Just wait until you meet some of the girls, they're going to love you."

Noboru Kuchiki drifted beside him as they passed along the sunlit lanes of Karakura Town. The carefree youth reclined on his back with legs crossed at the knee and one foot wagging to some inner rhythm. He radiated an excitement and energy which the older spirit could not begin to feign. Having decided that Komamura needed to get out more, Prince Kuchiki proceeded to drag him along on an outing to the mortal realm in order to meet a selection of mortals belonging to something called 'KOPS'. Saijin had been unable and eminently unsuited to making up a lie that might save him from such a horrid fate. Thus he now found himself roped along on yet another of the boy's ill-advised ventures.

Beside him Noboru twirled in midair and laughed, pleased with his role in life. Komamura strove not to sigh. Could this be what it feels like to be an uncle? I had no idea it was so draining. Well, at the very least this doesn't appear to be another attempt to ingratiate me to–

"We'll stop by Ba-san's place later," Noboru informed him matter-of-factly as though reading his mind. "She's got a lot on her plate and could use someone to look after her. And you can show your support in time of need! Everybody's happy that way."

He still wants to set me up with Rukia?! Does this boy seriously not know when to quit?! "You… do not seem particularly concerned about the outcome of the duel, Noboru-sama," he hesitated to mention. "Is it not set for today?"

The boy gave a restless snort. "As if. You know what Rusty's like. He'll just whip out his bankai right on the spot and blow that Arashi prick into another dimension. He's got a Hollow inside him, don't you know. Tough to beat a Vaizard."

"You are aware Kurosaki Ichigo is unable to manifest his Hollow mask in Soul Society as a result of the spell we cast upon him," Komamura pointed out while struggling to keep up with the hovering scamp. This event had occurred under his tenure as captain of the Seventh Division at the Commander-General's order. At the time Komamura obeyed without hesitation, a choice he sometimes had reason to regret.

"Really?" Noboru's face scrunched up while floating lazily along. He then shrugged his shoulders in a dismissive fashion. "No importa. Mama and Papa will have figured something out by now. No way they're resting all their hopes on the shoulders of that bruto."

Komamura wished he could agree. From the sound of things, Lord Arashi had planned this endeavor to meticulous detail. While loath to admit it, the chances that Rukia would be forced to marry him were rather high. Some faint stirring of masculine pride made Saijin wish he could step up and rescue the poor girl from what was undoubtedly a troublesome scenario. But such inclinations were groundless on both scores. No doubt Katsurou Arashi would prove to be a very considerate and attentive husband. Ukitake-taichou had always spoken highly of him. Perhaps the matter would ultimately resolve in the best interests of all concerned.

As he moved, the canine general's pointed ears twitched.

Blinking, he drew up short and looked all around. Eventually his gaze drew skyward. Komamura studied the few clouds floating harmlessly in that bright blue reach. Did I just imagine that?

"You feel something?"

He turned his attention back to Noboru, and was surprised to find the lad sporting a restless, cagey expression. As though his hackles were up as well. "I… am not certain," Saijin admitted. "You?"

"Nah. Not really, but…" The boy twisted around to look behind him. He reached into his pocket and withdrew a switchblade comb, running it through his hair nervously. "I only noticed when I saw you looking around. It feels like we're being followed, you know? Mama told me to trust my instincts. And right now I feel something bad's about to happen." He looked at Komamura and stated, "I think we should go find Ba-san."

Saijin nodded in agreement. "Can you sense her location?"

Noboru shook his head. "She's wearing her custom stealth gigai 24-7. No way to pick up on it. We'll hit the shop first and then the Kurosaki Clinic if she's not there."

The two spirits set off together. While he urged the lad to leave him behind and make haste, Noboru refused, even though Saijin's status as a powerless spirit prevented him from moving with the same speed he could once claim. Their progress across the human town was severely limited as a result. Still, he felt a certain measure of gratitude at how Noboru would not abandon him. For all his faults, he remained a fine boy. And from what his own instincts were telling him such protection might be sorely needed.

This feeling… could it be? Was the Hunt active once more? Why now? And who could they be pursuing? He would not know until they had spotted their quarry somewhere in this wide world. Soul Society must be warned if that were the case. Only he could no longer summon hell butterflies, and not being an official shinigami, neither could Noboru. Their best bet was to locate Rukia and have her send the communication. Thus Saijin barreled on as fast as he could, flying with some difficulty over the rooftops. He only hoped their premonitions were both wrong.

Overhead the clouds began to move, as though disturbed by wind.

---

In a deserted alleyway of Karakura Town's business district, a breeze stirred empty wrappers and discarded newspapers. Pigeons took flight out of an instinctive sense of danger. To anyone watching, this was the full extent of that phenomenon. However those with occult senses would have seen a dark swirling tear in the fabric of space. A slender figure dropped out of this warp tunnel, glancing around to make sure the coast was clear.

Tezima took note of the overall reiatsu in the vicinity. To her surprise, an obvious source of power was absent. The human-Vaizard Ichigo Kurosaki did not register on her senses at all. A brief use of pesquisa confirmed the rest. Usually whenever arriving at this locale, no matter where in the city she came out, his was the first power signature she noted. It was almost painful in its unfettered intensity. The guy had zero ability to suppress his presence whatsoever. Perhaps that makes me his natural enemy?

By now she had already blended into her surroundings with ease, melting away without a trace even from spiritual perceptions. Ciao Roscuro's ability masked her to a greater degree than any other Hollow; unless utilized in combat, this subterfuge was nigh impenetrable. Even her fellow Hollows couldn't spy her, as opposed to the sombra cloaks they were all so desperate for nowadays to escape from shinigami. Shrouded in this mimicry, Tezima stepped out into the street. Hundreds of humans passed close by, not one of whom spared her a glance. The spectral sneak afforded them the same level of interest and quickly flashed through walls on the way towards her target.

For some reason Tezima never felt comfortable flying despite being a spirit. She preferred to have her feet on the ground, in a manner of speaking. Choosing to come out a fair distance from her prey was meant to limit the chances anyone might notice her arrival. There was no way to hide that a Garganta had opened, but by the time someone came to investigate she would be long gone.

Her quarry's habits were known to Tezima. Ever since tailing Grimmjow here when he went to confer with the human hybrid, she had taken note of that one's family situation. Mortals had routines which made them easy to hunt. It was getting on towards evening. No matter what day in the week, by now most of them would be finished with school or work and headed home. But Enfain didn't plan to go in straight away. Months of surreptitious spying had given her a very good idea of just how much power surrounded that household. She was not about to throw away her life or revenge without carefully weighing her options.

Wait a second. Is that…?

The straight line she followed took an abrupt detour. The Hollow scout passed by a park, cored a high school, vaulted a river, and finally dropped down along a tree-lined dirt road. Sure enough, there they were, skulking through some bushes.

"What are you doing here?" she demanded, emerging from under the pall of mimicry.

Loly and Menoly gave undignified yelps and spun to face her. The trembling pair had their weapons out but didn't release them yet. This told Tezima a lot.

"You!" Loly spit without any sign of relaxing. "What the hell do you want?"

"Get out of here, Tezima," her partner concurred. "We're not going back to Grimmjow!"

Like he wanted you back, she thought. But hearing his name served to remind the chameleon arrancar what brought her here. Enfain didn't go for her weapon despite the clear hostility in their bearings. All the same, when she spoke there was a level of menace evident that chilled the pretty Hollows. "I'm not here because of you. But that makes it all the more confusing why a couple of screw-ups are hanging about in a place they're likely to get killed."

The black-haired one snorted with disdain. "For your information we infiltrated this burg months ago. And nobody's picked up on us while we waited for our time to strike!"

"Strike?" The word sounded ludicrous coming out of their mouths. Who would be stupid enough to entrust these bozos with anything?

Loly slapped her partner on the arm. "C'mon, forget this bitch! Let's lose her!"

Both took off through the trees. However they hadn't gotten far before Tezima dropped down to bar their way. Angrily Loly brought up her knife. "You're asking for it, you little–!"

"If we fight, you'll have to take off your sombras to stand a chance," the spy uttered in cold hushed tones that made her pause. "When that happens everyone with a shred of spiritual perception will feel it and come running to investigate. And I'm much better at hiding myself than you clowns."

Briefly their eyes met as though hoping one of them could refute this statement. Predictably that was not the case.

"Tell me what you're up to," Tezima continued. "And make it quick."

"Shit!" Menoly thrust her blade back into its sheath and stood up straight, the very picture of ignorant braggadocio. "We're here to kill Ichigo Kurosaki's child!"

Enfain's visible eye narrowed slightly. Child? After a brief pause to digest this information, she motioned for them to proceed. The spindly duo apparently could come up with no better alternative. They hunched before her as though giving testimony in a court. Privately their interrogator had resolved to kill them either way, but not before learning everything these nitwits knew. No need to share that particular bit of information.

"We heard from his Hollow when it spoke to Halibel," Loly continued, "that he's fathered a child on that shinigami lieutenant Rukia. If allowed to live, the kid will become a dire enemy to Lord Aizen. We're here to prevent that from happening!"

"And you've been here for months? Why haven't you done it yet?" A very shame-faced look passed between them. This you-tell-her-not-me routine was getting old. And besides, knowing the two of them, she could figure it out. "I see. You couldn't muster up the courage to try knowing how many powerhouses are living in this city. The moment you stick your heads above ground, they'll tear them off."

The guilty outrage on their faces said it all. Were these two seriously some kind of comedy routine? I can't image a more ill-suited pair to pull off an assassination. But she could understand their hesitation. Not like I intended to die on this venture myself.

Of course, now that I found them, there's no need to risk that, is there?

"Now listen," Enfain Tezima looked them both over carefully. "For whatever reason, we share a mutual goal."

"You know something we don't?" Loly spoke challengingly.

That's putting it mildly. Enfain ignored this perfect opportunity to mock them. "It seems that Ichigo Kurosaki is not in attendance today, probably gone to Soul Society. He's taken at least one of his strongest comrades with him. If your heads weren't so far up your asses, you'd have noticed he was already gone." They both gave her blank looks; then their single eyes rotated around, widening as they finally picked up on what should have been obvious by now. Idiots. "Regardless of how many are left, their forces are at their weakest. If you're going to do it, now's the time."

There was no immediate rush to take up the charge. Instead Loly and Menoly remained huddled together. It was exactly this indecisive weakness she planned to exploit.

"Of course you won't be alone now. With me here, there's far less chance of getting caught. Ciao Roscuro can dampen spiritual signatures besides my own even when in combat. I'll deal with any guards while you take care of the woman. By working together you can get close and finish your mission before anyone is the wiser."

Clearly they were chewing this idea over. "Why help us?" Menoly finally demanded.

The arrancar spy's eyes glowed, even the one covered by her mask. "Don't make me rethink my generosity. I have no real interest in whether you pull this off. That's not why I'm here."

'Cowed' would be the best word to describe the pair. They had been living at the sufferance of more powerful individuals for so long now it didn't take much to make them obey you. As such Tezima was not surprised when they gave identical affirmative nods.

"Then it's settled. Now," she lifted her chin to look down on them loftily. "How do we locate this shinigami lieutenant? Assuming she's still around; no one of that caliber showed up when I used my pesquisa earlier. Just several medium-level death god signals."

"She's wearing one of those flesh suits that hides her essence," Menoly spoke up quickly. "There's no way to track her. But there have been guards traveling everywhere with her lately. Those are the ones you spotted. Wherever she goes, they go."

"Hmm." Enfain took a moment to reorient herself spiritually speaking. Sure enough, that blob of little death gods was on the move. If their mistress was with them, homing in should be a piece of cake. She glanced down at her cowardly accomplices. "Alright. No more waiting. You want to serve your Lord Aizen? This is how to do it. Let's go."

Their new leader indicated for them to proceed. While doubtful, Loly and Menoly offered no further protest. Instead they headed out together, the two of them hiding wherever available, while Tezima moved freely thanks to her soul cutter's skills.

It was true that the shinigami girl was not her initial reason for coming here. Enfain had planned to murder Ichigo Kurosaki's sisters. Considering how lazy this crew had become regarding their security of late, it was reasonable a person of her talent could find an opening, slip in and do the job right. Getting away with it was the difficult part.

But not anymore. With these two doing the grunt work, Tezima could remain out of sight providing support. And once the task was complete, she would abandon them to their well-deserved fate. Without a doubt they would be dead before any mention of her involvement could be made. In the uproar that followed there might even be a shot at completing her original goal. But Enfain wasn't greedy. Killing the boy's woman and his unborn child? That would be more than enough to avenge Grimmjow. A stark reminder that her kind was not to be crossed or overlooked. These humans and shinigami must remember why Hollows stood apart from their infantile little worlds.

The three-woman hit team converged on a small shrine set atop a hill.

---

Upon emerging into Soul Society, Ichigo was surprised to find none other than Isane Kotetsu waiting for them with her husband Jūshirō and a small escort of retainers. They were both decked out in wealthy regalia that served to remind anyone looking of their status as rulers of a noble family. He caught himself almost bowing automatically. There really was something a bit unnerving about such instinctive superiority.

"Welcome, Kurosaki-san, Ichigo-kun." Isane gracefully swept out one hand to them in what might be the royal equivalent of a bow. "We are pleased to see you. I hope it was a safe journey."

"Safe as houses, Isane-dono," Isshin greeted her with gusto, causing several of the guardsmen to frown at this obvious lack of formality. Ichigo could have smacked his parent but held back. There was already enough arrayed against him today; he didn't need flack from another member of high society.

Fortunately Ukitake just beamed that way he did and any potential altercations melted away before the force of his radiant smile. Some things never change. "You're as unflappable as ever, Isshin," he stated without a hint of condescension.

For once even the elder Kurosaki appeared a trifle abashed, rubbing his neck and grinning in a painful manner. "Yeah, uhh… long time no see, Ca… I mean, Ukita… or rather…" He crossed his arms and stepped closer to the cheerful legend. "How do I call you now? Is it Jūshirō Kotetsu, or Lord Kotetsu, or…" He left the rest dangling uncertainly.

"Well, in public, I'm Lord Jūshirō of House Kotetsu. But privately among friends, you can still call me Ukitake." This earned him a despairing look from Isane, and he quickly added, "Considering the reason for our being here, just make it Jūshirō . Alright?"

Ichigo raised a hand, feeling like an awkward schoolboy. "Hey, um, not to be rude, but like you said, we're here for a reason. So maybe…?"

Isane gave a little start. "Oh, of course. Right this way." She turned to the side with one arm extended. "We have arranged your transportation to the ceremonial grounds where the duel will take place."

The crowd parted, and only now did Ichigo see the large wooden barge resting in the middle of the plaza where he found himself. Marveling, he followed along as Isane and company led them towards this strange contrivance. In terms of construction it reminded him of a pontoon, with a central body supported by two stout beams on either side. Composed of numerous individual pieces, the whole thing was almost like the skeleton of some tremendous wooden animal with turquoise flags waving on pendants emblazoned with silver dragons. The central bridge had silk curtains of the same makeup and a compartment he assumed was for the royal family. You could probably fit two hundred people on this sucker with room to spare.

"This is an heirloom of the Kotetsu family," Isane informed them as they embarked. "It was crafted and presented to us generations ago by the Shihoin, who are most adept at magic. With this we can fly to the site of your duel in just under an hour." Servants bowed to either side at her approach, and she moved with her husband to a small pair of thrones located in the middle of the bridge. Ichigo noticed cushions spread out in a line before the royal seats. A polite cough and gesture from one of the retainers informed him he was meant to take his place before them. Feeling uncertain once again, he was about to choose the one before Jūshirō, then reconsidered and moved over to Isane's side. Probably best to keep Dad closer to the person less likely to take offense at anything he might say or do.

No sooner had they settled down than Isane made a beckoning gesture to what he presumed was the ship's captain. The officer nodded and spoke briefly to his staff. Mages robed in Kotetsu colors took up their positions at points about the deck. There came a low drone of magic, and moments later they found themselves rising smoothly into the air.

Ichigo clutched his cushion and looked all around, gaping without stop. The tops of buildings in the Seireitei became level with them, and then passed away. While he had flown back home many times in spirit form or while wearing Yoruichi's cloak here, riding a device was something completely different. He had never even been on a plane before in his life. A fear that they might crash and burn awoke in him. Where the hell did that come from? Don't I have enough to worry about?

While he was gawking like a rube, the staff came forward and placed a tray bearing tea and light refreshments before him. He thanked them awkwardly, receiving no response in return. Being ignored reminded him of something, and Ichigo turned to address Isane. "Er… Your Ladyship?"

She looked at him, and he felt his face turning red. Come on! It's just Isane! Sure, she's a captain, and super old, and pretty hot when you come right down to it, but do I have to go all stupid just because she put on some fancy duds? Get in the game, me! Remember why you're here!

"I was wondering…" His voice caught. Across from him Isshin chuckled and blew on his tea, looking away to quickly take a sip when Ichigo threw a death glare his way. "I mean… I was expecting Byakuya or Yoruichi to show up. Why did you come to get us?"

The smile she gave him then held equal parts compassion, tenderness, and a slight tinge of admonishment. It reminded Ichigo of Unohana. This negated any consternation he had been feeling and allowed him to sit up straight.

"We are operating under a number of rules now, Kurosaki-kun," she stated. Ichigo didn't fail to note that while she remained calm overall, Isane was picking at the arm of her chair. "Lady Yoruichi and Captain-Commander Kuchiki will be in attendance as is their right. But under the circumstances, no favor can be shown to you on their parts. A party unrelated to the matter at hand was deemed necessary to give you safe passage, and since my clan fulfilled that role, I offered our services."

"What would have happened if you didn't?" Isshin joined in after the manly poses he assumed failed to impress the serving girls waiting on them. "Would we have had to run the whole way there?"

Ukitake answered. "As I understand it, you would have been given an escort by one of the Imperial Court Guard Squads. The only ones available and unaffiliated with any of the parties were Heron and Ibis. We decided not to bother Captain Urahara. He's been very busy lately."

"Oh, yeah? With what?"

The white-haired lord might have winced then, and he turned to study the horizon intently. "Resurrecting Mayuri Kurotsuchi."

That seemed to drive a stake through the heart of their conversation. Ichigo noticed they had stopped ascending and now were setting out in a north-westerly direction. There were no landmarks to really guide him, and his vision was limited by the size of the craft itself, but he got the feeling they were moving at a pretty good clip. No wind resulted, probably owing to whatever magic moved this vessel to begin with. It was a steady, comfortable ride all things considered.

At the end of this flight, the Lord of the Arashi awaited him.

Ichigo stared at the ship's bow. Everyone insisted this yurei thing was a civilized undertaking meant to prevent loss of life and promote harmony between the Great Houses. But he had to admit it seemed like the sort of ceremony that harbored bloodier origins in the past. Would he and Katsurou have been forced to fight to the death in an earlier age? Might the same thing occur today? Ichigo had no intention of losing. The same might be said for Lord Arashi. One of them must yield for the duel to conclude. If neither did, what other result could there be but death?

Can I slay this man for Rukia's sake? Or my own?

I've never killed anyone before. Hollows, yes, but they weren't really dead as a result, just… purified. Turned into pluses. Or sent to Hell. Now I'm facing an opponent who might die if I'm not careful. Should that make a difference? He's not evil, not in the way people like Aizen and Gin are. From what I gather he's been a good lord to his people and a valued part of the effort to rebuild Soul Society. Losing him would cause a lot of grief for all concerned.

On the other hand, he's intruded into the life of the woman I love. And my son… that is to say, my child. He… or she has to be taken into consideration as well. It's my duty to protect… my baby.

This thought should have fortified his resolve. Instead Ichigo was alarmed to feel only fear and queasiness. He chalked it up to the flying vessel, and took a drink to steady his stomach.

But that feeling of anxious dread did not go away as a result, and he lay down on the deck to stare up at the sky. A lone bird flew overhead, gliding in lazy circles on the wind. The world-weary teen focused on that, willing himself to think of nothing else for the time being.

In no time at all, he was fast asleep.

---

Hiyori Sarugaki had been napping in her alcove when she heard a commotion from the commons area. After debating whether or not to just ignore it outright or lounge for a bit longer, eventually curiosity won out. She put on her wooden sandals and rose off the pallet to go trotting down the short tunnel.

Upon coming into the larger cavern, she was greeted by the sight of a messenger kneeling before Shinji and Love. They were talking to him in low, angry voices. Faced with the simmering hostility of two captain-class Vaizard, the poor guy looked ready to consider a career change. Eventually their leader deemed the conversation finished and gave the man a sign he could depart, which he did with utmost alacrity, practically rocketing back down the tunnel leading away.

Hirako spoke briefly to Love, after which the bushy-haired fighter moved off towards the tunnels. At this point their leader noticed Hiyori approaching. The look he gave her told his ally the news was not good. "What's up, Baldy?" she asked upon sauntering closer to him.

The ex-captain of Seireitei gave no sign he had heard her insult, which only served to unnerve her all the more. In a quiet voice he replied, "We got word in from Siamese Company. According to them, they've caught Hachi's killer."

Hiyori sucked in a shocked breath. "WHAT?!"

She could practically see the same stubborn hope flourishing in the set of Shinji's overbite that she herself felt. Could it really be true? Was one of them not responsible? Was there no reason to suspect their own all along?

In short order the other Vaizard were made aware of the news. By a twist of fate they all happened to be present at this time. The subsequent discussion proved short. The messenger had not been provided with a name, saying only it was a Hollow captured in a raid. In the end a unanimous decision was reached to immediately reconnoiter with the leadership of Siamese and learn more about this unexpected development. The Masked Army then set out to learn the truth, and face whatever consequences it might bring.

---

The taxi driver actually got out to open the door for her and offered his hand. Rukia was not too proud to accept. She paid the fee in cash with a tip. He asked if he should stick around, but she declined, and he drove off with a wave which she returned from the sidewalk.

Rukia looked up at the clear sky and took a deep breath of warm spring air. It was late in the day, but she was glad to have gotten as much done as possible. This last stop she planned to take her time with as a sort of reward. With that the young woman made her way onto the grounds of a local temple.

Crossing the courtyard leading to the main building was slow going. Fortunately there were few enough temple-goers at this time of day, which meant no crowds. Those in attendance were elderly and made way out of respect for her condition. Such behavior was welcome. The terrain proved level, meaning no steps. This was the primary reason for selecting this small temple. Climbing stairs was a burden nowadays even with a handhold. She passed one or two visitors as they left. Here, at least, no one stared at her for wearing a kimono. Lately this was the only thing she felt comfortable in. A part of her longed for the sundresses she used to favor, but she kept them in storage, preferring to wait until after the birth to avail herself of that liberating concession. Besides, now was not the time to engage in such silly vanity.

Rukia soon found herself at the central shrine complex. Upon finally reaching the gates leading in, though, she did not enter. Instead she stood by the portico watching one old priest shuffle about attending to the evening devotions. Her actual experience with human religion was limited to what she read in manga. Captain Unohana had developed a fixation on such reading materials just before the Autumn War, and her reputation served to bring many other people in Seireitei under the influence of those strange texts. Presumably spirits of earth and heaven were placated in such structures. As an emissary of the afterlife, she was curious if there might not be some type of reaction. However this did not turn out to be the case. A large bronze statue dominated one end of the room. Offerings of incense burned in stands. The sound of sutras being chanted reached her ears. None of this provoked any feeling in response.

Nevertheless, the tiny maiden reached over to grasp the thick braided rope of a suzu bell hanging from the eaves nearby. Closing her eyes, she swung it slowly, listening to the rattling of chimes overhead.

Please… watch over him. I beg of you.

This was all the maudlin emotion she would allow herself. Now Rukia turned to her other purpose in coming here. She made her way back to the courtyard where a small gift shop awaited. Her intention was to buy an ochūgen gift for Ishida-sensei to show her appreciation. It was coming on the middle of July, the time for that sort of thing in modern Japan, as she understood it. She felt certain of picking up something appropriate here. The Quincy doctor had refused all talk of payment from the start, claiming he was 'discharging an obligation'. Rukia took that to be in relation to his son and did not press further.

The early evening air proved pleasant. It might be nice to come back here together at a later date. Soon enough she found herself before a booth selling charms and trinkets. No vendor was present, but there was a nice selection, and she took the time to consider her options.

"Hello. Can I help you find anything?" From a curtain behind the counter came a stout young monk carrying a box. He wore black novice robes and his head was shaved. A loop of red prayer beads around one wrist added a splash of color to his ensemble, complete with a tiny silver bell that chimed ever so slightly when he moved. There were holes in his nose and ears which might have indicated piercings at one point. Were priests into that sort of thing in these parts?

"I merely wish to inspect your stock," she replied. He nodded amicably and set down the crate to begin unloading its contents. Rukia got back to business. Perhaps they have something to aid in matrimonial matters? Or in dissuading them, she thought upon remembering Ochi-sensei…

He's giving you a funny look.

Rukia noticed then the priest was indeed regarding her in a curious manner. She pretended not to notice and went about her window shopping. Still, concern made her edge further away from him. The experience of pregnancy had served to make her more wary about the harm that might befall a human body.

"Excuse me, but… do I know you?"

This question surprised her, and she turned to regard him more closely. The novice did the same, rising up to dust off his hands with a frown.

That sounds like a pickup line.

Rukia was forced to agree. "I do not believe…"

"Pretty sure I'm right." He hesitated, then blurted out in a rush, "Did you go to Karakura High?"

You and half the people in this city.

Rukia paused warily before responding. "Indeed. That is, briefly, I did."

His eyes drifted low to focus on her stomach, causing Rukia to grip her sash protectively. Before she could call him on this behavior, the boy's head shot up, an expression of disbelief on his face. "Are you Rukia Kuchiki?"

She blinked. "Yes?"

He nodded, evidently as surprised by this as she was. "Huh… no kidding." Then the strange youth appeared to remember himself. "Oh! Sorry about that. I mean, I'm not trying to make you feel uncomfortable. It's just we have a mutual acquaintance. Or, that is, we went to school together, you and I, that's why I ask. Before my nervous breakdown… I mean my spiritual awakening…!" He let out a groan and twisted his prayer beads, sending up a musical ringing. "Let me start over. My name's…"

Around them, the world suddenly turned gray.

Color leached out of everything. All that remained was a blend of shades ranging from dark to light. Nothing of any chromatic hue remained to be seen. The previously bright day was now… haunting.

Rukia took a step back, casting about in consternation. She could sense nothing dangerous. In fact, she couldn't sense anything at all. Like a fog had descended to muffle her spiritual awareness.

We're in trouble.

I know.

"Hey, what's going on?"

She looked back at the boy. To her surprise, he was swiveling his head around with an astonished expression. Of a sudden he looked down at his hands, flexing the fingers and frowning. Does he see it too? Could that mean he's attuned to the afterlife like so many of Ichigo's friends?

"Go into the temple, quickly!" she ordered him in her lieutenant's voice. "Stay there until it's safe."

The novice appeared ready to ask a question, but the dire expression she wore brought him up short. Hesitating, he ducked back through the curtain, leaving her alone. Once assured he was gone Rukia strode back towards the gate. Beneath her breath she mouthed a kidō spell for protection. As she did she cast her eyes about in search of some sign to guide her. Nothing had happened so far. This offered little by way of reassurance. The Kuchiki guards no longer registered in any way, spectral or not. Were they outside the range of this effect?

"Well, look what we've got here," a mocking voice drawled.

Rukia froze. Quickly she looked up to find two Hollows floating overhead. They were arrancar, small and female and rather confident judging by their expressions. No way to tell if it was warranted, because she couldn't feel them at all.

"Are you scared, shinigami?" the one with short pale hair sneered as they began to descend towards her. "You should be," her pony-tailed partner mocked. "'Cuz you're about to die."

Talkers. You know what to do.

Agreed.

In response she merely drew one sleeve up to cover her mouth, regarding them with a neutral air. "Is that so?" Casually Rukia glanced from side to side.

"Oh, are you looking for your little friends?" Black Hair flipped a dagger and caught it in an under-hand grip. They had both touched down and now stood proudly before her, separated by perhaps twenty paces. "So sorry. We already took care of them. That just leaves you to play with, and believe me–"

"I see," Rukia broke in. "Well, if we're going to do this, you might as well bring out the others so we can get started."

They looked at one another in a brief questioning manner. "What others?" Towhead demanded.

"Your allies." Rukia took a few paces to right and left, making a show of peering all about. "Surely there must be more of you."

"We don't need any help to take you, bitch!" Black Hair snarled. "We are the chosen companions of Aizen-sama himself, his fracción!" She whipped her dagger up to point at the pregnant shinigami, while the other one drew her own slim saber. "And we've come to put an end to the threat your putrid spawn might represent to our Master's plans!"

Half-absorbed in her own proceedings, Rukia grew still upon hearing this. "My what?" she asked, putting on a show of fear and backing away now. This was only half feigned. That they knew about her was bad enough, but the baby too?

The Hollows took note of her distress and grew visibly more assured. They moved in pursuit. Edging blindly towards the temple, she judged the decreasing distance between them. Just a little closer…

Out of nowhere, two white masks appeared to hang in the air before the Hollows.

"What the hell…?!" one of them shouted. "Dammit!" the other screamed in turn.

This proved shocking to Rukia as well.

So much, in fact, that she couldn't even continue with her own plan. She had drawn them into talking (easy enough) to give her time to cast a kidō spell under her breath. Unnoticed behind her sleeve she had successfully deployed Bakudo #20: Fushibi at her feet, controlling and manipulating its expression so that it sank into the thin cracks between the tiles where it lay unnoticed. This mystic snare was meant to activate when the Hollows crossed over and catch them in its coils, providing her an opportunity to bring out the big guns.

Instead the air shimmered before her, and now those floating masks were revealed to be atop the heads of two figures in black and gray apparel. They stood shoulder to shoulder between her and the Hollows with hands clasped behind them. To her even greater surprise, another pair of masks floated up on either side of the astonished shinigami. They were fashioned to resemble demons, with small horns, smiling fanged mouths and empty eye sockets. Even as the rest of their bodies materialized, nothing of their faces could be seen owing to a second layer of black cloth beneath the helms. They appeared to be unarmed by the look of it. Glancing over one shoulder she caught her breath upon finding two more such individuals arrayed at her back, six in total.

"Lady Kuchiki…"

One of the masked warriors in front, a woman by the sound of it, turned back slightly to regard her. "Have no concern, Your Ladyship," this eerie specter intoned. "We are the honor guard assigned to protect you at the behest of our master, Lord Katsurou of the Arashi. Forgive us for not revealing ourselves sooner. We were commanded to remain hidden and keep our distance unless you came under direct threat." The masked protector returned to focusing on the arrancar. "For now we shall attend to your safety. Please permit us to deal with these nuisances."

"STING, ESCORPIŌN!"

"POISON, ESCOLOPENDRA!"

In an instant their enemies had entered full resurrección. One fleshed out to an appalling length, a bone-white attachment on her back broken into segments boasting a multitude of limbs as well as huge threatening mandibles and stinger. Meanwhile the other gained pincers on both hands and a plated carapace, to say nothing of the tremendous tail arching over her back topped by a pointed tip resembling a magatama bead. Poised for attack, the time it took them to do this was measured in a handful of heartbeats.

Yet the Arashi guards had already readied a counter. "Four suits…" their leader breathed, then as one they all shouted, "… SIX TIGERS!"

Their forearms crossed in front of them. Immediately a cube of glowing energy formed to completely encase the clan head and her escort. Like everything else, it had no color, yet Rukia could see small transparent symbols flowing all over the surface of this construct in overlapping layers. They looked like characters, or maybe numbers; difficult to say.

If the Hollows were taken aback by this unexpected defense, it gave them no pause. Instead the centipede opened her tusked maw wide, allowing a Cero to bloom immediately between those jaws. Another ball of energy built upon the end of the scorpion's tail. Rukia grew cold at the sight of these attacks, unable to tell just how perilous they might really be and uncertain as to this fort's strength. The blanket over her perceptions had not lessened one bit. To make matters worse, there was nowhere to hide.

"Captain!" she addressed the leader. "Allow me to assist you!"

In response the head of the strike force merely held up a hand, as though waiting to give a signal. There was no time for anything else as both of the poisonous creatures fired their energy beams simultaneously. The peaceful setting blazed from all that power. Yet when they impacted against the magic wall, nothing happened. The panes of sorcerous protection held firm against their onslaught.

At the very moment those dual Ceros crashed into the barrier, the masked captain's arm dropped. She and her partner in front sprang to either side, passing through the wall they had constructed without any apparent resistance. Instantly the guardsmen to either side of Rukia took a few steps forward to stand at the corners of the cube. Their counterparts in back did the same, assuming a new position with arms still crossed before them.

Unable to see what happened next due to the blasts flaring in front of her, the astonished noblewoman caught her breath upon hearing two clear screams.

A moment later she could see everything around them again. But the battlefield had changed drastically. Now the insect-like duo were on the defensive, fleeing before two blazing figures that bore down on them with merciless fury. The attackers resembled spinning six-sided constructs inside one of which was the Arashi captain, arms and legs crossed in a meditative pose as she sped in pursuit of her foe. A ghostly demonic face glowed within the perimeter of the wheel around her, likening it to a wanyūdō demon. Her accomplice was encased in a similar device, only superimposed with the image of an eight-headed orochi snake god. The wheels looked to be composed of pure energy, and they whipped at dizzying speeds around the Hollows, who took to the air in search of escape.

To no avail. Their bulky bodies proved unable to keep up with these nimble opponents. As Rukia watched, the Centipede flailed about in a desperate effort to smash the captain with her seemingly omnipresent coils. Yet when the masked fighter's spinning totem struck that twisting body, it was the Hollow who was knocked back screaming, several of the hundred legs broken or snapped off altogether in some cases. Her twin fared no better. The wheel of pain swept towards her like a blade, and though the Scorpion brought up both arms and even the tail to ward herself, the impact smashed her into the stone floor, where she frantically scrambled to get out of the way as another attack soon followed the first.

"Trust in the strength of their 'Hexagons', Lady Kuchiki," one of the remaining sorcerers offered by way of explanation. "They are more than a match for such low beasts."

Rukia, this is kidō! But not the kind we're used to seeing.

What do you mean?

I'm not really sure. With this gray drain over everything it's hard to tell. But they're shinigami, without a doubt. Their zanpakutō won't speak to me, maybe because they're concentrating so hard.

Concentrating?

It almost sounds as if they're… doing math; like the six of them are all joined somehow in working on a problem. Their power has been amplified by the presence of their comrades. They're sharing it among themselves. Like a formation, or an arrangement, a stacking… ohhh, I can't say for sure! It's like… building a tower out of individual people! Bricks, or maybe… tiles that form together to create a picture. That's the best way I can put it.

Staring at the defensive walls erected around her, Rukia thought again that she could make out something resembling a written language. What had they all shouted? 'Six Tigers?' That sounded terribly familiar. It made her think of the old Eleventh Division for some reason…

By this point Scorpion had been brought to her knees, glowing stakes driven through both ankles and tail pinning her to the ground. A gleaming band encircled her throat with lines that shot out to shackle the claws which she clicked together futilely. She was gagging, tears running down her cheeks and stinger waving in search of a target.

A scream caught Rukia's attention. She looked up to see the captain reorient her body and launch like a missile into Centipede, driving it to earth close by the other one. The Hollow attempted to lash her with its stingers, but the attack rebounded having done no damage. Beams shot forth from the nodes of the Arashi's Hexagon that impaled the Hollow's limbs and encircled her throat. When they diminished the insect woman was pinned as effectively as her comrade and unable to move. Her lengthy released form had been reduced to wriggling and slapping over the tiles like an unearthed worm.

"Rest easy, Lady Kuchiki," one of the guards inside the barrier said. "These two pose no further threat."

Rukia had to agree. It would seem the fight was over. Awe at this new form of magic and its application left her speechless. How much of Demon Arts had the Arashi turned to new purpose? The captain and her aide took up point beside their quarry. She spoke to Rukia without taking her attention from the Hollows. "Shall we dispose of them, Your Ladyship?"

It was so tempting to say 'yes'. They tried to kill my child. But I want answers first.

I agree. Look, everything's still monotone even with them both caught. Maybe they're not the ones responsible for that?

"HOLD!"

The clan head whipped around in surprise. The Arashi glanced behind as well. From within the shrine, that same strange acolyte had emerged at a run. He clutched a bunch of paper slips in one hand that went fluttering loose and in the other was a small staff topped by more paper charms.

"BENIGHTED SPIRITS!" he shouted in a rough, menacing voice. "Release this poor young woman from your grasp!" He thrust out a finger at Rukia still ensconced within the energy cube; or perhaps 'trapped' from his perspective. "I, Oushima Reiichi, offer to cleanse you of your earthly trespasses so that you might attain peace within the bounds of Nirvana! Give up your grudge against the living, seek contrition, and achieve salvation on this day!" Waving both wand and sutras, he began to hop back and forth ridiculously while barking a bunch of nonsensical chants.

All of the demon-masked warriors looked to Rukia for some explanation as to this. She herself could offer no answer.

In the brief time this distraction afforded, however, Centipede took advantage of their inattention to launch her elongated lower half towards her partner. Caught in that awkward position, she was unable to bridge the gap between them fully. Yet Scorpion had taken notice of this effort and sent her own tail lashing forth. She managed to thrust the point of her poisoned appendage into the other Hollow's flesh.

"MERGE, KUDOKU!" both cried at once.

Immediately their bodies began to flash. The Arashi guarding them took note and retaliated with beams of energy that cleaved through the Hollows' necks. Though of deadly intent, this attack proved useless, passing through the incandescent pair. Instead those blazing twins melted like mud through the impediments holding them to converge on one another, flowing together and combining in a reeking splash.

This glutinous mass swelled to even greater size. In moments it had ascended higher than the temple roof. Now some measure of shape began to emerge. A long arm split off of the main body, then another, followed by numerous legs. From behind there arose an enormous hooked tail. The air around this monstrosity wavered, and the stone beneath it bubbled and split. Its surface gleamed with a disturbing sheen. Then the light faded, and what had only been a silhouette was now revealed in all its repellant glory.

'Deformity' was the first word that came to mind. The creature resembled a mélange of twisted parts slapped together. Any semblance of beauty the two Hollows might have possessed separately was now lost. Its lower half held the appearance of a clam, convex and pitted by disease, from which a dozen hairy arachnid legs emerged to either side. A scorpion tail waved heavily overhead with malevolent intent, its barbed stinger now longer and more wicked than before.

Out of a fissure at the front of the shell grew the main torso. Truly ghastly, it still looked to be a centipede, segmented and twitching with thousands of tiny wriggling limbs running up and down its sides. But the most stomach-churning aspect was how this slim and narrow form wound over and around itself like a Gordian Knot as it rose upwards. Doing so seemingly gave it greater mass and the outline of a human shape while still looking nothing less than a breeding ball of squirming snakes all jammed together. The 'arms' hinted at before proved to be extensions of this centipede body capped with clacking pincers on one end and stingers on the other. Its head was nightmarish, flat and triangular, nearly as broad as the shoulders from which it sprouted. Upon looking closer there appeared to be two faces squashed side by side, made even more hideous by the fact that they shared only one wide lipless mouth between them. Full of small sharp teeth, it drooled a black substance that smoked as it ran down the nightmare's chest. This aberration trained its four eyes upon the assortment of shinigami opposing it.

"We've played with you long enough," the ghastly creature intoned, two distinct voices speaking as one. "Now you will feel the true power of the Poison Imps: Kudoku!"

The horror then lurched forward to assault their holdout. Where it stepped stone melted and blackened, and the air turned cloudy. The two Arashi fighters on the outside flung themselves at Kudoku. As they approached, however, their Hexagons began to waver. The captain took note of this and veered off, but the other one continued to charge despite her shouted warning. His circle of magic whirled like a buzz-saw as he drove at the Hollows in an attempt to cut right through them.

The moment it impacted with the creature's hide, almost immediately the Hexagon shattered, leaving its caster hanging defenseless in midair. Kudoku wasted no time in snatching him up with its claw hand. A wave of energy shot from the Arashi captain's Hexagon. Upon nearing Kudoku, the beam rippled as though encountering resistance. When it struck the whole thing dissipated into gleaming droplets that went spattering over the tiled floor.

That great mouth opened wide, and Rukia could only watch in horror as Kudoku swiftly bit the helpless fighter in half, shoving his limp lower body in and swallowing in a matter of seconds.

"Not bad," the monster belched. "For a shinigami, at least. Could use some salt!"

Upon seeing this the captain dropped back to reenter the barrier. "Sir?" one of the others asked in a professional manner.

"I took a reading," she responded. "It's exuding a form of toxin that sickens and depletes any reiatsu concentration. Use the Baí Zé Cleansing until we can determine how best to attack."

They all began to intone a spell now. In response the language running over the walls changed into a new pronunciation. None of them betrayed any fear or dismay at seeing their comrade's grizzly end. Rukia found herself envying this resolve.

But such thoughts could wait, as the horrible Kudoku scrabbled its spidery legs closer to them. Gore-stained lips widened in a smile as its tail rose up to loom over the protective cube. With a laugh the monster stabbed that spear-long spike into the wall. For a moment it stretched inward, as though about to burst.

Then the shield rebounded, driving this implement of death back with such force it sent Kudoku reeling. "Wha…?!" it gasped, multiple eyes blinking in disbelief. Uttering a curse the beast lurched forward to wrap both arms around the glowing box and began to squeeze. Its tail jabbed at the roof time and time again. But this time there seemed to be no sign of weakness at all. Their sorcerous palisade held firm against whatever corrosive miasma it was being subjected to. Seen through the transparent sides, Kudoku's features twisted in a wild rage. "That's IMPOSSIBLE! Nothing can withstand our Tierra Enferma!"

This assertion proved incorrect as the Arashi barrier continued to do just that. "We sent word of your peril prior to joining the fight, Lady Kuchiki," the captain spoke with calm resolve. "Reinforcements should be on their way. We will see to your safety until they arrive. You have our word as Arashi."

"I appreciate your help," she responded, unnerved at the ugly abomination still roaring curses only a few feet from them, "but I am not without my own resources." Pain flared inside her. Rukia strove to ignore this as she pulled a cellphone from the pouch at her waist.

Are you calling Nanao?

No. There might be other enemies on the loose. They must have been waiting for Ichigo and his father to leave before attacking. I can't risk Nanao leaving the twins unguarded until we better comprehend the situation.

You can at least tell her what's going on. Assuming they don't know already.

This admittedly valid argument was rendered moot when it turned out that the cellphone inexplicably had no signal. Was it something to do with the dampening field, or the barrier currently protecting her? Whatever the case, there would be no outside assistance forthcoming. Of course, she was not without her own capabilities.

Be careful. In your current state, we don't know if it will even work.

That was true. Yet at the same time their attacker remained unable to penetrate the barrier. They were at a stalemate for the time being.

It seemed Kudoku had come to the same conclusion, for it broke off its attack and glared in frustration at their small holdout. Those misshapen features looked around in search of a solution. As it did, however, something caught its eye. Several yards away the human Oushima had fallen to his knees. He clutched a hand to his mouth as though about to be sick, clearly suffering ill effects from being close to this toxic vector. A smirk worked its way up the demon's mouth, and it scuttled around the barrier.

"STOP!" Rukia shouted in outrage as she divined its intent. Kudoku brushed off her command. Around her the Arashi were engaged in another chant seemingly without regard for this development. Oushima saw Kudoku coming and scrabbled blindly for the talismans he had dropped. Before he could find any the conjoined pest scooped him up in its pincer arm. He screamed as it touched him, beating and flailing against the crushing mandibles, only to jerk his hands back, now covered in blisters and weeping blood. His captor turned to regard them.

"Alright, shinigami," it gloated. "If you won't come out, then we're just going to have to hunt down every human hiding around here and rip them to shreds in front of you! You want an idea of what that'll look like?"

It squeezed the boy, who let out another tortured yowl. As it did, however, Oushima's head snapped up and he regarded the monster through narrow eyes.

"GO AHEAD!" the young monk bellowed, teeth gritted and gasping from pain. "You want to kill me?! FINE! Take my life, you coward!" His head then swung around to focus on Rukia. "But don't you dare come out of there, Kuchiki-san! Hear me?!"

Reiichi turned back to Kudoku, who regarded him in contemptuous confusion. "I know what this thing is!" he snarled with tears streaming down his cheeks. "It's me! The old me! A mean, selfish BULLY who made other people feel weak and thought that made him strong! All my sins rolled into one! Well, thanks for showing me just how SMALL and WORTHLESS I really was back then, pal! Makes me glad, because I know I'll never be that way again!"

"BUT YOU WILL!" He thrust a determined finger right in the Hollow's face, actually causing it to flinch back. Reiichi grinned now in a wild, reckless manner. "Every moment you live at the expense of others is filled with shame, and dread, and uncertainty about when it will all catch up with you! I know! One day the universe will send a messenger to show you that all the strength you think you have is meaningless, and on that day there will be nowhere for you to hide! You can run, and beg, and piss your pants, but it's not going to do you any good! The divine heavens will seek you out and shine a light on your soul, and if you fail to own up to that shameful past, then it will crush you like the cockroach you are! So go ahead and kill me! But as you do, know this…!"

With that he clapped his palms together and directed features filled with only a deep and transcendent peace upon Kudoku. "I'll be praying for you," he stated with utmost assurance.

Shutting his eyes, Reiichi began to do so, right then and there.

At this, Rukia arose.

Let's go.

What if that poison curse of theirs just dissolves it?

We made it specifically to bypass mystic defenses on the level of Gin. You won't fail me. I know it.

"Saigo no Mai…"

She held out her hands before her.

Let's rock!

"… Shingetsu!"

---

Disposing of the shinigami bodyguards took Tezima only a few seconds. With her chiaroscuro in place they never even knew what hit them. Once this was finished she returned to watch the fight play out. And it didn't take long at all for her to regret involving Loly and Menoly. When the two dolts powered up she assumed that would be the end of it. This did not prove to be the case.

Idiots! They're confined inside that barrier! Why don't you just pick up a boulder or a tree and crush it?! Shinigami spells don't keep out physical objects because they can't be hurt by them! But even if the guards won't be injured, the girl will because she's in a gigai! This should already be over!

Despite thinking this she did not proceed closer to the combat. I'll only step in if it looks like they're going to fail. I can breach that shield with ease. Killing them all shouldn't be a problem, and I can slit the Doublemint Twits' throat for fun afterwards.

Glancing all around, Tezima frowned upon noticing clouds gathering above them. When did that happen? The sky was pretty much clear a few minutes ago. A sense of unease settled in her. Right then the shinigami woman stood up. Her voice rang through the clearing.

"Fourth Dance…

To Tezima's amazement, a white sword bearing a ribbon appeared before the girl. They can do that even inside a gigai? Before she could stop to wonder at this occurrence the blade sank down into the earth and disappeared.

"… New Moon!"

All around Enfain tiny snowflakes began to fall. The sight of this abnormal weather occurrence in July drew the Hollow's eye for a moment, until what happened next claimed her full attention.

---

A white circle formed under Rukia's feet. It spread below the confines of the box surrounding them without resistance. At first glance one might have thought this was her sword's First Dance, Tsukishirou. However upon reaching a certain radius, a curved indentation formed at one end of the circle. It spread swiftly backwards, eating up all trace of light until only a white sliver hung trembling on the opposite edge.

With a tingling sound, this silvery crescent broke away to go spinning off as though a searchlight was being shone upon the ground. The moment it did, however, the sliver of moonlight split into four identical copies, each about two meters wide. They spun about in great looping arcs accompanied by the chimes of tiny crystal bells. A shower of glittering ice particles trailed behind them wherever they went.

Rukia stood with head bowed and brow furrowed in concentration. The Arashi watched her as this panoply of lights spun over the temple grounds. Kudoku, too, took note of what was transpiring. They looked away from the mortal priest intoning his prayers without cease in their grip. As one of the dancing blades approached, the fallen souls scuttled back a pace to let it pass by.

In an instant the Ice Sickle looped around to pass beneath some of the foul spirit's legs. And as it did they were sliced clean off.

Kudoku let out a shocked shriek, dropping Oushima in the process. They stumbled frantically to one side only to lose their balance and smash through the wall of the temple. In a panic Kudoku attempted to extricate themselves from the mass of splintered wood and ceramic, only to find two more of those lethal blades rushing towards them. With a wail they launched straight into the sky and hung there high above the ground, seeking to ascertain what just happened. A burning sense of cold ran through them. The injured creature looked down at the stumps of two of its appendages, and was shocked to find ice forming there. Below them their lost legs lay completely frozen.

What the hell…/

/Our poison should have subverted any reiatsu that approached us! So how did she…?!

While floating in midair, another moonlight sliver moved underneath them. Icy agony lanced through the beast once more. They screamed in disbelief and looked back to find their tail had been cut neatly in half. The severed segment bearing its deadly stinger fell back to earth and cracked into pieces.

HOW?! We weren't even on the ground! How did it…/

/Not the ground! It's above it! All of the air over those blades is super-cold! That's why it's snowing all around them. It can cut us no matter how high up we are! And it's freezing our poison before it can take effect. We just need to keep from standing directly over them and we'll be fine.

Wait, so then… I can't tell where they are! We're too high, they all look so small, I can't see where they are in relation to us/

/Then we need to get back down!

Uttering a desperate cry Kudoku dropped to earth as fast as they could. Being so tall it was possible to get a good view of the terrain, allowing them to at least know how close they were to those death boomerangs. Nimbly they dodged out of the way as one drew close, legs racing. To their relief the gleaming sickle went spinning aside without doing any damage. This elation was short-lived when it curved back about to home in on them once more, forcing them to scramble for safety. Another one looped their way, and this too they dodged by a close margin, ending up farther off from the shinigami woman and her allies. For a moment no attacks came, and they took this moment to catch their breath.

Okay, we're fast enough to steer clear of them. But… what now/

/Hey, check it out! I think we're beyond the limit where she can aim those things! Look, they're all milling about maybe halfway between us.

You're right… but we still can't get through that barrier to attack her. If we don't do something about that, we'll be chopped to pieces if we try/

/I know. Look, let's just retreat for now. She's not able to attack long-range. We can put some distance between us and come up with a plan. Where's Tezima?

"Confine and Contrast, Ciao Roscuro!"

One moment everything was painted in shades of gray. Now it all became black and white. Like somebody took a brush dipped in both colors and just drew them in crazy zig-zag lines all over the world. Everywhere you looked this effect took hold, causing one part of a temple wall to be black while a white band ran right beside it. Even the cloudy sky was reduced to zebra stripes. Looking down at themselves, Kudoku realized they were solid white, with no distinction to be found.

"Listen up."

They turned their head. Something black flashed over a white space and dropped down into an adjoining onyx band, where it was simply swallowed up without a trace. From around this area Enfain Tezima's disembodied voice spoke to them. "As long as you're in a white zone, nothing that's white can hinder you. Defensive magic is similarly affected. Meaning any part of that barrier they threw up which is now white, you can pass through it."

Kudoku looked back to where the shinigami still clustered. Sure enough, their fortress had been split into contrasting bands of color as well. The images of their enemies were black shadows moving nervously inside it. Meanwhile around them, the Ice Sickles retained their previous moonlight glow, making them easy to spot when they passed over fields of black.

"If you understand, get going. And one more thing…" A curved black claw shot out from those stygian confines to press right against their throat. Kudoku sucked in a fearful gasp. "There's no running away," her voice hissed close to their ear. "It's her or you."

The blade withdrew. Trembling, the dual monster tried to pick out some trace of Tezima's presence, to no avail. Unnerved, they turned their attention back on their primary target.

Don't you worry. We'll snuff the little gink too once this is over. Right now that pregnant bitch has to die/

/Whatever. Should we try using a Cero again?

With all these crazy color traps? We don't even know what color it'll be when it comes out! Let's just head over there and rip 'em apart/

/Fine. You watch out for enemy attacks. I'll see to getting us in.

Once this was decided they wasted no time and sprang forward. One set of eyes paid close attention to the path of the Ice Sickles, while the other concentrated on their true goal. A moon blade swirled straight at them in its dizzying dance. Hearts pounding, Kudoku ducked rapidly into a nearby stretch of white. Sure enough the Sickle vanished as soon as it entered the same plane only to reemerge in a neighboring black swath, by which point they were already well past it.

She was right! Holy shit/

/We can do this!

The other crescent cuts made to strike, but with their amplified speed and the help of Tezima's power, they were able to escape any further injury. Elation seized hold of Kudoku, along with a very strong bloodlust. The shinigami were only a few yards away. Giving an eager cry the Hollow pair raced forward to strike them down.

Unnoticed by all, Enfain Tezima glided soundlessly through her delineated environment. Being smaller than the other two, she had no trouble staying within an all-black setting, and thus was rendered virtually undetectable. She was even willing to float a little higher to remain out of sight. Doing so also gave her a better view of the surroundings.

So far so good. The shinigami hadn't moved from their staked-out position, thinking they were still safe inside their magic fort. See how long that lasts. She could make out the female lieutenant, a smaller black figure protected by five others. One of them spoke urgently to her, but the response that came back was a clear, "No." Probably suggesting she run while they stayed to hold Kudoku off. Typical shinigami self-sacrifice. Not like she would get very far in that condition anyway.

Kudoku was almost upon them. In just a few moments the fight would enter its most desperate stage. Edging closer, the spymaster took into account the roaming Ice Sickles and altered her route accordingly. Unlike with defensive magic, under Ciao Roscuro's influence offensive magic retained its single color no matter what, making it easier to track and dodge. She edged a little higher, fighting a sense of vertigo at the same time. Even like this, Enfain disliked being away from the ground. She kept her eyes focused on it so as not to lose her balance, making sure to note any colors out of place.

Colors… the ground… the shinigami…

Only then, from this vantage, did something finally dawn on her.

The ground all around the shinigami. It's… black!

A big black circle. But there are several bands running through it, the ones dividing up their barrier. That whole stretch of terrain should be multi-colored. Which can only mean there's different magic there. Offensive magic!

"FOR LORD AIZEN!"

Kudoku leapt high for the kill. And without thinking Enfain Tezima screamed aloud, "LOOK OUT!"

---

When everything changed color, Rukia knew time was running out. Whoever was manipulating this battle from behind the scenes had just upped their game. She had no idea if this was only meant to distract them or if it served some greater purpose. The suppression of spirit senses continued all the same.

"Your Ladyship," the captain, now a talking silhouette, spoke up beside her. "This does not bode well. I fear we might no longer be able to protect you. Should they attack again, two of my team will escort you from the battlefield. The rest of us will remain and hold them off to cover your escape. Please make ready." She gave a sign to her four remaining colleagues before turning back to confront the giant monstrosity.

She may have a point.

We still have one last card to play.

It's hard enough keeping from hurting the Arashi, but haven't you noticed it's visible now? Even if the Hollow hasn't, that freak's got a long reach. It could still hit you if it gets close enough.

That is a risk we will have to take.

At that moment Kudoku apparently gave up on waiting and renewed its attack. The deformed beast came charging across the courtyard at them. She sent her Ice Sickles out to greet it, only to be dismayed when they seemingly did no damage. Even with this distortion of perceptions it looked like they must surely have hit. Which meant the inkblot effect was not just for show.

What if it neutralizes everything?

We will probably die. But either way there is little chance we would be able to escape them in my condition. And I refuse to abandon these brave men and women to perish for my sake.

You're risking the baby's life too.

I will not have them born at the cost of another. That is not the way of the Kuchiki.

Sode no Shirayuki had no retort for that. Perhaps she recognized Rukia wouldn't appreciate it. All the same, the soul cutter's comforting presence did not leave her, and she watched their enemy approach with a determination born from hope.

"Be ready to move, Lady Kuchiki."

"No."

Every drop of command she could lay claim to was squeezed into that one word. The captain spun about as though to argue, then swiftly whipped back around. Kudoku was nearly upon them. The other four Arashi moved without being told to shield Rukia. Their enemy sprang skyward and drew back an arm to strike. "FOR LORD AIZEN!"

As it came down, the white behemoth's legs touched the black circle.

Tell him I said hi!

"LOOK OUT!"

The full strength of Shingetsu activated. An instant later, Kudoku was frozen head to toe in black ice.

The monster retained its shape, even if to their eyes it now looked like a solid shadow standing there. However this did not last long, as thwarted movement took its toll. The arm it had cocked back now snapped halfway down and crashed to earth, shattering even further. No longer capable of supporting its massive body, the legs crumbled next, and the whole thing cracked and fell in on itself, becoming a pile of black ice rocks.

"The moon's shadow is not empty," Rukia chided their defeated foe.

Around them Shingetsu waned and vanished. She slid to her knees, exhausted from the exertion of using her zanpakutō while still in a gigai.

I think it's safe to say we got 'em.

Rather than echo this sentiment, Rukia was busy casting her eyes about in an attempt to locate the mastermind behind this affair. Someone had called out moments before Kudoku died, in a voice she didn't recognize. Not to mention everything remained two-tone. Which meant they were either using this camouflage as cover to retreat or trying to get close enough for an attack. Even with the barrier still up they might be able to get in. If only I could see who we were dealing with…

Right then someone screamed her name, and Rukia flung both arms upward with a cry.

---

Dangling high over her targets, Tezima prepared to strike.

She had managed to get into position without anyone spotting her. Loly and Menoly's deaths served this much of a purpose at least. It became evident early on that those light blades didn't approach the area around the woman and her guardians, perhaps to keep those masked fighters from getting injured. If so, the area above there should be a safe space.

Having now witnessed the fatal power of the black circle, she could only trust Ciao Roscuro's camouflage would shield her from that freezing effect even if it extended into the sky like the smaller projectiles. With her long tail wrapped securely around the division between a black and white space for support she gazed down at the death gods milling directly below. Close quarters combat carried too many risks at this stage. There was no guarantee they might not have something else up their sleeves. So Tezima resolved to finish things with a bang.

Between the three horns of her Hollow helm, a white Cero began to grow. Being far above their field of vision and with no way to detect her soul power, they'd never see it coming. Once fully charged she would reduce them to dust.

This one's for you, Grimmjow.

"ABOVE YOU, KUCHIKI-SAN!"

What?! Enfain's huge chameleon eyes swiveled to the side. There she saw a white figure removed from the others on the ground pointing up at her.

It's that human from before! I forgot about him! He sees my Cero!

"Third Dance: WHITE SWORD!"

Before she could fire, something erupted through her belly, causing Tezima to emit a strangled shout. In a flash Ciao Roscuro's power dissolved. The world went back to normal, leaving her hanging in the sky impaled on a long shaft of cruelest ice. Rukia Kuchiki stood below with arms upraised. In her hands Sode no Shirayuki had reformed through sheer need, manifesting Shirafune on instinct upon hearing Reiichi shout his warning.

Freezing power spread through her belly. In desperation Tezima flashed both clawed talons down to catch the ice sword between them and shatter it. She fell to earth with the broken tip still lodged inside her. Pulling this free, she cast the bloodied shard aside and clutched a hand to her wound throbbing with horrific cold. Trembling from rage and fear, Tezima looked to where Rukia stood. Shinigami and Hollow locked eyes.

As they did, a titanic animal howl shook the whole world.

Enfain's head snapped up, forgetting the potentially fatal wound she had received. Rukia and her bodyguards did the same. To their mutual dread, in the sky above the clouds had parted, and through this gap something gazed down upon them.

It was a giant stag, formed from the clouds themselves with holes for eyes.

A strong wind blew across Karakura Town. As it did the image of the haunting hart was dispersed. All the same, the aura of malevolence it brought with it did not depart. Tezima remained where she had fallen, aghast. Was that… the Wild Hunt?!

Suddenly the shinigami lieutenant collapsed to her knees. The bodyguards drew around her attentively. Tezima made no move to take advantage of this to renew her assault. Better than any of them, she knew what the Hunt's presence meant.

I'm no longer needed here. She's as good as dead.

Quickly the surviving arrancar adopted her personal camouflage once more, vanishing in the process. Before any of them could respond she was already speeding away. Fleeing from the battlefield, however, Tezima spotted something that gave her pause: Kudoku's severed tail, broken to pieces on the ground. The stinger remained miraculously intact. After only a moment's debate she picked this grim token up. Might come in handy, you never know. A second later she was gone.

Back at the temple Rukia clutched her stomach gasping from pain. It can't be! Not now!

"Lady Kuchiki, are you injured?!" the Arashi captain demanded anxiously.

"No!" Her head shook wildly from side to side. "The baby! It's… coming! Hospita–AHH!" Another shot of hurt cut off further explanation and caused her to scream aloud. The Arashi looked to one another in helpless confusion. Being spirits they had no means to transport or even touch her while she remained in a gigai. What could they do?

Suddenly Rukia found herself scooped up by a pair of strong arms. Surprised, she opened her eyes to find she was being carried by Oushima Reiichi. The bald kid's face was filled with panic, but he seemingly did not let this deter him. He ran as fast as he dared until he came out to the street. There he placed her down gently by the side of the road and stood up, casting about in search of some conveyance. As though by divine providence a car chose that moment to round a corner heading their way. Immediately Oushima rushed out into the street to plant himself before it.

"STOOOOOP!" he roared with arms outspread.

The driver hit the brakes so hard they squealed. In a flash the frantic monk moved to wrench the door open and drag the terrified man out. "MANDATE OF HEAVEN!" he shouted by way of explanation. Whipping open the rear door as well, Oushima then went back to pick up Rukia. She did not protest this treatment as he laid her carefully within the back seat, concentrating all her will on holding that awful pressure in check.

Reiichi jumped behind the wheel, then appeared to freeze.

"What?!" Rukia demanded, breathing rapidly.

He turned to look back at her. "I never got my license! I don't know how to drive!"

They stared at one another for a heartbeat in which she could have almost laughed. Then the former delinquent leapt from his seat and returned a moment later hauling the car's owner by the collar. He shoved him behind the wheel, then ran over and jumped into the passenger's side, slamming it shut behind him. "DRIVE!" he bellowed.

With a panicked nod, the man did so. Reiichi turned his attention to Rukia once more. "Where are we going?!"

"The hospital," she spoke through clenched teeth in an effort not to yell at him. She gave them directions, and in moments they were off.

---

'Would you fight for her?' Aizen teased. 'A woman who got pregnant behind your back?'

'How do you even know the kid's yours, Kurosaki-bozu?' Ichimaru laughed. He swung wildly at the grinning phantom, but both men remained just beyond the reach of his blade, mocking his futile efforts. They drew farther into the distance while Ichigo gave chase, screaming at them to come back and fight.

'Fight ME!' The Hollow screamed as it barreled into him from the side, fingers closing around his throat in an effort to strangle the life from him. His head shook back and forth as he struggled…

"Ichigo! Wake up!"

Someone was shaking him. Ichigo came awake in a panic. He stared with uncomprehending eyes at his father, who knelt beside him frowning. "We're here," Isshin stated.

The teen looked around to verify this for himself. Sure enough the craft was earthbound once more. Isane and her entourage had already disembarked. They were in a grassy field with low trees sprouting around the perimeter. A pavilion had been erected at one end where he could see Byakuya and Yoruichi waiting along with members of their respective clans. The Kotetsu party was making its way over to join them.

At the center of the clearing was a cleared square measuring perhaps 20 yards across. Small warding charms ringed the perimeter. Within this space, Katsurou Arashi knelt bare-chested in tranquil meditation. The sight of him made Ichigo's skin crawl. This is it.

Dad was holding Zangetsu. Ichigo stood up, and together they walked down the gangplank. He could practically feel all the eyes upon him. It was like they were measuring him up, assessing his chances. This thought gave him no comfort. He had a solid grasp of procedure from this point on. Once they both entered the arena, the signal would be given and the duel would start. It would continue until one man forfeited. Or died.

Katsurou looked remarkably relaxed for someone wagering his bride-to-be and the future prospects of his clan on a single match. Ichigo glanced over to where the other noble lords and ladies now stood. He could go over there, ask for advice, maybe get some last-minute instructions on how things might play out. But in truth, that would only be delaying the inevitable. He knew why he was here. Best get the ball rolling. One of the problems with fighting Katsurou was that hardly anyone who knew him when he was an officer in the Gotei 13 was still alive in this day and age. Isane refused to discuss it because of her position as a noblewoman; Jūshirō made the same excuse as his wife. Kyoraku Shunsui proved to be silly drunk when Ichigo brought it up and offered nothing useful.

With that the shinigami substitute strode on over to the ring and stepped inside. Isshin followed a close step behind. There was whispering from the spectators, but no one stepped forward to intrude. A servant holding Katsurou's sword spoke to his master softly. The Tiger Lord did not stir for a moment. Then he slid upright and turned to face them. Without breaking eye contact even for a moment, Ichigo began to slide off his shihakusho and under-robe until he was clad only in his trousers and sandals. His father took the discarded clothing before handing over Zangetsu. When Ichigo accepted it from him, Isshin reached up to squeeze his shoulder reassuringly. "Remember your training," was all he said.

"Thanks, Dad."

As Arashi accepted his own zanpakutō Ichigo took the chance to study him. Despite his age, the Tiger Lord had a solid muscular physique that would have been cause for concern in a human opponent. The fact that he was missing his right arm from halfway up the elbow seemingly made no difference as he took a few practice swings, then turned to face Ichigo with the Chinese-style jian held in an underhand grip, its long blade resting against the back of his arm.

The substitute shinigami took a deep breath to steady himself. He exhaled, both hands firmly wrapping around Zangetsu's bandaged handle. Their seconds stepped out of the ring and went to rejoin the others watching this event. An old woman wearing the silver and turquoise raiment of the Kotetsu moved at a brisk pace out to join them. Once there she studied the two challengers facing off.

"The yurei, being met on this day, shall settle all differences relating to the matter at hand," she stated in a high, cracked voice. "Leaving the bounds of the arena is grounds for disqualification. Blades alone shall determine the outcome; no spells are permitted. First blood will give cause for a resignation should it be so stated. Honor to you both."

She held up a wizened hand, paused, then brought it sharply down with a cry of, "Begin!" before hurriedly moving clear.

All was quiet. The two men said nothing to each other. Despite over a year training with Nanao to better control his spiritual capabilities, Ichigo had never been able to shrink Zangetsu down into the sealed form all other shinigami seemed able to do at whim. This had become an issue for the yurei, since it meant unless Katsurou unsealed his own weapon he would automatically be at a disadvantage. Yet now that the match had started, he still chose not to do so. In fact, Katsurou simply stood there, waiting for him to make the first move.

Ichigo shifted his hold on Zangetsu, feeling his heart racing like a trip-hammer. This was completely different than any of the other battles he ever fought. It felt more like a match in kendo. This reminded him of his father's suggestion earlier. Treat it like a match? Yeah… yeah, that makes sense.

The crowd murmured as Ichigo suddenly dropped into a crouch with blade held out before him and knees practically touching the ground. He closed his eyes briefly on instinct, then reopened them. Across from him Katsurou's gaze flickered slightly as though questioning what this odd move might mean. Ichigo cast about for a moment, considering. A quick scan of the arena confirmed its dimensions. This pit is bigger than a traditional kendo court, but on the plus side, I don't have to worry about wearing armor. My sword is much longer than his too, so that gives me an advantage. All I have to do is drive him out of the ring, so to speak.

Ichigo hopped upright and lunged. "EYAAAAHH!" he screamed his war cry.

The other man's sword flipped upright like a switchblade. They connected so hard sparks flew, steel scraping along steel. Yet Katsurou gave no ground. He stood there immobile as a tree stump. Observing this, Ichigo prepared to drive forward and force him back.

DON'T!

In an instant he had checked his lunge and retreated several paces. In response Katsurou lowered his weapon and transferred it to that reverse grip he preferred before going back to waiting. Ichigo watched him, breathing harder than before.

What the hell, Zangetsu?! Don't surprise me like that in the middle of a match!

Do not close with him. Keep your distance.

What? Why?

He is at the center of a web, drawing you in. I can feel it.

Alright, fine. Look, I know what I'm doing. Let me handle this.

This is not kendo. Do not lose sight of that.

The sword spirit lapsed into silence then. Ichigo reoriented on his opponent. Katsurou's face maintained a cold, intense look of concentration. Abruptly the Tiger Lord cocked his head to one side. Both shoulders lifted in a slow shrug, as if to say, 'Is that all you've got?'

Uncharacteristically, Ichigo did not rise to the bait. With Zangetsu's words fresh in mind, he instead moved to circle around on Katsurou's right, drawing subtly closer with every step. The nobleman's black eyes swiveled to keep him in view, yet he did not turn to answer Ichigo's obvious challenge to his undefended side. Kurosaki paused on what he determined to be the edge of Katsurou's vision. He remained there for the count of six heartbeats, enough to make the man really wonder when he was going to make his move.

Then in a burst of speed Ichigo sprang around behind Katsurou, closing the gap as he did. The sharpened edge of Zangetsu swung towards the amputee's defenseless arm. No chance to bring up his sword this time. Just one cut to let him know who he's up against. Maybe he'll quit once he sees…

A shock jolted up his arm. For a moment Ichigo disbelieved what his eyes were telling him. Katsurou had twisted at the waist, angling his sword arm across his back at the same time. The flat of the jian saber braced against his arm caught Zangetsu practically to knock that massive weapon back. In the same fluid movement Katsurou swiveled fully, long ponytail flying. His zanpakutō flashed up, still held in an underhand grip. Ichigo twisted and hurled himself in the same direction he had been moving to dodge. He came to a halt with sword at the ready for a renewed assault.

But Katsurou did not press the attack. He merely put up his weapon to regard Ichigo critically.

"Yield," the Lord of the Arashi spoke in a quiet tone.

Ichigo squinted in disbelief. About to retort, only then did he feel a burning pain in his left arm. When he looked down it was to see the cut. Blood came oozing out.

He considered this. Looking up, Ichigo calmly stated, "No."

The word drifted over the empty field. It reached the ears of the spectators clearly. Some of them murmured. Isane shifted uncomfortably in her seat. To one side Byakuya and Yoruichi remained still. They each recognized a subtle shift in the proceedings. There was no longer any chance that this would end from anything less than utter defeat on the part of one or both competitors. The time for concessions was over, if it had ever existed.

For his part Ichigo could feel anger bubbling up to the surface. What a fool I was! This isn't anything like kendo, and it isn't a fight to the death either. This is harder than a death match! I have to be careful not to kill him, or even really hurt him that badly!

Take his head…

For a moment Ichigo thought that was his Hollow talking. But it couldn't be. Not here.

That was me.

The idea made him shiver, and swiftly he brought himself back into focus. Across the field of dirt Katsurou continued to regard him intently. He hadn't even brought out his sword's first release. Which means whatever the difference between us, I've got a clear advantage.

Do you really intend to…?

Not yet. Let's see if I can take him by surprise first. With a little move I picked up from my Hollow.

With that Ichigo raised his blade to point straight at the sky.

Murmurs came from the pavilion. He paid them no mind. They must have been wondering if I would really do it. Nothing in the rules against it. I made sure to ask. Upon observing this Katsurou crouched down as though in preparation to move. He even flipped his sword to hold it facing upwards. That could be a sign he was taking this seriously. Excellent.

"GETSUGA…!" Ichigo shouted.

Shouts of alarm rose in response. A platoon of mages moved to throw up warding spells in defense of the spectators. He wasn't facing towards them, but no sense taking chances. They could feel his reiatsu building, and were getting ready for the worst.

Ichigo paused with the final part of the incantation trembling on his tongue. The moment was pregnant with anticipation. Didn't want to have to do this, but…!

His arm came sweeping down without a word being spoken. A flash shot across the arena. Ready to move, Katsurou froze for just a second. The full implications seemed to catch him in a moment of indecision. As it was he reacted just in time.

A clash of blades rang once more for all to hear. Satisfied, Ichigo yanked back. The long bandage connecting Zangetsu's hilt to his hand gave an audible snap as it retracted, bearing the huge steel kitchen knife back to its master. He caught it and hoisted his soul cutter onto one shoulder, directing a satisfied smile at Katsurou.

Arashi turned his head slightly to consider the cut on one shoulder. Apparently he hadn't expected Ichigo to fling his sword at him. It even looked as though he might be considering calling foul on that one. But after a short time he seemed to reach a decision. Looking back at Ichigo, Katsurou gave a short nod. The implication was clear: good move, but I won't be caught by it again.

We'll see about that.

In a blur Ichigo sent his weapon hurtling like a javelin once more. This time Katsurou took a step forward as he deflected it, sustaining no injuries in the process. Once he had withdrawn his improvised missile the human let fly again, and again. The Tiger Lord repeated this process three more times. But on the fourth, rather than blocking, he instead judged the approaching blade and dodged nimbly aside. His own sword licked out, not at the razor-sharp steel, but the white bandage connected to it. Having anticipated this, Ichigo retracted it just in time, catching Zangetsu neatly in one hand to point at the sky.

As he did, a white ball of power blossomed on its tip, and when he swung now there erupted a blaze of white-hot energy that roared across the field.

With Zangetsu resting against the ground Ichigo considered the result. That blast was nowhere near his best. Having not called out its name, he couldn't summon forth a full Getsuga Tenshō. Which had been the plan. Killing was not what he needed in this instance. Instead the sub-par Moon Fang had only torn apart the earth before smashing into the line of trees beyond. Many people witnessing this display of raw unfettered power could only stare in disbelief at the one responsible.

For his part Katsurou no longer appeared quite so sanguine. Having successfully dodged the energy beam, he looked behind him to assess the extent of its damage before turning back to the substitute shinigami.

"Yield!" Ichigo called out.

A slight twitch of the lip indicated disdain. Rukia's betrothed merely shook his head from side to side and raised his weapon in readiness to continue their contest.

This came as no surprise. Already Ichigo had his answer ready. Another wave of white force shot from the blade which his enemy managed to evade again. Katsurou tried to flash-step closer, but a third blast rose between them, forcing him to withdraw. Having taken his opponent's agility into account, Ichigo himself now flash-stepped to a point behind his current position. There he let fly with the biggest Getsuga yet.

Katsurou drew to a halt after his latest escape. He was now standing at the edge of the circle nearest the watching crowd. The implications of this were not lost upon Ichigo. In doing so, Arashi had placed these innocent civilians in the line of fire for any subsequent shots. Additionally, there was no way to get behind him, as this would cause his opponent to leave the ring and thereby forfeit. It was a canny move on the older shinigami's part.

And exactly what I was expecting him to do.

The crowd and its mages were all on their feet in anticipation of the next attack. An attack which never came, as it turned out. For instead of continuing his barrage, Ichigo launched himself across the smoking pit at top speed. Before Katsurou could move they were right in front of each other. Uttering a loud yell the orange-haired fighter lifted Zangetsu and brought it chopping down with every drop of strength he possessed. Give it your all! Drive him back, out of bounds! Kill him if you have to! Just end this NOW!

"Purge…"

The blade fell…

"Jorōgumo!"

…to be caught by ten steel fingers.

Spiritual strength spiked hard and fast. With it there came a sense of eerie peril that seemed to crawl over the skin of everyone in attendance. Aghast, Ichigo stood locked in the pose of his thwarted slash. From behind that web of metal holding his attack in check, a pair of deadly black eyes stared back. In their empty depths lurked no inkling of recognition that he was a human being. To those eyes, Ichigo Kurosaki was nothing more than a dummy stuffed with straw about to be torn apart.

One of the hands detached and tore towards his face with uncanny speed. Ichigo jerked back in desperation. Doing so pulled Zangetsu free from the remaining spidery grip. He then vanished from all but the most astute observer's perceptions to reappear a short distance away, breathing hard.

Katsurou Arashi made no attempt to pursue. He hung back, arms at his sides with fingertips idly scratching through the soil. He now wore a set of matching spiked gauntlets made of a dark purplish metal that reached halfway up his forearms. Thin talons for fingers had grown to over two feet in length. Their undersides converged into edges sharp as knives. They gave all indication of being part of his body, jointed segments flexing even for the missing right hand. In addition to this, Katsurou's skin was now completely white. The wound in his shoulder no longer bled. More precisely, even the previous blood was gone, vanished without a trace.

Inhaling a slow breath, the Tiger Lord spread his arms and opened both sets of steel flechettes wide. "Come," he breathed a challenge.

Ichigo straightened in response. He glared at the pallid nobleman poised to fight. There was no cause to wonder at Arashi's intentions anymore. Extinction lurked in every movement he made. Their fight had crossed into new territory where any mistake could easily lead to death.

So what, really? I was ready for this. He's pulling out all the stops. Maybe I should show him my own resolve.

You would risk using your second release?

Got a problem with that?

What if he attempts a similar tactic?

I don't think so. Did you hear earlier? He called out his sword's release. When you achieve bankai, one of the benefits is that you can do your shikai instantaneously and not bother with a command. He just barely got it up in time to block you. I think if I go bankai it'll end this for good.

Overconfidence benefits only the enemy. You know this man to be adept at dissembling his true nature. It would not be wise to offer him any advantage over you.

Point taken. Alright, we'll keep it in check for when it'll do the most good.

Stay on your guard. There is no doubt more to his weapon than meets the eye.

When Ichigo made no move to pick up the gauntlet, as it were, Katsurou abandoned this strategy and instead stalked forward. He held his claws before him in preparation of further assault, stick-thin digits weaving and plucking at the air.

A slight rush of displaced air, and Zangetsu was stabbing at Arashi's legs. He batted the strike aside almost contemptuously with one hand and with the other sought to cleave Kurosaki's flesh. Ichigo ducked back to let these vicious fingers hurtle harmlessly by. With every slash he sought to divine the enemy's true menace. Katsurou was most definitely faster and stronger than he had been before. In fact, his enhanced output now served to put Ichigo on the defensive completely. For the nonce he was forced to concentrate on blocking every stab and jab that came his way, grimly giving ground while he sought to work out a strategy for victory. So far Katsurou wasn't displaying any sort of special ability in his first release. There was no overt sign of poison as with Mayuri Kurotsuchi's weapon, nor did an elemental category seem to be at work. Could it really be just a direct assault-type zanpakutō like Ikkaku Madarame's, or did it hide a deeper threat, like Yumichika Ayasegawa's?

Leaving that aside, what's my best move? Ichigo was not about to risk letting one of those talons touch him. Yet he had been unable to put enough distance between them to fire off a full Getsuga Tenshō. Bankai's seeming like a nicer option by the second. And if I could only use my Vaizard mask…

Meanwhile Lord Arashi continued his flurry of relentless attacks. He aimed at every available part on Ichigo's body, showing no regard for sparing his opponent injury as Ichigo had. A swipe at the youth's face made him jerk away suddenly, followed by another that would have opened his stomach had he not blocked it on Zangetsu's broad face. They were flying around the arena, trampling scorched earth underfoot as Ichigo strove to protect himself while remaining within the perimeter of the circle or risk disqualification. A kido spell was halfway out of his mouth before he remembered the ban on them, and angrily the youth bit back on any words escaping.

For his part Katsurou seemed dead-set on emerging triumphant in this duel. His eyes were narrowed, purposeful face grim as he hunted Ichigo from one end of the arena to another. There was an added fury in his movements that hadn't been evident before which only served to confirm his sobriquet of 'Tiger Lord'. He moved like a beast, slashing and striking with rapid strokes that disoriented the prey from their sheer ferocity even more than the obvious power behind them. This served to stoke Ichigo's own darker side.

A slash through his trouser fabric failed to draw blood but still angered him further. Dammit! If I could just get a second of respite, I might be able to turn the tide to my favor! But he's not giving me any time to recuperate! If only we were allowed to use kidō, I'd be able to catch my breath. Only that isn't allowed! What was the point of even going through all that damn training?

Why… WHY AM I NOT WINNING?! I'm better than this! Faster! Stronger! I'm… BETTER!

With a scream of outrage Ichigo delivered a backhand swing so powerful Katsurou was forced to check his assault. Before he could get a grip on the blade with his gauntlets the snarling teen had already whipped that enormous weapon around for another stroke. He dodged adroitly backward to avoid it, and suddenly it was Katsurou who gave ground before the incensed young warrior. Ichigo hacked and slashed so swiftly his zanpakutō became a blur to those watching on the outside.

I don't need kidō! I didn't have it when I beat Byakuya or Zaraki! Who does this guy think he is, intruding into my life and trying to take Rukia away from me?! It's none of his business!

Grimly the Arashi patriarch maneuvered backwards, features worked in concentration as he strove to guard against those awesome blows. For his part Ichigo was half in a frenzy, motivated less by training in martial arts and more a savage bloodlust akin to the captain of Tiger Company. He no longer viewed this fight as anything like a sporting event. Too much was at stake!

My future! Rukia and our child! If I have to beat this guy into a bloody pulp to make him realize what he messed with, then I will! If it takes losing another arm to make him surrender, that's what I'll do! I'll take him apart! I'll… kill…!

Ichigo drove forward with a howl, and this time nothing stopped him. Far away several people screamed.

They stood there for a moment staring at one another. Katsurou Arashi looked down at the giant blade driven clean through his chest, then up at the man holding it. Panting in shock and uncertainty, Ichigo merely stared back.

Did I just…?

Katsurou's arm flicked out.

Ichigo Kurosaki gave a small gasp. One hand broke from its death grip on Zangetsu's handle to touch his chest. There was no blood, but all the same, he could feel where a long gash had torn open his pectorals from one end to another.

Ichigo staggered back. His soul cutter slid from Katsurou's body easily, and the other man did not fall. He remained upright despite the large vertical hole perforating him from back to front. Not a drop of blood leaked out. Instead within that gaping wound there swarmed a strange black stuff that filled it completely. When Ichigo looked down, he saw the exact same thing happening to his injury.

Abruptly the skin around his cut turned white. At the same time, something squeezed his lungs. Ichigo took a breath and felt it catch in his throat. He fought to draw in air with painful effort. It felt like breathing through a straw. In disbelief he fell to his knees, wheezing pitifully.

"Yield."

Ichigo looked up. Katsurou stood across from him with hands behind his back. A flip of his head sent that long black braid over one shoulder, and he gazed down his nose at the suffering human.

"You are being eaten, Ichigo Kurosaki," the Tiger Lord informed him. "Jorōgumo's children are feasting upon your vital energies. Left unchecked, they will devour you from the inside out. Yield now before they reach your heart and you suffer grievous harm."

The gasping mortal stared up at him for a moment. A hideous dry tightness was spreading throughout his chest presaged by more skin turning white. His heart beat wildly. He tried to speak, failed, and forced it out in a croaking grunt.

"… no."

Lord Arashi blew a breath out through his nose. "I have no desire to kill you, boy. But this battle is over." As he spoke, the spreading sign of infection halted. Ichigo found himself able to breathe slightly easier, which he was only too glad to do so as Katsurou continued speaking. "Even were you to activate your bankai now, the damage has been done. You are no arrancar to heal all wounds upon releasing your weapon. If you do not receive medical attention swiftly, the damage will prove irreparable, and threaten your life upon returning to the physical plane." His voice grew softer. "No one will thank you if you insist on dying here, human. For the sake of all concerned, yield."

It was all Ichigo could do just to sit there trying not to pass out. Nonetheless he stubbornly shook his head.

Lord Arashi's eyes narrowed. "Very well. If you will not concede, I shall end this affair myself."

So saying he moved forward and seized Ichigo by the throat. With no visible effort he lifted the gagging youth off the ground to struggle in midair. His other gauntlet took firm hold of the hand still clutching Zangetsu to prevent any attempt at striking him. Katsurou then proceeded to walk towards the boundary of the arena holding his feebly kicking opponent. It was clear to those watching he intended to throw him from the ring.

A violent tremor went through the mortal hero's body, accompanied by an unearthly groan as he brought a hand up to his face.

---

Ichigo's Hollow stood atop the wind-whipped dunes struggling to draw breath. It held the golden cord attached to its chest in a death-grip. Despite this, there was an unholy smile on the creature's face.

"C'mon," it hissed. "Do it! You… chicken-shit coward… DO IT!"

The string went taut as piano wire in its hands. At this the Hollow gave a triumphant yell and pulled with all its might.

---

The Vaizard mask slid down. Ichigo screamed as black energy erupted around his body. This dire force caused Katsurou's fingers to let go convulsively and sent him staggering back. Ichigo hit the ground where he lay thrashing. A red mark glowed on the palm of one hand that bore the outline of his substitute shinigami badge. As the binding spell laid upon him years ago activated, red lines spread over the mask, and it began to slide off his face.

Suddenly his whole body launched into the air to hang there, arms and legs twitching uselessly. He looked like a puppet dangling from a single string. The black energy spread out on all sides until it became a hole torn in the sky.

In an instant Ichigo Kurosaki was sucked into this void, which promptly shut behind him.

Isane Kotetsu was already racing towards the field with several of her most talented medics in tow. She ground to a halt and gaped in perplexity at what just took place. Byakuya and Yoruichi came up a moment later. They looked at one another, but no one could provide an answer.

Back in the ring, Katsurou Arashi looked warily all about for some sign of his vanished foe. When it became evident he now stood alone, he reformed his zanpakutō and turned to face the other gathered nobles.

"He is gone," the Tiger Lord declared simply. "I have won."

---

Traveling through the Garganta, Ichigo tried to scream and failed. Cold emptiness stretched around him. He hurtled through the abyss without any means to stop. What's happening?!

Abruptly the void spat him out, and he landed atop a mound of sand to go rolling down it. Zangetsu landed a few yards off.

Before he could recover, someone kicked him in the ribs so hard he went flying.

"Finally…"

Kurosaki was on his feet a second after landing. He took only a moment to register he was in Hueco Mundo before diving towards his fallen weapon. As he did, a white figure sped in to block his path, and he found himself confronted by the Hollow.

"I've got you!" the nightmare rasped, smacking its lips. A horizontal slash across its torso stood out against white skin, which for some reason looked withered and shrunken. "No more hiding, no more waiting! This is it, King!"

"HADŌ #31: SHAKAHŌ!"

A huge glob of scarlet fire shot across the dunes to explode against the Hollow. It went pitching backward to roll into a smoking heap. The whole time, it never stopped laughing.

"What the hell… did you do?!" Ichigo snarled, his hand still glowing from the blast.

His Hollow shot up snickering. Already any damage inflicted was being repaired. In moments it stood whole once more, save for the gash in its pecs. "You finally snapped, you little… chicken shit!" the pale doppelganger grinned merrily. It coughed suddenly as though having trouble breathing. "I knew you'd… need me! The second you were in danger… you grabbed for your lifeline. Then since you were in Soul Society, that kooky little spell they put inside you popped up to stop it, and the struggle sent you bouncing back and forth between shinigami and Vaizard so bad I was able to pull you here, where there was no such resistance!"

As it spoke the Hollow seemed to catch its breath. At the same time the wound in its chest began to bleed freely. It glanced down at this and frowned. "Well, shit," it rasped. The Hollow threw its master an ungracious look. "You wanna do something about this, King? I can't heal what's been eaten."

Ichigo glared, but placed a hand against his own chest where blood also dripped from the injury he had been dealt. Soothing energy glowed around the wound. He took note that his skin was no longer white. Could it be Katsurou had turned off his zanpakutō, or just the result of getting too far away for it to have any effect?

At last the healing spell had done its work. He looked to find his Hollow still sporting that grizzly gash. Its lips curled faintly. "Doesn't work for me, huh? Should have known." The thing's head came up. "Not that it'll do you any good. It doesn't matter what happens to me now. From this point on, you're mine!"

"I don't have time for your games. I need to get back and finish that match." Ichigo turned to depart.

"Even if you win, your girlfriend's still gonna die."

He stopped. After a moment's hesitation, Ichigo turned to look at it once more. Upon seeing the expression on his face, the Hollow grinned ecstatically.

"It didn't have to end like this, you know. If any of you bastards had just given me what I needed, we could have avoided so much bullshit! But you all had to treat me like dirt. Like a slave!" It ran a black-nailed hand through white spiky hair and gave a disturbing chuckle. "I just needed one of them, y'know? One person you really cared about. It didn't have to be anyone in particular. Your sisters, or one of your friends, hell, even Ishida when you come right down to it. If you had just let me kill one of them… you being who you are, that would have been it. Game over. No way to forgive yourself for something like that. I know you. I know!"

"What did you do?" Ichigo demanded again, feeling his heart grow cold.

The Hollow held up its arms dramatically and let them flop to its sides. The smile it wore was contemptuous, but pitying too, in a strange way. "I sent the Wild Hunt to kill Rukia. Her and the baby. By now they're probably dead."

They glared at one another.

Then Ichigo turned and snatched up Zangetsu to go speeding across the limitless wastes.

"NO, YOU DON'T!"

So saying the white parody seized hold of the golden thread connecting them and yanked hard. In response Ichigo snapped back like a kite being pulled from the sky. He bumped and tumbled along before landing right at the Hollow's feet.

"I'm NOT letting you get away!" it screamed, black foam flying from its lips and yellow eyes ablaze with wrath. "You thought you could forget about me? About what I AM?! Live your life like nothing's wrong and you're not to blame?!"

Ichigo Kurosaki heaved upright with a savage scream and dove at the Hollow. "BANKAI!"

"NEVER! I'll NEVER let you go! We're going to FINISH THIS! You can't escape me! I'm your past! Your future! I'M! YOUR! KING!"

And the beast leapt to meet him in what both knew would be their final battle.

---

"Damn," Tatsuki breathed as she stared out the window. "It's like a hurricane."

This was the best description that came to mind. In the last hour the weather had undergone a frightening change no meteorologist or weather app could have predicted. Sunny skies were blotted out by dark ominous thunderheads pregnant with rain that refused to fall. Jagged bolts of electricity tore the air with alarming frequency, while gale-force winds ripped the slate off roofs and sent tree branches whipping wildly, like damned souls commanded to dance at some devil's whim. Anyone outdoors at this point would have been advised to seek shelter or risk death.

She went back to where Orihime was busying herself with emergency preparations. There were candles laid out along with flashlights, a medicine kit, a transistor radio, and even walkie-talkies. The electricity hadn't gone out yet although the lights did flicker from time to time. More worrying was the loss of cell phone coverage for some reason. Since this abrupt atmospheric disaster settled in they had been able to get no bars. Land lines and wired modems still worked, allowing her to call her parents to let them know she would be staying here until the storm had passed.

"It's so dark outside," Orihime lamented as she knelt by the table where her supplies were spread. She brushed a hand through her hair, touching the pins at her temples by way of reassurance. "Almost like nighttime."

"Only about an hour of daylight left anyway," Arisawa opined. "Guess there's no chance I can squeeze in another run before bed." The girl flopped down beside her best friend. "So what should we do the rest of the evening?"

"I was thinking, now that we're set in case of a disaster, we might tackle a new recipe I've been meaning to try! It's a jam tart. I was holding off until I actually had some jam, but under the circumstances, we can probably make do."

Tatsuki's lips pressed together on any number of frantic denials. Were it not for the hurricane, making up an excuse and running for dear life would have been a wise decision. Friendship with Orihime included the occasional bout of food poisoning and sweating on the bathroom floor wishing you were dead. Inoue herself had a cast iron stomach, so no problem there. Her big dazzling eyes were alight at the prospect of baking. Tatsuki felt she really didn't have the option of saying no at this point. And so with long-suffering resignation she put on a brave face and said, "That sounds great."

Orihime leapt up with a squeal of delight and went skipping towards the kitchen. "Okay, let's get started! Give me a minute to find the recipe."

Arisawa used this time to open the medicine kit and start looking for any milk of magnesia or Alka-Seltzer. Pays to be prepared.

While doing so, a ringing sound reached her ears.

Huh? She looked around in search of what might be causing this. Was that the doorbell? No, it's still going. Where's it coming from? After a moment her eye alighted on her book bag which she had brought with her in case they wound up studying. Upon rising to retrieve it Tatsuki rummaged around until she came up with her cell phone, a silver bell with a red satin ribbon tied to the strap. Had the reception come back? The jingling noise definitely came from here, but that most certainly was not any of her ringtones. Was it the phone ringing or… the bell?

Feeling a bit stupid, she pressed the answer button and held it to her ear. "Uhhh… hello?"

"Tatsuki-chan." A woman's voice she didn't recognize came over the line.

"Yeah?"

"Rukia is in danger."

Her throat clenched. Just as it occurred to her this might be a prank call, the woman continued. "The Wild Hunt has been sent to kill her. She's gone into labor and is at the hospital with the Quincy. They'll attack once the sun goes down. Contact Nanao, have her send word to Soul Society. And whatever you do, do not bring Ulquiorra into this."

The call ended.

Tatsuki didn't move. Her mouth had gone dry. For a while she could only stare at the wall. Too many incomprehensible things had been included in that message. How did they know about Ulquiorra? And Soul Society? And the baby.

It was this last point that galvanized her into action. Any threat to Rukia's child had to be taken seriously. With that she practically threw herself across the room to snatch up a land-line phone shaped like a monkey cradling a giant banana. For once it was a good thing both Orihime and Dr. Kurosaki had proven too old-fashioned to change much. Within seconds the phone was ringing at their place. And mercifully, it was Nanao who answered. "Kurosaki Clinic."

"Nanao-san! It's Tatsuki! I just got a call from somebody I don't know, but they told me Rukia had just gone into labor at Ishida's Dad's hospital! And they also said she was the target of this hunt that was trying to kill her and something about how it would come after dark! I know it sounds crazy, but I think you should contact Soul Society right away just in case!"

Silence greeted her. Then she could practically hear the woman take off her glasses in preparation for battle. "I will handle this. Wherever you are, stay there. Don't try to go help. And thank you, Arisawa-chan."

After that the line went dead. Breathing fast, Tatsuki listened to the dial tone. She could feel how hard her own heart was pounding. Nothing about the last few minutes made any sense.

"Tatsuki-chan?"

She looked up to see Orihime standing in the entrance to the kitchen. The girl had gone pale, and she shook violently. She had clearly heard everything.

I just told her about the baby.

About to speak, Tatsuki was brought up short when Orihime dashed past her. She flung open a closet and brought out two raincoats, one of which she tossed to Tatsuki.

"We'll take our bikes. It's faster than trying to get a cab," Inoue said as she began to button hers up. All previous hesitation was gone. She looked determined enough to take on an army. When Tatsuki still didn't move, the redhead looked at her and stated fiercely, "Come on! We have to help!"

Snapping out of her paralysis, Tatsuki proceeded to do the same. "Right!"

---

Nanao dropped the phone back into its cradle. Quick as a flash she summoned several hell butterflies and imparted everything she knew before dispatching them to their respective destinations. Thoughts buzzed through her head while watching them wing away.

What now?

Fiercely she sought to control herself; arrange matters in an orderly fashion just as she had done as a lieutenant of the 13 Court Guard Squads. No matter how she looked at it, though, there seemed to be no right answer. I can't leave the girls. But if I take them with me, they'll be in certain danger. Can I trust a gikongan spirit to watch them under the circumstances should I leave? No. Absolutely not. At the same time, I'm abandoning Kuchiki-chan and her baby to one of the most hideous threats in existence; a force from our worst nightmares whose only purpose is to slaughter without mercy.

She looked over her shoulder where the twins were sitting down to dinner. Yuzu ate without reservation, happily discussing plans for the upcoming summer vacation. For her part Karin listened with half an ear pushing food around on her plate. She claimed to have lost her appetite, but Nanao knew it was in response to what was happening outside. They could both feel the oppressive menace which she now knew to be a result of the Wild Hunt.

It's here. And if I challenge it, I could die. But that is not important. I don't fear death. Only failure.

No matter what I do, two innocents may come to harm. Objectively speaking Rukia is in safer hands. But even knowing there are people protecting her, that doesn't mean one more might not make the difference. And the hospital is far away from here. The Hunt will focus on their target to the exclusion of all else, meaning there is little chance they will come this way. If it were simply a matter of risk analysis the choice would be clear. Still, no matter how small the odds of it happening, the fact remains were I to leave there will be no one protecting them.

Ultimately the question is not a matter of reason. It is about values.

My duty as a shinigami. My responsibility to this family. I am not human. I am a spirit. The reason shinigami exist is to protect. Both the living and the dead. The cellphone system is down. I have no means to contact either of the Quincy or any other resourceful human allies. Without me the girls would be defenseless.

She stood in the hallway watching the two human children silently. Karin noticed her and looked over, the same question written all over her face that Nanao was thinking.

Are you staying?

No.

I can't. I can't… leave them.

If anything were to happen… the thought of what these children would have to face, terrified and all alone, with no hope of escape… I simply can't permit even the possibility of that happening. I realize even if Rukia comes out of this safe I will regret not going to help her for the rest of my life. I know myself that well. And I will live with that shame.

Even as she reached this conclusion, a knock came at the front door. Surprised, Nanao took a moment to register who it was by their spiritual signature. Upon doing so she moved quickly to answer it.

Sado 'Chad' Yasutora and Kunieda Ryō stood outside. Their hair and clothes blew savagely in the wind, and Kunieda actually shouted to be heard over the gale. "We felt something happening and decided to come over. Is there anything we can do to help?"

Nanao looked between them. Possibilities opened up which previously did not exist. I could have it all…

No. This changes nothing. I've already decided. My place is here.

She stood aside to allow them in. "Come inside quickly. I'll tell you what I know. We are in a very bad situation."

---

This is a trap. It has to be.

Of course it's a trap, King. Why else would they tell you about it?

But what are they thinking? Do they expect me to take one look at this Hollow and say, 'He couldn't possibly have killed Hachi, because I did it!'

If it's Renji and that idiot girlfriend of his, maybe so. But this stinks of Yoruichi and Urahara. Just play it cool. Don't give anything away.

Yes. You're right. Just stay cool.

The Masked Army moved through the ranks of shinigami on their way to the commanders' tent. It did not escape their attention that more than one company was amassed here. There looked to be members of Siamese as expected, but also Viper and even Leopard. Several fighters seemed interested in them as they passed, pointing the Vaizard out to their fellows and whispering curiously. None of the Masked Army stopped to chat or even acknowledge this interest.

However, they all took note of one tent in particular separated from the others and ringed round by almost fifty armed guards and mages.

Upon reaching the largest pavilion that housed the squad leaders, Shinji Hirako strode up to the guards flanking the entrance. "We're here about the captured Hollow," he said without preamble.

The sentries exchanged glances and one ducked inside to emerge a few moments later. "Please go in."

They did so. There the Vaizard found Captain Neliel tu Odelschvank and her erstwhile lieutenant Renji Abarai, at least while they were in Hueco Mundo. With them was Captain Hitsugaya Tōshirō of Leopard and Lieutenant Tetsuzaemon Iba from Viper. They all stood from their places around a table as the demi-Hollows entered, Renji wincing and fingering some bandages around his waist.

"Thank you all for coming," Nel said. "I'm sorry if this news came as a surprise to you. Several people felt it would be best if no one outside the operation was informed until after it proved successful. At any rate, I hope the result will prove satisfactory for you all."

She appeared quite relaxed, in marked contrast to the other officers present, who had trouble hiding their trepidation. This might be the result of her being a Hollow and not quite as concerned about shinigami infighting.

"Hey, no hard feelings." Shinji shrugged. His middle class clothes hound style of dress contrasted with the black and white shinigami as much as anyone else in his party. Despite this he took to command with the surety of one long used to it. "We all appreciate why you wanted to keep this under wraps. It couldn't have been easy. But if it's not too much trouble, just to satisfy our curiosity, how exactly did you learn this Hollow was the killer?"

Neliel blinked. "Wait… what?"

The tension in the room actually ratcheted up a notch if you could believe that. All the Vaizard sensed it, and it made them very uneasy. Hitsugaya frowned, while Renji looked to Iba as though asking if he had heard right before turning to confront them. "Sorry, Hirako-san, I think there might be a mistake here. We didn't catch the killer."

"Eh?" One blonde eyebrow rose behind his bangs. He turned to his teammates, who looked as mystified as he was. "So then what are we all doing here?"

Tōshirō rose to answer. "You've been misinformed," he told them without preamble. "The person we caught was a witness to Hachigen Ushoda's murder, not the perpetrator."

The Vaizard grew still. Eventually it was Mashiro Kuna who skipped forward to peer at the assembled Gotei representatives. "Say what now?"

Neliel slid out from behind the desk. "Follow me." She gave a nod to the injured Abarai, who retook his seat along with the others. The lovely arrancar moved to join the Vaizard as they left the tent. Once outside they were joined by her fracción, Pesche and Dondochakka. Half-breeds of both species then crossed through a pitched encampment, eventually drawing up outside the fortified tent witnessed earlier. Without hesitation the guardsmen made way to allow this eclectic assembly passage. Her scarred subordinates drew asides the tent flaps as Captain Odelschvank entered followed closely by the Vaizard.

Once inside they found themselves in an otherwise empty space save for the lone figure inside. A Hollow with a bull mask dressed in somewhat tattered white raiment was slumped on his knees upon the sand. Both hands were chained to posts set in front of him and a number of ropes bedecked with charm slips wound around his throat, attached to other stakes spaced in a circle. The Hollow gave no sign of fear upon their arrival. In fact, he didn't move a muscle.

Nel drew to a halt outside the warding area. "This is Rudobon Chereute. He's one of the remainders of Aizen's army, a pretty high-ranking fellow." She looked between the small crowd of onlookers. "Do any of you recognize him?"

To a man they all shook their heads.

"Hmm." The captain nodded before turning to study the prisoner. "Well, we received intel that he was our guy. According to an account from Rukia Kuchiki, Rudobon here was taken down by an Espada right before the official start of the Autumn War. His whereabouts after that were unknown, but apparently this left him in no condition to join the actual fight in Soul Society. Which explains how he could have survived to this point."

"So what makes you think he knows who killed Hachi, then?" Rabu 'Love' Aikawa rumbled.

"From what we've been told, he has the ability to produce an endless supply of clone soldiers he calls Calaveras. These are used in combat and reconnaissance. Seems after he got his ass handed to him, Rudobon feared retaliation and escaped Las Noches. He sent a bunch of Calaveras out in all directions to confuse any pursuers and cover his trail, and one of these clones happened to be close by when your comrade got slaughtered. Either it was injured and left for dead or just in hiding, but it saw everything. Rudobon is connected to his duplicates, which is how he found out. Afterwards he joined up with Grimmjow's crew and has been running with them ever since."

"How did you learn all this exactly?" Lisa Yadomaru stood with hands clasped around the pommel of her sword, its sheath planted between her feet. "I can't imagine he or anyone from Grimmjow's gang just walked up and disclosed all this for your benefit."

Their comrade wistfully pushed a hand through her viridian hair. "Ichimaru told us."

They didn't respond. Instead each Vaizard took the time to go over everything they had heard as well as they were able. And it did sound pretty believable. If one were suspicious, maybe a little too believable. Like somebody sneaky (e.g. Gin Ichimaru!) had spun this tale in such a deviously masterful way to counter all their doubts while still leaving plenty of room for fear and mistrust. The end result would be the Vaizard tearing themselves apart. They knew this, yet still couldn't deny it all seemed plausible on its face. Could they really believe a word of her story?

After a brief pause to digest this information Shinji shook his head and asked the question they were all thinking. "So what did he say?"

"Nothing yet." Neliel sucked the tip of a finger without taking her sandy eyes off their captive, as if daring him to make a move. "Tōshirō-kun roughed him up pretty bad during the capture. He's been out cold ever since, no pun intended. We thought, might as well let him rest at least until you guys showed up."

"Well, we're here," Hiyori stated quietly. "What now?"

Their host headed towards the exit. "Soifon has gone to report back to the Captain-Commander about everything that's taken place. Once she returns, we'll be authorized to begin the interrogation." She paused at the open tent flap. "I'll have to ask you all to stay clear until then. For security reasons."

They all agreed this was reasonable. Taking one last look at the only solid clue regarding their friend's murder, the curiously subdued party followed her back into the milling camp.

What a bunch of shit.

Oh? You sound pretty sure.

Of course I'm sure! You were there. We both know for a fact that there were absolutely no witnesses to what happened!

But there was a lot of confusion that day. Not to mention Hollow corpses littered around. And it would actually explain how Grimmjow found out about us in the first place. Are you sure one of those Calavera things might not have been half-buried in a sandbar recording everything you did?

Everything we did. And yes, I'm 100% positive. Haven't you forced me to relive that moment often enough virtually every damned night?

Right, sure, blame me for your own craven nightmares. I don't mind. At any case, what do you intend to do about this?

Do? There's nothing I need to do. This is obviously a clumsy trap on the part of the Gotei 7. Whether or not Ichimaru had a hand in it doesn't change the fact that only I know what took place that day. They think they can scare me into overreacting and showing my hand. But I know there's no credible threat, so their little game is useless.

But are you sure?

GODDAMMIT, STOP ASKING ME IF I'M SURE! I AM SURE! I'M SURE, I'M SURE, I'M SURE! THERE'S NO DOUBT IN MY MIND THIS IS A TRAP, AND I WON'T BE TAKEN IN BY IT!

Whatever you say, King. As long as you're sure…

The Masked Army was given a private tent to themselves near the officers' quarters. An hour passed. Then two. During this time, none of them spoke. They were all on edge, making a point not to sharpen their weapons or act in any way belligerent, much less ask what the others might think of this affair. It was a waiting game now.

Then the sound of a commotion came from outside. The Vaizard looked askance at one another. Could it be word had arrived from Captain-Commander Kuchiki? Should they investigate or sit tight until someone came for them?

A silent consensus saw them rise and go to learn what the trouble might be. Upon leaving the tent it became evident all was not well. Alarms were being raised. Shinigami ran to and fro around the camp, shouting and calling to one another. Standing by themselves in the midst of this mayhem, the Vaizard couldn't help but grow alarmed. At that moment Lieutenant Iba came rushing through the fray towards them.

"What's going on?" Shinji demanded as he drew to a halt. "Is the prisoner secure?"

"Yes, don't worry, I've just been to check on him." The black shades he wore even in the eternal night of Hueco Mundo almost lent Iba the appearance of a Hollow himself. They were like two empty pits gouged out of his impassive face. "We've received word about a disturbance in the mortal realm. There might have been an assault on Karakura Town, possibly by the Wild Hunt. The details aren't clear, but the captains have ordered us to mobilize and deploy in response. They request you join us. A force will remain behind to ensure the prisoner's safety." He bowed to them. "Please, honored members of the Masked Army, lend us your strength!"

Even the mere mention of the Hunt was enough to forestall any questions. "You got it!" Mashiro beamed, and rushed forward to give the burly Yakuza lookalike a big hug. The other Vaizard reacted swiftly. While Iba was attempting unsuccessfully to untangle himself, Shinji rounded on his comrades.

"Alright, you heard the man, ladies and germs! Let's split up to maximize support. Love, Rose, you go with Lieutenant Iba and aid Viper." The pair nodded and immediately took off. "Ladies, go keep little Tōshirō and his Leopard boys safe." All three lieutenants peeled away in search of their assigned company. That left only the two remaining captains. "Kensei, you and I will help out Siamese."

The silver-haired combat junkie grinned. "And here I thought today was shaping up to be dull."

They set out on their assigned missions. The individual Vaizard were not unaware of what was transpiring. Despite this they all retained enough faith in their former fellows of the Gotei 7 not to allow anything to happen to Rudobon Chereute while they were away. All seven of them spread out through the chaotic bustling mishmash of three separate divisions. The differences between one Gotei squad and another proved telling. While they had apparently cooperated in the capture of Rudobon, with the unexpected need to relocate to the land of the living, it would appear that any sense of instilled order was swiftly unraveling. Arguments about who went where broke out. Officers jostled for position or called one another on seniority. Wherever they went, the Vaizard sought to establish some sense of shared purpose and discipline. This did not prove easy. The place was a warzone.

Rather convenient, wouldn't you say?

I know. Karakura just happens to get attacked while we're here? That creates a lot of confusion which someone might take advantage of to kill their so-called witness. I can't believe they think I'll fall for it.

Not that. I meant this is our chance to run.

What? Run? Why would I do that?

Even if this is a farce, it's obvious you don't have much longer to last. Look at how things have been for the last few months. At any moment your buddies are bound to snap and cut your throat. It won't even matter if they believe you're the traitor. All the little nuisances and suspicions and outrages will come to a boil. Just like it did with Hachi. You should scamper away now while the place is in turmoil.

Don't be stupid. That would be an admission of guilt. I just need to keep calm.

And what if I say no?

You… don't. Please. Not here, not now. We can talk about this later.

Talk, talk, talk. That's all you're good for. I think it's about time we had a little action!

"Rose?"

Some soldiers from Viper were practically ready to draw swords against their fellows in Leopard over who had first passage through a designated portal to the mortal realm. It looked as though things were escalating rapidly. Hoping to get some assistance in defusing the argument, Love Aikawa looked around. "Did anyone see where Rose went?"

A few of the shinigami merely shook their heads before going back to sniping at one another. Privately Love had grown worried. He heard Hiyori shouting at someone in the distance, and could see Kensei arguing with a couple guys who didn't seem certain where they belonged.

"Dammit." Love shifted uneasily before pushing his way through the crowd. "Where did he go?"

---

One of the sentinels on duty outside Rudobon's prison felt a slight chill, as though someone had brushed by her. She nodded to one of her fellows and the two of them entered the tent together. Both looked around in search of anything untoward. But no; the captive remained where they had left him, and all seemed well. Having satisfied themselves of this they went back outside.

The sounds of an army on the move came through the thick cloth walls. Numerous tramping feet made the very sands vibrate. A number of slight footprints from the previous visitors still stood out.

Then one of those footprints shifted slightly, as something unseen stepped closer to where Chereute lay helpless.

Hidden beneath an expertly cast concealment offered by Bakudo #26, the invisible assassin drew to a halt. He glanced fearfully over one shoulder, afraid of being caught or found out. I have to do it fast. Just be quick and get it done! An urge to apologize aloud for what he was about to do took hold. Instead he steeled himself, reaching down to grasp the helpless captive by its two polished horns. Rudobon did not stir in the slightest.

Forgive me.

With that, he gave a sharp twist that snapped the Hollow's neck.

Next thing he knew, the Vaizard lay slumped on the floor, twitching and shuddering. When he looked around it was to find a ring of short cylinders had sprung up from the sand around the perimeter. Kairoseki, he realized. Death stone! This power-sucking quarantine circle was potent enough to subdue even a shinigami captain if need be. Already his strength had departed, leaving him helpless, on display for all to see with his invisibility spell broken.

In just a few seconds he was caught. Neliel arrived in the company of Tōshirō. They gazed at him in a way that spelled certain doom. A minute after Shinji was there, and Hiyori, and all the rest of his friends. When he saw the way they looked at him it made him sick to his stomach, and he actually began to plead. "Wait…"

Hiyori stepped forward and kicked him in the face, nearly breaking his nose in the process. Before she could do any more Hirako stepped in to restrain her. She made no sound while struggling, only glared at him there on the floor, eyes wide and furious.

While this was happening Rose came in last. "You?" he whispered, face blank from shock and disbelief.

Lying on the ground with his glasses broken from Hiyori's attack, Love closed his eyes. "Sorry," he whispered.

They bound him and took away his zanpakutō. Soifon arrived to take charge of the incarceration. She must have been here the whole time. Rudobon Chereute's corpse, uncleansed by any soul cutter, was given to Neliel's fracción to be disposed of. Once certain all was in hand, Nel and Renji continued to oversee the journey to the mortal realm. Apparently that notice of an impending attack wasn't a ruse after all. Just luck, or did they have something else in mind before that happened?

It didn't matter. Love felt he had done enough.

---

I'm… free.

Oh, please.

I'm free. I'm free. I'm FREE!

Are you seriously this stupid? What the hell just happened, anyway?! Why in the world did that moron go and do that?

Who CARES! Who cares why he did it?! Maybe it was some kind of spell Unohana planted in him! Maybe Aizen hypnotized him ages ago to act in case it seemed I was about to get caught! None of that matters! Don't you understand?! This means we're FREE!

How nice. I wonder what your buddies would think if they knew you were halfway to Las Noches when we felt Love go under?

You can't ruin this for me. Everything's going to be okay now. I know it. I feel it. All my worries are over.

And all it took was your best friend sacrificing himself. You know what would really make you seem innocent? If you offered to chop his head off when they decide to execute him.

It won't come to that. Now that it's been confirmed the guilty party was one of us, there's no more risk of interference. The Vaizard are not part of the Gotei 7. They can't tell us how to deal with one of our own. I'll speak out on Love's behalf, help them to get past any bitterness and anger that might cloud their judgement. They all know how close he and I we were. If I show that I can still forgive him, and vouch for him, the worst that will happen is he'll be put on trial and sentenced to prison. That's all.

What if the spell or whatever wears off and he doesn't confess?

It won't matter. He was caught red-handed. As far as they're concerned, he's guilty. Hachi's murder will finally be addressed and can safely be forgotten. Now that we're safe our only concern should be how to soften the blow.

He just took your place for absolutely no reason we can be sure of! And you're not the least bit concerned about this? Two minutes ago you were certain the whole thing was a trap, and now you're brushing off the most incomprehensible part of a seriously screwed-up deal?! You idiot!

He ignored this parting shot. Drying his eyes, he looked at himself in the reflection of his soul cutter and smiled. For once, he really felt it. Afterwards the traitor got up and exited the tent where his unsuspecting allies waited. They were so kind to give him privacy to grieve before heading out to battle. He honestly appreciated it. They all looked close to despair. But as Love's closest friend, his grief must be the harshest. And so he let a tear run down his cheek, the one not covered by a fall of long blond hair.

"Let's go," Rōjurō 'Rose' Ōtoribashi said, putting on a brave face for them.

---

Behind a pall of clouds, the sun prepared to dip below the horizon, and the whole world seemed to hold its breath. At last a final glimpse of light vanished from that part of the world, plunging Karakura Town in the first vestiges of night.

They came, then. In the hundreds they came, emerging seemingly from nowhere to loom over the flimsy dwellings and the fragile humans cowering within. Beasts of all different stripes or virtually identical to one another now stood like black towers amongst the civilized habitations. Their maddened howls dwarfed the peals of thunder and caused those who heard them to doubt whether they would live to see the dawn.

In the midst of all this their leader emerged. Cernunnos emitted a roar that brought all clamor to a momentary halt. Guided now by their master's voice, the monsters set their sights on a large building wherein hid the prey.

The Wild Hunt rejoiced.

To be continued…