Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach and never will. Thank you to Nienna Telrunya for betaing.

-DIVIDER-

Ichigo's POV…

It is early in the morning, not long after the dawn itself. We didn't waste much time getting here, although we had very little sleep, the strangeness of our not-dreams and the constant sounds in the night keeping us awake. "Are you sure you want to do this, Ichigo?" Toshiro whispers next to me as we wait outside the apparent communications room of the City on a Hill's police station. Toshiro has assured me that the police chief there is more or less trustworthy, and apparently owes me a great deal for helping him clean out the city's scum. You learn something new every day, I inform myself wryly. Especially if you were more or less born yesterday.

The silent, poor attempt at a joke does little to ease my misgivings about this whole situation, and Toshiro picks up on it. "We could just leave right now; we don't have to stay…"

I really think about his offer, as I'm taking a big risk by essentially turning myself in. On one hand, getting the chance to learn about my supposed power would be useful. On the other hand, I don't know exactly why I'm being chased by the shinigami in the first place. Perhaps for some crime I committed but can't remember? Then again, the memory of that one man jumping in front of me, like he was trying to shield me, replays in my mind. It's hard to forget, especially when I'm clinging to all the memories I have left. Why would he do that if I were a criminal or outlaw?

"I want to learn more about myself, and I want to learn how to use my power, if I really have any. This is the only way I can think of to do both. At least this way, I'll be turning myself in on my own terms, not theirs." I smile slightly at him. "Besides, you're going with the shinigami sometime soon yourself, right?"

He stares up at me, as if unnerved by the reminder, but then offers me a small, weak smile. "I suppose it wouldn't be bad to have a second person there that I know," he comments with a nod, seeming to tentatively warm up to the idea.

"That's the spirit," I encourage, secretly thinking along the same lines. "But wait—a second person? You know someone there already?" I peer down at him in mild surprise.

He makes a small sound of affirmation. "Yes, my adopted sister, Hinamori Momo. The last I heard, she was taking the test to graduate from the shinigami academy."

"The last you heard? You mean, you don't talk to her anymore?" I blurt the words out, more thinking out loud to myself than asking him, and sorely regret my rashness. Toshiro winces visibly, although slightly.

"...More like she doesn't speak with me," he says, almost under his breath. Louder, he adds, "Ordinary Rukongai plus souls are not permitted into the capital."

I grimace but latch onto the new topic. "That seems kinda harsh."

My young friend just shrugs some. "Not really," Toshiro replies nonchalantly, although I get the distinct feeling that he secretly agrees with me. I think he's about to explain more, but before he gets the chance the door to the communication room opens up and out strides Officer Suzuki.

The man with just-starting-to-gray black hair and a kind smile gives me an encouraging nod. "Alright, he's ready and waiting for you."

I nod appreciatively and stare at the open door. Toshiro glances up at me worriedly when I freeze for several seconds and make no move towards the door.

Suzuki looks at me curiously. "Having second thoughts?" he asks softly.

I grimace, but make no attempt to answer. This is serious. This is really happening, I think, unsettled. I am about to speak with one of the most powerful men in all the Seireitei. Me, some random amnesic mercenary from the Rukongai. I don't know how to speak elegantly. What if I offend him and screw up? What will I do then? Am I being self-conscious? This isn't like me…is it? That thought makes my nerves all the worse.

"You'll be alright," Suzuki assures me, patting me on the shoulder. "Remember what I said? He's a good man and cares about the people out here. You don't have to make some grand speech to make your case. Just say it as it is."

I blink. Just say it as it is…. "Yeah, I can do that."

Suzuki smiles. "Good man," and with a small prod pushes me to the door. I walk through without another thought.

Inside is a room full of large, quietly buzzing and softly blinking electronics. I'm not sure

what they're all exactly supposed to do, but the word computer comes to mind, and for some reason I feel that they're all…outdated, even though they appear close to brand new and in good condition. One side of the room, however, is dedicated completely to a large flat screen that is active, and I can just make out someone on the screen from this angle. I try to make a tentative smile as I stride toward the screen. However, the expression feels awkward and nervous, so by the time I actually stand in front of my destination, my expression has reverted back into a light scowl. Appearing in the large, rectangular screen is a well-dressed man with somewhat messy brown hair, black rimmed glasses, a soft smile and kind chocolate brown eyes. Nerd. The word pops to mind above all else, and I have to restrain some of my amusement. Or is it relief? This guy doesn't look intimidating at all, and I find myself quickly gaining confidence, although I make sure to keep a check on it so it doesn't turn to cockiness.

The captain takes the lead, words welcoming and at ease. "Hello. Ichigo-san, I presume?"

I nod. "Aa, that's right."

He smiles a bit brighter. "I am Aizen Sosuke, captain of the Fifth Division of the Gotei Thirteen. Officer Suzuki has just informed me of your situation. I'm very sorry for what you've been through, and I'd like you to know that I'll help you anyway I can."

I nearly choke on air. I've barely said three words, if that, and have gotten more than I could ever ask for. "That's…uh, very kind of you. Thank you," I manage, sounding short of breath. I might not even need the help of those other two shinigami, I remark internally, light-headed for a moment, but I quickly force myself to retract that. No. Nothing against this guy, but…best ask for the person who jumped in front of me to protect from one of his own people, and owes me some sort of debt of gratitude.

Captain Aizen tilts his head at me thoughtfully. "You seem confused. Allow me to explain. You may not remember it due to a regrettably common side-effect of passing on, but—"

"Wait, what? You know what happened to me? What happened to my memory?" I inquire intensely, leaning forward and laying a hand on the desk in front of me.

The man seems somewhat alarmed but quickly recovers. "I see. You are not even aware of that much, then."

"Aware of what?" I ask, voice strained and trying to keep my cool.

He looks at me sadly. "I wish I could tell you this in person, but I don't believe it is wise to wait." He leans forward, sympathetic brown eyes now clear behind his glasses. "Ichigo-kun, only recently have you passed on from the World of the Living. Do you understand what I am saying?"

My mind whirls, and for a moment I feel faint. "I…I get what you're saying. I died not too long ago, right?" It's a hard pill to swallow. I thought that if I could just remember, I could regain my life here. Turns out my life is actually in another world altogether, and I can never get it back. It makes sense. I can recall little things like what movie theatres are and the names of countries I'm fairly certain don't belong in the Soul Society. I just can't remember any personal things. Family, friends… Heck, I don't even know my familial name. Just Ichigo, since I apparently told someone before it all went…blank. What use are my memories anyway? I think, depression gnawing at my insides. It'll just cause me pain. I can't go back to my old life. Although I know this is true, something inside me can't help but rebel viciously at the thought.

"That's right," Aizen is saying quietly with a small nod. "Souls lose their memories when they pass over. For some, it happens a bit later than usual. I believe this is what occurred in your case, as I've been told you have no memory of becoming a mercenary or helping the people of my city."

I nod numbly. I've been told all of that by Toshiro and Officer Suzuki, one of the reasons why the latter was so eager to help me. "What…" I swallow thickly. "Then, what do you think I should do now?" I peer up at the figure tentatively, willing to listen to any advice for the time being.

He smiles kindly. "You have done more than help my city since you've come here, Ichigo-kun. Many people feel indebted to you and seek to help you. You may have met a few of them already."

I perk up. "Uh, yeah, actually. The Shibas." I proceed to describe the two shinigami who approached me while I was on the run. "But there were others, too, who wanted to fight me…?" My expression sours.

He nods understandingly and returns regretfully, "They heard you possess the power of a shinigami and are quite strong. They were eager to test your mettle, so to speak. Much too eager, considering the circumstances. But do not worry. They have been called off, and now the only shinigami in your area are the ones who purely wish you well."

I listen on in stunned fascination. So it's true, then. I do have the power of a shinigami! Maybe I can have a life here after all.

"If you'd like, I can contact the ones you've already meet and arrange an in-person meeting. They can speak with you in greater detail of what we have to offer here, in the Seireitei. From what I understand, your young friend will be coming here shortly as well."

"Aa." I confirm with a quick nod. "That sounds good," I agree readily, trying not to seem too eager.

"Wonderful. Shiba Kaien will arrive to your location soon enough, I'm sure."

"Thank you…Aizen-taicho, right?"

"That's correct. You are more than welcome, Ichigo-kun. I look forward to meeting you in person here at the Seireitei."

-DIVIDER-

Kuchiki Rukia's POV…

I make my way through the Third Division's front gate and can't help but feel ill at what greets me. Everywhere I look, demoralized shinigami wander about with no apparent destination, eyes either blank with horror or filled with tears. No division has suffered worse than this one, and my heart aches for them. Demoralized and now with absolutely no chain of command to speak of, the meager remains of the once-great division are left to mourn their losses in quiet agony. Divisions are tight-knit groups, even ones like the eleventh (although they pretend otherwise). One death is painful enough. With the Third's losses and the recent surge of MIAs…?

According to what Kaien-dono has told me, Unohana-taicho, in fear that those who remain would begin to commit suicide, suggested a few things at the last captains' meeting. She suggested that all remaining division members be removed from active duty, allowing only voluntary light duty for those who find work the only way to deal with grief. The soutaicho agreed and assigned Tenth Division fukutaicho Matsumoto Rangiku to rally and pull together what is left of the division.

As their haunted gazes briefly filter over to me, I can't help but agree with the Fourth Division Taicho's assessment. Suicide does not seem that big of a stretch, for those who wear such glassy eyed expressions.… I quicken my pace, mouth dry. I have enough people to mourn back in my division without committing the pains of these sorry souls to memory. It sounds cruel, but with no way to actively help them for the time being, I need to look inwards.

Unwilling to ask any of the shell-shocked souls surrounding me for something as petty as directions, I use Matsumoto-fukutaicho's reiatsu signature as my guide. I find her in the division's main compound, helping create memory shrines for the fallen. "Matsumoto-fukutaicho," I greet quietly and bow, the forlorn atmosphere in here contagious. I almost loathe to call the woman away from these souls who so obviously need her gentle guidance.

"Hm, yes…? Oh. Rukia-chan, is it?" She offers me a weak smile, looking tired, but holding it together for the sake of her duty as temporary acting captain of the Third. "What are you doing here?"

"Yes, ma'am. I come from the City on a Hill with an update on the situation there. The plus soul Hitsugaya Toshiro and the unaffiliated shinigami known only as 'Ichigo' have already awoken and begun making for the city. We are unsure of their plan, but we are more than a little concerned. Although we have cleared out the vast majority of hollows in the entire area, Soifon-taicho is rather…antsy. She has reason to believe the pair may be in grave danger the longer they stay due to a recent death of an operative in the area." I explain quickly, words clipped.

The radiant haired fukutaicho straightens to her considerable height and looks down at me quizzically. "If things are so urgent, why not contact me on the soul pagers?"

I frown slightly. "We tried, ma'am, but there's interference, and with the unreliability of hell butterflies as of late…"

She makes a soft 'tching' sound, looking troubled. "Well, alright then. Give me a moment to inform the people here, and we'll be off. Hopefully Hitsugaya-kun will listen to me again, and that orange-haired cutie will follow willingly."

-DIVIDER-

Shiba Kaien's POV…

"Shiba-fukutaicho here."

"Ah, Shiba-fukutaicho! How good it is to hear your voice. I was growing worried I'd never be able to reach you, with interference as common as it is as of late."

"Yes, we were having interference as well…"

"Try not to worry too much. The Twelfth Division has assured everyone that our unusual closeness to Hueco Mundo is only temporary. Once our two planes have passed by, communications should return to normal."

"One can hope. Sorry, but did you need something?"

"I don't need anything; quite the opposite actually."

"Thank you for offering, but there is already a taicho, two fukutaichos, and a sizable number of seated officers here. We have things well in hand."

"You misunderstand. I am not volunteering, but making contact with you on behalf of the boy you seek."

"…He contacted you? How?"

"Well, yes. And through the police station. He wishes to arrange a meeting with you, and possibly with Kuchiki-san, though from what I understand she is here in the Seireitei on some errand…?"

"Aa, that's right. How is Ichigo?"

"Nervous. Confused. Wary. It's understandable. You see, I believe him to be suffering from the memory loss so common for newly arrived souls. Chances are, he does not remember any of his previous encounters with you, Kuchiki-san, or your wife or anything else before yesterday…Shiba-fukutaicho?"

"Still here. It's just, if that is the case, you'd think he'd just avoid shinigami altogether, given how yesterday went…"

"That would be the case in most instances, I agree, but it seems he is a particularly mature young man who has collected a fair deal of gratitude and friends in his short time here. You were wise to wait. After collecting himself, he decided to approach the head security officer of the City on a Hill for help and information."

"I understand. This is a relief. Did he mention anything else, besides agreeing to a meeting?"

"I believe he was already aware of his power when he contacted me, despite his memory loss, but nothing beyond that. He politely insisted that he would like to speak to you face to face."

"At the station, then?"

"Yes, as soon as possible."

"I better get going. Thank you for your assistance, Aizen-taicho."

"It was my pleasure."

The screen on my Denreishinki flashes a Transmission End message several times before going blank. I stare at it, expression equally blank. My hand tightens around the machine, nearly crushing it. Aizen, I won't see you sink your claws into this one too….

-DIVIDER-

Matsumoto Rangiku's POV…

Hands, cold to the touch, drape over my blue eyes. "Guess who!" a familiar voice teases in a sing-song fashion, light breath tickling the side of my neck.

I pause, stunned by the sudden newcomer. I hadn't sensed him approaching! Amazing, for such a sizable amount of spiritual pressure! "Hm…" I hum, deciding to play along. "The most devastatingly attractive man in all the worlds?"

"Right first try! But what's m' name?"

"I don't know! I've never met the most devastatingly attractive man man in all the worlds."

"Aw, so mean Rangiku-chan!"

"What? You mean I've already meet you? Darn, I suppose that means I guessed wrong." I sigh, pouting cutely. "Give me some hints!"

"Ya 'eren't wrong! But alright then… The person in all the worlds who cares about you, loves to see you smile, and has the cutest limited-edition gikon accessory waiting for you."

"Gin-kun?!" I exclaim, containing my inner joy at the thought of a gikon accessory. "You're finally back. Where've you been?!" I whirl around and swing my arms around his neck, hugging him tight.

"Oof! Nice to see ya too, Ran-chan," he returns happily, chuckling quietly. "An' hello. Who's your li'l friend, Ran-chan?" I turn to glance to Rukia-chan. Poor girl! I'd almost completely forgotten her.

"This is Rukia-chan. She's recently become an honorary Shiba, but don't you go spreading rumors now!"

Gin looks amused. Well, he always looks amused, but this time I get that distinct amused vibe from that ever-present grin. "No worries there; you more than have that covered." I blush, having the decency to look ashamed… And I am ashamed. It was because of me and my drunk gossiping that 11th swarmed Aizen-taicho's city and scared that poor, long-lost Shiba kid to his wit's end.

With barely a sound, Gin adds under his breath, "Really Ran, eleven in the morning?" Oh. Of course that'd be what he's most concerned about—the time of my drinking habits, and not the gossiping.

I sigh, equally quietly. I give a small shake of my head, looking at him in the eyes—or trying to, anyways. My message is clear. This isn't the place or the time. He accepts it with the slightest of nods, then turns to face Rukia-chan. Sliding his hands into his opposite sleeves, he wishes the younger shinigami a cheerful good morning that she returns shyly, deeply reserved around the man. It hurts to see so many people treat my closest friend this way. Gin-kun doesn't help. He never says a bad word towards anyone, and can be the most thoughtful, kind person…

But his demeanor. That ever present smile serving as his mask. The cold aura his power gives off. It wards people away—makes them afraid. I know he does it all on purpose, but for what reason, I can never guess. This is the Seretei, not the Rukongai. "Nice ta meet ya. You're from the thirteenth, right?" I vaguely hear him say, having tuned out for a moment. She confirms this, looking restless, which my friend since childhood is quick to bring to attention.

"I mean no disrespect, sir, but we were on an important errand when you came to say hello to Masumoto-fukutaicho." She inclines her head to show respect, trying to offset her brazen words. Now I can see why the Shibas like her so much. It takes quite a bit of nerve to (even politely) tell off a fukutaicho, and Gin-kun no less!

"Mm, about that, Aizen-taicho wanted me to tell you two that that's not necessary any more. The new kid apparently got into contact with the 'head security officer' there, who in turn contacted Aizen-taicho, who in turn was able to arrange a meeting between Shiba-fukutaicho and him."

Rukia-chan stares blankly for a moment, trying to process all of that. When she does, she gives a smile. "That's a relief. He's alright then, is he?" Rukia questions.

"Mostly, but—" I bite my lip in concern, and he sets his hands on my shoulders to calm me down as he continues. "But he seems to be experiencing memory loss. It took a lot longer than expected to kick in for a newly arrived soul…"

"Poor kid," I mutter, saddened. All souls that pass on from the world of the living (instead of being born in the Soul Society) have gone through the process, of course, although those with stronger spiritual pressure seem to hold on to their memories of their previous life longer. Once they fade though, they're gone forever; all of the memories up until that point just disappear one day.

"No wonder he was so distressed at seeing us the second time," we hear Rukia-chan mutter as she stares down in regret. "It was a complete change of demeanor from our first meeting. He truly must have been terrified."

"Don't feel too bad now," Gin chides the pair of us, still smiling despite the mournful atmosphere. "All souls have to go through this at one point, an lookin' at it that way, the kid got it better than most. Shiba-fukutaicho honestly seems to care for 'im. So as long as that's true. what is there ta worry about?"

Both Rukia and I are heartened by this. Shibas were famous for familial and personal loyalty, and neither hell nor high water could stop them once they've set their hearts on helping someone. "You're right, Gin," I say.

"'Course I am!" he replies cheerfully, while seems to search through his sleeves for something. I look on in bemused amusement, wondering how he always managed to store so much in his sleeves. Did he sew in pockets or something? "Aha! Here ya go, the limited edition Gikon accessory I told ya about. 'Tis in celebration of that new Gikon pill, Chappy the Rabbit." My eyes go starry as I reach out for the Chappy the Rabbit luck charm, an omamori. Attached to a tiny white bunny figure with a string is the luck charm. Made of silk, the small patch has imprinted on it characters for the blessing of luck. Opening up the small pouch, I can see a few beautifully handwritten well-wishes.

"Thank you!" I squee unashamedly. "Thankyouthankyouthankyou!" Elated I give my childhood friend another bone-crushing hug.

"Ran…can't…breathe…" he huffs in strain and I ease up, beaming at him and giving him a quick peek on the cheek. Gin smiles at me, as usual, but I can tell there is a genuinely happy characteristic to it.

"It's…it's so adorable!" I hear Rukia-chan breath, looking just as starry eyed. I grin at her.

"Nice to find another admirer of Gikon!" I announce cheerfully. "Would you like to take a look at it?"

"Yes please, if it's not too much trouble!" she replies eagerly, already holding out her hands.

"Nah, no reason for that," Gin comments, and I glance at him, puzzled. Rukia immediately drops her hands to her side. "'Cause I got an extra one here you can have." He holds out an identical charm. It's like flipping on a switch. Instantly, the younger girl practically radiates glee.

Then, she hesitates. "But—I couldn't possibly, it must be so expensive…"

"Don't give me that; a fukutaicho's wages're way more than enough to cover another one. 'Sides, it's a whole lot more appropriate for a li'l lady like you to have than a creepy guy me, ne?" Rukia-chan stutters a bit, trying to insist that he's not really creepy, and it's totally alright for men to like Gikon products (her own captain does, you see), but Gin is not really listening and just drops it into her hand. "Well Ran-chan, Rukia-chan, nice seeing ya both, but duty calls for us all, I think. Bye-bye, now." He waves childishly at us. I thank him again and wish him well. He is gone a moment later in a gust of perfectly executed shunpo, off to do who-knows-what for Aizen-taicho. The fifth division taicho seems like such a kind and easygoing man, but he always seems to have some odd task for Gin-kun to do. They're something else, never appearing to tire or take a break….

"I never knew," Rukia-chan muses out loud, looking down at the luck charm with no small amount of awe. I smile down at the raven-haired.

"I know what you mean."

She nods. "I've always been petrified of him, like the rest. There were so many rumors circling around the academy, and the way the instructors there talked about Ichimaru-fukutaicho… Like some type of perfect shinigami that they personally helped succeed, and we should strive to be akin to… It made everyone uncomfortable."

I don't resist the urge to grimace, showing my distaste for the academy. I always hated some of instructors there, a bunch of oh-so sophisticated and renowned noble theorists who had barely any real-life experience before landing themselves a comfy job in the academy, instead of risking life and limb like the rest of us. That group always took credit for the prodigies who came by. Kaien, who finished the entire course curriculum in two years, is one of those prodigies they like to brag about, much to the Shiba's ire.

Then came Gin, breaking Kaien's long-held record and finishing it in one year flat before even turning sixty. Sixty being the usual age of admittance into the academy, and generally being considered the age a soul reaches maturity. Everything Gin has done, he has done on his own strength and wit, and those people dare take credit for any for it? Thank goodness for the higher-ups finally taking notice of the incompetence in the academy, which has apparently only worsened since my time! And thank goodness, in this instance, for the captain of the Research of Development. The guy is beyond creepy, but at least he has the resources, brains, and courage to do something about the academy! "But you think differently now?" I ask, returning my attention to Rukia-chan.

She is quick to look back up to me, and her face breaks out into a large smile. "Yes. He seems to be rather kind when one looks past his, uhm, quirks. Especially when he talks with you, Matsumoto-fukutaicho."

"Please, call me Rangiku."

"As you wish, Rangiku-san."

I beam at her, ignoring the tagged-on honorific for now. "Say, Rukia-chan, can you contact your captain for me?"

She looks at me quizzically, one elegantly shaped eyebrow rising. "Of course. Why, though?"

"Well…" I begin, bright expression significantly dimming. "I could really use someone like you right now. You've seen the state of this division, haven't you?" I lower my voice considerably for that last part. She offers me her solemn assurance. "I know it might be intimidating, that they may seem beyond help…"

Rukia ponders on this for a moment, but then her thoughtful expression morphs to one of determination. "I understand. I would be more than willing to help, if my captain allows."

I have to say, I'm more than a little grateful. While most shinigami would be much more concerned with their own troubles, especially in times such as these, this girl chooses to think of others when given the chance. That's more than I can say. I dreaded this task when given to me so much, I sought escape at a sake house and ended up the drunk gossip. But no more. I move to hug her without warning, and while she's stunned, she doesn't stop me.

"Ah, Rangiku-san," she says quietly, unsure of how to react to my sudden, open affection.

I give her a gentle squeeze. "You mean it, then? You'll help"—me—"the Third get back on their feet?"

Rukia smiles. "If my captain allows it…I will."

-DIVIDER-

Shiba Kaien's POV…

"I won't."

"Ichigo-san…"

"No offense, Shiba-san, but I can't just sign my life away like this. Has there ever even been a shinigami known to retire?" No response. "I didn't think so." Ichigo crosses his arms and leans back on his padded chair, a scowl in place. We are in the security base for the City on a Hill. The head officer had been kind enough to offer us a meeting room. The one he gave is a good choice in my opinion. Small, casual, comfortable, not intimidating in the least. A sturdy table at a comfortable height stands between us, cream colored and large enough to seat four or five people. Other chairs dot the edges of the room, and there are a few filing cabinets in one corner. It's sparse, and that's just fine with me. No distractions, just trying to reach this young and seemingly composed teen sitting across from me. The meeting went well, all the way up to the reveal that he has to join the military if he wants proper training for his powers. Ichigo instantly closed off and sank into a rebellious state of mind. He doesn't seem to take too well to authority, unfortunately.

"I understand your misgivings, believe me. And I won't say there is no other option. If you decide this is truly what you want, I will do everything in my power to help you make it work. But please, try to hear me out more and understand. Everyone from the highest shinigami to the lowliest of hollows is able to feel your power for miles around. That kind of power can't be contained without proper training, but I can't give you any training unless you agree to join the Gotei 13. It doesn't even have to be the Gotei 13, now that I think about it. You could join the Kido Corp, Onmitsukidō or Research & Development, if it turns out Kido, the art of stealth or science interests you more." I leave my hands on top of the table as I speak, noticing earlier on how he tensed when my hands left his sight, even though I left my zanpakuto at the door and he didn't.

In all honesty, I don't think his reaction is even fully conscious. Whatever Ichigo has been through, even if he doesn't actively remember it, his subconscious does and is reacting accordingly. What life did he lead that allowed him to slay hollows with such ease, and view the world with a mixture of justified cautiousness and plain paranoia? I find myself sorely wishing I could have spoken with him before his memory was torn away. The thought of memory loss always leaves me bitter. It's the natural process of spirits passing on, but it never gets easier to perform konso on plus souls, impossibly promising them better futures while at the same time destroying their pasts…although we conveniently leave out that latter bit when we perform the rite of passage.

Ichigo snorts, not in contempt, but seemingly at the idea of liking stealth, science or kido more. In all honesty, I'm surprised he doesn't ask what Kido is. Odd. "Can't I just be trained enough to keep my, uh, reiatsu from going nuts, and to defend myself from hollows? You said yourself that I've helped the Soul Society a great deal since coming here; I don't have any issues with you people. Just teach me what I need to know, please, and you guys will never have to worry about me again."

I inwardly sigh and resist the urge to rub my forehead in mild exasperation. "It isn't that simple."

"Why not?" Ichigo fires off, then pauses. He leans forward slightly, not in hostility, but in concern. "You guys aren't afraid of me, are you?" he asks, almost in a whisper.

"No, not at all," I reply, somewhat surprised by this turn of events.

"Alright, not you, but your bosses then," he goes on, not breaking his verbal stride.

"You don't know them. Do you think it's really wise to be jumping to conclusions with so little information?" I try to caution. It falls on deaf ears.

"But it makes sense! Why else would they insist on me joining, if not because they just can't stand the idea of me running around without being under their thumb? They should already know that I don't have any intentions of hurting anyone or breaking the law, if all you've said about me is true!" He's seeing everything from a…very rigid mentality. Either something is good, or it isn't. Something is wrong, or it's right. While I strongly believe in absolutes myself, I also realize that not everything is so simple or straightforward.

"For someone not associated with the Seireitei to possess shinigami powers is against the law, Ichigo-san."

"Only for shallowest of reasons, then," I can just hear him mumble defiantly.

Soul King help this boy if another noble clan head was here in my stead. "That's a bold claim to make against a society that has weathered millennia" I point out steadily, keeping my voice 'indoors'. The adult who decides to scream at a stressed child for not immediately understanding the subtle intricacies of a complex government would be the true idiot here.

"I only say things how I see them."

"Exactly." I latch onto his words. "How well can you see from over fifty districts away from the Seireitei?" Sheepish silence on his part, but instead of turning his head away he stares at me straight on, brown eyes unflinching. It's endearing, actually, even when he's being obstinate. In a way, he reminds me of myself in my adolescent years, when I was in one of my own moods. Would my child have had this trait too, if he or she survived? I forcibly pull myself from that dark train of that.

"Ichigo-san, I don't claim to know what went through the minds of our lawmakers when they made this one, but this is how I see it. We can set out to do something with the noblest of intentions, but that doesn't mean we'll succeed or stay on the path. Power in many ways is akin to"—simple example. Simple analogy—"alcohol." It is the first thing to come out of my mouth unbidden. I pinch my lips together, wondering if I can change analogies or if I'm already committed.

I mentally hear Nejibana give a short chuckle at what I come up with. A very Shiba-esque analogy, Kaien.

Quiet, you. I mentally shove her goodnaturedly. See, he seems to understand. Sure enough, Ichigo is paying rapt attention to my words.

I don't see how this is a good thing, Kaien.

I ignore her and go on. "Some people can take several cups of it a day. For them, it's alright and makes things better…but only because they were introduced to it in small segments and understand self-control." A slight nod from my attentive listener, who is following along well enough. "For those who come to greater amounts of alcohol than their bodies can handle and don't adhere to restraint, it becomes extremely self-destructive. Power is much more complicated than this analogy, with much heavier consequences. I'm not saying this will happen to you for sure, but can you realize that no matter who you are, it's always a possibility?"

"I'd agree with that, but I don't want you to teach me much of anything. Just enough to get by."

I frown a bit. "For someone with your power, that little bit can go a long way. When you open that door, there is no going back." Actually, it's already too late for Ichigo; the soutaicho, Central 46, and other noble houses would never approve of letting him go. He already has a zanpakuto, and from the feeling of it, has already imprinted his own spirit upon it. My guess would be that sometime early on, he found a zanpakuto that had reverted to an asauchi once the wielder had died. Following that, he unconsciously bonded himself with it. This would be the fastest imprinting I'd ever heard of, but definitely not impossible. Some zanpakutos spirits form before even coming into contact with an asauchi, so great is the power of the soul that it must create another consciousness to help survive. "Only forward," I continue. "I'll be perfectly honest with you. Life with the power of a shinigami is not easy, but if you were to join the Gotei 13, there would at least be people available to you who could help you down this path. To support you, help you grow, and remind you of what matters if you begin to stray."

He stares at me intently, brown eyes searching. He speaks evenly, without hint or waver in his voice. Simple curiosity, it would at first seem. "Do you plan to be one of those people?"

I hold his gaze steadfastly, calmly replying, "Only if that is what you want."

He nods slowly. "Alright, I get the reason behind the law. I don't like it, but at least understand now why they might have made it."

I smile at him, a strange feeling rising up in my chest. "That's all I ask. To try to understand... Ichigo-san, do you know how old you are?"

He seems taken by surprise, and his scowl deeps somewhat. "It doesn't matter," he replies, shrugging off the question.

"It really does," I comment matter-of-factly. I tilt my head, looking him over thoughtfully. "I'd peg you for about fifteen or sixteen years old. That means you have about forty-four years to make your final decision." The captain commander is patient, but will probably draw the line there.

"That's…wow, seriously?"

"Completely. Until then, you can live in the Seireitei, where it's safe and you won't attract hollows. There you can rediscover yourself in peace and try to understand from a different point-of-view, if you are willing. Are you willing, Ichigo-san?"

Still, there is some unease about putting his trust in only my words, and allowing me to bring him somewhere to live that he's barely even heard of. And really, who can blame him? He knits his brows, pursing his lips. "If I agree to go with you, yeah. I promise I'd do my best to keep an open mind. But I need to think on this."

"I normally wouldn't hesitate to say 'absolutely' to tat," I say, and he narrows his eyes, "but with your reiatsu pouring out like I've told you, you are attracting hollows left and right."

He freezes, staring at me for the long moment. Something seems to click and his eyes widen. "You…" His lips barely move. "You've been here throughout the whole night, haven't you?"

I blink, straightening my posture some. "That's right," I respond, pleasantly surprised that he noticed, even though I know that this might cause problems. "Along with Kuchiki-san"—he'd be confused if I just referred to her as just Rukia—"and several volunteers, a taicho and fukutaicho even included. We made sure that none of the hollows you attracted managed to get to you, or any of the townsfolk."

"You did this to…what? Give me some time to calm down?" he hazards to guess, regarding me strangely. That's partially correct. Is he surprised I'd go so far for him? Even after all I told him all he's done for the Soul Society, and my family in particular? Then again, he didn't exactly look like he believed me when I told him. Truthfully, I still find it hard to believe myself, even with all my memories in tact.

"That was the main reason, at least for me, yes." I admit unabashedly, even though there were other important reasons attached.

"Don't really have a choice then, do I?" Fortunately, he doesn't seem resentful of this. Just…trapped, and still in the process of taking in all the facts.

Not wanting him to feel that way, I reply carefully, "Not for this one, no. It's for the safety of everyone. But as for your future beyond this move? You'll have decades to think about."

He shifts in his seat, grimacing, although not scowling quite as much as he was before. "Let's forget me for a moment. What about Toshiro, and his grandmother?"

My eyebrows shoot up. "Excuse me?"

"Hitsugaya Toshiro. He plans on going to the Seireitei himself; I think you know about it."

"I do," I answer cautiously, curious as to where this is going.

"Well, I think he would jump at the chance to get out of this town, except for his grandmother. She isn't doing well, and has no one but Toshiro to help and look after her. It seems, though, even if he hasn't outright told me, that he'll have to leave her behind in order to go to the Seireitei. Why's that?"

It seems Ichigo and Toshiro really have built up a strong friendship, even in this short amount of time. I begin my explanation. "If everyone could, everyone would live in the capital. It is undoubtedly the safest and most developed place in the Soul Society, but the Seireitei can only support a certain amount of people at a time. When it becomes underpopulated, we allow migration then for those with reiatsu sufficient enough to withstand shinigami's spiritual pressure, but besides that, we have to be careful who we allow in."

"You can't make exceptions for the family of the future shinigami, though?" he inquires, a challenging edge in his voice, although he seems to be trying to suppress it.

I smile, unaffected. "I'll see what I can do. I'm sure I can work something out, although it may take some time."

"How can you be so sure, if the Seireitei is so careful with who it lets in?" he asks, furrowing his brows in confusion at the sincerity behind my words.

"How do I explain this…? Do you know what an oligarchy is?"

"Uh, yeah, actually. It's when the noble class rules the country?"

"Sometimes, but not necessarily all the time. It just means that a select group of people rules. It's a bit more complicated than that though. Technically, the Soul Society is a monarchy; we're ruled by a being referred to as the Soul King, but he very rarely interferes with our going-ons. With that in mind, we really operate as an oligarchy. The Captain Commander is in charge during times of great military need. The Central 46, a group of chosen elders, leads us in all other instances, although the five great noble families have plenty of political power itself and can, combined, overrule the decisions of the Central 46 when the situation requires it. Otherwise, as long as the clan's orders does not interfere with the law, we may do and lead as we wish. I am the Clan Head of the Shiba clan."

He stares at me blankly.

Is he alright? comes the amused mental voice of my zanpakuto.

I'm not entirely sure. I admit, raising an eyebrow at the unresponsive boy. I think I might have overdone it.

At least we found your true calling, hm? How would you like to be a government teacher, Kaien? she inquires with no little amount of playful satire.Not very much, I respond in kind. I reach out a hand, waving it in front of Ichigo. "Hey, alright there?"

"Er, yeah. I got it." I nod, secretly dubious. The orange-haired youth goes on, truly snapping to attention now. "At the latest, when do you think they could both move to the Seireitei?"

I seriously ponder this. I'll have to make a speech, approach Central 46. I could just order the gate guard to let her in, and he'd do so without a moment's hesitation and probably forget about it not long after, but I'd rather not test fate. Better to go the long way, and find an official reason for her entry. It would be dangerous to set a precedent and make an exception for anyone without a good reason. At least I already know she has enough spiritual energy to survive in the Seireitei. After all, she has managed to survive Toshiro's unconscious and unrestrained use of his powers, even if it has weakened her, that's more than most could withstand.

"A couple of weeks, tops," I decide on. We have plenty of guest rooms at the Shiba compound for the elderly lady to stay in, that isn't the problem. The problem is getting in an audience with Central 46 and finding a legal and legitimate reason for her entry.

"Okay." Ichigo seems wary, but after staring at me intently for a moment, he slowly nods his head. "I have a feeling you're the type to keep your word," he says, although there is an edge to his voice, an unsaid threat.

Nejibana notices. Ah, a compliment. It appears the boy has taken a liking to you, Kaien.

I ignore her. "Thank you, Ichigo-san," I thank genuinely, ignoring the underlying meaning of his words. "That means a lot."

He shrugs. "Just don't let Toshiro down." He suddenly seems much more serious, scowl firmly in place. Stony-faced, he addresses me. "So, Shiba-san, do you think—" But I'm no longer listening. A sharp spike of reiatsu permeates the area, tinged heavily by unabashed panic. "Shiba-san?" he questions when I abruptly stand to my feet, a distant look no doubt in my sea green eyes.

"Ichigo-san, stay here pl—" My commanding plea is cut off by a piercing, horror-filled scream. Ichigo is out the door before I have a chance to say another word.

-DIVIDER-

Hitsugaya Toshiro's POV… A few minutes before.

I squat down next to the pond. It's just before the city hall and next to the Officers' base of operations. Several feet deep and spanning the majority of the city square, this body of water is home to the beautiful koi fish brought here at the city's beginning by the city's founder. They've come to be considered almost sacred, and anyone caught disturbing them is severely punished. That in mind, I am very careful to only look and stay a few feet away. I've been here for a while. Ichigo is still inside, discussing things over with Shiba Kaien. That's fine with me; with all the excitement of the past few days, this city really needs to catch its breath, and so do I.

"Oi! Freak!"

I stand automatically at the challenging shout, turning to see a lanky boy with sharp features and dark eyes. His teeth are bared and grind against one another as he marches up to me. I know him, although only by sight. Not too many people are eager to share their names with me—to them, it's bad luck or some such nonsense. "What do you want?" I ask coolly, eyeing the taller boy carefully as he approaches. I ponder just walking away, going back home, but I had been hoping to talk to Ichigo after he was done.

"You're the cause of all this, aren't you?!" he accuses, shoving a finger in my direction.

I arch an eyebrow in his direction. I try to recall what I know of him. His mother has always hated me, but like most she's always feared me and dragged her son away when he got too close. She always appeared one bit shy of despair, a destitute but driven woman. Her husband… Oh. That's right. His father is one of the "hired help" that was arrested thanks to Ichigo's efforts. But… "What do I have to do with anything?" I ask patiently. People milling around have started to look on with a mixture of curiosity and concern. It's been a long while since any of them have truly interacted with me beyond the exchange of money with the vendors at the marketplace.

"Everything!" The boy yells with an exaggerated slice of his hand through the air. I frown deeply, growing uncomfortable at the look in his eyes. Despair and, while not quite at rage yet, close enough. Desperate people do desperate things. Perhaps it would be best if I at least return to the station.

I try to edge away, but seeing their friend taking a stand against me, two other boys around thirteen to fourteen rush forward. They prowl just out of reach, their fidgeting betraying their nervousness, but blocking my own escape nonetheless.

I grow exasperated and even more edgy. "You're not making any sense," I respond, keeping my voice even as to not further agitate the situation. "I've meant no ill will towards anyone, if that is what you are implying. If you would kindly step to the side now, I will be on my way."

The leader of the little band doesn't back down, just becomes more frustrated. "So you weren't hanging out with that other freak, the orange-haired foreigner who everyone knows attacked Yasuda-sama unprovoked, and even worse, is being hunted by the shinigami?!"

I feel somewhat nauseous at hearing Yasuda-teme addressed with that suffix, and as my eyes quickly and subtly dart around the area, it seems like I'm not the only one. Still, it's understandable in a way. Yasuda had been the provider for this boy and his family, in trade for his father's services. Now that his father and Yasuda are gone, so is their financial security…and so they're taking out all their fears on me. Joy.

"No matter who I associate with, I guarantee you I had absolutely no part in Yasuda's fate—nor in the arrival of the shinigami." I try to edge past them at this, but abruptly the lead boy moves forward and roughly shoves my chest. I stumble and raise a hand to touch where he pushed me. When was the last time anyone bar Granny, Momo, and now Ichigo willingly touched me, either with kindness or ill intentions? I can't remember.

A silence pervades the area. Many people flee the area at this act; others, the brave and curious, remain. Those who do remain, even the lanky just-barely teen who initiated the contact, seem shocked at what has transpired. He lets out a shaky laugh. "You're nothing but a scheming little freak," he says coldly, his friends peering at him and seeming to gain their own boldness from his words. "It figures you'd try to be buddy-buddy with the bat-shit crazy guy that attacked Yasuda-sama."

"Why don't ya just leave the town? No one wants you here," sneers one of the friends, a sudden spike of confidence giving him what he needs to step forward. I edge back, further cut off from any escape.

This is bad. I think nervously, the understatement of my life. Their superstitions of me have always kept me free of the beatings and bullying other boys get regularly, but if things keep going as they are, I'll be in for my first session. But surely they wouldn't become too physical here? We're in the city square after all. Literally right in front of the police station!

I'm wrong.

They push and sneer at me, finally having an outlet for their pent-up fear and anger from the last few stressful days. I raise my arms to protect my face, and it's all I can do to keep to my feet. Damn. What should I do? They're stronger than me, and the lead one is just as fast, maybe even faster. The other people here look nervous but don't have any intention of stopping this, not for the other boys' safety and certainly not for my own. I need to yell. Someone from the station will come and help. Just as I open my mouth to call out, I'm forced back another step. The solid ground I expect turns out to be only thin air. I teeter at the edge, until an open palm slams into my chest. I fall, breathless. Water surrounds and surges all around me. Panic pulses through me, along with an unnatural coldness.

I thrash, trying with all my might to make my way back to the surface of this pond, hyper aware of the fact that I do not know how to swim. Around me, koi scatter with equal fright, bulbous eyes wide. I try not to panic, but there is a feeling in my chest, like a hand reaching into it, grabbing my heart and squeezing…

I let out a scream, and the water around me swallows up every sound.

-DIVIDER-

Ichigo's POV…

Half way through a hallway, a hand grasps my arm. I stiffen, whirling around with an intense glower. Kaien quickly withdraws and raises his hands, to show he means no harm. "We'll go together," he promises, stepping into place by my side. We race out of the station.

"Careful!" one of the city's officers already at the scene of the mayhem warns as we approach a large pond some distance away from the city hall. "The koi pond is possessed!"

I'm incredulous to say the least, but sure enough, as Kaien and I draw closer to the chaotic scene, I can tell what the officer means. The water seems to jump out of its designated spot at random intervals, and on the other side…I choke back a gasp of horror. Three boys, encased in ice so fine it looks like shimmering glass. Then, compacting my horror, rising out from the pond for a brief moment is a small hand that quickly sinks back below the surface of the water. "Someone is drowning in there!" I call out to the others, rushing to the edge and peering down. Instead of some monster (hollow, my mind supplies) drowning its victim like I half expect, a lone figure is there, thrashing violently. A lone, short figure with silver white hair. "Toshiro!"

"Ichigo, get away from there!" I hear the shinigami order. Ignoring the command, I drop to my knees and reach down into the water, only to swiftly draw back with a hiss. It's freezing cold! My fingers are numb with tiny icicles clinging to them, but I can't give up! Toshiro is still down there! A sudden splash takes me by surprise. I look up to see a small wave of water coming towards me, only for an arm to wrap tightly around my middle. With a jarring sensation, I am yanked away. In a flash I find myself more than halfway back to the security station. The ground where I once knelt on is completely frozen over. I grit my teeth at the close call.

The arm holding me back suddenly uncurls from around my waist. At other times, I'm sure I would be mortified at being rescued like that, but concern for my only friend takes precedence. I open my mouth. Before I can say a single word, Kaien darts forward. He mutters something under his breath, but then raising his voice shouts one word. "Nejibana!"

Nejibana? Twisted flower? Confusion turns to shock as the katana in his hand, a normal looking blade with a regular rectangular cross guard and deep blue hilt, turns into something else. A trident? Half of the pond water abruptly rises up into the air and over the edge. I shout out a warning. Shiba-san isn't deterred. In fact, by the gestures he's making, I come to the stark realization that it is he who is controlling the water. Out from the depths come Toshiro, and I'm short of breath. He isn't thrashing anymore. He's completely limp. Parting all the near freezing water previously surrounding the boy, the shinigami uses his power to toss the liquid back with the rest. Koi fish that accidentally fell out along with Toshiro squirm around on the now mostly dry ground as I appear by Toshiro's side. I do a quick intake of his condition, surprised to find he is almost entirely dry, but swiftly focusing on one thing. "He's not breathing!" I hiss urgently. "We need to do CPR." The words come unbidden from my mouth. Information I didn't realize I knew floods to the forefront of my thoughts.

Shiba-san gives me an odd look. "Ichigo-san, step back please," he says instead, voice strained yet under strict control.

I back away instantly, not interested in arguing with Toshiro's life at stake. Sitting down and propping Toshiro into the recovery position, Shiba-san sets the hand not holding Nejibana against Toshiro's chest. Furrowing his eyebrows with a look of deep concentration, the older man slowly moves his hand up, from Toshiro's chest to his mouth. Just as I ponder speaking up, Toshiro begins coughing violently. Shiba-san turns the boy onto his side as he spits up water until there is nothing left. Relieved, I set a hand on Toshiro's shoulder, ready to comfort him, but quickly realize he has fallen unconscious. Fortunately, it seems like he got all of the water in his lungs out. His breathing is shaky, though not shallow, his chest rising and falling at a steady rhythm.

I knit my brows, questioning lowly. "Will he be okay?" I look up at the other imploringly, taking note as his trident reverts to sword form. His zanpakuto, my mind supplies.

He trains his eyes on me. Pausing for a moment, his strained expression softens and he smiles. "Don't worry; he will be." He raises his hand once more over Toshiro's chest. It emits a bright green glow, somehow. I squint at his glowing hand, flabbergasted. Unfortunately, in this instance my mind doesn't seem willing to cough up any more tidbits of information.

"My son!" An outcry of raw despair and rage. I wince at the sound, conflicted. But Toshiro doesn't have a moth—oh. Oh no. A pretty middle-aged woman in plain beige clothing rushes to the block of ice that encases three boys. Her bottom lip trembles as she takes three unsteady steps, hand outreached. When her fingers are only inches away, she screams and falls to her knees, pulling madly at her hair. Strands of graying brown come out in bloody clumps.

I stiffen, gaze slowly going between the woman, the ice encased boys frozen reaching toward the pond, and the unconscious form of Toshiro. I reluctantly put it all together. If a hollow wasn't in there, only Toshiro, then that means he… A mental image comes to mind. Toshiro, curious about the fish, slips and falls into the pond. Unsure of how to swim, he panics. Three nearby boys rush forward to pull him out and then… My mouth goes dry. "He…I'm sure Toshiro didn't mean—" I try to defend my friend—not to the wildly grieving mother who is in too much in a state to hear much of anything, but to the gathering crowd of officers and pedestrians. They either shoot horrified stares at the boys, pitiful ones at the mother, or ugly looks at Toshiro.

Shiba-san sets a hand on my shoulder, shaking his head. "Let me handle this," he soothes quietly, passing Toshiro gently over to me. "Hold on to him; keep him away from the others, but stay nearby." I give a jerky nod, holding the younger boy close, trying to shield him from accusing stares. Don't they understand it's not his fault? I try to muster a glare in return, and fail. In face of all that's happened, I can't muster any indignation at these people. I should probably just be grateful they aren't forming a mob and coming after Toshiro. Then again, the officers' and Shiba-san's presence could the only things dissuading them from that course of action.

My mind trails off, anxiety mounting. When I come to, I notice Shiba-san standing by the ice. "Sir, should you be melting the ice that quickly?" An officer asks hesitantly as Shiba-san's hands glow a bright red, swiftly melting ice. The shinigami looks sadly at the man and responds quietly, voice so low I can hardly hear.

"It won't change anything if I go slower." The mother's cries intensifies. Another security officer steps forward to lay a blanket he retrieved from somewhere around her shoulders. She violently shrugs it off and tries to sock him when he goes to readjust it. Soon after the bodies are thawed out, the mother rushes to the one in the middle, gently cradling the body in her arms. And...I'd thought this was an effect of just seeing the boys through the ice, but no. Their skin really is blue. Pale as death. Then… The bodies, including the one in the woman's arms, dissipate into reishi. Her crying abruptly stops as she stares emptily at a piece of clothing in hand, a sash the only thing left behind. Everyone and everything seems to fall into a deep, uneasy quiet. Even the koi that became stranded on land have become deathly still.

Shiba-san silently makes his way to my side, helping me up with careful and steady hands. He juts his head toward the station. We begin to leave. Almost there, I hear the mother going berserk. The officers present struggle to restrain her and calm her down. She rains down curses on Toshiro—says things that makes my blood boil. I almost turn around. Thanks to a combination of Shiba-san firmly urging me forward with one hand, and my own common sense taking hold, I don't. When we are inside, I come to an abrupt halt, shivering slightly. Thinking I am going into shock most likely, Shiba-san turns to me with a look of understanding in his sea-green eyes. He extends a hand to take Toshiro from me. I shake my head, holding the boy closer, in a protective embrace. "I'll go."

A heartbeat. "Pardon?"

I look up to the older man, eyes hard and mind set. "I'll go with you and Toshiro to the Seireitei." My voice sounds grating and harsh, even to my own ears. I meet his sea-green gaze with my own muddy brown. I lower my voice. "I want to become a shinigami." He gives me a hard look at my sudden change of mind, searching for something.

"You have the resolve," he finally decides, although I can hear an unsaid "but" at the end of the sentence. I wait for him to go on. He only claps me briefly on the shoulder, letting his line of thought go. "Let's go find a place to lay Hitsugaya-kun down and get him into something warmer," Shiba-san suggests, and I grunt in agreement.

I fall into step behind him for the time being as he lets go of me and leads the way through the security station hallway. We're soon to be approached by the security chief here who pulls us over to have a private discussion. I'm not paying attention to them anymore, though. Instead, I stare hollowly down at my friend, watching closely. He's pale as death too, I think. But he's not dead. Not like the others. I am assured of this fact by the constant rise and falls of his chest. My hand closes a bit more tightly around one of his cold arms. Toshiro, we'll be out of this city soon, and you'll never find out what happened here today. I'll make sure of it.

-DIVIDER-

Girl/Gal-of-Action: End of Arc I. Next up, the Seireitei~ (finally!)

I wonder, what do you guys think of Ichigo's sudden change of heart? What do you believe are the reasons behind them?

There are a few reasons for the tragedy at the end. For one, I wanted to show two sides of a coin so to speak. Ichigo brought revolutionary change to the town just by having the courage and willingness to stand up to the bullies. However, in real life big change tends to have big consequences, both good & bad.

On a side note, I hope I got all that talk about Soul Society's government and politics correct years ago. It is as far as I can remember, at the very least, and I hope you all don't blame me for not wanting to revisit the dreaded topic.

Finally, I feel like I needed to respond to a guest reviewer who said the prologue is useless because it didn't offer Ichigo's starting power level. I just reread it. Ichigo remarks in the prologue both on how he just finished training with the Vizards to lock away his 'inner hollow' and how he is desperate to save Orihime. This means his starting power level is around that of the Hueco Mundo arc, around 6th Espada Grimmjow's level. Chapter 1 then shows how this power is currently nerfed a bit since his zanpakuto is no longer constantly released in Shikai, but the power itself is still there. Hope that helps clear things up.

I am now going to try to respond to all the reviews for this story as far back as February 2016. Below are my replies to the guest reviews. Big thank you to everyone who's taken the time to read and review, even when it seemed like I dropped off the face of the Earth. Reading them helped me regain motivation to edit and post the rest of these stories.

TO "Guest" who posted on 2/5/16…

I'm glad to hear it. Thanks for saying so, and thank you for reading.

TO "ghanor" who posted on 7/22/17…

I hadn't planned on any romance. I'm simply not good at the genre. As for the revel of him being from the future, I can't recall if I eventually planned to do that towards the end of the story. All I know for certain is I certainly didn't plan to any time soon.

"Dudd" 7/22/17…

He mentioned that my pacing is 'wack,' and he probably has a point. Any advice or suggestions in regards to good pacing in stories?

"Guest" 8/23/18…

Thank you very much for your understanding and kind words! I deeply appreciate it. 3

"Blu" 10/20/18…

I am actually quite proud of how much you dislike the Nakashimas. They aren't meant to be good people. They are survivors. They started to change for the better I feel, but Gin put the end to that.

"Guest" #1 3/8/19…

Well, I did eventually!

"Guest" #2 3/8/19…

Looking back on it, my use of Japanese words was incredibly cringy. Now I know my mistake and try to limit it more. For this story's sake of consistency I'll use the suffixes, ranks or specific terminology for bleach (like zanpakuto, shinigami, reiatsu, etc.) but that's about it.

"Guest" #3 3/8/19…

Well, here you go.

"Guest" 4/16/19

The story will probably be dead after a few more chapters in all honesty. Regardless, thanks for reading and calling it good.