So this chapter took some time to write. It's introducing Sosuke Aizen's past and his whole motivation for doing the things he did. I love the way Aizen was written. I don't care what anyone says in regards to how Bleach went. This thing of saying Kubo wanted things to end with Bleach right after the SS arc is total bullshit. If you are a fan of Shinigami's than I'm afraid this chapter is going to upset you. Sorry! I some of my ideas from reading the latest light novels but most of it comes from the Bleach manga itself. I didn't like how the anime or Studio Pierrot painted Shinigami's because they were a fan favorite. I'm reading the manga and see all the shady shit they did. Did everyone forget about what happened to Uryu's grandfather at the hands of Mayuri? Did no one see how Byakuya didn't bat an eye or anyone else for that matter when the decision was made from Central 46 that Rukia was to be executed? Except for Renji though who wanted to rescue her. Ichigo saw the way the Shinigami were treating others by listening to the stories the Rukongai said themselves. It's not pretty, it's horrible. I'm not saying they are all bad, but then as the story progressed. You kind of get glimpses of Kubo trying to convey that but then his story is changed due to disagreements, and then we have Shinigami Fanservice. I'm so glad when the light novels came out as I'm reading them I felt like screaming, "This is how I viewed Soul Society and appreciated Ichigo view of trying to fight that corrupt system."
In no way, do I condone the horrible shit that Aizen did. His character is gray, you get he wants to change things in all the wrong ways. Here's my take on what caused him to view his world the way he did.
I tried to summarize what happened in the light novels. I didn't want to put everything, because I still had my story to tell that might contradict what I've been writing about where Orihime comes from. So please enjoy and let me know what you honestly think.
update: Sorry N9R brought to my intention that the flashback with Kazui and Aizen was the wrong time I changed it from 28 to 15 years ago. Sorry for the confusion. I'm such a mess.
x
15 years ago
Muken
Kazui concentrated on creating a wormhole. His destination. Soul Society. He walked through the dark world only to arrive outside the gates of Seritei and sighed. He thought he was concentrating on the Kuchiki manor, he was way off and possibly didn't concentrate hard enough.
He closed his eyes and before the locals of the Rukongai district noticed, the six-year-old boy vanished into another conjured hole. When he opened his eyes once more, he was confused. He couldn't see anything, his wormhole was dark, but this place held an eerie darkness
"Kazui Kurosaki, I presume?"
He heard an unfamiliar voice call his name, and he was frightened.
"Don't be afraid. I wouldn't harm you."
Kazui saw a small sphere form, casting a disturbing blue glow around the room from a seated form. It was a man bound in a chair in front of him. He instantly fell back, holding out his hands to cause his shield to surround his little form.
"Interesting!" the man hummed. Kazui opened his small eyes and swallowed. He glanced at the older man as he smiled at him.
"W...Who are you?"
"Your mother and father have never spoken about me? I'm hurt. The name is Sōsuke Aizen."
Kazui's eyes widen at the mention of his name. He did know who this man was. All the stories he heard regarding Soul Society's enemy.
"You're that bad man. You hurt a lot of people and did terrible things," he mumbled, his voice shaking. He should be leaving this place, but his curious mind caused him to remain there.
"Are the Shinigami bad people too?" the prisoner proposed the question, patiently waiting for the boy's reply. He could tell the boy was searching his mind for an answer, with his confused expression.
"They're my friends," he told the man, his huge eyes looking up.
"Shinigami can hurt people, too. Kazui. Do you want to hear a secret?"
Kazui squeezed his small hands together and nodded his head.
"Okay."
"Now, if I tell you this secret. You promise never to tell anyone?"
"Is it a secret that would hurt someone, if I don't say anything?"
Aizen smiled at the good-natured, thinking of another well-being this child possessed. So much like his parents.
"No dear boy. The only one hurt from this story is those from the past. And we can't change the past right?"
"Right!" The boy walked closer to the man and sat in front of him. "I promise." The child waited as his sweet face, and curious eyes focused on him.
"Good." Aizen paused for a moment, searching his thoughts on where to begin. He decided to start when he first felt loneliness when he first understood what it meant to be alone.
"I used to play along the rivers of Mt. Naso in the district of Fugai. I was just a small child when I arrived, unaware of my surroundings or how I came to arrive in this world. It was many years before I obtained my ticket as a citizen of Rukongai. I past through the districts seeing the horrible things this world had to offer. The citizens of the harsh slums of District 59 to 80, fought to survive. It was a harsh reality those had to learn, especially those who were weak. I soon realized that strength came naturally to me. I learned from those around me on how to survive. I was curious to learn everything about this world. I searched for books, scrolls, and even cave drawings created by beings from thousands to possibly millions of years ago."
"There were certain things I did to endure this cruel fate. I would not divulge for your fresh ears. It was a harsh world. But none more brutal than those I encountered during those districts that Soul Society deems civilized. I understood the reasoning for those poor souls in the slums. Cast aside. Forgotten. Why? Due to laziness or in large part of Seritei's failing in maintaining the districts. Or was it Ignorance, Ignoring the plight of many to keep those few happy because they established Soul Society Laws? I wanted to understand the bureaucracy. From District 58 to 1, I learned the shady dealings and secrets of the nobles. All for the sake of balance," Aizen chuckled.
"I saw a family who questioned the wrongdoings of Shinigami and Nobles only for them to be thrown into District 80 to be murdered or try to exist. I saw a girl ripped from her family because she caught the eyes of a noble, only to be unjustly tortured for wanting to escape her captors. I heard of nobles gathering babies in these slums to sedate their cruel diet of eating human flesh."
Aizen noticed the small boys horrified expression as he remained quiet. "I apologize, Kazui. For scaring you."
The young boy shook his head as if to clarify he was okay but not with words, but with his inquisitive look for him to continue, which Aizen did.
"I worked my way into the Academy, finding a companion along the way. Who sought justice for his friend's treatment. Kaname's friend killed by a nobleman who was never charged because of his position and his Noble House. Kaname Tosen was my only friend."
Sosuke avoided the boy's stare to look away as if remembering something fondly as he thoughtfully smiled before he continued.
"I grew to appreciate science. Some of the smartest men were gathered to visit the Soul Palace among the elite. I was among them, along with Kisuke Urahara and Mayuri. There we met a thing. I call it that because that's what the Soul King was. A slave, a lynchpin that was created to bind the worlds together. Balance. It was revolting to learn that the diety we beings come to worship, was a puppet for these men of power that scheme and shape Soul Society. Kaname Tosen. A dear friend. One I respected. Together we wanted to change this world. So am I a bad man, Kazui? I'm not saying that all Shinigami are bad, but those I harmed hurt a lot of innocent people."
"What about Momo?" his small voice responded.
"There's always casualty and innocent bystanders in times of war. She happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time. I know you're too young to grasp everything. I'm going to create a binding spell that will have you forget this conversation, and you will only remember it when you're old enough to understand."
"Binding Spell?" Kazui curiously asked and then began to hear whispers from the man who sat on the chair.
"Bakudo 70 Memorīsutōru (Memory Stall)"
Kazui felt his eyes grow tired, the next thing he knew he was in front of the Kuchiki manor.
x
Kazui sat up, clutching his head. He thought he cast aside the memories that haunted him. Meeting the man named Aizen and the stories he revealed. He never told anyone of his dream, not even his close family, afraid of being deemed crazy and also for not wanting to break a promise. A promise to a man he barely knew? He shook his head, most of the things he learned from the memories when he turned eighteen, made him look at Soul Society in another light. As first, it was too much to believe, but as he spoke with others and walked amongst the Rukongai, he found some of the flaws Sōsuke had mentioned. He asked his father once if he ever wanted to live in Soul Society.
He saw the stern look his father gave glancing at nothing, in particular, to stare at him. It was then his father revealed to him, some of the inadequacy of Soul Society he fought against in the beginning when he first arrived — then finding out that Squad Zero revealed their intentions of using his father after he defeated Yhwach to use him as the next Soul King. He wasn't sure what that entailed, but Grimmjow seemed to shutter when he asked the Arrancar. What was so horrible to cause Grimmjow who didn't seem to be scared of anything, to look disturbed? He did what he always did whenever those thoughts entered his mind; he pushed them aside and started the day with a smile. It was still dark outside when he had awoken abruptly.
He looked to find Koemi, still asleep. He decided to do his exercises since he didn't feel like he was going back to bed any time soon. He ran around the crop field until he felt exhausted when Kazui came to his last lap, he found a familiar figure waiting for him. His gray hair and smile as he waved. King Fuminori stood in front of him. He was relieved and then suddenly felt disappointed. Would the time he was spending with Koemi end? Would the King ask him to return to his parents until the coming war? He wasn't sure what to expect as he came closer to the King as he smiled back.
"King Fuminori. You're back?"
"I am, but I'm afraid only for today." He glanced out as the sun's rays began to peek through the skyline. "How has Koemi been?"
"She's been fine." He wasn't the type of person to keep things from people unless it was necessary; he didn't want to make a habit of it. "I started a courtship with your daughter."
"Dating?" King Fuminori clarified as he eyed him.
"Yes, I almost forget you're somewhat familiar with our terms," he chuckled, but the King remained impassive.
"I don't oppose you seeing her. You both are old enough to make your own decisions. I'm just worried about her. You are used to doubts and difficulties of relationships in your world, and she's naive to them. The fault is mine, I know. I had a special bond with her mother, Adaline. I want her to experience that with someone, but I'm also hesitant."
Fuminori looked at the horizon with some thought before he turned to the younger man, who solemnly nodded in understanding.
"I can see why you feel a bit discouraged. We both haven't really figured things out, and we're just living for the moment. I'm not even sure where this is headed, but I do know that I care about Koemi. I know it's too early for love, but it's a start," he bit the inside of his cheek while rubbing the back of his head a trait of his mother. He sheepishly let his hand sit at his sides.
"Adaline, if I'm honest, hadn't been someone I thought would become my wife. Her parents were loyal and trustworthy. Adaline, sixteen at the time of becoming mortal, took it upon herself to be my aide. I found her to be a brat. The years were good to her, I no longer saw her as the annoying girl at my side, but the beauty I developed strong feelings for. I was apprehensive at first, but I'm glad she became my wife. She was my soulmate, and I loved her." He breathed a sigh of relief before he smiled at Kazui.
"You sound like my grandfather. My grandmother lost her life when my father was only nine years old. She left behind twin girls who were five. My grandfather still talks about her being the love of his life. I've never seen him go on dates or meet anyone else. He blames it on work or the fact that his family is more important than meeting someone new. She meant the world to him." Kazui look disheartened but quickly smiled at the older man, deciding to lighten the mood by changing the subject.
"We should find Koemi."
"Of course!"
Kazui followed the King, watching as the older man spoke to stragglers who were still trying to wake up, surprised to see there King. They found Koemi tending the farm with others before her eyes saw her father. The smile on her face was relief and joy in one. She ran so fast into her father's arms.
"Father!" She hugged him tightly, afraid he'd disappear, "I wasn't sure you'd be back." Kazui saw the tears in her blue eyes, start to water as her father whipped them away.
"Hush, Koemi! I am here now. There's much to discuss. Kazui, please join us."
They walked along the path of the river, to find themselves beside a huge willow tree. Inside its shade of outer leaves lived rocks that formed seats.
"This place is where I think or hide from responsibility," Fuminori chuckled as Koemi snickered. She watched her father's face fall and instantly felt her stomach plummet.
"W...When do you leave?" She tried to remove the strain in her words, but the King couldn't deny hearing his daughter's broken voice.
"I leave today. I only come to explain what might transpire and what I've learned. Also, something I should have told you about before you hear it from anyone else."
"What is it?"
"Before I mention that. I wanted to tell you both, specifically Kazui, that your parent's along with an army of Shinigami, Arrancar, Quincy, and Fullbringers are in Hueco Mundo at the moment. They used an incantation to open a gate to our world to withstand the colossal magnitude of spiritual pressure that a single wormhole I could ever conjure. Though it had a few setbacks."
"Setbacks?" Kazui looked on with worry.
"Nothing harmful. It might take weeks or a month to build enough reiatsu to open."
"Oh!" Kazui looked a bit saddened, causing Koemi to glance over at him discouraged.
"Don't worry, Kazui. It may not be that long," she placed her hands to his, as he smiled, only it didn't reach his ears.
"I spoke with General Zyden in regards to the army." King Fuminori noticed Kazui's irritated expression along with his daughters. "I apologize for my General's blunt and almost rude demeanor, but there's no one I trust to build a strong army. He wasn't too keen on the armies Ichigo, would be providing, but it's a bitter pill he has to swallow."
"I know how to deal with General Zyden, Father. You don't need to worry."
"The other thing I need to discuss is regarding a child I had known for many years."
"A child?" Koemi gasped, looking beyond surprised at her father.
"He's no longer a child. The age of seventeen."
"Seventeen? I...I don't understand?"
"It's to be expected when I lost your mother. I had been lost for many years, feeling I had no purpose. I was struggling to keep myself sane. I had left you with others at the age of two. I visited the Human World, where I met a woman, Esme. I cared for her, but it wasn't the same feelings I had for your mother. I needed someone at the time, and she seemed to understand our arrangement. She found herself pregnant, but she already knew I had a life and a child waiting for me in another world. We left on good terms, but on a sad note. I watched over... my son from afar, sending Hermes at times to watch over him when I couldn't."
"I... I have a brother?" she whipped away a stray tear. "Is he okay?"
"Yes, but he's not on exactly ecstatic on finding out or me leaving him, but happy of acquiring his Fae powers." He chuckled and looked to Kazui. "You may know of him, Kazui."
"Me? How?"
"Well, he was with your family. He seemed to know your sister. His name is Daichi Oda."
Kazui's eyes widen. "Are you serious?" he chuckled but noticed his serious expression. "Oh, you are serious."
Koemi saw the distressed look on her boyfriend's face. "What's wrong?"
"There's nothing wrong. It's just that. I met Daichi because Ichika invited him to my mother's birthday, knowing it would upset my sister and her boyfriend."
Kazui already told Koemi the name of the woman his heart was slowly trying to let go. Her heart tugged a bit at the name, but she continued to listen to him. "Why would his presence upset your sister and her chosen?"
"It's because he likes Miume and my sister has already denied his advances. Sorry if this sounds rude, but your brother is stubborn and a promiscuous individual."
Koemi reddened a little, while King Fuminori chuckled.
"Before I met Adaline. I had my fair share of partners, including Queen Miku."
Kazui blushed tens shades darker as he swallowed nervously.
"As far as the stubbornness and insistence of pursuing your sister. I would say he gets it from his mother. Esme was a woman who demanded attention and knew what she wanted." He laughed and looked up to find his daughter with narrowed eyes. "I know that your angry, Koemi."
"I'm not angry just-," she sighed, nervously fiddling with her fingers.
"Disappointed?" He offered as she looked to her father.
"I don't know what I feel, Father," she mumbled. "It seems a bit selfish, but your presence in his life was more important than here with our people."
Fuminori made to speak when she held her hand so she could continue. He nodded as she did.
"I understand your role as King and the responsibility you have for many lives. You would take the time to explain the reason for your absence and make it up to me. Even though it would hurt, I knew you'd come back. The point I'm making is. I can understand his frustration to a degree. Yet, I don't know how I'd feel if I felt that you had abandoned me before I was born."
"I didn't abandon him."
"In his eyes you did, Father," she didn't realize she was shouting as she looked down ashamed of her actions. "Sorry."
"There's no need to apologize. Continue."
She hesitated for a moment, looking at Kazui as he encouraged her with a smile.
"Then to suddenly find out you have a father all this time and had been fed a lie."
She looked up to see her father's wounded look and rose to bend in front of him. "I know you meant well. He's hurt, give him time to process this."
He grabbed the sides of her face to kiss her head, "Koemi," she could see a man who was deeply conflicted, ashamed of himself as he looked away.
"Once he comes to the know the man I'm proud to call Father. He'll come around, I promise." She smiled, kissing him and wrapping her arms around him. He moved her away from him and glanced at his daughter, whipping the tears from her eyes once more.
"You mean more to me than life itself. I don't deserve your love, not with my past."
"Your past is exactly that, your past. I forgive any mistakes you've done. I swear it in all the White Dreams in Shun Nya." She covered her heart with her hands to smile at him. He chuckled a bit, but the man seemed unmotivated to remove himself from his depressive state.
"You shouldn't dwell on prior errors that conflict your heart that it doesn't help anyone. You become paralyzed and can't function, leaving your loved ones vulnerable to get hurt." Kazui interjected.
"Such wise words, Kazui."
The younger man shook his head, embarrassed, "I wish I could take the credit. My father told me that."
"And he is not wrong," The older man exhaled and smiled. The inspiring words gave the older man a reason to remove himself out of the funk he'd been in. "We shouldn't waste the time we have in idle chatter. Come."
Kazui followed the King and Princess as they walked among the villagers. The King spoke to his people as if they were equals and not as men and women who were beneath them. It made him think of Byakuya Kuchiki. He didn't dislike the man. It was the way he carried himself differently from the way Yoruichi did. Most of the people in Seireitei and Rukongai loved Yoruichi, even though she was a great noble. They didn't like Byakuya as much. He wasn't sure if it was because of his families past actions or just his whole unapproachable disposition. He knew the man personally and knew he had a good heart for those he cared about, but to strangers, he seemed cold. Did that ruin the man's character? He wasn't sure why he was thinking about this? Maybe it was Aizen's words about the actions of those who held power. While Byakuya never did anything evil, his inability to do nothing while others suffered around him, especially accepting his sister execution.
He watched as Fuminori and his daughter joked and conversed with the adults. The King even have fun among the village's children. Kazui smiled, thinking of his grandfather playing like a fool with his grandchildren. It was when the afternoon was upon them, that he explained that he needed to leave. He felt his heartache for Koemi, her features trying to remain stable when she wanted to cry.
"I need to speak to the Goddess Pythia," he divulged, piquing the interest of Kazui.
"Goddess Pythia?"
"She's our Oracle," The King explained. "She provides paths to futures that have not yet come to past. She sees all, and I need her guidance."
"Wow. My father fought a powerful enemy. Yhwach was also ruthless, having the power to see the fate of someone's future. It was also his downfall. Can she be trusted?"
"I can assure you that she is trustworthy. She's the reason Sora and Orihime escaped the clutches of the Royal Fae. I can explain the story for another time. I cannot delay."
"Father, would there ever be a time that I can meet, Pythia. You always told me that my mother visited her often."
"There will be a day when you will meet her. I promise," he kissed her forehead and placed his head to hers. "I love you."
"As do I, Father."
"Fuminori, Sir. I apologize but since there's a delay with my family arriving. Do you think I can use Hermes again to speak to my family? If it's not too much trouble."
"Of course not. I will leave Hermes here while I depart and you can send your message. Thank you again, Kazui." He hugged the young man and departed into the wormhole. It was at that moment, Koemi broke down and ran off. Kazui followed close behind.
"Koemi!"
She paused in her steps to turn, "I'm sorry. I just need a moment."
"You don't have to apologize, remember," he hugged her close, caressing her back as he comforted her.
"I always get like this. It's so silly," Koemi removed herself from his hold to whip her tears. "You think I'd be used to it." She chuckled.
"It's okay to feel sad when he leaves. I'll tell you a confession. My father has a picture... an image of me when I first went to kindergarten. It shows me clutching my mother's leg, hiding under her long skirt. I had drool, snot, and tears all over my face. It was pretty disgusting."
She giggled, trying to imagine him much smaller in that predicament. He held both her hands as he leaned to kiss her lips. Before they could proceed any further, there was a fluttering noise beside them. Hermes looked impatient, the sun's light reflecting off his armor, blinding them.
"Sorry, Hermes." He carried her hand, walking towards the field that held most of the children.
"Create your message to your family and send them my love. I'll be with the children." She kissed his cheek and headed to their direction.
He sat for a moment, thinking of what to say before an idea popped into his head. "Okay, Hermes. Record!"
x
Sōsuke remembered Kazui's visit as if it was just yesterday. He knew that the child's memory had returned when he turned eighteen. He hadn't received a visit from him since. From the reports of the other Shinigami, the boy remained pure of heart.
Aizen tapped his fingers across the table of the room they provided for him. He only had the bands around his wrist and neck. They removed the one on his head for good behavior. Guards watched him, making sure he didn't leave the room during the night. Then when morning came, he was released to wander the halls with a few more guards. It was more of a precaution, and the guards weren't for his protection but from others that were foolish enough to harm him. Harm him? He smiled at the notion.
Kyoraku entered the room and looked at him with a curious gaze. He had a set of keys.
"As promised." The Captain Commander walked up to the brown-haired man and removed the bindings to his neck and wrists with keys. Sōsuke felt his power gathering, and no longer felt the restrictions of the dreadful binding contraptions. "You still will have guards."
He was expecting the random, guards, but found it interesting to see Hideyoshi, Shinji, and Queen Tier.
"If it weren't for the presence of Captain Hirako, I would say this was a pleasant surprise."
The blonde-haired Arrancar, along with his son, remained silent, as the Fifth Squad's Captain gave a disgruntled look. "I enjoy our time together, Sōsuke. Especially our last encounter when Kiyoshi used his powers on you." The blonde man stuck his tongue out, showing his tongue ring, "That was fucking hilarious, in my opinion."
"Well, I don't care about the opinion of a man who can't even get his subordinates names right."
"Kiyoshi is a little pet name. This kid and I go way back," he chuckled, grabbing an annoyed Hideyoshi by the neck. The dark-haired man shrugged his Captain off as he straightened himself.
"Now with the formalities out of the way. We can go for a walk," Kyoraku instructed, patting Aizen on the shoulder while the man closed his eyes in irritation. When Sosuke opened them, he found the dark eyes of his son looking at him and then quickly looked away, following his superior.
Shunsui and Tier stood behind him while Shinji and his son walked in front. He looked around the halls of Los Noches, seeing Shinigami, Quincies, and Hollows who walked and talked together. Rooms he once walked along as ruler.
"Seems almost impossible to imagine, seeing common enemies coming together. We can thank Ichigo Kurosaki for bringing the impossible possible." Aizen snickered.
"That's something we can agree upon," Shinji exclaimed. Hideyoshi was glancing at his Captain for a moment before he looked elsewhere.
"I would go as far as saying that most of them are here for Orihime as well," Aizen added, receiving a toothy grin from the Fifth Seat Captain.
"I won't argue with that," Tier replied instead, through her mask. Everyone in the group laughed at Tier's comments, except for the Arrancar herself and Hideyoshi who eyed the exchange curiously.
Shunsui eyed a group that was near a gate curiously as he beckoned for the group to make their way there. "We seemed to have newcomers?"
Aizen eyed the arrivals curiously, glancing at a man wearing a dark jacket and his hair slicked back, with a man wearing suspenders over a white shirt. Behind them was an older magenta haired middle-aged woman with same colored eyes, wearing a black suit with cute chibi animal pins on the right collar of her outfit. Behind her was a younger man who looked to be in his early twenties, with spiky hair lighter than his mother, almost pink. He wore jeans with a white jacket and a chain with the symbol of a Quincy. It was then Orihime squealed with delight running to the magenta haired woman.
"Riruka!" she cried out, hugging the slender girl.
"Please tell me you're not crying?" Riruka reprimanded the sobbing woman.
Orihime swallowed her tears as she whipped them away, "Sorry, Riruka. I just missed you. It's been years since we've last seen you."
"Well, being a famous fashion designer in Milan can get a bit hectic. Also raising my son."
Orihime looked up to see the handsome boy, who nodded with a smile, then gazed upon the crowd, crossing his arms to look intimidating.
"Orihime so good to see you again. You haven't changed," Tsukishima made to shake her hand, when a shadow cast over him, pausing his movement.
"Ichigo," he chuckled.
"Tsukishima" Ichigo nodded to the man, grasping his hand's in a firm handshake. "Hey Riruka, and-" Ichigo looked at the taller boy curiously.
"Raven Dokugamine B-" his mother clocked him over the head before he could finish.
"If you spoil your father's reveal, he's going to be so pissed." She scolded her son, who scrunched his lips together. "Hey, Ichigo!" Riruka hugged him while he glanced over her shoulder to look at Ginjo. The man looked bored, while he swigged from a small canteen, probably filled with liquor.
"Heard you're heading to another war." The ex Substitute Shinigami exclaimed.
"That announcement was made several days ago. You're pretty late to the party." Ichigo grinned.
"That's because we were waiting for Riruka and company to arrive from the airport."
"When we arrived at the airport Giruka and Tsukishima were there. You were nowhere to be seen."
"I was busy." He yelled at her.
"Would you guys shut the fuck up and introduce me, already. No one gives a fuck that Ginjo was balls deep in Kūkaku," a small voice yelled, coming from a small box Riruka was holding.
Ichigo ignored the fact that Ginjo was secretly screwing his Cousin from the exiled Shiba House, to look curiously at the box.
"Who the hell was that?"
"That's Raven's father. Our relationship doesn't really have a label."
"It's called Fuck buddy, Riruka," Ginjo growled out.
"It's more than that, you fucking asshole." Riruka shouted and screamed, causing everyone to cover their ears.
"Riruka-chan!" Kisuke made it through the crowd, to stand alongside her. "I'm glad you guys could make it." He looked at the crowd to smile. "Riruka has been watching over a certain Sternritter, who was severely wounded during the Sternritter war. After we nursed him to health, there was an agreement amongst Riruka and him. Long story short, he wanted confidentiality on his whereabouts. Only his family, most of the members of X-cution, and I knew of his secret."
Uryu looked a little hesitant at the box and then at the shady shop owner, "Are you serious, Kisuke?"
"Hush now, Uryu. Let the man have his moment."
Riruka laid the box on the ground, taking a tissue to use the tip to tickle her nose as she sneezed into the container.
'Puff!' A cloud of smoke cleared to reveal the Sternritter Bazzard Black as he shook off some of his wife's snot off of him. His mohawk still there, no longer the high rooster look but braided back with several braids bunched together. He had tattoos painted onto the sides of his head, fluid design with some of the Quincy symbols marking his skin. The Sternritter wore his white uniform as he grinned at Uryu.
"Hello, Uryu. Yhwach's successor to the Quincy. How's it been?" he glanced at a woman beside Uryu he assumed was the man's wife, along with a younger girl with frames.
"Black." He glanced at him curiously as he moved forward, looking behind, making sure his family was safe. Bazz B laughed at the Quincy successor's distrust of him with his family.
"Fuck, Uryu. It's not like I'm going to start shit. I came here because I'm a lot stronger. Burner Finger 1." He pulled out his index finger to shoot at a massive column in the sand, that obliterated at the sheer force of the beam of fire. It had narrowly missed Uryu's ear. "Direct Hit!" He laughed, while the other Quincy didn't find anything humorous about almost getting hit.
"You almost hit me," Uryu growled.
"Fucking relax. If I wanted to kill you, I would have done it." The man said not even two inches from his face.
"Bazz, would you please calm down. I know you're still upset about him killing your boyfriend."
"He wasn't my boyfriend. He was my best friend. I should have been the one to kill him."
"Last time I checked you had your chance to kill him, you bastard," Uryu said to the man in front of him.
"Mr. Reserved has a mouth on him. What happened?" He looked at Miyumi and chuckled. "Once you popped this girl's cherry, you finally grow some balls?" Uryu lifted his bow in record time, shooting an arrow only for it to be knocked by his father's arrow. Both projectiles were sent out in a far distance, but everyone could feel it's intensity.
"Control yourself, Uryu," Ryuken explained to his son.
"It was controlled. It only would have hurt one person." Both men glared at each other before a louder mouth yelled.
"WHAT THE FUCK IS GOING ON HERE?" the blue-haired King yelled, glaring at the newcomers as he fixed his clothing.
"You ruined Donchakka's gaming room," Nel advised them, crossing her arms. Grimmjow scrunched his brows together and shook his head.
"I don't give a fuck about that."
"Grimmy?"
"What I care about is that I was this close to cum-" Nel covered his mouth.
"Grimmjow, they don't need to know about that," she reddened, while her partner shrugged her hands off.
"Yeah we don't need to know that you received balls that match the fucking color of your hair," Bazz spat out.
"What did you say you bumble gum bitch?"
"OI!" Ichigo hollered, getting between the two. "Save your energy for sparing and fighting the enemy. We need all the help we can get. So calm the fuck down. I can't believe I'm going to say this. That includes you too, Uryu."
"Me?" Uryu hollered.
"Who the fuck shot a fucking arrow at this fucker?"
"Did you not hear what he said?"
"I understand what he said was a dick thing to say, but it was no need to lose your head, especially around others."
"Are you fucking lecturing me about losing one's head. When you fly off the handle whenever someone even looks at Orihime."
Most of the people around them chuckled, then stopped to look elsewhere when Ichigo glared at them. His attention was directed again to the Quincy.
"Alright! I guess I have to be the voice of reason," Renji clapped his hands together. "As much as I like a good fight. We have families here."
"So leave the cockfighting elsewhere, children," Rukia yelled beside him. Renji stared at his wife, who gave him a, 'what' gesture.
"I want to see Pink Ragnar shoot that beam again," Ichika shouted, jumping into the mix.
"You watch Vikings?" Bazz arched a brow at the young redhead, who nodded in confusion.
"Whenever I went to the Human World, I caught a few episodes. Is this the reason for the look?" She looked at his tattoos as he nodded. "Fucking Awesome."
"Is this your daughter?" the Sternritter questioned as Renji nodded at Bazz.
"Of course, she would have your taste in style. You're alright in my book, kid. The names Bazzard Black."
"Cool name," she smiled in appreciation.
"Sounds more like a pirate's name," a small voice mumbled.
Bazz glanced at the person who said the words to find an auburn-haired girl look up, realizing she spoke her words a bit too loud.
"And who the fuck are you?"
"Oi! That's my daughter. You asshole," Ichigo glared.
"So watch your fucking mouth," Grimmjow added, itching for a fight with this guy. Bazz shrugged his shoulders, choosing to refrain himself as he walked next to Riruka and his son.
x
Ginjo glanced over to look at the prisoner with interest. He made his way to the Sosuke, when he made his way in front of him, stretching out his hand.
"You're Sosuke Aizen. I'm Kugo Ginjo."
Aizen glanced at the man, holding out his hand to shake it. "You lead that fullbringer group, Xcution?"
"Yeah," he chuckled, nervously scratching the back of his head.
"You had the right idea, but your mistake was attacking Ichigo."
"I know that now, he wasn't the enemy." Ginjo sighed, giving the man a knowing look.
"We all make mistakes. Look at me," Aizen chuckled, nodding his heads towards his guards. "Though if I had to do it all over again, I'd still kill the members of Central forty-six, along with most of the Tsunayashiro Great Noble House. You fought along with Hisagi with disposing of this plague of a man, Tokinada?"
Kyoraku assigned Hisagi to investigate individual murders within the Tsunayashiro Family. Tokinada Tsunayashiro was a corrupt member of the Tsunayashiro Great Noble House. The man executed members of his family and tried to use his created artificial hybrid to replace the Soul King of Ychwach or what remained of the Quincies Emperor. The man's ambition drove him to disrupt Kyoraku's system of cleaning the corruption within Seireitei, starting with the nobles. The man's plan quickly halted with Hisagi's detective skills and the death of Tokinada at the hands of Shinigami, Fullbringers, and Arrancar. The hybrid child left to live a healthy life among the Rukongai. Tokinadas other crime was being the husband and murderer of Kaname Tosen's dear friend. Sosuke was humble enough to credit Hisagi being the hero of Tokinada's downfall, even if he did point the Vice-Captain in the right direction.
"Yes, Tsunayashiro was part of the reason for the corruption in Seireitei. The reason for Soul Society turning their backs on me, to a misunderstanding." Ginjo looked to Shunsui who avoided his stare.
"Let's not sugar coat it, Ginjo. Tsunayashiro Nobles had a Shinigami assassin try to kill you because they saw you a Substitute Shinigami and Fullbringers as a threat. When you disposed of the assassin, they made you look like someone dangerous to Soul Society. Poor Ukitake was just following orders, or was he?"
"Enough Aizen."
"Oh, Shunsui," the prisoner chuckled, " I haven't even begun to scratch the surface. "
Ginjo saw the tension amongst the Captain commander and Aizen. "We'll speak some more, Aizen." Ginjo bowed to the brown-haired man and left with Tsukishima who had been listening with interest. The stoic man nodded to Aizen, before following Ginjo.
"What an interesting conversation with that curious young man," Aizen stressed the word 'curious.'
"Aizen don't start anything by manipulating anyone."
"Manipulating? Oh, Captain Commander. I don't need to manipulate those who seek the truth. Someone has to shine a light at the dark secrets within Soul Society."
"We are cleaning up the mess within Seireitei little by little. We don't need chaos among the people."
"I understand your reasoning, but be careful Shunsui, such a slow process and those going unpunished slither away, to continue doing their evil." He grinned at the Captain Commander who nodded his head. "Still taking orders from Zero Squad?" He chuckled again. "Why isn't their power alongside us? Is it because they don't care or Ichigo wouldn't like the idea?"
"I'm warning you, Aizen." Shunsui eyed the man, who only grinned back.
"Or was it both? Tier, I heard you along with Grimmjow and Nel saw the way they created a new Soul King that holds our worlds from collapsing."
Aizen saw the way the blonde Arrancar remained still, her mask covered most of her expression, but he could see her eyes give off a fearful look."
"That's it! Hideyoshi, shut his mouth for me?"
Hideyoshi nodded as Aizen rolled his eyes in boredom while the younger man pulled out his Zanpaktou.
"Keeping me shut doesn't change anything."
"Pasithea. Hypnos: Mute."
Shunsui leaned in front of Aizen, " It changes the fact that I don't have to hear your damn mouth."
"C...Captain Commander. Could we speak in private for a moment?" Hideyoshi asked. Shunsui eyed both Shinji and Tier to watch over the prisoner while he was away for a moment. When they were a distance away, the younger man spoke.
"I'm not the biggest fan of this man, but why mute him if what he speaks is the truth?" Hideyoshi waited for his response as the older man closed his eyes before speaking.
"Most of the lies that are being revealed have been our truth for a long time. Secrets I've slowly come to learn these past thirty-plus decades than I've known from my time as a young Shinigami within Seireitei. We've made progress. I don't need him ruining it by spreading information that could ruin the balance of our worlds. If there is a better way of doing things, we are looking into it, but for now, we can only deal with the matter at hand. I apologize for giving you such a vague answer, but it's all I have." He patted the younger man on the shoulders as he nodded in understanding.
"I understand, Captain Commander," he bowed. 'Did he really understand?' He thought of the whole conversation the prisoner had with Ginjo and everything after that. 'Ichigo and Squad Zero weren't on friendly terms, why?' There were too many questions and not enough answers. He decided to keep silent as he walked with the Captain Commander back to the group. He looked up to find brown eyes staring at him. 'Was Aizen giving him a look of disappointment?' Why should he care what the man thought of him? He didn't mean anything to him.
Yet.
The same drive to seek information burned in him. The same drive his father was known for. He shook his head and tried to silence the questions that he seemed to struggle within his mind.
x
Orihime laughed with Rukia and Riruka as both women talked about their bunny collection. Riruka pouted in defeat, as Rukia smugly grinned at being the victor.
"I believe our fight was on my list of happiest moments in my life. It ranked Fifth."
"What was first?" the magenta haired woman curiously asked.
"My daughter's birth."
"Awww, I'd have to say the same, except it would be both my children," Orihime cooed.
"Where does our wedding rank?" Renji gruffly asked, eyeing his wife.
"Fourth."
"Fourth?" he loudly repeated.
"Would you calm down, Renji. The third was when Nii-sama and I reconciled after the whole mess with my failed execution."
Renji's jaw tightened, still remembering when he held Rukia in his arms after being apart all those years. They've been inseparable ever since as he nodded to his wife.
"The second happiest moment was when you handed me the candy when we first met." Rukia squeezed her husband's nose chuckling at his cheeks, turning the same shade of red as his hair.
"Yeah well, that's better," he coughed.
"Awww, that's so sweet. Most of my bunny collection comes from Bazz. He spoils me rotten." Riruka chuckled at the man who sat in the corner, eyeing the crowd that came to eat, while his son sat beside him.
Orihime saw a small wormhole open up and a golden fairy shoot through the room, flying in front of her face and others. Most of the people in the room stood ready for an attack until Ichigo told them to remain calm.
"It's that messenger fairy, Hermes." He walked to the fairy as it spoke.
"I have a message from Kazui Kurosaki and Princess Koemi. I found that all of the individuals needed for this message to distribute are here. Can I play the message now?"
Ichigo looked amongst the room, finding that the room held almost everyone, including Aizen, who seemed intrigued at the small newcomer. Ichigo nodded his head. He stood back when the fairy opened its mouth. Instead of a tiny screen, it increased in size in favor of everyone being able to see the image.
Once again, the screen showed Kazui's face alone, with his huge smile.
"It's me again. Although I realize I only sent my previous message to my father and I apologize for that. I am now correcting my mistake. I wanted to address most of everyone. Miume, please understand that what I did was the only way I knew to protect you. I wasn't trying to undermine your strength. But I'm glad I did it."
Miume looked at the screen, withheld tears on seeing her brother after so many days apart as she pursed her lips in annoyance.
"If Tatsu hasn't explained it yet. These Fae are something entirely different from what we faced. I kind of grasped Genryusai Yamamoto's fear of mother being in the clutches of Aizen. Mom, I see the way your powers flourish in your need to protect and heal. What scares me and what the previous Captain Commander feared is if you had been used for evil intentions. It's what these Royal Fae's are, Mom. They are you, except with no hesitation to kill, no compassion for an enemy, and no remorse for their evil deeds. You spend weeks agonizing over a simple thing like a lie."
Kazui smiled, looking at his hands to chuckle, causing his mother to laugh as well, seeing her son on the screen as she whipped the tears that were coming down. Kazui dropped the smile, to look sternly at the screen.
"There's Fae here who are innocent though. They seek to have a life that's not under the rule of these bastards from the Underworld. Mitushide was just screwing with me. I know I have to get stronger. "
The audience heard the eerie voice of Kazui's hollow. Ichigo realized the black swirl that was forming in his son's eyes and the horned mask that began to develop around his facial features. His son closed his eyes to concentrate as the horn disappeared.
"Sorry! I'm trying to control that part of me. I...I can't fail. I'll do what I can over here until you're all able to make it here.
"Kazui, are you almost done?"
Kazui looked behind him. The crowd watched as a small child with a braided mohawk came to the screen. Bazz smiled at the little boy's appearance. Kazui looked annoyed.
"Haji. I'm sending a message to my family."
The youngster noticed the camera with interest as he smugly grinned.
"Did you mention me to them?"
"No. Why?"
The boy's features narrowed at Kazui before he turned to the camera.
"Hello, Kazui's family. I'm Haji, defender of this village and betrothed to Princess Koemi. Kazui's upset that she chose me over his stupid face."
He snickered until Kazui pushed the boy away in irritation.
"Haji would you get the heck out of here."
Ichigo smirked finding it hilarious that his son got a little bit of his own medicine, Haji, bothering him. Then a smaller girl joined in. The boy began to blush when she moved in front of him, to wave at the camera.
"My name is Tani. Kazui has accepted my marriage proposal, of course, when I'm old enough."
The little girl swung her hands from side to side, gripping her dress as she smiled. Kazui was in the background rubbing the bridge of his nose. Ichigo heard the coos and awws in the room as he couldn't help but chuckle.
"Okay, you two. I really need a moment. Please."
"Okay!"
Tani grabbed Haji and ran off. Kazui sighed with relief.
"Tatsu, be there for my sister when I can't. I trust you because you're my brother. Thank you for being there."
Miume looked to Tatsu who sat across from her. She was still angry with him as she then looked up to the screen when his eyes sorrowfully stared.
"Yumiko. I knew Tatsu was able to save you in time, and I hope that you're okay. I... I'm sorry. I should have prevented him from hurting you."
Yumiko's lips quivered, trying to hold off the tears, seeing her friend, the boy she used to have a crush, feel guilty for her injuries.
"Ichika. I know you don't want to hear it or even see my guilty expression, but I'm sorry as well. You're probably throwing a fuss wishing to get your hands on the guy who injured you but stay focused. Kenpachi is probably drilling that into your stubborn head but listen. I'm ashamed to admit that I lost focus when you were paralyzed. It was the reason I got injured myself, but I'm okay. As for the other issue, I'm okay, and you don't have to worry. I want you to be happy."
He smiled, blushing a little.
Ichika knew what Kazui was implying about their failed relationship as she looked to Hideyoshi who stood by Aizen. Her boyfriend was glancing at the screen. His expression was hard to read.
"Now. There's someone I want you to meet. Give me a moment; technically, she doesn't know that I'm introducing you. She's a bit shy."
Kazui turned to glance behind him.
"Koemi!"
Kazui yelled, he stood beckoning for someone to come over. A pink-haired beautiful girl with small braids adorning the sides of her face as the rest of her haired flowed down to her hips. She looked flushed from running. She held Tani in her arms on the side of her hips.
"Did you finish?"
She asked.
"Tani could you give us a few moments."
Kazui expressed.
The little girl nodded as Koemi kissed her forehead and placed her down, so she could join the others.
"Come join us. We're using our shields to bounce the ball amongst each other. What are you doing now?"
She giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck.
There was a loud whistle amongst the crowd, coming from Isshin as he clapped his hands in appreciation to the beautiful girl on the screen who was hugging his grandson.
"I FUCKING KNEW IT!" Daichi yelled, shaking his head as he chuckled.
"He looks more than okay, with that beauty. Don't you think, Ichika?" Yumichika gloated.
"Fuck off!" Ichika shot back.
"ARROGANT TROLL!"
"WOULD EVERYONE SHUT THE FUCK UP!" Ichigo yelled as both of them shot daggers at one another, then angrily towards the screen.
"I want to introduce you to my family."
Kazui explained as Koemi paled looking at Hermes. She tried to remove herself from his grip, hiding her embarrassed expression. Kazui laughed, sitting her beside him.
"Kazui, no."
"So this is Princess Koemi. Say hello,"
He nudged the princess that was trying to cover her features.
"Come on, Koemi that's not very nice. What would the Princess, my mother, think of you not acknowledging her?"
Orihime narrowed her eyes at her son, using her name to con this sweet girl into speaking. She watched the princess narrow her eyes at him and give a brief pout, then finally glance at them. Her face turned crimson as she waved and gave a smile.
"H ... Hello, I'm Koemi, daughter of King Fuminori. I look forward to meeting everyone, especially Princess Orihime. As a child, my father told stories that your appearance would put an end to our enemies rule. The stories I've heard from your son has shed light on the kind of person you are. I'm delighted to know that my admiration towards you was not in vain and that you're a shining example of compassion and strength. I must sound like a crazed enthusiast."
She covered her face.
"Just a little," whispered Kazui as the eyes of the girl beside him widened in horror. He chuckled, whispering into her ear.
"It's fine, they know I'm joking."
He told her, nudging her to continue.
"I also look forward to meeting Ichig-"
Kazui abruptly stopped her as she looked at him in confusion.
"Wait! Before you say anything in regards to my father. You have to call him by the proper name."
"Kuros-"
She began to say as Kazui shook his head. Ichigo narrowed his eyes on the screen before the girl came to realize what he wanted from her.
"I'm not calling him that."
"You already did," Kazui jested as she frowned at him. Kazui used his hand to move her head to face them. She side-eyed him in confusion, when his fingers pushed her chin down, as he made her talk while he spoke for her in a high pitched voice.
"I also look forward to meeting Mr. Grump."
Koemi pushed him off the seat he was seated on, as he held his stomach from laughing. Miume couldn't help but chuckle as most of the crowd hollered with laughter, while Ichigo's jaw tensed.
"KAZUI! I apologize Ichigo. When Kazui was describing you, it reminded me of the Penteons that we have here."
Kazui began to burst out laughing even harder, as he patted himself clean, before taking a seat beside her. But Koemi ignored him and continued.
"They look intimidating and unapproachable at first, but once you get to know them, they're actually sweet and caring," she smiled, proud of her explanation.
"Just so you know Dad. Penteons are these massive ugly creatures that look like giant boars. Koemi, you described my father perfectly."
Ichigo heard the loud cackle from his father, as a vein throbbed from his head.
"But I jest. The way that Penteons are is uncanny to you, Dad," Kazui fiddled with his fingers nervously. "Koemi showed me a family of them, at first glance, they were pretty intimidating, but they never harmed us and were affectionate. She was trying to convey that you'd find kindness in the most unlikely places if you look hard enough."
Kazui began to redden as he glanced at Koemi, who smiled in thanks.
"I can understand why your sister would want to strangle you and hug you at the same time," she chuckled," I also look forward to meeting you Miume. I deeply respect the bond that you two share, it something I've never experienced being an only child. I look forward to meeting everyone else and appreciate all the help that you can give us. My deepest love and respect to you all."
"Wait before you we go. Don't you want to say a few words to ...you know."
Koemi bit her lip as she began to swallow nervously.
"I'm not sure what to say?"
"Just be honest. I'm sure he'd listen. The worst thing that could happen is he'd shrug it off and not care."
Koemi nodded, rubbing the side of her arm.
"I was informed today that I had a sibling this whole time. What came to mind wasn't the fact that my father kept this information from me, but my concern for you, Daichi."
Daichi's face fell, feeling uncomfortable as some eyes were on him before they went back to the screen. He felt like leaving to remove himself from further embarrassment, but he remained seated.
"You must think of me silly, feeling concerned for someone who's a stranger to me. I guess it is. I can make excuses for my father, telling you that he was a man in pain, seeking comfort when he met your mother. I can tell you that he has the responsibility of overseeing lives here that he has to protect. I can argue that even though he's my father, he's hardly ever here, trying to maintain communities food and safety. He's tortured and beaten by Iki-Ryo and Mitsuhide because he doesn't want to submit, to protect me," she sniffed and whipped the stray tear. "But in spite of everything I've explained to shine a light to his side of things, it still hurts to know he kept his presence from you. Maybe Iki-Ryo would have used your existence to hurt him. I don't even know what would have been the right thing to do. I don't even know the struggles you had to endure in the Human World, but I'm willing to listen...that's of course if you want to talk."
Daichi remained still, ignoring the eyes that were on him. Koemi turned to Kazui, acknowledging to him that she was done. Kazui turned to them and lifted his hand in a salute.
"We'll see you all when you get here. I love you." He smiled, "I'm done, Hermes."
The screen was blank for a second before it turned on again. Showing the couple, still seated at a different angle. Kazui was pushing Miume's long hair behind her ear as she looked at him.
The image caused Ichika to feel uncomfortable as she bit her lip.
"Do you think your parents would approve of me?"
"What? They'll adore you." He leaned in, giving her a sweet kiss on her lips. He leaned back to look at her eyes, flicker open to provide him with a smile.
Ichika looked away to find Hideyoshi staring at her, as she proceeded to turn to avoid his look.
"Come on, let's join the others," Kazui expressed to Koemi, taking her by the hand as she nodded while following him.
The screen went blank. Permanently this time.
"I may have forgotten to turn off my recorder," the fairy explained to Ichigo, giving a smug smile to imply that his mistake was purposefully done. He saluted and flew off into a golden glow through a wormhole.
Orihime stood to confide something while fanning her eyes to keep from crying. It didn't help. She began to ball and speak incoherently. Rukia began to laugh as she held her friend's hand.
"Orihime, breath," The healer looked into the violet eyes of her friend as she inhaled and let out a breath. "Okay, now speak."
"My baby. She... hic... adorable." Rukia scrunched her nose at the taller woman, trying to make sense of her words.
"For the millionth time, Orihime. Our son is not a baby," he crossed his arms and chuckled, shaking his head.
"He's definitely not a baby, son. Just look at their chemistry, in no time I can start expecting great-grandchildren." Isshin yelled out. Orihime began to cry again.
"Whoa! Let's not get out of hand. They just met." Ichika added, receiving some stares that made her a little uncomfortable, "I mean, he's young."
"To be a father or have sex?" Rangiku spoke in a sultry tone. "I agree with Isshin. There's definitely chemistry there, the sexual kind." She giggled.
"Oi, I'm sure Kazui wouldn't appreciate you guy's talking about whether or not he's intimate with her," Ichigo fidgeted nervously.
"Come now, son. You're not blind to the adorableness of your future daughter-in-law."
"Excuse me?"
"It's okay to be proud that your son has found a downright attractive partner. I can't tell you how many times I see Orihime and tell myself, 'This alluring vision is my son's wife.'"
"You don't just tell your self. You remind us every day." Ichigo growled, giving his father an annoyed look. His father wrapped his arm around his son.
"The point is, Ichigo. I relish in the fact that my daughter-in-law is a real knockout. Its because you have great taste; you get that from me. What can I say?"
Ichigo shrugged his father away, only to hear his wife laugh.
"That's sweet, Papa-san!"
"Thank you, Orihime-chan."
"No, it's not. It's downright inappropriate, and you always encourage this idiot, Orihime." Ichigo pointed at his wife, who's eyes furrowed at her husband.
"I'm confused," Nel intervened, "I found the girl physically attractive. Did you not, Ichigo?"
Ichigo coughed, feeling his cheeks warm, "I don't think that's relevant, Nel."
"Bullshit. You saw your son eye-fucking that princess the whole time she was talking," Grimmjow countered, giving a boyish grin to the Shinigami Hybrid.
"Does that mean looking lovingly at her?" Nel asked the blue-haired Arrancar, who nodded still making eye contact with Ichigo. "Then Kazui was definitely eye-fucking her."
"Ok, Enough. I'm not talking about this anymore. We need to focus on getting stronger and not about what my son does in his spare time."
"Or who he does," Raven said under his breath, but loud enough for those in the room to hear. Bazz grinned at his son's comment while patting his back. Ichigo eyed them both in the corner and closed his eyes and breathed in.
"Excuse me, Ichigo Kurosaki," Ichigo heard a voice call out to him as he opened his eyes and noticed Hideyoshi raised his hand.
"Yes, Hideyoshi."
"I can't help but notice that your son has the same symptoms you've experienced yourself, regarding the hollow that was ingrained into your soul since birth."
Ichigo did notice his son's appearance, once his anger became apparent. "Yes, before I even knew what it was, it would come out when I was becoming more powerful or through my emotions. Kazui's hollow seems to come out when he's angry, something that rarely happens. It's called a Visord."
"Someone with spiritual pressure who can create a hollow mask. I read about it, in Hollow behavior and biology. I wasn't aware that it could pass down a generation."
"Well, we can all thank, Aizen, for his experimentation." Shinji eyed the man with a grin, knowing he was unable to talk. Aizen raised his brow to smile at the blonde. He began to use sign language, only irritating the Fifth Squad Captain, especially getting a few laughs that understood the prisoner. "What the fuck is he saying with his damn hands, Kiyoshi?"
"He says, 'There's no need to thank me. Your mere presence is a constant reminder of what a failed experiment should look like.'"
The Captain commander steadied Shinji's arm that was trying to grasp his Zanpaktou.
Aizen's smile widened as he continued to use his hands.
"Kiyoshi, fucking unmute him. I can't stand to see those fucking hands moving."
Hideyoshi looked to Shunsui as the man nodded in agreement.
"Pasithea. Hypnos: Unmute."
"I appreciate receiving my voice, but I could have continued using my hands."
"Well let me use my hand, you son of a bitch," Shinji growled out, turning his hand to flip Aizen off.
"If you took the time to understand Sign Language, you'd realize that's a hand gesture, you simpleton," the prisoner laughed, only infuriating Shinji more. "If it weren't for my meddling, most of the individuals in this room wouldn't have existed. To those, I accept your gratitude and before you begin to start spouting your angry rants about disregarding me in your conception, Hideyoshi. It wasn't you that I was mentioning." Aizen saw the anger in his son's features as he directed his remarks to him, but before he could say anything, someone interrupted.
"Well, hell, Aizen! I'd thank you for your involvement, but it's difficult when you sliced my back from behind. Let's not forget the Hollow infecting Masaki that could have ended her life."
"I sometimes hear the road to meeting your soulmate could be a difficult one. I'm glad I was able to pave the way. She provided you with three children, and now you're a grandfather with seven grand-"
"Eight," Isshin said through gritted teeth.
"My, My eight grandchildren. Congratulations," he mockingly clapped, grinning at the dark-haired man, who crossed his arms. "I honestly don't care if any of you acknowledge my involvement. In fact, it seems pointless when several centuries pass, most of you would be nothing but dust."
"Yet, we would have those who'd remember us."
"Spare me the sentimentality of leaving a legacy, Isshin. 'Symbolic Immortality,' what is that to an immortal being?" he chuckled.
"It sounds lonely," whispered Miume. She looked up, realizing eyes in her direction. "Sorry, but watching your friends & family age, deteriorate, and eventually die. Any relationship you form will only end in pain & loss as you watch countless generations pass away while there is nothing you can do. Immortality seems a bit lonely is all."
"Oh, but it's not, my dear grand? grand...daughter. I hope I'm saying that right."
A sweet voice was heard. Tatsunari stood to search for the familiar sound of the Queen. They were there standing with her King, with five other guards, none resembling Metos or Lenez. These guards wore the same gold and turquoise, that was different from the white/turquoise that the Royal couple wore. The guards surrounded themselves with an orange dome, protecting their King and Queen.
Shinigami and Arrancars readied their Zanpaktous, while Quincies held their bows at the ready. The Fae's held their attack fairies, each one unique.
"I understand we're not on the best of terms, but we both came here as a social visit."
"Bullshit!" Tatsunari shouted out.
"Oh, my pet," she giggled, holding her hands together. "Your sudden departure left me heartbroken. I really wanted to play with you."
Tatsunari swallowed nervously, reddening from embarrassment, "Yeah, well. I wasn't losing any sleep over it."
She pouted at his response.
"That's a little mean, pet."
"EXCUSE ME. HOW THE FUCK DID YOU GET HERE?" Ichigo seethed, his pupils already turning a darker color.
"Mmm Ichigo Kurosaki, you're even more handsome up close," she bit her lip, eyeing him up and down. Ichigo felt a little uncomfortable, with this woman especially looking like a younger version of his wife. Sure some aspects were different, but he didn't doubt who this woman was to Orihime. "That's a little secret," she winked.
"Don't worry about this location being discovered by others, that's of course, entirely up to you." The King spoke, with a charming boyish smile as he rubbed his beard. He drank from a cup that appeared from thin air, as he chugged it down.
"If it's getting something in exchange. Then you both can go fuck yourselves." Ichigo conveyed.
Miku looked at her husband as they both smiled. "As we said, this is more of a social visit. My husband wanted to meet those that were trying to contend with Shun Nya's forces and the Underworlds. I didn't want to 'fuck myself' more like I wanted to 'fuck' someone." The way she seductively said the word 'fuck' from her lips caused some of the men in the room to groan.
"W...Well, you can't have Tatsu," Miume shouted out nervously. The woman giggled.
"Oh, no! The pet would be more of a playmate, make me laugh, tell me stories, essentially be my jester. I don't want a boy, Miume. I need a man."
Some of the men puffed up their chest to get the lovely woman's attention, one of them being Shinji. Isshin did the opposite, trying to find somewhere to hide.
"There you are Isshin," she waved enthusiastically, getting the spiky-haired man's attention. "Did you think of me?"
Before he could answer, Ichigo interrupted. "Enough of this shit. You say this is a fucking social visit. Why are you really here?"
The Queen scrunched her eyes in irritation, puffing her cheeks out. Ichigo found the look his wife made disconcerting on this Immortal. ' Why the fuck did she have to look like that?'
The King placed his hands on his wife's shoulders, soothing her and whispering in her ear before he spoke. "Mitsuhide and Lord Iki-Ryo are strengthening their army alongside ours. It's only a matter of time before the inevitable comes. We just wanted to enjoy everyone's company, before it ceases to exist."
"I think it's the other way around," Ichigo growled, his hollow's voice saying each word.
Shunsui clapped his hands loudly, getting everyone's attention. "We can talk civilized for now. We'll put away our weapons if you promise to play nice."
"We'll be extra nice," Miku smiled, jumping in excitement.
Captain Commander looked to some of the Captains and Vice Captains in the room and nodded. Grimmjow did the same, while Uryu calmly put away his bow. King Noboru spoke to his men, who nodded. They opened a wormhole and left.
"Where are they heading?" Shunsui asked.
"Since I trust you all to be civilized, there's no need for those guards." King Noboru materialized a drink and began to partake from it. "How rude of me. Care to have some? I assure you it's not poisoned, although most mortal men can't handle this fine wine from the Immortals."
Shunsui perked up. "I'll try."
They all settled themselves onto the table as the King procured other cups around the table. Some of the men waited as the King and Captain Commander both drank. Shunsui drank as his eyes and grin widened. "That's the best I've ever tasted. If we weren't enemies, I'd invite you to Soul Society as a friend, as long as you brought that wine." The curly-haired man, chuckled as he drank some more from his cup.
"Shame that we are enemies, though." He shrugged his shoulders. Miku was still standing and instead of sitting on the empty seat provided to her next to her husband. She chose to sit on Isshin's lap, ignoring the man's protest while she wrapped her arm around him. She looked amongst everyone to find the person she was looking for. "Orihime?"
Orihime barely registered her name. She was trying to avoid this, but it was bound to come as she meekly looked up to the woman who was her mother.
"You've aged my dear but beautifully. That can all change once you come with us. We have waters to remove immortality, but we do have a rare fruit that you could gain your immortality back. The same fruit, Miume would be eating, once she with her betrothed."
"Miume is not eating or drinking a damn thing you fuckers give her." The Queen eyed Ichigo after his comment, leaning forward, showing most of her cleavage. "I can see the attraction my daughter sees in you. I wouldn't mind a taste of the son, but not before I have a taste of the father." She turned, catching Isshin off guard, surprising him with a kiss. "Do you prefer to do this privately? If you're into doing things publically. I have to warn you I'm a little shy." She giggled, wrapping her arms around Isshin and placing her body so she could straddle him.
Isshin's eyes widened as he laughed hysterically. "I think that's inappropriate now, Queen Miku. Your husband is sitting a few seats away."
Miku laughed, placing her hands lower until she found the bulge between his legs, "He doesn't mind. In fact, he was looking to sample someone himself as well." King Noboru winked at Yumichika who swallowed and reddened.
"Okay, Enough. Dammnit." Ichigo slammed his fist onto the table. Miku turned, looking disappointed, leaning her pouty features onto her palms.
"Ichigo is right. You're treating this like it's just a game to you. I'm not going anywhere with you and my daughter as well. I'm fighting with all of my strength against everything Sora was trying to protect. So I kindly ask you to leave, because the next time we meet each other, I'm afraid it will be when we're facing each other on the battlefield," Orihime's eyes filled with tears, but her voice was a woman determined to protect those she cared about.
Miku looked at her daughter for a moment, drumming her fingers onto the table. Disappointment etched on her lovely features. "Very well, let us go, my King. Isshin, don't think that this is over," she giggled, kissing his lips.
Noboru stood as the cups disappeared, causing Shunsui to frown at the loss. Miku looked around the room, winking at several of the men that caught her attention before she took her husband's hands and entered the wormhole.
"I...I think I found a new love," Shinji looked at the wormhole. "I call dibs on the Queen when this war is over."
"Would you shut the hell up, Shinji," Ichigo yelled, clearly irritated.
"No, I will not shut up. That was a damn wet dream that fucking left for fuck sake. It doesn't faze you, because you're married to the spitting image of a fucking sex goddess," The Captain whined.
"You're annoying bitching is getting on my nerves. Why don't you leave and jack off to the Queen and come back when you're calmer," Grimmjow stated, rolling his eyes.
"Oh, fuck you. You were one of the guys she winked at, and also you," he pointed to Byakuya who remained seated ignoring the man's observation. "I have no idea why she winked at you," Shinji gritted his teeth at Kenshiro, who scratched his white hair in annoyance.
"You're aggravating the fuck out of me, now," The ninth squad Captain, eyed his former Visord companion in the Human World.
"Well, you always annoy the fuck out me, but not as much as this fuck right here," he made to point to Sosuke but found his presence gone from where it was once standing. He looked around, seeing him nowhere in the room.
"WHERE THE FUCK IS AIZEN?"
x
Where is Aizen indeed? (evil laugh)
I brought back Bazz B. YAY! I had to find a way to bring him back, it was almost like how Kubo introduced Grimmjow. You last saw him knocked out and left for dead by Nnoitra and then you see him helping Kisuke, Orihime, Chad and etc. I also made another crack ship. The pink/magenta couple. I might explain how they came to be in 'Life, Love, and other Hiccups,' if you're interested. When I get the chance.
Kazui introducing Koemi to his family. It's been nagging me on doing something so wacky and surprising that this idea came to mind. Maybe Kazui didn't think he would have that big of an audience. LMAO! I wanted it to be sweet and show his family how he interacts with her.
I'm not trying to have Ichika cause drama. She doesn't have those feelings for Kazui, but she still has some lingering feels she didn't realize. I guess it's normal. He was in a sense her first boyfriend but not her first love. Which Hideyoshi is to the fiery red head.
I loved writing Ginjo and Aizen interacting. I felt like Kubo wanted to express more in the manga when he wrote the Substitute Shinigami Arc, but then he had to introduce the Shinigami yet again. I don't hate the Shinigami its just that most of the characters have gotten their story introduced. There were other characters that needed to be fleshed out more and they were brushed aside (VIsords) because of what was more popular.
I'm reading Attack on Titan manga and it's hilarious watching Youtubers who were into the story at first when everyone was into it. Then the story started to progress and you read things you weren't expecting. Humans as evil, Corrupt systems, and what is really considered an enemy? MOst of the youtubers were "This is getting boring? or 'too much talking" This doesn't make any sense?' Yet Hajime Isayama kept chuggin through, now the pieces to the puzzle are being put together and people who are complaining are now "OMG Attack on Titan is Awesome." "It makes sense." While people who were reading were putting their theories and liked how the author didn't flat out spoon fed you his story. It makes me sad because I know Kubo had disagreements with Shonen Jump, probably with them messing with his story. He should of just steam rolled through haters and said 'FUCK YOu' Because now that you read the light novels you understand what he was trying to convey and people are like 'Why wasn't this in the manga?' Because we had a lot of people who were too much into senseless fights and SHINIGAMI instead of a story with substance. I need to stop, I can go on forever about this shit.
Please review. Thank you for reading.
