Author's note: While I love Bleach, I was hoping that Kubo could've done something more in this arc. While some of this will remain loyal to the canon part, the rest of the plotlines will be original, based upon an idea I had. I don't own any of the characters. They belong to Tite Kubo. The original characters belong to me.
Chapter 3: The Divine Council
At Kisuke Urahara's camp, Hueco Mundo
The team that Kisuke Urahara had sent back to the World of the Living had returned, their mission successful. The laid-back Shinigami were happy to see both the Fullbringers and Kon again, although they didn't necessarily feel the same way in return. In fact, the moment he entered Hueco Mundo, Kon immediately started searching for Orihime's whereabouts.
But Tessai Tsukabishi needed to have a world alone with Urahara, alongside Yoruichi Shihohin. Both of them knew that Tessai had managed to gain information from the Vizards.
"Tell me this isn't happening!" Yoruichi snapped in surprise by hearing what her long-life friend had told them. "Is Head-Captain Yamamoto dead?" she wondered with widened eyes.
All that Tessai could do was to nod his head silently. "I am afraid it is true. I read the message from Captain Hirako, and from what it said, the enemy's leader stole Yamamoto's Bankai, thus rendering him powerless" he said lowly while adjusting his glasses. "It is just as we feared. This Yhwach is more powerful than what we first expected" he added to his answer.
Urahara had so far only listened to reflect on those words. "So, the Quincies pulled back after Ichigo had arrived, moments after their leader killed Yamamoto" he thought, but suddenly recalled something that Tessai had told he had read in the massage. Thinking about this made Urahara widen in realization. "Yhwach was below Squad 1's barracks…where Aizen is held captive…..." he began thinking before coming to a realization. "But why would he visit him!? There's no way Aizen would ever become allies with Yhwach. Or could it be that.….Yhwach knows about "his" return?" he then wondered.
"Kisuke" Yoruichi's voice interrupted the blonde-haired man in his thoughts. The purple-haired woman faced him seriously. "As wrong as it might sound, it would be best if we let the 13 Court Guard Squads know of the Imperio de Hierro's return" she suggested to him, while Urahara listened closely.
"But wouldn't that leave us in trouble with the Dechados?" Tessai asked as he didn't quite get what they were saying.
Yoruichi faced him. "They have no control over who we share our knowledge with!" she insisted with defiance. "And besides, they were agreeable to us helping them, though under their supervision of course" the black-skinned woman then recalled what they had been told.
Urahara decided to think for a moment before speaking his mind on the matter. "Yoruichi has a point" he told Tessai, before fixing his eyes upon the medallion that once belonged to one of the Sternritters. "Furthermore, I doubt that the Sereitei don't have much time to figure out how to retrieve the stolen Bankais. Therefore, I will be the one doing it for them. Furthermore, I guess it's time that I made contact with the Soul Society" he told them and suddenly motioned for Kon to stand on a platform located besides Urahara's computer.
The Mod Soul in a lion plush only crossed his tiny arms while facing the blonde-haired man with irritation. "This is the last time I do any favors for you!" he said while looking away.
Yoruichi only moped by seeing his behavior. "Quit being so stubborn, Kon. How long does it take for you to realize that Orihime is not interested in you?" she bluntly asked him.
Kon only snapped in anger by seeing this. "You shut your mouth, catty lady! Orihime is way hotter compared to a nasty shemale like you!" the Mod Soul hit back at Yoruichi, who angrily twitched in return.
In fact, the purple-haired woman began cracking her knuckles, much to Kon's own fear. "I'm sorry, but could you please be so kind and repeat what you just said to me?" Yoruichi asked lowly and threateningly at the same time. The Mod Soul immediately regretted his choice of words.
Urahara intervened between the confrontation and faced Kon with his smug smile. "Now, now, Kon. There's no need for you to be disrespectful towards Yoruichi" he assured him while began working on his keyboard. "With the recent upgrade I gave you, you should be able to land perfectly safe in in the Soul Society!" Urahara added with a reassuring smile.
"What!? What do you mean by….…." Kon was too late, as the platform he stood on teleported him away.
"See you around, Kon!" Urahara noted with a smug smile.
But their moment was short lived, as they all could hear the sound of a horn blowing outside the tent. They knew it belonged to the Imperio de Hierro, but it was not the Dechados.
"You two go outside and see who it is" Urahara insisted to them and focused his attention on the giant screen belonging to his computer. "And while you're at it, send Orihime and Chad in here. They will be more than happy to know how Ichigo's doing" he added to his request.
While they were reluctant at first, the two eventually understood what Urahara was about to do, so they exited the tent to see who had arrived at the camp. But the moment they exited, the two friends were in for a shocking surprise, as were Orihime, Chad and the others who had been brought to Hueco Mundo.
Just outside the camp, hordes of Hoplitas could be spotted, but there were more soldiers. Many of them even rode on tall Hollow-horses, while some did that with Hollow-wolves. Many of these beasts were even armored, similar to the Hoplitas. Grimmjow and Gantenbainne could see one of the riders approaching and he wore an armor that resembled those of the Romans. His face could not be seen thanks to his helmet-like Hollow-shell, but the opening was formed like a cross. But his skin was tan and he was muscular beneath his armor. In addition, he had a spear and a shield, which probably acted as his Zanpakutou.
The strange Arrancar unmounted his Hollow-horse and approached Grimmjow and Gantenbainne. The soldiers behind him only stood still.
"Yoruichi…...what kind of army is this?" Orihime wondered with concern in her eyes.
The purple-haired woman was sweating as she could see more soldiers approaching the campsite. It only made her feel more uneasy. But she knew what Urahara had requested and decided to send both Orihime and Chad away.
"Kisuke requires your assistance inside his tent" she mentioned to them, but the two Humans were reluctant to leave her and the rest of the gang to deal with this unexpected moment. But Yoruichi only grinned at them cockily. "We'll take care of these guys, you two stay inside the tent" she assured them.
While Orihime seemed reluctant to walk away, Chad grabbed her hand and dragged her into Urahara's tent, leaving Yoruichi and the rest of the gang to face this new force of Arrancars. Tessai, Jinta and Ururu stood at her side, as did Riruka and Yukio.
"I recognize those horse riders" Tessai remarked grimly while adjusting his glasses. "They are considered the cavalry in the Imperio de Hierro's army. But it has another name: the Conquistadores" he added with info on the cavalry.
Riruka faced Tessai and Yoruichi with angry eyes. "You dragged us all out here, just so we could end up being captured by their hands!?" she asked impatiently, but the young girl could see that they were mostly ignoring her jab, much to her irritation.
One of the main reasons why they ignored her, was the fact that the armored Arrancar made his way towards the group, alongside Grimmjow and Gantenbainne. He held onto his shield while his spear was hanging behind his back.
"Yoruichi Shihoin and Tessai Tsukabishi" the mysterious Arrancar finally spoke up, his voice hallowed due to the helmet. "I take it that Kisuke Urahara is inside that tent, am I right?" he asked while pointing his finger at the tent.
"Yessir" Ururu spoke up, trying her best not to sound gentle.
The Arrancar regarded her for a brief moment before formally bowing towards the group, indicating that he wanted to introduce himself. "Since none of you may not know me, allow me to introduce myself. I am called Appius Titus Caesar, a member of the esteemed Legionarios, as well as the Commander of the Conquistadores" he introduced himself with formality in his voice. He then began facing both Yukio and Riruka, who seemed to be slightly intimidated by being looked upon like this. "Hmmm…...Fullbringers…...I have not seen any of your kind for a very long time" he remarked while eyeing them. The two Fullbringers did not know how to respond to his statement.
"Why have you come here?" Yoruichi suddenly asked while wanting an answer. "I take it that you were sent here to oversee us" she added with suspicion.
Hearing this actually made Caesar chuckle in amusement, although people could not see his face through the cross opening in his helmet. "Cleary you misunderstand, Shinigami. We were sent here to assist the Dechados with rounding up surviving Esclavos within the ruins of Las Noches, which actually explains the carts you see here. However, His Highness himself also demanded that I check on you and your…associates' work" he answered and began pacing back and forward slowly. He then faced Grimmjow and Gantenbainne. "Is it true that one of you assisted Urahara with retrieving some tools of importance?" he asked them both.
The two Legionarios pointed their fingers at Pesche and Dondochakka, who had been goofing off the moment they arrived back to the campsite. But once Pesche noticed that they were being watched, the blonde-haired Arrancar immediately saluted in return. Dondochakka only stood there dumbfounded, not knowing what to do.
"Hmmm…...I see. So they have proven themselves valuable to our empire? Most phenomenal" he remarked with slight sarcasm in his voice. "Grimmjow, do you mind telling me where Master Gallante has run off….." Caesar was asking the blue-haired Arrancar, but he had already started walking towards Urahara's tent, wanting to see what was happening inside it.
"What the hell's all the fuzz about?" Grimmjow wondered and pulled up to take a peek. However, he could also hear a very familiar voice inside the tent as he was about to enter. Hearing this already made Grimmjow snap in realization. "This voice! Ichigo Kurosaki! Are you in there!? Show yourself, you bastard!" he shouted angrily, but suddenly, Orihime and Chad were trying to prevent him from entering the tent.
"He's not here!" a desperate Urahara could be heard in the background.
"Damn you guys! Let me in!" Grimmjow barked as he was pushed out of the tent.
Yoruichi and the others could only watch this scene unfold with confused glances. Apparently, they didn't know what his deal was. Even Gantenbainne and Caesar felt embarrassed over the situation.
"Hot-headed imbecile" Caesar muttered under his breath.
Gantenbainne took a few steps forward towards Grimmjow. "Maybe I should calm him down" he said while walking towards the aggressive Arracnar, who angrily demanded to be let inside the tent.
"No. That will no longer be necessary, Ganteinbainne Mosqueda" the afro-haired man immediately paused as he heard the voice of Diablo Gallante. He quickly turned around and could see the paragon standing right beside Caesar with the scythe-like Zanpakutou in his hand. The red-skinned Arrancar with the eyepatch walked towards Grimmjow and firmly put a hand on his shoulder. Grimmjow was about to angrily retaliate, only for him to pause at the sight of Gallante's serious glance, by only using one eye. "Enough of this, Grimmjow. This will not help you towards achieving the rank you so desperately desire" Gallante told him sternly, surprisingly making Grimmjow come back to his sense, although he seemed reluctant to do so.
Gantenbainne and Caesar approached the one-eyed paragon and bowed to him with formality. "Master Gallante, where have you been?" Caesar asked while wanting to know.
A smirk could be seen underneath Gallante's cover and he even pointed his finger over to the other side, where some Hoplitas were standing in lines. "Just turn around and see for yourselves" he said.
Yoruichi and her group also turned around to see who it had been and they all became stunned. Walking through the line of saluting Hoplitas was Nel, although not the same Nel as most people knew her. She was now back in her adult form, the crack on her Hollow-shell completely eradicated. While the sea green-haired woman still wore dirty and almost revealing outfit, that was not the most interesting part. She was now back in her form she used to live in as an Espada, holding her Zanpakutou in her right hand.
Both Pesche and Dondochakka approached their mistress with eyes of wonder. She only faced them with a gentle smile. In fact, the two Arrancars cried and they embraced her in a tight hug, with Nel returning the hug from her Fraccìon.
"I present to you the soon-to-be newest addition to the Dechados: Nelliel Tu Odelschwank" Gallante declared and Nelliel immediately loosened herself from her two friends and bowed to Gallante with respect.
"I am humbled to serve the Imperio de Hierro, Master Gallante" Nelliel spoke up with formality in her voice.
Both Grimmjow and Gantenbainne were taken aback by this announcement, although Grimmjow seemed very dissatisfied with Gallante's decision. But yet, he did not dare raise his voice against the red-skinned Arrancar, whom he knew could easily wipe him out of existence.
Suddenly, another horn called and Gallante immediately looked to see the other Dechados returning to the campsite while riding on their wolves. Nelliel quickly stepped before the paragons and immediately kneeled before them with adoration. She was eventually joined by Pesche and Dondochakka, who did the same thing.
Annabelle smiled by what she saw and humbly stroke Nelliel's sea green hair. "I see that you and your Fraccion have chosen to join the Imperio de Hierro, young lady. I am proud to welcome you into our fold. It's always nice with more women in our ranks" the elderly woman told her.
"Thank you, Lady Annabelle" Nelliel said with respect in her voice.
Even Xerxxes smiled weakly in observing. "We have heard of your wisdom and compassion towards fellow Hollows and Arrancars, Nelliel. Women like you are the perfect recruits we have searched for. Your compassion and wisdom are greatly welcomed amongst us Dechados" he admitted while commending the young woman.
"Although Tier Harribel was a Vasto Lorde, I must admit that you possess the same soul as one of them" Luddenwig remarked while being slightly impressed. "You are among the few Espadas serving under Aizen I ever have respect for" he even admitted.
Hearing this made Grimmjow snap in anger and he was about to physically confront Luddenwig, only to be stopped by Gantenbainne. While he wanted to just push the orange-haired man away, he could tell by looking into Gantenbainne's expression that he really needed to not misbehave. Reluctantly, Grimmjow ceased his aggressiveness.
Urahara, Orihime and Chad had been watching the events from inside the tent. They felt happy for Nelliel's return to her original form. But as they got outside, they could see many of the Hoplitas already packing up Urahara's stuff and the blonde-haired man really wanted to know why.
As the laid-back Shinigami approached them, he was met by Durann and Oggrom. He could tell by looking at them that they had plans for him now, and that there was a reason for his stuff being packed.
"It is time, Kisuke Urahara" Durann said and pointed towards one of the carts, where his stuff was currently being loaded upon. "Bring along your closest associates and hop onboard that cart. We will be leaving soon" the black-bearded Arrancar told the Shinigami.
"Whoa…...where to...exactly?" Urahara quizzed while feeling puzzled.
Oggrom only formed a smirk with his mouth. "Isn't it obvious? To our true home" he revealed, causing Urahara to widen in surprise. But Oggrom was not finished just yet, "Yoruichi Shihoin, Tessai Tsukabishi and these two Fullbringers may come along due to their importance in your work. However, we have plans for those four" he added while pointing his finger at Chad, Orihime, Jinta and Ururu.
The group of four was confused as all the Dechados and the Legionarios mounted their beasts and were about to leave this place. However, Gallante was now planning on telling them something. And all Urahara and his friends could do was to stand and listen.
"Listen carefully, Humans. At first, we Dechados thought that you would be of no use to us. However, our opinions have changed, all thanks to Nelliel's vouching" he revealed while motioning for Nelliel to stand beside him. She faced the group with a friendly smile. "Therefore, we have decided that you shall be allowed entry into our home, the true home of Arrancars and Hollows…..El Dorado" he then declared.
Yoruichi and Tessai faced their friend with a surprised look. "So, it's true then…El Dorado do exist!" Tessai remarked with great interest.
"But where is its location? I really don't know Hueco Mundo that much as you do" Yoruichi asked Urahara.
"Heh. The only thing I know…is the fact that it is far away from our current standpoint" he said, but suddenly noticed that he had something in his pockets. "Hmm…maybe I should give this to one of the four…perhaps Orihime" he noted while feeling the object in his pocket.
Annabelle suddenly rode beside Gallante and faced the group of four with a gentle expression. "But to prove us that you are worthy of entering El Dorado, you must pass this challenge" the elderly woman revealed to them with a somewhat serious voice. "Each of you will have to make your way there…...separately" she revealed to them.
The group all had shocked reactions to this, but Jinta was beaming with anger over hearing their suggestion. "Travelling across this desert to reach who-knows-where! Have you lost your mind, grandma!?" he angrily asked only to be banged on his head by, to his surprise, Chad. "Ouch…...really Chad!?" he asked the tall man angrily.
"Shut up for a minute!" Chad rebuked the teenage boy and then faced Annabelle with wary eyes "I accept this challenge. But I need to ask: who do we find this El Dorado?" he asked her.
Surprisingly, Annabelle pointed her wrinkled finger to the bright moon in the dark sky. Eventually, he and the others did look at the moon and its crescent shape. They could see that it was pointing eastwards. Perhaps now, some of them were beginning to understand what she meant by doing that.
"That is just simple, Human. You only have to follow where the sharp tips of the moon are pointed at. Thereafter, you wander across the dunes, where you will find Hueco Mundo's mountains, canyons and valleys" she told them with encouragement in her voice. "And once you see those right before you, you will find the Negal Ruins, and once you have arrived at the Negal Ruins…." she told and then narrowed her wrinkly eyes. "You have found the entrance to El Dorado" she revealed to them and then motioned for four Hoplitas to give them hooded capes, as well as some baskets of food. They looked like potatoes.
"What kind of cape is this?" Orihime asked as she put it on. She then opened the paper and could see the potato. Feeling hungry, Orihime took a small bite of it. Once she chewed it, she could feel that it tasted delicious. "Mmmmm…...tastes yummy!" she said with a sweet smile directed at Annabelle.
Encouraged by Orihime's words, Chad sniffed the potato-thing before taking a small bite. After taking a bite, he felt somewhat disgusted. "This taste awful. What's it even made of?" he asked her, spitting out the piece he just had in his mouth.
"That is enough pleasantries for now" Gallante suddenly interrupted the group of four. "We have been kind enough to give you those hooded capes to help you withstand the sandstorms and food to gather energy on your journey. Believe me, you WILL need them" the one-eyed Arrancar advised them seriously.
Suddenly, Urahara approached Orihime and gave her some item, by only putting it in her hand. "Once the challenge begins. Use this device. It can be able to help you on your journey. Additionally, it also has a button to push on in case of danger" the blonde-haired man told him with a reassuring smile. "And if something terrible happens, push that button and I'll where you're standing! No need to worry!" he added to his explanation.
Orihime smiled at the cunning man with gratitude in her expression. "Thanks, Urahara! I will try my best!" she insisted to him.
Urahara faced the paragons with a nod. "Alright. I'm ready to go now" he said to them. He was eventually forced to jump on one of the carts, were Yorucihi, Yukio, Riruka and Tessai were sitting and waiting for him. As he jumped, he faced his longtime friends with a reassuring smile. "Let's do this…for Master Bansui" he told Yoruichi and Tessai. Both of them nodded their heads at him in return.
Meanwhile, Annabelle focused her attention to the group of four and slammed her staff-like Zanpakutou onto the sand. Before everyone knew it, a tornado began forming themselves around the group and it swallowed them all inside. Eventually, it spat out all four in the air, far away from where they were supposed to head, although in different directions off course.
"Good luck, Humans…...may the moonlight guide your paths" Annabelle said as she turned around to join the entire army, as they set their course to the east.
Inside a hall, the Royal Realm, Soul Society, 1 day later
High above the location of Sereitei lied Royal Realm, the location of the Soul King's Palace. But it was also the place where Squad 0 or the Royal Guard dwelled. In addition to have many professional guards, the Royal Guard was composed of five captains whose power, wisdom and strength equaled Genryuusai Shigekuni Yamamoto himself.
Each member of the Royal Guard had their own floating platforms where they controlled their own cities. The famous members of Squad 0 were as following:
Ichibe Hyosube: The Monk Who Calls the Real Name
Tenjiro Kirinji: The Hot Spring Demon
Kirio Hikifune: The Ruler of Grain
Senjumaru Shutara: The Great Weave Guard
Otetsu Nimaiya: The God of Sword
Each of them had been appointed as members of this particular squad because of their contributions to the Soul Society that had changed its course of history. Also, they were sworn to defend the Soul King at all costs.
After the Wandenreich's invasion, the Royal Guard had ascended down to assess the damages and the Court Guard's condition. The murder of Yamamoto at the hands of Yhwach had demoralized the majority of Shinigamis. Even so, most knew that they had to press on and continue to preserve their duty as protectors of the Soul Society. In addition to that, the Royal Guard had decided to take some of the Court Guard's Shinigamis and give them both medical help, as well as training. Even Ichigo and some of his friends had been brought up to the Royal Realm and was given training by the members of the Royal Guard.
For the last couple of days, the 13 Court Guard Squads had been readying themselves for the upcoming battle. However, something was needed to be addressed with regards to the security of the Soul Society. To cement the bonds between the Court Guard and the Royal Guard, s summit was being held on one of the five floating islands. With this, both parts hoped to set aside whatever animosities they held towards one another and unite as one against their common enemy.
All members of the Royal Guard sat on five chairs, similar to the one the Head-Captain would usually sit on. It was in a middle of a giant hall, where many members of Central 46 had even taken seats on the tribunals, overlooking the place where all captains would have their meeting.
The noise ended and the giant door opened. In came all the captains of the 13 Court Guard Squads and formed a line, taking their seats on the chairs that had been placed out for them to use. The one who sat in the middle, was the new Head-Captain of the 13 Court Guard Squads, as well as the Captain of Squad 1: Shunsui Kyoraku. He had taken off his hat and wore an eyepatch on his right eye. A few moments after the Royal Guard had visited the Sereitei, he had been given a letter, where it was revealed that he was to be the new head-captain. This had left mixed feelings within Shunsui. Nevertheless, he took the mantle, and began his first days in making preparations for the final battle. That included making Kenpachi Zaraki realize his true potential.
"Order, order!" a mediator made sure that the loud voices were beginning to lower their volume. Once it was quiet, he could then proceed. "Let the summit between the Royal Guard and the 13 Court Guard Squads commence!" then declared and slammed a hammer on his table.
Once given the word, Ichibe cleared his throat while facing the captains sitting before him and his compatriots. "I bid you all welcome to the Royal Realm, Captains of the 13 Court Guard Squads. And we especially congratulate your promotion to head-captain, Shunsui Sozosuke Jiro Kyoraku. Your talents and tactical wisdom are commendable, which explains why you were chosen for the title" he welcomed them while addressing the Shinigami in pink kimono by his full name. "But moving on. We have called all of you here to have a discussion with regards to the security of the Soul Society. However, I see that only one of you captains is missing" he went on, but suddenly noticed that the chair reserved for Retsu Unohana was empty.
However, an attendant walked to the black-bearded monk and whispered something in his ear. He listened closely.
The Captain of Squad 13: Jushiro Ukitake, sat beside Shunsui and he leaned on to whisper something. "I thought that they had been informed about our plans with regards to Unohana" the white-haired man noted.
"Nah. I felt that this was something we should keep to ourselves" Shunsui said in return with a shrug. "Besides, they Royal Guard doesn't have to know all our decisions we make. They're mostly holed up in the Royal Realm" the head-captain added, acting so laid-back with regards to this subject.
Knowing he got what he asked for, Ukitake weakly nodded his head in understanding. "If you say so" he said lowly.
The Captain of Squad 11: Kenpachi Zaraki, took a brief glance at the empty chair that was reserved for Unohana. Kenpachi had not been very talkative since the aftermath of the Wandenreich's invasion. Something had completely changed him and it was all thanks to Unohana.
"Hmmmmm…...you always were…mysterious" Kenpachi thought, recalling the fight they had between of them. In fact, the tall captain was beginning to get lost in his thoughts. He completely forgot where he was right now.
The attendant stopped whispering into Ichibe's ear, so he continued his speech. "Very well, it would seem that Captain Retsu Unohana is no longer with us. We humbly offer our condolences to you brave captains. Her kindness and wisdom were valuable assets to both Squad 4 and its allies. It is a great tragedy that someone like her is gone" the black-bearded man said lowly.
What was noticeable was the fact that many members of Central 46 had not responded when Ichibe said that. They had themselves observed the decision taken by Shunsui to make Kenpachi realize his potential. They knew that it ended with a duel between him and Unohana, who was in truth Yachiru Unohana, the first Kenpachi. In the end, Kenpachi managed to best her and she could die, knowing that he was the worthy of the title Kenpachi.
"If I can come up with a suggestion, I would recommend that the Court Guard choose a captain for Squad 4 this instant. They can't have their doctors, healers and medics leaderless in the upcoming battle" Tenjiro Kirinji explained what he felt was right. "Which leads me to ask you this, Kyoraku. Who's been assigned to take your former position as Captain of Squad 8? Remember, a leaderless squad is useless in a war" the man with the weird pompadour added while facing the head-captain.
Shunsui stood up from his seat to speak on the subject. "I can assure you Kirinji that we have many viable candidates who are more than up for the promotion of captain" he assured Kirinji. "However, considering the current circumstances, we don't have much time to be arranging ceremonies. Choosing a captain will have to wait" he added to his argument.
Kirinji only sat back with his arms crossed while huffing. "Watch it, boy. You may be the new head-captain, but we of the Royal Guard are still considered your superiors" he noted lowly while facing the Shinigami dressed in pink kimono. But Shunsui only waved his hand at him whimsically, much to Kirinji's annoyance. "Pfft…jackass" he muttered lowly.
"There is no need to rush about choosing candidates for the vacant captain-positions" Kirio Hikifune pointed out to everyone in her usual jolly-good mood. "My advice would be promoting someone who has contributed greatly to the Court Guard's cause. Take for example those who fought bravely against Sosuke Aizen and his minions" she began speaking her mind.
Shinji Hirako, Captain of Squad 5, rose his hand to be allowed to speak. "Hold on a second…you're not seriously recommending Hiyori for the title of captain, are ya?" he asked dumbfounded.
Kirio smiled wonderfully by hearing this. "Why, that's a great suggestion, Shinji! Oh, I can't imagine what a terrific and wonderful captain Hiyori would've made! Sweet, little Hiyori becoming a leader of her own squad!" she remarked gleefully while thinking about her former lieutenant.
"Hell no!" Shinji shouted out in protest. "There is no fuckin' way that I'll let that little squirt become a captain! I object!" he continued opposing it vulgarly.
"Let's put this discussion aside for now. There is something else that I would like to know" Senjumaru Shutara suddenly spoke up and faced all captains, who looked at her in return. "During the Wandenreich's invasion, five of you managed to lose your Bankais to the enemy. And worse, their leader managed to steal Yamamoto's Bankai as well. Therefore, it is safe to say that we are dealing with a very advanced army" she began explaining.
Otetsu Nimaiya only poked in his ear, pretending he was not interested by what he heard. "But even if your Bankais have been taken away from you, you still have found ways to continue fighting, haven't ya?" the laid-back Shinigami remarked.
The Captain of Squad 7: Sajin Komamura raised his hand to be allowed to speak. "On that, you are correct. Even now, I have begun to consider an option I never thought I would do" he admitted. "Nevertheless, the loss of my Bankai has not shaken my resolve. I will still continue my service as a captain, for the sake of the Soul Society" the giant humanoid wolf assured them.
Toshiro Hitsugaya, Captain of Squad 10, mused to himself in hearing this. "As will I, Komamura" the white-haired boy said. He then faced the members of Squad 0. "I have just realized that we need more strength in dealing with the invaders. But will that even be enough? I seriously doubt that" Toshiro wondered in his head.
"But there is one thing that is worth mentioning" Byakuya Kuchiki, Captain of Squad 6 spoke up with his perspective voice. "While the Quinces were able to steal our Bankais, they were unable to steal one: the Bankai of Ichigo Kurosaki" he pointed out.
Senjumaru nodded at his statement. "We already know that" she said lowly and then faced Mayuri Kurotsuchi, Captain of Squad 12. "Captain Kurotsuchi, we have heard that it was not you, but your vice-president who found out about it. Is that accurate?" she asked him.
"Yes, it was Akon, acting without my authority once again" Mayuri answered while sighing in irritation. "But I for one could care less about how the Quincies were unable to steal Ichigo Kurosaki's Bankai. Their last assault on the Sereitei almost decimated the Department of Research and Development. We must be on our guard at all costs. You never know when they will strike back. That is what I have been doing since this invasion's aftermath" the scientist pointed out.
"But haven't you and your team discovered the Wandenreich's location, yet?" Senjumaru then asked him sternly.
Mayuri found himself hating the woman, but he still answered. "I have already given you the same answer that I gave Yamamoto. While there were Quincies in Hueco Mundo, it was not there where they had their headquarters" he answered and then began stroking his chin. "No, it is obvious that they are hiding somewhere in the Soul Society" he then concluded his analysis.
"This has to be a joke!" Kirinji erupted with disbelief. "You barley survive an invasion, yet you still haven't got a clue about the location of the enemies' headquarters!? When did the 13 Court Guard Squads become so…...unpredictable!?" he wondered aloud while expressing his dissatisfaction.
"You shut your mouth!" the voice came from Sui-Feng, Captain of Squad 2. She rose up from her seat and pointed an accusing finger towards Kirinji "While your squad has been living the life of luxury at your palaces, we who guard the Sereitei, have nearly sacrificed our lives to preserve the Soul Society's existence! You have no right to lecture us about failure!" she added and stepped up her attack.
Kirinji narrowed his eyes at her. "Talk to me like that again, and I'll make sure that you lose both arms and legs!" he lowly threatened her.
Sui-Feng could not stand being insulted and threatened like this. "Why don't come here and do it right now, pompous fool!?" she taunted her, only for both Shunsui and Kensei Mugurama, Captain of Squad 9, to restrain her anger.
"Enough, Sui-Feng!" Shunsui told her while grabbing her shoulder. "Don't let your anger get the best of you once again" he encouraged her.
But the young woman tried to shake them off. "Shut up, Kyoraku! That pompadour bastard thinks he's such a hotshot! I will make him think twice!" she spat out in defiance.
"Just look at yourself!" Kensei told her with distaste. "Even here, you must throw a tantrum and act like a spoiled brat! I think it is you we should've replaced among the captains!" the grey-haired man added.
Sui-Feng angrily confronted Kensei, her face filled with rage. "Take those words back, you Hollow-infested son of a…..." before she could continue, a loud voice interrupted them.
"ENOUGH OF THIS FOOLISHNESS!" Ichibe called out loudly, almost sounding like the late Yamamato. Sui-Feng and Kensei stopped their bickering and Shunsui returned to his seat. The black-bearded man cleared his throat before continuing. "The main reason to called for this summit was for us to discuss the security of the Soul Society, not quarrel like children! Kyoraku, you must keep these captains together. If divided, you will all fall" the monk added while facing Shunsui.
Shunsui nodded his head in understanding. "I know that. And speaking of security, I might have a solution to our problem" the head-captain pointed out.
"Very well. We will listen to this suggestion of yours" Ichibe said in return. He and all the other members of the Royal Guard faced Shunsui.
"As all of you may know, the 13 Court Guard Squads have still maintained contact with Kisuke Urahara, Yoruichi Shihoin and Tessai Tsukabishi, even though they're exiles and they chose to live such lifestyles" the head-captain explained to everyone in the hall. "But recently, they have stumbled upon an ancient and deadly foe in Hueco Mundo, something that has existed long before even Aizen established his fortress" he went on explaining.
The members of the Royal Guard all got curious of hearing this, as did those who were sitting in the tribunals. However, Kirinji and Senjumaru remained skeptical.
"How about you just get straight to the point?" the Shinigami with the pompadour said while resting his arms behind his neck.
"Well, if you insist" Shunsui said before clearing his throat. "The Soul Society cannot be fighting two enemies now. If we are to stand against the Wandenreich, we will have to sign a non-aggression pact…with the reemerging Imperio de Hierro" he spoke up.
This left gasps of shock throughout the hall and even captains of the Court Guard were left stunned by hearing this.
"The Imperio de Hierro…." Ichibe noted lowly while recalling what he knew. "So, they did survive after all…even after the War of the Three Souls. But I thought that civilization had had died ages ago" he thought in his head.
"Goodness, that may explain the defeat of the Quicnies stationed in Hueco Mundo" Kirio remarked. "I am even surprised that Sosuke Aizen failed to take notice of their continued existence when he had established rule in that forsaken place" she added to her thoughts.
"Hmmm. An empire existing in Hueco Mundo?" Mayuri wondered inside his head. "As curious as it may sound, I find it hard to believe that a civilization even existed in the desolate realm of Hollows" the scientist added to his thoughts.
Kirinji slammed his fist on one of his chair's armpits. "This is just preposterous! Have you any idea about the Imperio de Hierro and its history!?" he demanded an answer from the head-captain.
"I do, Kirinji" Shunsui answered plainly. "But perhaps you misunderstand my suggestion. I never said anything about becoming allies with those Arrancars. I only meant that we signed a non-aggression pact with them. They despise both Shinigamis and Quincies, but that non-aggression pact will ensure that they will not hesitate to interfere with our war against the Wandenreich" he explained his motive.
Ichibe, Kirio and Nimayia thought about Shunsui's suggestion while Kirinji and Senjumaru were vehemently against it, as they both faced the head-captain with dispassionate glances. However, even some of the other captains of the Court Guard expressed similar skepticism towards this proportion.
"Just what are you planning to do, Kyoraku?" Byakuya asked the kimono-clad Shinigami sternly. "While I fully understand the Soul Society's critical condition, I cannot see us being on good terms with the Arrancars. They are still Hollows and will not hesitate to kill us when given the opportunity. More importantly, I seriously doubt that they would ever become allies with the Wandenreich" the stern-looking captain spoke his mind.
Shunsui sighed deeply in annoyance by hearing his answer. "Tell me something, Byakuya. When was the last time you cared about someone else except your pride?" he asked smugly while facing Byakuya.
The nobleman wanted to respond to the head-captain, yet something convinced him to back down from this disagreement. However, he still felt reluctant to fully support Shunsui's outrageous suggestion.
"Head-Captain Kyoraku" Kirio suddenly called out his name. "Is it true that you got this information from Kisuke Urahara?" the chubby woman asked him.
"He was not alone in being told of this" Uktitake suddenly spoke up while raising his hand. "I too, was there when Urahara told us about the reemergence of the Arrancars, or more specifically this Imperio de Hierro. Truth be told, we had not anticipated to see two empires emerge out of hiding" the white-haired man added.
"You let Urahara give you information without as much as let us know?" Mayuri asked the two captains with great skepticism. "How could you do something like that behind our backs?" he wondered aloud.
"Hey Professor Pedo, how about you zip your mouth and let Shunsui and Jushiro do the talking for now?" Shinji rudely asked him, much to Mayuri's outrage.
"No one talks to me like that!" Mayuri hit back and was about rise up from his chair, until he could feel somebody sneaking upon him. It became clear that Senjumaru was the one pulling the attack, and she faced the scientist smugly.
"I suggest you take your comrades advice, Captain Kurotsuchi. We all know that you could never hope to surpass Urahara as the better scientist. Isn't that why you started this tantrum?" she quizzed him while at the same time, also pointing out a humiliating truth to the scientist.
Grumbling with anger and crossing his arms, Mayuri sat on his seat, yet did so with reluctance. In fact, he began facing towards the floorboard pretending that he was not interested in this summit.
Ichibe began facing the captains once again. "I think we will have to end this summit in short notice. After all, all you are required making preparations for the Wandenreich's invasion" he declared and rose up from his seat. However, he was not finished yet. "And one more thing, Kyoraku. This proposal of yours. I admit that it sounds beneficial, but I would not be so foolish as to rush without thinking about it" the monk added sternly to the kimono-clad captain.
Shunsui was about to walk away, as all the other captains were already on their move. But apparently, the man with the eyepatch also had a few words left to say to the members of the Royal Guard. "As Kirinji said earlier, we have no authority over the Royal Guard. But that also means that you have no authority over us either. That authority belongs to me as their head-captain" he told them before joining his fellow captains.
Although they could not stand being lectured, the members of the Royal Guard did not bother to discipline Shunsui, as they had also decided that ending this summit and sending the Court Guard away was the best solution to ease this brewing animosity between them. After all, the summit had not brought the results they had hoped, or more specifically what Ichibe had hoped. Perhaps the upcoming battle itself would force them two sides to cooperate fully.
Later, in the gardens of Squad 13 Barracks, Sereitei
Sitting near the pond all by himself, Jushiro Ukitake was now having meditating near an unfamiliar shrine. The shrine before him had the statue of a giant hand with one eye. It was getting late and the white-haired man felt that this meditation would help him find harmony within himself. During the summit, Ukitake had supported his long-time friend against Kirinji and Senjumaru's skepticism. But the summit had ended with relations between the Royal Guard and the Court Guard still being strained. However, the white-haired man, like other captains, knew that both sides would eventually need to set aside their differences, especially since their greatest challenge since Aizen was now lurking in the shadows.
"Lord Mimihagi" Ukitake said within himself while closing his green eyes. "Ever since the Wandenreich's invasion of the Soul Society, as well as the reemergence of the Imperio de Hierro, I have heard your voice call out to me" he added to his thoughts.
However, the white-haired man could feel slight disharmony within himself, so he slowly began gritting his teeth in frustration. It was like Ukitake saw something in this meditation.
"Why do I carry all these doubts? All these fears? All these…...worries?" the uneasy thoughts began lingering within him.
Ukitake felt like he could no longer close his eyes, so he opened them and snapped back into reality. Panting deeply after feeling shock within his body, the white-haired man sighed, hoping to find peace within himself without having to close his green eyes.
"You mind if we join you" Ukitake snapped as he heard a familiar voice calling to him. Turning around, he could some of his fellow captains standing in the forest. They looked like they had been here for quite some time. Each of them seemed like they were not in a good mood, and Ukitake could see that
"Ah, Hitsugaya, Komamura, Mugurama and Otoribashi! How kind of you to drop by" Ukitake said with a smile. "You are all welcome here! I was only trying to find my inner peace through meditation…...after the disastrous result of the summit" he told them while sighing deeply in disappointment.
The four captains joined him and each took a seat on the ground. "We were all there to witness it" Komamura said while taking a sip from the cup he held in his giant hands. "Kyoraku may be a remarkable captain and tactician, but he lacks the necessary aspects of a leader like Yamamoto did" the tall captain commented.
"Tch, tell me about it" Kensei spoke up. "And it's not just that, he also wants to have a non-aggression pact with these Arrancars? And now that jackass Kisuke is with them as we speak" he remarked while facing his comrades.
Rose only chuckled lightly by hearing Kensei's words. "But considering the fact that we possess Hollow-powers, wouldn't we be no different from the Arrancars?" he asked him smugly.
Kensei only scoffed at his statement. "We may have our inner demons, but we've conquered them, unlike the Arrancars" he pointed out to him.
"All that we who guard the Sereitei can do, is to stand tall against the Wandenreich" Ukitake told everyone with encouragement in his voice. "Even now, Rukia and Renji are up in the Royal Realm training for the battle. I have yet to thank the Royal Guard for taking Rukia in and healing her injuries" the white-haired man admitted.
"Hmmm you don't say" Toshiro remarked and then could spot the shrine. "By the way, you promised to tell us the reason why you are able to stand and walk, let alone become a Captain of the 13 Court Guard Squads in seclusion from any suspicious eyes. And I wonder whether that shrine has anything to do with it" he wondered.
Komamura also began studying the shrine and his feral eyes became filled with curiosity. "This shrine…..I believe I have seen something similar before" he thought while studying the deity.
"What kind of thing is that…a giant hand?" Kensei asked while raising an eyebrow.
Rose shook his head in disbelief and faced the white-haired man. "I believe that perhaps Ukitake would be more than happy to share with us, wouldn't you?" the long-haired Captain of Squad 3 questioned him with a smug glance.
Hearing this made Ukitake smile with satisfaction and he motioned for them to listen. "Well, I guess I must uphold my promises" he admitted and made sure that no one was listening to what was being said. "Maybe Captain Kurotsuchi, as well as Urahara know about this, but that deity you see there is no ordinary hand. What you see standing by the shrine is Lord Mimihagi, the Right Hand of the Soul King himself" Ukitake revealed with passion, much to the intrigue of his fellow captains.
To be continued…..
Author's note: This chapter gave us a picture into both Hueco Mundo and the Royal Realm. And of course, I wanted to look into the relationship between the Royal Guard and the Court Guard. And what is Ukitake doing by revealing his lifelong secret to only few captains? And where will Urahara and the others head off to? Stay tuned. Now let's see the new terms we were introduced.
Conquistadores – Spanish for "Conquerors": These riders of Hollow-horses serve as the Imperio de Hierro's cavalry. Their commander is the unfamiliar Arrancar called Appius Titus Caesar, known for his elegance and love for the empire he serves.
El Dorado – Spanish for "The Golden": What is this place? Most humans remember it as a city gold on the South American continent. But what is El Dorado in Hueco Mundo? Whatever it is, it may be the headquarters of the Imperio de Hierro.
