Does Man Make The Monster?
Chapter 29
A New Course of Action
(A/N OKAY, LISTEN TO ME! After some serious thought I'm going to do a rewrite on the previous two chapters. I'll let you know when they are up. So you can reread them as they do have an effect on several things. Thank you.)
SOUNDS/sounds
Thoughts
(Last Time)
"Um, Urahara, is something wrong?" Orihime asked as he turned to face her.
"On the contrary, I think I just figured something out," he mused suddenly a little happy than she should be. "Yes, it'll take a little time but I think I know of a way to get things flowing in our favor again."
"A-and that would be?" Ryoko asked nervously.
"What do people do when they don't like their overbearing, controlling, and lying government?" Urahara asked, crossing his arms.
"They rebel," Ryoko answered and Urahara gave a wide grinned. "Huh? Y-you're not serious, right?"
Orihime looked just as shocked as a bit of fear hit her.
"That will really get him into trouble," Orihime got to her feet and hurried over to Urahara. "They have guards on him at all times. They'll hurt him!"
"Orihime, the only reason he'd been taking all this crap is because he doesn't want his actions to hurt us," he said, putting a hand on her shoulder. "Do you honestly believe that Ichigo is actually being beaten by them? If we fight back he will, too. Central 46 is using us as a scare tactic against him. We need show him there is nothing to fear and to put Central 46 back in its place."
Urahara, Yoruichi, and Orihime returned to Soul Society a little drained from everything that happened. Orihime looked like she was ready for bed by the time they reached their living quarters. Urahara had to talk to the pintsized captain about his latest idea. It was risky but if it played right it could turn the tides on C46. It was worth a shot. He and Yoruichi parted ways with Orihime and headed towards Hitsugaya's office.
It really had been a long night. So much happened is such as short about of time. Yoruichi reported that the plan had worked like a dream. The CCG and the police had concluded their investigation on Akane. As for Ryoko it was decided that since Uryu was in town they were just going to drop her off with him, too.
(Flash Back)
Moriko rested on the couch that was covered in fluffy blankets. She didn't like this idea too much when she really sat down to think about it. So much would have to changed and be rearranged. She stared blankly at the ceiling before letting out a long sigh.
"Ishida, do you really think your landlords will believe I'm your cousin?" Moriko asked and he briefly looked up at her.
"We're both fair-skinned, blue eyed, and dark haired," he stated bluntly and jotted down a quick note in his homework. "We could almost pass as siblings if push came to shove. As far as they know you moved here in a hurry to get away from your abusive ex-fiancé."
"Yes, that was the story we agreed to…" she sighed again, sitting up and fiddled with the blanket on her lap. "Man, I'm hungry. I hope that pizza gets here soon."
"It should be here in a few minutes," Uryu answered, his eyes still glued to his text book. "We also agreed that once you got settled you'd start looking for work. So, it's not like you're going to be here for long."
"I don't want to stay long either. It was awkward enough to just be handed to you like I was," she shook her head. "I felt like property to be honest."
"They aren't the greatest at times but they aren't bad people either. At the end of the day Anteiku is a business and not living quarters. At least with me you can go and come without problems and you'll feel more at ease. Just so you know I'm gone most of day so you'll have the place to yourself. And that's most days, too."
"Well, I'll get used to it soon enough… I'm not going to lie I'm still really nervous."
"No one is expecting you to just dive in. That was already brought up. Take your time. I'll give you a little money for you to go shopping. I don't have much food here so I'll make up a list and you can do the grocery shopping while I'm out."
"That's fair I guess."
Knock! Knock! Knock!
The pizza got there a little faster than they had expected. Uryu got up and walked over to the door. He kept the chain locked and cracked opened the door expecting to see the delivery man but what he got wasn't what he wanted. It was much worse. What was Urahara doing here?
"What do you want so soon?" Uryu asked, looking a little annoyed at Urahara.
"Such a warm greeting. I do hate having to just dump this on you but I need you to take care of someone—"
"I already have someone. No."
"It's just for one night. See, she needs some place to stay. You can't say no to this sweet face."
A second later a blond woman in a yellow skirt and a grey waist coat was pulled into his line of sight. He looked her up and down, trying to place her. Who was this…? Wait… Was he actually seeing this? Uryu shut the door and undid the chain lock, before opening the door wide. Moriko got to her feet to see what was going on.
"Fueguchi?" Uryu gawked, looking at the apprehensive woman standing beside Urahara. "What? How…? Wait… Why am I even asking?"
"I haven't the faintest idea why you're asking either," Urahara said with a shrug before inching Ryoko towards the door. "It'll just be for the night. You can handle that, right?"
Moriko walked up behind Uryu and peeked over his shoulder. Who was the blond woman? Was Urahara trying to pawn her off on Uryu as well? That didn't seem fair.
"I-I'm really sorry about this, Ishida, but it really will be just for the night," Ryoko said, playing with her braided hair. "I need to break it in or so he says and I can't stay in that old house all night…"
Uryu let out an aspirated sigh and moved back, nearly stepping on Moriko's toes. Ryoko stepped in the door and gave Moriko a small head nod in an awkward greeting.
"I can't keep letting people stay here," Uryu stated and Urahara just gave a curt nod and lightly waved him off.
"She'll talk to Yoshimura in the morning but for right now, like she said, I need her to break in the body before she returns to the bird. A good day at least just to be sure," Urahara said, holding out a large envelope to Uryu. "These are her 'new papers' just like Akane's."
"Did the captain approve of this?" Uryu questioned with a narrowed stare before taking the papers. Urahara was just grinned from ear to ear in response. "Guess not… You're like the Cheshire Cat; always sneaking around, up to something no good, and thoroughly enjoying it."
"Yes, well… Where's the fun in behaving all the time? I'm old I need excitement once in a while," Urahara said, pulling his hat down better on his head. "Anyway… I need to head on back now. I've got to talk to dear little Hitsugaya about something most important."
"Something I need to worry about?" Uryu asked and Urahara shrugged.
"Hopefully not. It shouldn't be anytime soon at the very least. It mostly has to do with the Soul Society and all the BS they're doing lately. Fueguchi should be able to fill you in after I'm gone," Urahara said, turning to leave and gave a wave. "I wish you all the best of luck. Take care now."
"Bye, Urahara," Ryoko gave him a brief wave back as he left and Uryu closed the door rather harshly.
He locked it back and let out a long sigh. So, now he had Ryoko for the night, too? Great. He turned to face both women rather annoyed. What was he to do with both of them? If his landlords see him with two women that spent the night things might get sticky. He had to think of something quick.
Yeah, that could have gone over a little bit better but at least Fueguchi was in a safe place. Of course, Uryu couldn't say no in the end. He could be stanch at times but Urahara knew how to weaken him. At least that was over with. They could wash their hands of that mess but they were getting ready to sully them again with another.
The pair walked down the hall to Hitsugaya's office ready to explain things. They lightly knocked on the door before sliding it open. Toshiro was working at his desk and Matsumoto was sound asleep on hers, drooling ever so slightly. A couple bottles of saké were sitting at her feet, completely empty. That seemed about right for the busty lieutenant.
Toshiro looked up from his paperwork relieved to see the troublesome dynamic-duo had finally returned. Hopefully their report was a good one. They took a good while getting back to Soul Society, however, and that worried the captain a bit. They had to have done something behind his back and he was pretty much expecting it. He doubted though he'd get a straight answer and he debated if he should even ask. He might not like it.
"How did it go?" he asked, looking between them.
"I believe it went very well. They made fairly quick work of things and I heard they were already considering closing the case," Yoruichi answered. "They got what they wanted and they took it without question. They had a body and the scenario was believable."
"Well, that's a relief at least. Now we can focus on other matters," Toshiro let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. "I know this will be so hard for you but for the time being stay in Soul Society for a while. I already feel like something is getting noticed by the wrong people. Stay put that's all I'm asking."
"Actually we have nothing else to do in that world. So you don't have to worry about that," Urahara answered, taking off is hat. "However, I have a proposition for you that won't involve leaving Soul Society."
"Oh? Just what is this proposition of yours?" Toshiro asked, knitting his fingers together on his desk and leaned in forward a bit. "You'll excused me I don't bite the bait."
"Well, the bait I have will be quite tasty for you and a couple of others," Urahara said with a small grin. "I hadn't thought of it before and it just came to me suddenly. We already have what we need to deal with Central 46."
"Do tell? So what is it? I'll decide if it's worth the time and effort," Toshiro said, narrowing his eyes.
"Well, the thing is Central 46 already has a fear that we can exploit and maliciously. It's been sitting in the Seireitei all this time and we never thought of using it. Shame I hadn't thought of it until now," Urahara said with a very sly look on his face. "You see we already know that they are scared of the power Ichigo possesses. They keep him subdued not just by seals but with the fear of his family and friends being hurt. So, let's look at the other powerhouse we have. He's not subdued and he cares very little about others. We already know that Central 46 will do everything in their power to keep him happy because he can't be controlled."
Toshiro just looked at him wide eyed and mouth slightly open. How was this a good idea? Had Urahara finally lost his mind? Kenpachi was too much to handle for a lot of people and to let him go on a rampage was pure insanity. Not only that but they would have to talk Kenpachi into to it. It was up to him if he wanted to go berserk or not. Of course his men would be right behind him every step of the way. They also didn't care much for anything either. Oh, no, this was horrible. What were other squads going to do? It would just knock everything out of order.
"ABSOLUTELY NOT!" Toshiro belted out at them, getting to his feet.
Matsumoto snorted a bit before dosing off again.
"Absolutely not, not ever! How could you think that was a good idea? " Toshiro growled at them. "It's madness! You let Kenpachi and his men loose on the Seireitei they will wreak havoc on everything we know! They'll rampage right through the other squads and make a mess of everything! Why would you want that to happen?!"
Yoruichi gave a grin and took a step forward.
"Now, now, don't get your undies in a bunch. We haven't finished yet. Here's the thing. Kenpachi and his men can help lead the way and if we can get other squads on the same bandwagon I think we can do the damage. We need to scare Central 46 straight," Yoruichi said, looking down at the small irate captain. "Most everyone hates what they are doing to the whole of Soul Society. They didn't keep their word and they are holding one of the greatest heroes of Soul Society captive like a caged tiger. If word about that gets out to more squads it might give us more fire power."
"You want to start a coup?! Now I know both of you have gone nuts," Toshiro bit out, slamming his hands angrily down on his desk. "Squad 1 and 2 will remain loyal no matter what and we have the Kido Corps to contend with, too. Even Captain Kurotsuchi will most likely go with them. Central 46 does most of his funding after all. So why would he want to bite the hands that feed him?"
"I know this is way out of bounds but—" Yoruichi was cut short.
"It's clear out of the park! I know what you want to do but this really is a horrible idea," Toshiro grabbed his chair and sat back down with a heavy flop. "I can't even believe you suggested we do such a thing. It's a no on everything and don't you dare start it on your own! That's final! Leave it all here and walk out that door."
Toshiro pointed to the door. His small face was a bright red as he glared daggers at them. Yoruichi and Urahara looked at each other before slowly turning and headed towards the door. They stepped out and closed the door behind them. Well, it was worth a shot. They already had their doubts about Toshiro agreeing but they had to try. He made it quite clear he didn't want them to try it on their own. So, that most likely extended to them not trying to persuade other squads captains. As crazy as it sounded it might be the only option they had. Ichigo did some pretty crazy things to save them so why couldn't they do the same to save him?
Ichigo rested on the bare floor and stared up at the dark ceiling lightly twisting a small piece of lint between his sheathed claws. This really was boring as he had nothing in his room to keep his mind occupied. He still had sleeping problems, which they didn't even try to get him help with. He either hardly slept or over slept. There was nothing else to do and heaven forbid he made a noise beyond a sneeze or a cough. He rolled over onto his side and stared at the thin line of light coming from the side of the closed door. If he was super quiet he would sneak up to the door and try and a peek out. All he ever saw with just a small sliver of a guard standing watch. He tried to keep track of the days every time he was brought food or allowed to use the restroom. The one bath time he got last night was rushed and he could barely get the soap off before he forced back into his clothes and thrown back into his room.
Toshiro had already inspected his room that morning for anything out of place. The mini captain never said a word to him and Ichigo wasn't even allowed to look at him. Captain Unohana was only allowed in to make sure his binds were still in place and working as they should be. Once again she couldn't speak to him either. She was only in there a couple of minutes at most. He better not say anything either or he would get a beating. This was way out of hand. Central 46 clearly decided that they wanted Ichigo to remain caged and bend to their every want. All it was doing was making Ichigo stew more and more in his anger.
He did notice that being a hollow also shortened his temperament. He still had patience but that didn't mean he wasn't going to snap once and awhile. He hadn't seen Oshima again. She might have been pulled off from watching over him given what he did. He got to her badly and she didn't like being outsmarted. Even though he was "obeying" her he was technically harassing her. She clearly couldn't handle it for some reason or another.
He yawned and kept twisting the little piece of lint from his clothes. There really was nothing for him to do and there was no one to talk to. He was very lonely and he hated not talking to anyone. He still had well over a month to stay like this. He didn't like this feeling and it was only making things worse for him. He should have just stayed in the Living World after all. He was expecting to be welcomed with opened arms but instead he was shunned and hidden away. How did he fall so far and so fast? Yes, he was a hollow but he was the same Ichigo that saved them; the same Ichigo that they knew so many years ago. That hadn't changed any so why was he put through this hell?
He closed his eyes and let out a moaning sigh. He was stuck until he finally had enough or if he got help from an outside source. He was hoping for the latter. He doubted his father was going to put up with it for much longer. The same could be said about Yoruichi, Urahara, or Tessai. Something somewhere was going to snap and it wasn't going to be pretty. He was serious about this, too. Either someone from outside helped him or he was going to take matters into his own hands. Either way it was going to cause trouble for everyone involved.
If he could take off his seals he would have no problem getting out of this mess but that was impossible. They were made not to be tampered with by him. This was his stupid idea and he never should have opened his mouth. It really turned around and bit him something terrible. He rolled back over until his back and chucked the lint ball as far as the little thing could go. Facing down the CCG would be a pleasure right about now. He would love it in fact. He would enjoy taunting them and screwing with them. He faintly smiled at the image of driving Mado bonkers and knocking the shit out of Arima. That wasn't going to happen anytime soon, sadly. He could only imagine what he would do to them.
This truly was the pits. They were going to make sure he was as miserable as possible. Central 46 was a bloated joke. They didn't care for anyone but themselves. Not that he would do such a thing but he wondered what would happen if Central 46 wasn't around like when Aizen dispatched the last one. The squads took control after that happened. They did so for quite some time and during a war no less. Yamamoto had done a somewhat decent job keeping everyone together during that time.
Why couldn't all the captains decided what happened in Soul Society? They knew best as far as Ichigo was concerned. They might have an office job most of the time but they did go out and fight when the situation called for it. They knew what was going on with their squads and knew what it was like to risk everything. They were very "down to earth" so to speak. Well most were. Those pompous politicians sitting in Central 46 were not. They were to be 46 wise people that were voted in to run all of Soul Society but not a one of them had any decency or common sense. They had absolutely no idea what the fuck they were doing or they just didn't care. Ichigo put a hand on his face and shook his head.
"Honestly… That about sums up every government I know of," Ichigo mumbled in a whisper. "Forget the little people that actually do the damn work. I've sadly been one of the little people."
He put his hand down on his chest and kitted it with his other hand. This was so boring; mind numbingly boring. Solitary confinement was horrible. Come to think he was heard Aizen was in this same situation; bound and locked away. This really wasn't fair. Aizen was a mad-genius with a god complex that almost succeeded in bringing an end to everything. So where was the common sense and logic in this? Ichigo was the very person to bring Aizen down allowing Urahara to seal him away.
He risked life and limb so that everything could remain as it was for these people and then some. Yet, he was now isolated from others, constantly under guard, treated like a high profile prisoner, and his powers sealed away. If that damn bastard ever saw Ichigo now he would most likely laugh and give some sort of stupid speech about how the mighty have fallen and blah, blah, blah. Pot calling the kettle black on that. Just thinking of that was pissing Ichigo off.
Why was the hero treated just the villain? Where they really that terrified of him? Did they think he was going to be the next Aizen or something? He was nothing like that bastard! Not even close. Toshiro gave him a warning and he should have paid better attention to it. Central 46 was really out to get him. Why? Did they really want to use him as a weapon should another disaster happen?
He gasped suddenly remembering something. Of course, he almost forgot! It was possible Central 46 was scared of him not so much because of his raw power but because of his influence. That's how government worked. The more influence one has in politics the power one possess as they climb the ladder. Stupid! Toshiro told him that and he forgot briefly. He was the one to bring down Aizen so no doubt he had to be popular and he had to have lot of people that respected him. He hated to exploit that but that might be how he was to get out of this mess. He was already high on the political ladder and Central 46 was trying to knock him off.
He wished more than anything that he could talk to Toshiro but he was completely banned from even looking at him. Talking to him was out of the question. Not only that but the guards were always watching and listening so no matter what it wasn't going to happen. Even after the two months were up he would most likely still be watched like a hawk. Or rather, and this was horrible, more like a baby being watched by dingoes. Huh? Why did he even think of that? It was at that level of stupid that he cringed and shuddered for even coming up with that.
"Yep, there goes my sanity…" he whispered with a muted moan. "Dingoes? Really?"
He shook his head again trying to get the stupidity out of his mind. Being alone like this he had come up with some pretty crazy things well before that one. Although that was in one of his top 5 slots. An idle mind did strange things. What was the saying…? An idle mind was the Devil's workshop? Uh, playground? Perhaps they are interchangeable? Whatever… Either way it meant the more free time he had doing nothing the more time he had to think about things. Some of which had been rather unkind and others were downright idiotic.
He was getting hungry again so no doubt lunch would show up in a little while. He lightly turned his head back to the door and looked at the long sliver of light again. He wanted more than anything to get out of this dark room. It sucked that his only light came from a thin crack in the door during the day. He turned back to the ceiling once more. This really was a huge mistake and he didn't know if he could fix this one. If he found an opportunity he was going to snatch it the first chance he got.
Isshin walked down the hall to his old office. If Yoruichi and Urahara couldn't get Toshiro to break maybe a former superior could. Despite the fact the Isshin basically went AWOL Toshiro still had to have some respect for him. At least he hoped. The squirt might not like being talked down to by a deserter but Isshin was going to get his point across. He knew Toshiro better than those two and he felt he might have the advantage to increase the chances of getting this plan off the ground.
This was also his son on the line and Isshin wasn't just going to sit by and let it continue. The boy did nothing wrong, not one damn thing. Toshiro let slip a lot of things the other day. He just needed to remind the kid about one key thing and maybe, just maybe, he would finally agree to a full overhaul of Central 46. If not he would go to others that he knew would help.
He knocked on the door before he heard Matsumoto answer him to enter. He opened the door and walked into office. He then slid the door closed behind him rather slowly. Matsumoto noticed an unsavory look on Isshin's face as he stared at the young captain at the far end of the room. This was not going to end well. She might want to consider taking an early break and a lengthy one just to be sure. Isshin was usually a pretty cool guy and was easy to work with. He'd let a lot things slip by if he felt like they were nothing major.
However, he wasn't letting this slip by. The biggest error anyone can make with Isshin was messing with or hurting his family. He didn't care who they were. If anyone did something to his children with malicious intent it usually didn't end well. Matsumoto scooted a little closer to her desk and Isshin walked by her. That break was sounding really good about now.
"I don't think I need to guess why you're in here," Toshiro said as Isshin stopped in front of the desk. "Like I told those two last night. My answer is no."
"Why? Ichigo is completely innocent of everything. I know it and you know it! They just wanted an excuse to show their power over him," Isshin bit out. "That is my child locked in that room and I'll be damned I just sit idly by, watching it happen."
"I know! You think I like going into that room and not being able to say anything to him?! Because he decided to act like an idiot—AH!"
Toshiro was grabbed by the front of his uniform and dragged over his desk. All his papers and other assorted items were knocked to the floor in the process. Isshin wasn't in the mood for Toshiro to act all high and mighty. He held the mini captain up in the air like a bag of trash and gave him a small shake. Toshiro grabbed Isshin's wrist and kicked a little out of panic. It had been quite some time since he was actually handled in such a way. It caught him off guard completely.
Matsumoto was torn between defending her captain or just let this play out. She was slightly confused. Toshiro was her current captain and she needed to defend him. Isshin was only doing this to get his point across about freeing his son. Isshin would not be asserting himself like this unless it was for a good reason. She grabbed her zanpakuto just in case things got a little more intense than this.
"Isshin, calm down," Matsumoto said, slowly stepping forward. "We can do this rationally. Please, put my captain down and let's talk like civilized people! Okay?"
"Do as she says and put me down right now," Toshiro ordered, trying to kick Isshin but his legs still weren't quite long enough. "Do you realize how much trouble you're in right now?!"
"Oh, I know full well what this means. I was here well before you took over. You think I've forgotten all the rules and regulations?" Isshin gave the boy another stiff shake. "I'm just making sure you listen to me and not interject while I'm speaking."
"I'm giving you one last warning! Put Hitsugaya-taichou down right this moment," Matsumoto ordered, grabbing the hilt of Haineko. "Don't do this! I don't want to hurt you but my captain comes first! Stop this right now!"
"Let me say my piece first, Matsumoto. I have some choice words for this brat and I'm not leaving until I say them," Isshin growled, looking at Matsumoto with an angry glare. He then turned that glared back to Toshiro. "Listen to me, kid! I know your position and what it means. I know what you're worried about if something goes wrong so let's put that part aside, shall we? I want you to put yourself in my shoes for a moment. Pretend you're all grown up and you have a child of your own. You see your child being hurt and kept away from you day after day for no reason. It eats at your insides something terrible. It's a pain that doesn't leave you and hurts worse than any blade. That is what I'm feeling right now.
"I no longer have my rank as captain to stop this and I'm asking you to do this one large favor for me. I want you to act as my proxy when I need you to. I'll give the orders through you just long enough to get my son and daughters out of here. You once said that Central 46 feared Ichigo not because of his power but because of his popularity. Urahara's idea could work if you go through the right channels! I'll do whatever it takes to protect my family! If I have to pull the strings through you so be it. Let me do my job as your captain one last time to save what I care about most in this world!"
Toshiro looked at Isshin wide eyed as his grip on Isshin's wrist loosened a little. This wasn't what he was expecting. Isshin wanted to take over just long enough to save Ichigo and he wanted Toshiro to be his proxy? The young captain didn't know how he felt about this. He knew the reasoning behind Isshin's odd request was solid but to just let Isshin take over after all these years? It would feel awkward to have orders given to him by Isshin again. Toshiro could very easily say no to all of this. It was within his right to do so but could he say no in good conscience? Was it worth letting Isshin pull the strings on him? He let out a long groan. Yes…
Toshiro dropped his hands to his sides and looked away from Isshin. Just this once he would let Isshin take command of him and Matsumoto. It would only last until they were free from Central 46 and hopefully they'll go back home to the Living World.
"I'll agree to your terms, Isshin," Toshiro said as Isshin lowered him back to the floor. "But it will only be until everyone is free from Soul Society."
"That's all I want. All of your normal day to day routines will remain untouched by me. I just want to deal with the issues that involve my family," Isshin said, looking down at Toshiro as he straightened his uniform. "Thank you, Toshiro, for doing this."
"I only said yes for fear of my face being bashed in and I do feel responsible for letting all of this happen by reporting your son," Toshiro snorted and started to pick the mess up off the floor. "I don't think it's fair either. If you truly think you can do this I'll cover for you. Just don't ask for this favor again should you come back."
"I'm not coming back anytime soon after this mess. I also know why you told Urahara and Yoruichi no last night," Isshin said as Toshiro turned to look at him. "You didn't think you could have pulled it off successfully. You're still young and you know it. You were playing it safe, weren't you?"
Toshiro scrunched his face and started picking up his papers again. He put the first stack neatly on his desk. Okay, yes, that was part of the reason. Some things didn't care about how smart someone was; it was all about the experience that someone had. The balance was currently very fragile and Toshiro wasn't sure how things would end up. He had been sneaking around as it was and he worried about being caught.
He was still new to this job compared to the others in his position. He had only been a captain for a little over 20 years. Compared to his colleagues he was still a green horn and he caught a bit of flak for just being a kid, period. No one said it outright but Toshiro still heard bits and pieces from time to time. He worked hard to get where he was despite everything and he proved he could do the job just as good as any other captain. He just had that odd hic-up once in a while. He hid them quite well and to have Isshin sniff one out was embarrassing.
"You won't say it out loud but that's the truth I know that," Isshin said with a smirk and crossed his arms. "That's why I wanted to takeover for you. You wouldn't have to worry about it and you can learn from this. You're like a little knowledge sponge. You soak up everything you want to learn."
"Really? Is that true, Captain?" Matsumoto asked as Toshiro started to pick up his papers a little faster and without even trying to straighten them. "I'll take that as a yes… There's nothing wrong with that, you know? You're still young and I don't think people expect you to really know everything right away. It's actually kind of cute! But don't worry I'll keep it a secret just for you!"
"Can we drop this subject, please?" Toshiro set the mangled stack of papers onto his desk in a huff only have them slide off and cover his feet and the floor again.
He looked down at the papers with his right eye twitching ever so slightly. Okay, that was his breaking point. He had enough of everything that's happened these last few weeks and Isshin pushing to the side was the last straw. He just needed a little alone time away from everyone before said or did something wrong. Without a word he walked over to the door, opened in it, and walked out. He closed the door hard behind him, leaving Isshin and Matsumoto to stare at it in puzzlement. Okay… That was…
"Wow… I think I hit a nerve…" Isshin mused, scratching the back of his graying head. "I didn't think pointing that out was much of anything."
"Oh, dear... That's never a good sigh. I don't know where he goes but we won't see him for a while," Matsumoto turned to look at Isshin. "He has a little hide away somewhere that he goes to decompress. I haven't found it yet. Got any ideas where?"
Isshin drew in a deep breath and shook his head. He really didn't mean to set the kid off like that. He looked down at the mess at his feet. It might be best to get everything picked and straightened out. When Toshiro returned he wouldn't have to worry about that.
"I have no idea and I wouldn't try to seek it out," Isshin said, bending over to pick up the papers. "He has a lot on him right now and I didn't help."
"Yeah, you're right," Matsumoto agreed, walking over to help clean up. "I feel bad for the little guy he's been bending over backwards for all of you. He doesn't usually that for anyone."
"I'll have to thank him for that when I see again."
"Don't hold you're breath. It's not going to be anytime soon."
"Oh, hey, try these! They're super sweet!"
"Can you please stop forcing food on me?"
Ryoko looked at the cluster of green grapes tangling in front of her face. She never should have opened her mouth last night about wanting to try human food. She even came with what she wanted to try most. Moriko wasn't too friendly at first when she arrived but after they started to actually to each other things smoothed out. Uryu was happy for that. Well, after Uryu headed out for the day the women headed shopping for what was needed and what they wanted. The moment they walked into the grocery Moriko started showing the former ghoul all sorts of food that were both on and off the list. Honestly, Ryoko didn't know what to do now giving the magnitude of choices she was now faced with. She was actually shutting herself off from eating.
"You have to try something. You don't' have much on your list," Moriko snorted, putting the grapes in the cart. "Right now you don't need to be picky about this. I'll ask you again, is there anything in produce you want to try?"
"I really don't know. I'm being honest about this," Ryoko sighed, looking at the cart that was slowly starting to fill up.
"Well, I'll start treating you like a child then and get you baby food," Moriko snorted and Ryoko frowned at her.
"That's rude," Ryoko snapped.
"What's rude is you not trying anything. I know you're hungry. You haven't eaten a single thing," Moriko said, looking at the vegetables. "We can start off bland if you want. We don't have to go super strong on flavor first. Here, how about a cucumber?"
She picked up a long green one and showed it to Ryoko. The former ghoul just looked at it not sure if she should finally brake down and say yes.
"No? How about carrots?" she set the cucumber down and picked up a bunch of carrots. "I thought you'd be excited about this."
"I don't know… You're sort of pressuring me," Ryoko said, looking away from her company.
"I'm not trying to do that. I want you to try something you might like but you haven't said what it is yet," Moriko said, setting the carrots into the cart. "Do you want to try a cooked dish, a raw dish, a certain kind of plant or meat? Something sour, savory, or sweet? You're not helping me. Most people love sweets so let's go to the bakery section and see what they have there."
"Okay," Ryoko sighed as Moriko groaned.
"Why are you like this?" Moriko asked, crossing her arms. "You have to eat something. I don't care what it is. It could be cheese and crackers or ramen. I'm giving you that choice. I don't think Ishida will be too happy about this either."
"There's just so much that I don't know where to start. I mean I hear about all these different tastes and textures and I'm scared I might not like something."
"That's the fun part of trying new things. If you don't like it, don't worry about it."
"But that would be a waste, wouldn't it?"
"Right now it's all exploratory. Babies have to go through the exact something thing. They don't always like something the first time they try it. When I was a baby I hated any kind of pickle but as I got older my tastes on things changed. I now like quite a few verities I once didn't. Some things are going to be an instant hit, others have to grow on you, and some you'll always hate. I can't stand radishes."
"That does make sense."
"Exactly. How about this? We can do an old fashion taste test to start you off with. It's actually a fun game," Moriko smiled. "It's simple and it might help you out. I blindfold you so you can't see what it is that way you can't be picky. I want you to tell me what it smells like and then I want to you try a bite. If you don't like it, spit it out. Whatever you like we'll keep a log so you can eat those same items and try similar items."
That did sound like a reasonable idea. She had wanted to try all manner of human foods but when finally confronted with all them she hesitated. There was much she didn't know. Hopefully this would be a good idea. She was hungry and she needed to put something on her stomach. She still needed to see Yoshimura today and explain things to him. It was already getting close to 3 in afternoon now.
"Well, if we're going to do this I'm going to have really search around," Moriko said, starting to push the cart again. "We'll start with popular foods first. Like grapes."
Moriko held up the bunch of grapes again. Ryoko gave her a weak smile. Well, she agreed to this. She might as was try something. If this was the only way to do this so be it.
"You're really pushing those," Ryoko said, walking behind her.
"I love them," Moriko grinned from ear to ear.
"I never would have guessed."
"Wow, so you do have a sassy side? Nice."
"Can we just hurry this along, please?" Ryoko flashed a slight shade of pink.
"Okay, okay. So, follow me to the bakery and we'll start there."
Uryu returned home dragging his feet a bit. Man, there were some picky customers today. They wanted this and they wanted that. It wasn't flashy enough, it wasn't shiny enough, it wasn't stretchy, there weren't enough embellishments. One costumer just out of sheer meanness chucked a rather hard mask at Uryu's head. Being human meant he had to play dodge ball quite often to keep his head on his shoulders. Uryu ducked in time and Uta caught it straight to the head instead as he stepped out to talk to the customer.
The customer than had the nerve to ask them to repair it or give him is money back. Uta didn't do either. Much to Uryu's amusement and the client's horror, Uta just shredded the mask like it was made of paper right in front of him before putting it in the trash. He then gave the irate ghoul the boot out the door. That was the highlight of his day.
Uryu put the key in the door and unlocked it. To his surprise Ryoko was still at the apartment. She had on a blindfold while Moriko handed her small piece of lemon pie. This was not what he was expecting upon his return home. He shut the door and put his coat on the rack.
"Do I want to know?" Uryu asked, walking over to them and looked at all the small samples of food on the small table. "And you're actually getting along?"
"Don't be stupid. She didn't know what she wanted so we're doing a taste testing game," Moriko said, looking up at a confused Uryu. "So far she likes plain rice, flavored gelatin, ham, toasted bread with butter, scrambled egg, dill pickle, strawberry soda, milk, apple juice, and grapes."
"The soda was a surprise. I didn't know what she meant by fizzy," Ryoko answered. "I like the taste but the bubble thing was a little jarring."
"Some people never like sodas," Uryu said, taking his off shoes and put them back by the door. "I had a schoolmate in middle school that let her drinks go flat before she ever drank them."
"Oh, that's just nasty," Moriko shivered before turning back to Ryoko. "Now tell me what you think this is?"
"It's a sweet, right?" Ryoko asked. "Some sort of fruit?"
"Yes," Moriko nodded, still holding the small piece of pie. "What else?"
Uryu just turned around and walked away from that. He got out of his work clothes and hopped into the shower. At least they were getting along even though it was rather weird. He shrugged it off. It was their thing and he wasn't going to get into it. The warm water felt good on him and he wanted to stay in there for a while but he wasn't going to pay for that water bill. He needed it though to relax him. He stepped out and dried off. He got into be bed clothes and went straight for his homework again. The women were still playing their odd game as he sat down and pulled out his work from last night.
He wondered if Ryoko had ever talked to Yoshimura today and if she was staying the night again? Given the time it was now, chances were Ryoko was staying the night again. He looked over at the large envelope that held Ryoko's new papers. Her new name was now legally Hirasawa Megumi. It was certainly a far cry from Fueguchi Ryoko. He had to finish up tonight and go to school this time. He hated having to miss it but it couldn't be helped given everything that happened.
"Clean all that up when you're done," he said, looking at them briefly. "I mean it, too. Wash all those dishes."
"Okay, okay, we'll get it all put away," Moriko answered.
"I'm assuming you're staying again, Hirasawa?" Uryu asked as she pulled off her blindfold to look at him.
"Oh, yes, I'm sorry to inconvenience you another night. We got sort of caught up with things today and I never got to see Yoshimura."
"That's fine. Just make sure you see him tomorrow, okay?"
"I will, Ishida, and thank you for letting me stay another night," she said, getting to her feet and helped put the dishes in the sink.
Uryu went back to work as they washed and dried the dishes. Moriko didn't have much in the way of night clothes as they were hand-me-downs from Kaya. She sifted through what could be used as night clothes. She found a t-shirt and some old sweat pants. She gave Ryoko, er, Megumi another old t-shirt with a pair of shorts. It would have to do. Clothes were the next thing they needed.
They settled down for the night while Uryu continued to work to get the last of his homework finished. It was about 11 before he put up his books up and turned off the lamp next to him. Hopefully things would go better tomorrow than they did today.
Kaneki lightly poked at Hetare through the bars of the small cage. Ryoko hadn't been by in a little while. That wasn't like her to not pop in at least once. That had him a little worried. Was something going on at Anteiku he hadn't heard about? Banjo said he saw those strange people from the raid going to Anteiku with a strange package. He also stated that the smallest one of the bunch, a little boy, was ill tempered and had a strange ice power. The kid had enough ferocity with his ice and temperament that it was enough to rattle Banjo. The kid made his point and Banjo left them alone.
It had been two nights since then. He figured Ryoko would have dropped by and given him the scoop of what was going on. He stepped away from the cage and sat down in a chair. Picking up a book and briefly glanced of it. He heard Banjo walk up and he turned to look at him.
"Morning," Kaneki said as Banjo held up a newspaper. "Is something wrong?"
"It's all over the TV, too. They finally found that woman," he said as Kaneki took it and looked at the front page. "It was two nights ago but they only released the information this morning."
Kaneki took a moment to fully read the headline. This was a surprise. For just over a month she evaded the CCG and the police somehow. Kaneki had a feeling the woman had help at least for a while. Ryoko seemed to slip up once and while about a person that might have been Hayashi. She never came out and said anything directly. Often times she tried to change subjects when she did slip. Hayashi was Ichigo's old partner after all and there was a large chance that Yoshimura might have taken some pity on her. It made sense to him as to why Ryoko did what she did.
He continued to look over the large article. It was deemed a suicide and was called in by an anonymous tip. Of course her body was going to be returned to her father. The paper said they tried to get information from him but he declined to speak. Sadly, however, this was still a large smear campaign. The woman was dead. Why were they still running her name through the mud? They were doing the same with Ichigo's even after all this time. A shame, really. They both took their lives. That said a lot about the job for those that can't handle it. If they get caught they'd rather die than face the CCG's wrath. At least that's what it looked like to him. Kaneki turned the page and started looking at other articles.
"Well, what do you think?" Banjo asked as Kaneki kept his nose in the newspaper.
"It's a pity. I actually knew her partner. We were once neighbors," Kaneki said, turning another page. "He was the one that helped sneak all that information out for us."
"You've mentioned that a couple of times. Kurosaki Ichigo… He was the one that jumped, right?" Banjo asked, grabbing another chair and pulled it over to him.
"He did, however, no one found his body," Kaneki answered dully. "Most think he somehow made it all the way out to the bay."
"It's not impossible…" Banjo shrugged. "I don't know. I kind of feel bad about it."
"Why? None of us knew her," Kaneki said, flipping a page again. "Touka said she was a 'total bitch.' Her exact words. She also tried to kill Touka and Hinami so that doesn't really make me feel anything for her. I feel bad it ended like it did but I have no sympathy for her as a person."
"I sort of figured that was the case. You know you can be really cold at times," Banjo said, rubbing the back of his neck. "Have you tried talking to anyone at Anteiku?"
"Not directly. I don't want them getting in my way. I don't want them involved and get hurt," Kaneki said, still not looking up from the paper.
"Kirishima more than anyone," Banjo mumbled and Kaneki gave him a sideway glance. Banjo instantly jumped back in his seat. "Whoa! Hey, I'm just saying that—"
"I know what you're saying…" Kaneki said, closing up the paper and folded it in half. "You're not entirely wrong."
"I sort of figured but I didn't want to actually make any assumptions," Banjo said as Kaneki handed the paper back to him. "You're done with it?"
"Pretty much…" Kaneki breathed as he looked back Hetare preen his feathers a little.
"You know…" Banjo hummed as Kaneki turned to look back at him.
"Know what?"
"This may just be a coincidence but… I saw Ichigo's old friends the same night she died. Then of course they said they were going to Anteiku to talk to Yoshimura about something, too."
Kaneki stared at Banjo and his eyes narrowed. That was a bit weird now that it was pointed out. Ichigo's name was involved with everything. Ichigo's friends show up at Anteiku with an odd package and a few hours later Ichigo's partner was found dead. Ryoko also hadn't been by since that day either… And if his hunch was correct Yoshimura might have been in contact with Hayashi. Something wasn't settling well and it stated to eat at him. If something odd was happening it was always traced back to Ichigo somehow.
"Banjo, do you mind doing me a favor?" Kaneki asked.
"Well, I suppose not… What do you need?" Banjo shrugged.
"Ishida was there that night, right?"
"Yes, I was talking to him before the others showed up."
"You mind trying to get something out of him? The others seem to come and go at their leisure," Kaneki said, picking as some dirt from under his nails. "He seems to be the only constant person in that group."
"I can try but Ishida isn't stupid, you know? He'll know I'm trying to get something out of him."
"I just need an idea about something. Try making small talk with him."
"But why me? You want to know all this so why don't you ask him?"
"I could but I wasn't there that night. It would instantly raise some flags if I suddenly started talking about such things."
"I guess so… But what do you want to know? I personally don't think we should get that involved with them. There is a lot of weird that follows them and I don't think they like us getting too close. That little boy, for instance, he really told me off that night. That kid was freaky"
Kaneki sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. That much was true. If they didn't want someone sniffing around they would put an end to it real quick. He might as well just come out and say it.
"I don't know how but… Kurosaki or at least his name has turned up with just about everything lately. Ichigo snuck information out for Anteiku so his name is tried to them. Ichigo's partner suddenly turned up dead on the same night Ichigo's friends mysteriously turn up heading for Anteiku. There's still a few more things that are bugging me and all is related to Ichigo."
"Oh! Hold on! You mentioned they never found a body, right?" Banjo said as Kaneki looked at him oddly. "Think about it."
Kaneki scratched the back of his head. They never did find a body that was true so… Oh, good grief! How stupid could he be to miss that?! Damn it. Everyone knew Ichigo jumped. Kaya reported it to them when it happened. She witnessed it in person. Ryoko, however, said that Ichigo willing went this some…shinigami…that same night and left this world. Ryoko… Yes… She had been dealing with Ichigo well before she was reintroduced to them through Hetare. She might even know his "friends" very well come to think of it. She knew a hell of a lot more than what she was saying. Mostly likely even Yoshimura was lied to or given half-truths. Well, who knew Ryoko had a sneaky side to her all this time? As sweet as she was she was playing everyone like a violin. The question was who was her conductor?
"Never mind about Ishida, Banjo," Kaneki said, getting back to his feet and walked over to Hetare and grinned at the bird. "I think I know a little birdie that might know something after all."
Uryu stared up at the TV in the college's cafeteria as he slowly munched on a bag of chips. So, they finally released it to the public. There was too much chatter going on to really hear it but thankfully the closed captions were on. He read what was being said and he just shook his head. She was "dead" but they were still ripping her apart. The TV showed some news crews harassing her father a few times hoping to get more information or his side of things. This was truly sickening to watch. He got the jest of it and turned around.
He picked up his bag of chip and dumped the last bit of the crumbs into hand. He popped the tiny piece in his mouth before gathering his things. He had one more class before had to go to work. He was happy to have a small 15 minute lull between classes. He strapped his satchel over his shoulder when he turned and nearly bumped into Nishio.
"Excuse me," Uryu said, stepping to the side.
"Hold it," Nishio said, grabbing the satchel's strap.
Uryu was pulled to a stop. He turned to look at Nishio over his shoulder. What did he want? They walked by each other every so often but usually didn't say a thing. Was it about Akane? Yoshimura was supposed to have smoothed things over with them. There still had to be a few wrinkles that weren't coming out.
"I still don't understand what's going on but is she really okay?" Nishio asked, leaning in close.
"She's fine. She's staying with me for now," Uryu answered.
"Have her come to Anteiku so we can verify it for ourselves. I'm having a hard time swallowing this shit as is Kouma and Kaya."
"That's understandable. She may or not stop by on her own with a friend today. She's still the same height and body build you remember. She's fair skinned with freckles, pale blue eyes, and super curly, black hair. She'll introduce herself as Fujimoto Moriko. Trust me, you can't miss that attitude."
"Still a bossy bitch?"
"Barks all the time."
Nishio gave a small grin to that and let go of Uryu's satchel. Uryu fixed that strap back on his shoulder straight. He looked at his watch. He needed to hurry on to the next class.
"Any particular time?" Nishio asked.
"I have no idea when," Uryu said, walking off. "Sorry but I need to head off to my next class."
Uryu walked out the door of the cafeteria as Nishio turned to look back up the large TV screen. He pushed up his glasses and crossed his arms. She was fine, huh? He just couldn't wrap his mind around all this. How does one person's soul get rip from one body and then shoved into another? That made absolutely no sense whatsoever. He hadn't seen much was Uryu and his little friends could do but he knew enough it bordered on the truly wondrous and absolute terror. He would just have to hope she stopped by while he was working. He really wanted to see what she looked like and if any of this was true.
(A/N A little shorter than most but I figured this was a good place for now. My brain for this part is sadly fried now. I've done with all I can come up with for now. I hope to get rewrites up soon. Next item I post will hopefully tell they have been updated. Thank you for that. Also… Can you all give me some feedback for this little excerpt from an original story I'm working on? It's been with me for many years and I've been too busy, unmotivated, or stuck to do too much writing. I know some of it won't make too much sense without the full context but I was just wondering if these two characters sounded good or not. It involves mermaids among other things. Please enjoy and give me your opinion. This is part is called Red-to-Red.)
Red-to-Red: is a nautical term which means ships passing on the port (left) side where their navigation lights are red.
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A young boy who looked no more than eight sat on the remains of an old rowboat. The wood he sat on was splintered, rotten, and growing various mosses. It had been dragged farther on land right at the high tide brake before it had been abandoned years ago. He lightly rocked back and forth with a dead stare out into the deep blue ocean. It was a clouded morning and a chilly wind started to blow off the water.
His bright sea green eyes never blinked and looked as dull as his stare. His long shaggy white hair was matted, filthy, and reached down well below his shoulders. His clothes were soaking wet, the cloth was sour, and riddled with holes. His feet were bare and black with the filth from manure and soot he often stepped in. The rest of his body looked no better. His dirty right hand sat in his lap holding a small cracked ceramic pot while the other hand rested in the sea water it contained.
He just continued to rock silently back and forth, listening to the ocean and the noisy gulls above his head. There was no place to go and no one to talk to. Not that he wanted to talk to people in the first place. People were mean and vicious; ignorant and single minded as well. If he even came near the town he would be shooed away and a few even took aim with their riffles. He was trash to everyone in town and he would never be welcomed.
He existed on the outskirts of town and would disappear and reappear like the ghost that he was labeled to be. He was seen as a bad omen by most in Rough Rock. Most believed that seeing him meant ill fortune to them or their loved ones. He was a small devil created by a curse, that's all they saw. He was a monster in their eyes and one they couldn't get rid of him no matter how hard they tried.
In all honesty he was harmless and had always been harmless. As it was the boy could barely think rationally and attempt to take care of himself. He was isolated so much so he never tried to converse with anyone for any reason. He had forgotten a lot of his manners and how human society worked. He just existed and nothing more. They called him the Sea Ghost and that's what he was. He was a ghost whose body would never be put to rest. He tried several times on his own to end his existence and the villagers tried to do the same many, many years ago.
They saw him as a witch and tried all manner of tortures in hopes of killing him. None of their methods worked and so they continued on for over a year. Upon his release he was just dumped out on the beach absolutely crazed; screaming and clawing out his own hair and skin. The closest Rough Rock ever came to disposing of him was depriving him from touching sea water. Without constant contact the boy would wither and dry up like an old dusty mummy. To which he still remained conscious despite being completely immobile and looking like empty, dried skin and bones.
Over time he regained just a pinch of sanity and a bit of his rational thought. The damage was done regardless and he had no one to help him. He was alone to fix himself and it wasn't going well. If he could end it all he would. He was a Shell; a body that moved without a soul, cursed by a vengeful mermaid to exist forever. Everything still functioned as if he were alive, however, such items like food could be considered a pleasure and not a necessity. When he was tortured they never once fed him hoping he might even starve to death. That didn't work either. He was literally stuck between the living and the dead. As far as he saw it, it would take an act of God or the Devil to bring his suffering to an end.
The cold winter wind lightly blew his matted hair that clung to his dirt caked face; his eyes were still unblinking and unmoving. He often just sat at this one spot for hours on end and the weather didn't matter to him. He'd sit there even during the worst of storms or the coldest of winters. He was immune to everything and there was no point in seeking shelter when he couldn't even die.
He finally gave a slow blink with his dark eye lids before looking back down at the chipped pot in his lap. This one little pot filled with sea water was the only thing keeping him "healthy" as he referred to it. Without this pot he would shrivel up and he hated being in that state more than anything. He lightly ran his thumb over the mud and sand caked, white pot. He couldn't go anywhere without it. It truly was a curse.
A moment later he heard the sound of footstep behind him. The sand and dried grass crunched under the person's feet. He never turned around to look at the encroaching person. Mostly he was going to get beaten, strangled, or shot. He'd rather not see the blow happen and he just wanted it over with. A voice was cleared as the person stood directly behind him.
"Abysmal, isn't it? You're stuck here with nowhere to go. That must really hurt to know you can't go home to anyone. If you try to even put one toe in town they start claiming you a monster. It's a little laughable to be honest."
The voice was male and he sounded fairly young. Perhaps he was in his mid to late 20's. The boy still didn't respond and kept staring down at his old pot.
"This is truly a sad sight that sits before me. You don't even respond when provoked. I'm unarmed, just so you know. I have no intentions of trying to shoot your head off. Nor do I plan to try and strangle you or take away your precious sea water."
The man walked a little closer and sat down on the sandy ground beside the boy. He lightly pushed a bit of blond hair back into place and looked out at the ocean. His small companion said nothing and his rocking stopped. The blonde's brown eyes looked at the filthy creature beside him. They were in stark contrast of each other. The boy looked like trash while the man was dressed in the finest of clothes for that time period. The boy could see the man out of the corner of his eye. He already hated the shady man. What did he want and how was he going to go about getting it?
"I can see you giving me a rather scathing look under your hair. I am being truthful. I'm not going hurt you. Actually, I have a proposition for you. It will be well worth your time."
"No," the boy said just loud enough to hear.
"Now, you haven't even heard me out yet. You are rather rough around the edges and then some. If you come with me I'll get you cleaned up and looking like a human being again," the odd man said, leaning in a little closer to the boy. "I can help you recover from your past and get you moving in the right direction. Shells have it bad enough being seen a trash only. You could get shot 50 times and all it would do is knocked you the ground for a couple of minutes. Then you get up and walk it off like it never happened. If that isn't torture I don't know what is."
"No," the boy repeated. "Leave."
"Now, now don't be like that. The world is a cruel place and we've all seen it. Some have more experience than others, of course. Now… Just listen to me very carefully, Ashley, and then decide. I know what you want most, truly I do. You want to get back at all those that hurt you. You want revenge on Rough Rock for everything little thing they ever did to you," the man grinned leaning in a little closer still. "First they tossed out for being an orphan and then they killed that family of Leviathans that took you in after you were cursed. They ripped that last bit of happiness from you, didn't they? Then they captured you, claiming you to be a witch. They tried to rip apart on the rack, shove you into the iron maiden, beat you mercilessly, crush you under stones, and even tried to drown you in boiling water. Then a little than over a year that one group of merfolk explained things to your captors and you were just tossed on the beach like old rotten garbage. They still treat you like that, no, much lower than garbage now. I'm offering you a good deal. It will take some time but that's all we have is time."
The man pulled out a small dagger and removed the glove on his right hand. Ashley barely turned to look up at the bare hand presented to him. What did he want? He saw the man take the small dagger and drive it right though the palm of his hand, before pulling it back out. The man never even made a sound as blood dripped onto the sand. A few seconds later the bleeding stopped and the wound started to close back up.
"You see we aren't so different. We're very similar. You are a dead body that exists because of an immortal curse. The same can be said about me. However, it differs as well. You house no soul in your flesh while I on the other hand have a rather nasty one in me," he said, putting his healed hand back down and into his glove. "The first tenant left rather abruptly and I was put in his place. Not by choice, mind you, but I'm taking full advantage of it as I really shouldn't be topside. Dead bodies can be wonderful assets if you know how to use them properly. I've enjoyed it immensely. I don't have to share a body with anyone, it makes things easier."
"Leave," the boy was a little more instant. The man just ignored his request.
"Let me explain myself a bit and how I can help you. I'm a destroyer of cities and it is a passion of mine. The first one I ever took down since coming to this world was Chicago. Then recently I went after Boston. I hope you don't mind but Rough Rock I want to take my time with," the blonde said happily. "So… Here's the complete deal, Ashley. I can help you get back on your feet and you help me bring Rough Rock crumbling to the ground. I will give you time to level out your mind and get yourself standing again."
Ashley just gave him a dead stare, his white eyebrows slowly moving downwards.
"Why should I?" Ashley asked almost sounding bitter.
The man sighed taking in the salty air from another small breeze that passed by them.
"Because I know you want to see this town burn for what it's done. I will expose all the lies that is Rough Rock's foundation. I can teach you so much. I can show you how to deal with people and manipulate them," the man grabbed Ashley's chin to make him look directly at him. "I can show you how to hurt them and keep them from hurting you. I will teach you how to be cruel and unforgiving just like them. I will teach you so many things that exist beyond your current knowledge. All we have is time and bodies that do not obey its rules. If you want me to teach you, all you need to do is say 'yes' and I'll do whatever I need to make sure that you get your deepest desires fulfilled."
"Why?" Ashley asked again, his nose crunching up almost into a snarl.
"Still asking, huh? Well, I also need a business partner here you could say. I plan to come back quite frequently to keep tabs on things and it would be nice to have an extra set of eyes and ears helping me when I'm not around," the man said, letting go Ashley's chin. "I have so much already going on I can't always keep an eye on everything despite my abilities."
Ashley didn't like where this was going. Who was this man, really? And why was he so focus on getting him to agree to his terms? The man was trying his hardest to get him to agree and was sweetening the pot every time he spoke. This mysterious man seemed to know his every want and desire without ever even asking. It was true that Ashley wanted Rough Rock to fall to the ground and remain in ruins. He wanted to take out all of his frustrations for the cruelties inflected upon him. He wanted to hurt that town for everything they did and stood for.
The man's proposition sounded too good to be true. If he really did cause those cities to burn what sort of man was he? What sort of power did he hold behind his suspicious smile and silky voice? He knew far too much for someone he had never seen before. There was something that Ashley could almost call as a chill running down his spine. This grinning man was on the hunt and Ashley was his pray. He was trying far too hard to get him to agree. Such destructive and powerful deals were usually reserved for those making pacts with the Devil.
"Are you the Devil?" Ashley asked his eyes narrowing a bit at the man.
"I'm nowhere close to that but I'm from the same hometown if you know what I mean," the man grinned wider. "You have nothing to fear from me. You have no soul for me to take. I just need a helping hand and you are my best candidate. You have nothing to lose at this point. Take a gamble with me and you'll reap the profits."
Ashley just stared at him still having his reservations but it was true. He really had nothing to lose at this point. He was nothing and will remain nothing if he continued on as he was now. Still to work with someone like him, was it worth it? Was the pay really worth the gamble? He didn't like the idea too much even if it meant bettering himself. He just shook his head as anwswer.
"Tsk. Still don't like it? Well… I can up the ante by giving you the Siren that cursed you. She has something I want but it's not quite ripe yet," the man mused, brushing a bit of white hair out of Ashley's face. "If you help me do that I'll make sure you can finally rest in peace. All you have to do is eat her flesh for a second time. That's all it takes."
"So, you're saying I can…?" Ashley whispered and the man nodded.
"Of course. Let's shake on it. I'll get you back on your feet and teach you how to be cruel in a cruel world. It's not as hard as you think," the man held out his left hand to Ashley. "All you need to do is sit tight until the moment is right. You've waited this long so what's a few more decades to get back at them?"
The man was left handed? Strange. So, was Ashley and that seemed weird somehow. The left hand was synonymous with evil as it was. Ashley felt like it was more than a coincidence that this man would come to him. The man could have approached the other Shell hanging around town. Ashley had yet to see him but heard he was at least allowed in town unlike him. What did Ashley have to lose at this point? He had nothing and this man was offering to give him whatever he wanted. The boy pulled his soaking wet left hand from the pot and grabbed the man's hand with a good shake. He promptly put his hand back in the pot.
"Welcome abroad, partner."
This whole part above has change drastically in the latest version that's clearly not shown. It's amazing what some revisions will make. I'm not going to show you the rewrites as there is a lot more information than before that needs more context that I can't provide at this time.