Hello, and welcome to the next chapter!
Clarent excalibur; I'm glad that you're enjoying it! Haha, that's Kinhime for you~
HolyKnightX; Thanks! Soi Fon's going to have some complex emotions about many things~ Takumi and Byakuya are going to have quite the fight between them. Haha, she seems to want to be with him, both as a Zombie, and somewhat as a normal human~ Momo's going to be going through some good development in this, and some future arcs as well. She wont be there just to be stabbed by Aizen.
ShadowUzumaki55; Thanks! Yeah, it seems that Soi Fon does care about Takumi and Yoruichi on deeper levels than she lets revealed to others. Byakuya is going to be quite surprised by Takumi's ability. He did yeah, it was a long road, but Takumi managed to convince a few people about what was happening. He did yeah, Momo seems to be developing an attachment to Takumi. That's Kinhime for you, she's quite feisty. Karin's gonna be training yeah, and as for Yuzu, she might be learning a few things from Giselle.
Silver crow; Thanks very much! Yup, their fight is going to be fun. Kinhime's quite feisty~ I don't know about one day, but he'll be trying his hardest. It could be like that yeah~ Takumi will be getting some memories it seems. Of course she couldn't do it if Kisuke was truly serious. But he didn't want to hurt her. Yeah, seems like everyone is getting ready for the fights ahead. Rukia and Takumi are going to have a nice reunion. Takumi's gonna try and support her the best that he can. We'll see what happens between them. Yeah, her flashback was good, but some of it didn't make sense. I could see that happening~ We could see Captain Takumi at the end of this arc. I hope we get more about her Bankai, since in the manga, she releases it, then dies without her doing anything with it really. I'm sure he'll bring some stuff back. Takumi could see their stuff, and see what's going on with it. I dunno about lemons yet. He could help Rukia achieve Bankai, it would be pretty good to see that happening. I wouldn't know what to do for Rangiku's Bankai, maybe she'd be able to create big cat ash creatures or something. Takumi and Aizen's fight is gonna be rather interest to see. It will be different to how Ichigo fights Aizen. Yeah, Takumi has something like that with his drug. She could have it back earlier, it wouldn't really change anything~
Terrariuz; Yup, he's going to be training for his Bankai this chapter! Karin's gonna be getting in some good training with Kenpachi now. Isane is a good character, she could join it.
Derek 23; Thanks! Yeah, maybe they could be added.
Chrono trigger; I don't know yet.
guest; He'll be training to get Bankai yeah~ Lets hope the Zombie doesn't haunt him anymore. Glad that you liked that moment! Rukia's torn on Takumi trying to save her. She doesn't want him to die. Yeah, it's gonna be fun when they come back huh~?
Andrew123456; A yu gi oh story could be interesting to do, never really thought about it before. Yubelluna, yeah maybe~
Yuu; They surely are~
Guest; Thanks, glad you enjoy it!
Guest 66; Thanks very much! Yeah, I am thinking of bringing that person into the story. I don't know if I'll include them yet. And thanks very much! I'm glad you're enjoying it so far!
Well, with those lovely reviews out of the way, it's time to start the chapter!
Unlocking Bankai!
Having received her news, Rukia quietly sat within her tower, contemplating what it was going to be like to die. For some reason she couldn't explain, her mind kept going back towards Takumi and what he would be doing right now.
If he was going to be okay.
If he was going to die.
She just didn't know.
It drew her back to the times where she had interacted with him when she was young...
The times that they had spent together.
How Takumi had been there for her, had taught her many different things.
It was odd, considering she had to reteach her former teacher.
Oddly, it made her happy that she had that experience.
Being able to repay him for what he did back then.
All the time they spent together in the human world.
How he had helped her, and she helped him.
Rukia couldn't help but feel conflicting emotions.
Thinking back on those days seemed like she was going to enjoy those things.
But now…
When he had gone, and now he was back…
Yet, she wasn't going to be able to see him anymore.
If he kept trying to save her, she was sure that he'd either die, or would be injured severally.
She didn't think she'd be able to take it
Rukia stared at the ceiling of her tower, and deeply sighed.
"Takumi...you should forget about me...but you wont...I know you. Damn it..."
Knowing she couldn't change fate.
She simply had to try and do something.
To make sure that he didn't die.
She'd hope that as a Kuchiki, her words could sway Yamamoto would allow Takumi to leave to the human world, as a last request.
Day one of the training begun.
Takumi watched as his sword spirit, Kinhime twirled around as blades upon blades erupted from the ground. More than had been there before. Takumi could see that Kinhime looked rather...excited at that moment.
Yoruichi looked on from the right hand side along with Orihime who had joined to watch Takumi, showing a light smile as Takumi grabbed a nearby sword, a sword that looked to be zigzagging. But unlike his Shikai, it seemed to be more straight than curved.
Pulling out the blade, Kinhime showed a wide grin, as sparks of electricity came over the sword, and also...her body as well. The lightning sparks ran across the ground. Takumi could see that the ground was beginning to be burned by the intense lightning.
"Kinhime...your expression tells me that you're going to be enjoying this a little...bit much."
Kinhime placed a hand to her face, showcasing a grin.
"Yes, I'm sure that it is going to be a fascinating fight. During this time, I can get to know more about you. Like, seeing more of your resolve, the reasons why you still fight. A society like this has been against you since the beginning. But now, it seems that they are beginning to follow you. Can you trust each and everyone here?"
"Kinhime, that's..."
Kinhime waved her sword down, unleashing a hailstorm of electricity for the young boy. Takumi grimaced, jumping out of the way, but as he did, he saw that the lightning was turning the ground into a destructive mess with electricity staying around on the ground, so Takumi couldn't land on said ground.
Takumi placed his hand down, and propelled himself upwards with a makeshift Kido spell. But Kinhime chortled, twirling the sword in her hand around, each time she did a number of electrical bolts shot off the blade, ready to pierce Takumi's body.
"Come on Takumi, you have to be better than that if you can fight me! You have to make me come together with you, right? You have to make me become someone that accepts and bonds together with you! So show me what you've got you cute boy!"
Takumi was mildly surprised by her words.
But he didn't stop, he couldn't stop at all.
Takumi stuck out his hand, shooting out some energy rope, wrapping around a blade, bringing it to his hand, and swung the blade for the electrical abilities, but as his blade touched the electricity, the sword shattered in his hands, turning it into fragments of metal, falling down to the ground in chunks.
The lightning continued on, slamming against him, wrapping around his form, and flung him down into the ground. Yoruichi winced when seeing that, muttering "That must have hurt." while Takumi groaned, pulling himself off the floor.
"Geez Kinhime, you're being rough."
"Just the way I like it Takumi~"
Takumi grimaced as he stood up.
Dislodging another blade from the ground, he made a stance.
But she simply sent off a highly charged bolt of electricity towards him. He went to dodge out of the way, but the bolt split into many different segments, each of them looking more dangerous than a single bolt by itself.
He knew he couldn't dodge out of the way, so he raised a barrier of Kido. Kinhime simply laughed at the sight before her, and allowed her bolts to continue forward, destroying the barrier within a second, and then the lightning wrapped around him, Orihime gasped when she saw that his skin was being burned by the heavy duty usage of the electricity being released upon his form.
"I have a feeling, this isn't about these blades. This is about something else entirely, am I right?"
Kinhime shrugged her shoulders, not seemingly worried about .
"Something like that. These blades represent the pieces of your heart, the past, the present, and your potential future...whoa, look at me, I'm talking like a Master or something~"
She sang with the voice of a school girl.
She then pointed forward keenly.
"You know our relationship Takumi. We don't have a normal relationship between Zanpakuto and their Shinigami. It's deeper than that." Kinhime placed a hand on her chest, and a faint blush dusted her cheeks. "We're connected, deep within our hearts. We feel one another, resonating with one another. You need to remember that. You can't subjugate me with just power."
"...Not just power..."
"Right, figure out what it means to truly subjugate me. What would it take for us to truly blend together."
Takumi wondered about that.
But she didn't give him much time to wonder, as she simply stuck up her hand, shooting off a bolt into the air. Takumi's eyes went up, seeing the sparks spreading out through the sky, or rather, near ceiling that looked like the sky. The skies above soon began to bring in clouds, black and thick clouds with strong lightning spreading around it.
It all happened within a few seconds, so Takumi barely had time to react, as she directed her hand downwards. From the clouds, a huge bolt of electricity shot down, sending all of the power right down onto Takumi.
It moved so fast that he couldn't even react. Even Yoruichi, who stood off to the side, could barely react to it, which said a lot considering how fast Yoruichi was, and she muttered "The speed of that was fantastic..." watching as the bolt landed upon Takumi's form, shocking him immensely, rupturing the ground, and created a huge X shape that spread outwards.
"Taku-chan!"
Orihime cried, attempting to move closer.
But Yoruichi stopped her.
"Yoruichi-san..."
"This is something Takumi has to do alone. He isn't so weak he'd go down without a fight. He will succeed. I know that he will. His Father did it this way, so Takumi can do it this way too. He's a very weird Shinigami after all."
Takumi, who was stood at the centre of the lightning bolts, had burns across his body as the smoke cleared, he had some blood coming out of him. Orihime wondered how he didn't have more injuries…
But Yoruichi could see that he had an aura around him.
"Heh, so you activated Shunko just in time." Yoruichi praised, seeing Kinhime sticking her hand up. "It was a wise move. The speed of that electricity...I'd have to activate Shunko to dodge it. Still, Takumi using Shunko might not be enough...this Kinhime truly is a scary lady."
Yoruichi watched as Kinhime unleashed another super fast bolt of lightning. Takumi tried to dodge out of the way, but his leg got caught up in the heavy duty lightning, crushing his leg into the ground, and he winced through the pain.
He could feel his body sizzling from the lightning.
Even with Shunko, it still caused a good deal of pain to him.
But he couldn't give up, and took a new blade, rushing for Kinhime. She went to shoot off another bolt from the sky, when he shot off a Shakkaho for her. However, the moment it got within inches of her, electricity surrounded her, and completely destroyed the Kido spell.
That's all the time Takumi really needed, getting in close, and came at her with his blade. Powered by Shunko, he swung down from her right hand side, as Kinhime turned towards him, showing a light smile as she winked.
"Electricity doesn't bother me, you know?"
Takumi's face fell as he heard the sparks coming from up above.
He barely had a second to dodge out of the way as it came down on him.
The mass of electricity hit both of them.
But while for her it seemed that the lightning was hurting him, she looked as if she was in water with the electricity flowing around her. His body burned from the intense power, and then she delivered a swift kick to his upper body, sending him flying into a rocky formation, crumbling it down into nothingness.
Orihime was worried for him.
She thought that he might not be able to take such lightning attacks.
So it was surprising to see that Takumi was standing up, blood leaking out of him.
Kinhime blinked a few times, watching as he moved forward, his blade crumbling to nothingness. But still, he grabbed another blade, pointing it towards Kinhime.
"I thought that we were fighting, why did you stop?"
Kinhime blinked at his words.
Despite his wounds, he wouldn't back down.
He was going to keep fighting, and he was going to try his best, and gain Bankai.
He wouldn't stop until he had achieved that victory.
"...Alright then Takumi." Sticking out her hand, a bolt of electricity hit her stretching hand, forming a blade made of pure electricity. "Now, show me what you've got!"
Takumi nodded, and rushed forward, appearing before her, and clashed blades with her.
As they fought, Rangiku came strolling over. Her eyes caught the sight of Kinhime, and her mouth dropped to the floor.
"That's the Zanpakuto spirit? Damn, she's busty..."
Yoruichi snickered while Orihime lightly smiled.
"Of course she is, Takumi likes the busty girls~ Like this girl here~"
Orihime's face flew into several shades of red.
"Y-Yoruichi-san! D-Don't say it as if Taku-chan's weird or something!"
"Nah, he's just an honest guy, is all. It's represented by his Zanpakuto spirit. Busty girls are his thing~"
"I can hear you Yoruichi-chan!"
Takumi yelled, dodging another bolt of lightning for his body.
Yoruichi snickered even more.
"You shouldn't be trying to listen to us, you have a Bankai to learn Takumi."
Takumi growled, as he continued working against Kinhime.
Yoruichi turned to Rangiku as Orihime continued watching from the side.
"So, did you just come to watch?"
"I suppose so, I was just curious about what was happening over here...besides, my Captain told me to leave her alone."
Yoruichi raised an eyebrow.
"I see...as you can see, Takumi is attempting to learn his Bankai. But she's a rather stubborn one to say the least. I can tell though, that she's being rather...how to say it...hmmmm, I'd say that she's wanting to help, yet she doesn't want to make it easy either."
"Haha, so his Zanpakuto is a stubborn girl. Well, if he pushes himself, I'm sure he'll succeed."
Orihime cupped her hands.
"Taku-chan's gonna be working so hard. I'm sure that he'll succeed if he tries his hardest. He always does try his hardest anyway. Though, I am worried if Taku-chan keeps receiving blasts of lightning..."
"He'll be fine. Don't worry about that boy."
Yoruichi smiled out, she was sure that Takumi was going to be able to do it.
Meanwhile, Karin was getting busy training with Kenpachi. Kenpachi wasn't the type to simply train someone, he came at her relentlessly, swinging his sword around, and cleaving into the ground with his blade, releasing some kind of spiritual energy at the same time.
"Heh, not so bad girl!"
Kenpachi yelled, twirling his sword and came at her from the right.
She raised her sword to defend, but the pressure of the swing was heavier than Karin thought, but she stayed her ground, pushing back against Kenpachi's heavy swung. Kenpachi raised an eyebrow at her strength.
"Heh, I thought you might've been weak. But you're pretty strong!"
Kenpachi relentlessly swung for her, forcing her to parry again and again. But each swing got heavier, and stronger. She felt with each attack, she was being dug into the ground, so she had to launch a counter attack.
Pooling her power at the edge of her blade, as soon as Kenpachi came at her, she unleashed it for his blade, the pure blue energy came over him like a huge wave, the power caught the attention of Unohana who was nearby, seeing Kenpachi's blade actually being parried by Karin.
"Hmmm...seems like she's got some potential within her."
While Unohana noticed that, Karin kept going for Kenpachi with furious blows. Releasing more and more of her energy to try and overpower him. But it seemed that he could fight off her attacks with his sword.
However, one of her attacks managed to get through, and left a huge gash on his chest. Blood shot out of him, while Karin showed a smile. Renji, who was nearby, watched on with shock that she could do something like that.
"...Shit, she's better than I thought she was. Even I couldn't do that to Captain Zaraki."
"That's my sister for you!"
Yuzu pipped up, with Giselle pulling at her face.
"Yup, she's really scary, and she can be kinda moody. She once told me that she liked to fight for fun~ She's really weird~"
"I am here, I can literally hear you."
Karin growled out, Giselle slapped her cheeks and put on a shocked face.
"Ooh my, Karin-chan is going to become angry!"
"Ya damn right I will!"
Giselle pulled back, turning to Yuzu.
"Come on Yuzu-chan, I'll teach you some cool Quincy stuff~"
"Ooh, thank you Giselle-san!"
Giselle stuck out her tongue, and walked away with the others.
Renji looked towards her, seeing Karin's efforts and determination.
It seemed that she truly was quite strong, and wouldn't give up.
Even against someone like Kenpachi.
So he also became determined to do what was necessary.
Back with Takumi and the others, Takumi currently was fighting and not winning against Kinhime. She was showcasing abilities that Takumi was surprised at. How she used lightning was quite like a beautiful dance.
He wasn't any closer to winning the fight.
His sword wasn't able to get through to her.
Mixing Kido and his sword, it was difficult to get close.
Even using Shunko wasn't working for him.
Kinhime simply was keeping him at bay for the entire time.
Eventually, as Takumi trained with Kinhime, her body suddenly became the paper like puppet once more, dropping down to the ground.
Takumi clicked his tongue, realizing that this signified the end of the training for that day.
"Alright Takumi, you did quite well. But, it seems that you couldn't attain Bankai today."
Takumi dropped the fragmented sword he had down to the ground, sighing lightly.
"I suppose that I'll have to try even harder tomorrow..."
Yoruichi rushed forward. With her speed, it didn't even take more than a second for her to get to him. He felt her hand groping him from behind, surprising the young man a good deal. Yoruichi though held a slightly teasing smile on her face.
"Go, and get in the baths. It will help ease your body and relieve it of its tension."
"Aah, I suppose it's like the one in Dad's basement right?"
"Right, it's something similar to that. It will help replenish you." Takumi gave a thankful smile towards her. "Yeah, it would be good to get some relaxation after this day. Go, have some fun."
"Why are you insistent that I go to the baths…?"
Yoruichi stuck out her tongue.
"Don't overthink things, just go and do what I say."
Takumi was sure that she was up to something.
But he simply went along with it, and simply walked away. Yoruichi placed her hands behind her back, her eyes glancing back towards him, and she couldn't help but allow a tiny smirk to appear on her soft looking lips.
After the first days training ended, he went to go towards the spring to have a bath. But as he did, he came across Nanao who was walking closer. When seeing his appearance, she was stunned that he had so many wounds.
"Your training...it must have been quite difficult."
"Ehehe, I guess that it was~ But, I'm alright Nanao-san."
Nanao overlooked him once more.
"Clearly, you're not. Perhaps you should get someone to heal you."
"I'm going to a spring now that does heal the body."
Nanao breathed out.
"That's a relief. I was getting worried about all of the explosions over there."
"Kinhime is a dangerous woman, she doesn't hold back."
Nanao held back a light smile, instead she kept her face in the way she usually looked.
"The reason I'm here, is because I was asked by my Captain to deliver this report."
"Your..." Takumi glanced behind her, seeing at a distance, Shunsui was watching them, but Nanao didn't seem to notice. "...Captain huh."
"Yes, is that odd?"
"Eeh, no, but he's right..." Shunsui put his hands together, shaking his head rapidly, so he shrugged. "...eehe, he's right! Yeah, erm...sure, lets check out these reports Nanao-san!"
"Yes, please do."
Takumi overlooked the reports, and what they'd be able to do in the near future. How they could get what he wanted, how they'd be able to fight the Sokyoku if it should emerge, things of that nature, something Takumi would like to tweak.
"Yes, this is quite good. It seems that your Captain put in hard work."
"Mostly, it was Captain Ukitake, my Captain's extremely lazy."
Shunsui put a hand over his mouth, and looked depressed, something Takumi noticed.
"Eeh...right. Anyway, thanks Nanao-san, your organizational skills are amazing. Perhaps you could organize my stuff..."
He lightly joked.
But Nanao took it seriously, and pushed her glasses up her face.
"Honestly, it seems that you've retained that kind of disorganization that you had over a hundred years ago. Learnt behaviour doesn't go away it seems. My Captain taught you about that, you know? Relaxing and being lazy...it's all his fault."
Takumi chortled lightly, seeing Shunsui looking down at what was being said.
"Eeh...I'm sorry for my taught behaviour…?"
"It's fine, I like being useful anyway. If you're that much overloaded, then I could at least see if there's something that I could do."
"Wait, seriously?"
"Yeah! Seriously?!"
Shunsui covered his mouth, and ducked as Nanao turned around.
Her suspicious eyes were on the place Shunsui was.
"Hmmmm..."
"Ehehehe, so Nanao-san. You would...You'd help me out? I feel bad about asking..."
"I said it's fine. You're doing a lot, I don't mind giving help when I can."
"It's like husband and wife!"
Nanao's scowl grew.
She knew it was Shunsui now.
She just couldn't sense him.
"Either way, if you'd like my help, then I wouldn't mind. I'd like to be useful during all of this. I don't have your combat abilities, but I can support in my own way."
"Everyone's useful Nanao-san, you'll definitely be useful."
Nanao was taken slightly aback by his words.
"A-Ah...I see, yes...I'm sure you'd say something like that."
"Eeh, you know me quite well Nanao-san."
"I...Yes, I do know a bit about you. Though, I'd like to know more about the you now...perhaps, once this is over, we could...maybe we could..."
Shunsui could see how hard it was for Nanao to ask it.
She wasn't used to doing these things.
Takumi glanced at Shunsui who ushered him along.
"Nanao-san, do you wanna go out for...some drinks sometime?"
"W-Well, if I have time, we could perhaps go out somewhere...yes, that could easily be arranged..."
Takumi thought Nanao was rather adorable at that moment.
Seeing her usual stern looks fade to a more cuter side, he wondered if anyone else had seen this side of her before.
He definitely found her quite cute.
"Aaah, they're gonna get married! I'm so happy!" Nanao shot her eyes back and met Shunsui's who began looking afraid, he couldn't escape in time. "E-Eh...Nanao-chan. Hey, I was just...you know, supporting your relationship, and hoping love blooms...things like that...yeah, you're awesome..."
Nanao began taking off her glasses, surprising Takumi that Shunsui looked terrified.
"Captain...interfering with my relationships, again."
Shunsui paled, he was scared right now.
"Ooh Nanao-chan please..."
Nanao shook her head, and began moving forward.
Shunsui panicked, and began running away, but Nanao yelled "Wait!" and gave chase.
Takumi could only watch on curiously, he certainly saw them as a fun comedic duo.
But he did appreciate them quite well.
Later on, Takumi went towards the healing spring. He knew from Yoruichi that it was a place where he could relax his muscles. Fighting Kinhime wasn't fun. It was pretty exhausting to say the least.
Seeing that his previous methods weren't working, Takumi knew he'd have to approach it differently.
It seemed that he couldn't get past her sword skills, and the lightning was far too dense for him to shoot any Kido through. The power of his Zanpakuto was amazingly scary. Yet, if he could gain that power, he knew he'd be able to beat Byakuya.
He just needed to use that incredible power.
However, while he rested in the water, he suddenly felt a disturbance in the water, his eyes opening to see that a near nude Unohana had entered the water. His face turned slightly red, diverting his eyes away from her.
"C-Captain, what are you doing here?"
"So cute. As if we haven't had baths together before. I've seen Takumi-kun's body before...though I must say, it's matured quite a bit since the last time that I saw it..." Takumi's hands went lower, so Unohana snickered. "Honestly, you're quite a mature boy, but you're shy to these situations huh?"
"Not shy per-say, just..."
"Curious, right?" Takumi didn't say anything, as Unohana continued. "It's alright, I understand. That's how you usually were in the past, so that's not changed. I'm glad. Say, I've got something to show you." Takumi watched as she undid her hair from around her neck, and showed off a scar that was hidden underneath. "See this? This came from Kenpachi Zaraki as a kid."
"You kept it all these years, despite the fact I've seen your work. You could have had it removed."
"Perhaps I could have. It's a simple reminder of that day, that's all." Unohana pulled closer, Takumi seeing that she was showing a light smile. "Tell me, have you ever been with a woman before?"
"Pft! W-What?!"
Unohana pulled in closer, wrapping her arms around his own. Takumi could feel her bust suddenly enveloping his arm between them. He could see the towel she had sliding down, so he looked away, his cheeks dyed red.
"Naughty boy, you thought I meant that, didn't you?" Takumi didn't dare turn to her, feeling her pushing closer more and more. "I could have been meaning that, or maybe I just meant in a bath like this." Takumi glanced back to see Unohana looking towards him with a mixture of glee and sadistic tones. "Your face, is rather cute Takumi-kun."
"U-Unohana-san..."
Unohana lightly smiled.
"You have matured quite well. From that boy I met years ago, to now. Seeing you leading such a group of very difficult and different character types. They all follow you, because of the work you've put into it. Changing peoples beliefs like Kenpachi in a way, helping them understand their pasts and move on like with Nemu-san, comforting someone over losing a loved one and face a new reality like with Hinamori-san, among others. It's quite amazing to see Takumi-kun."
"T-Thank you Unohana-san."
Unohana continues to hold onto his arm, she wouldn't let go. His cheeks turned more red as he felt her pulling closer and closer.
"Now, let us enjoy the-"
"What do you think you're doing Unohana?"
Yoruichi's voice called out, Takumi turned to see that she was completely naked. He could see everything, and Yoruichi didn't even wear any embarrassment on her face at all. In fact, she seemed rather excited.
Takumi couldn't face her, his eyes diverted while she snickered.
"You are adorable Takumi, turning away from me like that."
"O-Of course, you're naked!"
Yoruichi wore a kitten like smile on her face, judging the reactions.
"Of course I am, why wouldn't I be? It's because I want to be. That's what you do when you get into the bath." Yoruichi's challenging eyes went towards Unohana who wore a complex expression on her face. "The same goes for Unohana. I see that your towel has mysteriously disappeared."
Takumi took Yoruichi's words for it, he didn't look.
"Oh, it seems that it has gone. I wonder where it went..."
"Don't play games. It's my turn to be in the bath with Takumi."
"How cute, I was merely talking about the past. I'm allowed to do that, aren't I?"
Yoruichi frowned, dashing to the right hand side of Takumi, grabbed his head, placing it on her breast as she ran a hand through his blonde hair. His face nearly burned at the feeling of her warmth, and comfy chest on his cheek.
"Then, I'll just comfort Takumi in this way."
"Y-Yoruichi-chan..."
"Don't worry Takumi, I'll take care of your needs." She shot a look for Unohana who did the same thing. "All of your needs."
Unohana scowled, as another voice came forward. Walking around the corner, it revealed Rangiku, dressed in a towel, with a very calm look on her face. Takumi turned his neck, seeing Rangiku's...alluring way she had her towel, he was wondering how much longer he was going to be able to go.
"Ooh, is everyone having fun~?"
"Yes, come and join us."
Unohana offered, Yoruichi frowned even more.
"Alright then~" Rangiku also slipped into the bath, giggling away as she stared at Takumi. "So, Takumi-kun. Seems like your Zanpakuto spirit is quite busty, isn't she?"
"T-That's just because she is. Nothing really about that. It isn't like I can choose her appearance."
"Even then, I also heard that you like the Inoue girl. And she's..."
"I-I like Orihime-chan because of who she is!"
"Haha, I'm sure that you do~"
Rangiku grinned, moving closer to him.
He couldn't look at her, that was until Rangiku dragged her finger across his cheek, drawing his eyes to her own.
"So tell me Takumi-kun, is this a dream of yours? In the bath with beautiful women? Anything could happen, really~"
"Haha, she's got a point Takumi, any kind of situation could happen here."
Yoruichi added, showing a mischievous grin on her face.
"My, he's blushing. It's so adorable that it makes me want to fight and cuddle him at the same time~"
Unohana spoke with a dangerous smile on her face, a small part of her battle ready persona shining through.
While that happened, more voices could be heard.
One was Nemu, and the other was Yachiru.
Nemu was scantily clad in a towel, while Yachiru was dressed in a towel as well that covered her up entirely. As soon as she saw Takumi, Yachiru yelled "Yay! Bath with Taku-chan!" and leapt forward, landing on his right thigh, and hugged him tightly.
"Yachiru-san, you're quite excitable huh?"
"Yup!"
Takumi gave an awkward laugh as Nemu simply went into the water. The others were surprised as she merely hugged Takumi's arm between her large assets, wearing her same emotionless expression that she usually had on.
"Takumi-sama, I don't mind sitting in a bath with you like this."
Yoruichi slapped her head with her open palm.
"Aaah! Come on, I was going to spend time with Takumi alone!"
"Don't complain, I was here first anyway."
Unohana and Yoruichi locked eyes while Yachiru bounced on his lap.
"Taku-chan, I really like sitting here! Can I keep sitting here?"
"Eeh...I guess, if it's alright with Kenpachi-san..."
"Yup, he'd be fine with it. We both like Taku-chan a lot! Ken-chan even said that he hopes you and he become super amazing friends that always keep fighting!"
Takumi thought that she was exaggerating the 'super amazing friends' part, though he could see Kenpachi wanting to keep fighting.
"I see, I'm sure that we'll be good friends..."
"Yup, so I'll stay with Taku-chan too!"
"Awwww, it seem that she's got a little crush on you...how cute." Rangiku snickered, getting to the side of Takumi, and hugging his arm. "You are quite manly up close, aren't you?"
"Rangiku-san..."
"Don't worry, I don't bite."
Alluringly saying that, Rangiku hugged onto him as his blush intensified.
Yoruichi growled as Nemu nodded.
"Takumi-sama, I do not bite either."
He felt Nemu, and Yachiru snuggling against him too. Unohana casually got behind him, and hugged him, he felt her bare chest against his back, the softness was amazing, and he felt like could sleep like this.
Yoruichi clicked her tongue.
"Honestly, can't spend time with my Takumi...damn women." Murmuring that out, she slid towards him, and gently embraced him with her breasts against him, his face turning redder by the second. "But, this is good enough. Even I sometimes need comforts from a man Takumi. Are you going to take responsibility for that?"
Takumi looked at each of the women around him.
Each of them looked towards him with either cute, or beautiful expressions.
Indeed, each of them were rather beautiful, and in Yachiru's case, cute, and he couldn't help but feel quite blessed at that moment.
So, while relaxing was off the table, he did end up having a very different kind of bath than he usually would, and it was rather, entertaining.
After that...experience, Takumi had to cool down. Laying down on the rocky surface, he allowed a wet towel to drench his brow, his mind casting back to the training, to take his mind of the more...stimulating aspect of his life.
However, Toshiro came walking closer, bending down, and poked his face.
"Are you awake?"
"...Yeah, I'm awake."
"Did something happen? Your face is red."
Takumi took the wet towel off his face, peering up at Toshiro.
"No, nothing happened...nothing at all." Takumi pulled himself up, and whizzed around, peering into the eyes of Toshiro. "So, how can I help you?"
"I don't need any help, I just happened to be walking by here, and saw you lying there. I thought that I'd understand more about you. Since my only real interactions with you were fighting Gin, and back at the Captains Meeting. Both times, I couldn't get a good read on you."
"Are you saying I'm unreadable?"
Toshiro shrugged, sitting down nearby.
"I'm just saying that you're rather curious. I've seen people for and against you, and I myself...I can't see you being that bad of a person. Though, it's surprising that you've got so many strong Captains on your side like this. But, I will say...thank you, for handling Hinamori like you did. Many would have simply knocked her out, or bound her, or something. But you took her anger on and challenged her thoughts, making her see reason."
Takumi scratched the back of his head with a slightly sheepish smile.
"She's a smart girl, she was lost in anguish. It's perfectly understandable."
Toshiro shook her head.
"Even then, I'm pleased with what happened. That she's...able to see beyond what Aizen has tried to tell her, and that she's seeing him for what he is. And it's thanks to you. I don't think I could have gotten through to her."
"I'm sure you'd be able to. You've known one another for years, right?"
"We were raised together, so of course."
"Haha, I see. So childhood friends, or family like relations. Either way, it's really sweet~"
Toshiro's face turned complicated.
"Don't say such things. I merely watch out for her, that's all."
"Ooh, are you the type to deny your kind acts, then?"
Toshiro turned back towards him with slightly reddened cheeks.
"O-Of course not. You're just reading too much into it!"
"If there wasn't a hint of truth in it, you wouldn't be getting worked up about it."
Toshiro huffed, turning her neck away.
"Even if there is, it doesn't matter right now. All that does is the mission ahead."
"Yes, perhaps you're right. But, it's alright you know?"
Toshiro turned back to him, confused.
"What is?"
"To relax around people that you're comfortable with. It's alright to drop your guard sometimes."
"...Drop my guard, I'm not that guarded."
"Hehe, that's good then~ You can't be super serious all the time, it would be quite difficult to keep that on. Let your hair down once in a while, that's all I'm saying. I'm sure your loved ones would love to see your more casual side, I'm sure you've got one."
Takumi lightly poked her cheeks, smiling as he did so.
Toshiro could feel her face turning redder, while he simply continued on doing so.
"P-Perhaps...even then, could you stop poking my cheeks now?"
"But, you're adorable when looking at me like that. As I thought, you're one of my favourite Captains~"
Toshiro bit back her blush, trying to keep it under control, and simply folded her arms.
"Honestly, you're weird."
"I've been called much worse before, and no doubt will be called more things in the future."
He finished off with a laugh.
Something she wasn't accustomed too was happening.
She was able to feel more relaxed in his presence.
Perhaps it was because she didn't have expectations to look up to around him.
Perhaps it was because he simply was someone that she could open up to casually.
Whatever it was, she did feel good at that moment.
She was able to release a breath, she didn't know she was holding.
Late into the night Momo had woken up to take care of some personal business.
But as she was doing it, she noticed that at the far end of the training field, some lights were on.
She couldn't get why that was.
So she went to investigate it.
When she got there, she saw that Takumi was still awake, despite the days hard training he had, and was mixing some chemicals together.
"E-Erm..."
Takumi paused, turning his eyes towards her.
"Oh, Hinamori-san. I wasn't too loud, was I?"
"N-No, I didn't hear a thing. I just saw the lights over here...I was wondering what was going on. But, it's just you working away. You do know you can sleep, right?"
"I will sleep eventually, there's just a few things I've got to do before the three day period is up."
Momo pursed her lips.
She thought about what he had said.
"Urahara-san...if it's alright, can I sit here with you? I promise not to distract you..."
"It's not distracting. I like talking to people when I'm working, keeps my mind from becoming too bored."
Momo let out a little laugh, bending down and sat close by.
"To be honest, I don't really know much about mechanical stuff."
"I'm more of a person that delves into medicinal stuff, and how the body works along with spiritual energy and how to either enhance, or stop or destroy it, things like that. Though I also tend to dabble in mechanical as well if I can help it. So tell me Hinamori-san, why did you want to join the Shinigami anyway?"
"...Well, I wanted to join because...because of Captain Aizen."
Takumi scrunched his face, he didn't want to bring up anything negative now.
"Ooh...sorry, I didn't mean to..."
"No, no, it's alright. Well, when I say, I wanted to join because of him, that's not necessarily true. I got inspired by him when I was already at the academy, he was my main driving focus. I wanted to be his Lieutenant, ever since he saved us back when a training session went wrong. I suppose I wanted to join because...well, there's Shiro-chan, I wanted to make sure that she was safe...though seeing her now, she's easily stronger than me."
"She is quite the ice girl huh."
"Hehe...yes, she's quite the ice girl...Urahara-san, I'm sorry-"
"You don't have to keep apologizing." He cut her off, surprising her. "I don't hold anything against you. You were in a hard situation. Your emotions were going wild. Hey, if it was my Dad, or Yoruichi-chan or someone I truly loved, then I'd be as messed up emotionally that you were."
"That's a relief, I thought it was just me."
Takumi chortled, shaking his neck.
"No, we all can become a bit crazy at times."
He stuck out his tongue in a goofy manner.
She felt relaxed when seeing that.
It was nice to just be near someone that was able to relax in these tense times.
"Urahara-san...about Captain Aizen. I'd like to confront him too."
"It's going to be dangerous, I can't guarantee your safety."
Momo placed a hand over her chest, showcasing a strong will.
"I have to ask him directly. This might be my own chance...I need to know why he's doing this."
Seeing her face, how she was resolved, he couldn't deny her.
"If you're this determined...then, I'll have to try and make sure you'll be safe. But remember...Aizen, is very good at manipulating...I know this isn't something you want to hear. Heck, I don't want to be the one to tell you this. But he might try and manipulate you to believing he's a good guy, and he's doing it to better the Soul Society."
"...Yes, I'm sure that he might. But I understand the truth...I've seen it for myself. Urahara-san...I wont be weak in front of him."
Takumi took his hand, and gently petted her head.
With the single pet, her cheeks turned redder by the second.
"Alright then, but remember. It's not just Aizen. Lots of people are here for you. Genuine people. Shiro-chan also seems to really care about you. She tries to deny it, but I could see it...she's rather adorable, huh~?"
"Hehehe...Urahara-san, I thought that you were...well, when I heard what you had done. I was imagining something completely different to how you actually are."
"I guess you can't believe everything you read huh~?"
"I suppose so~"
Momo and Takumi laughed together.
A moment of levity in a bleak situation.
Soon, they talked for a good while, getting to know one another, before Momo began getting tired. She stopped speaking, and just watched what Takumi was doing.
Eventually, she fell asleep, with her head gently guided to Takumi's shoulder.
Glancing towards her, he simply smiled, taking out a nearby blanket, and wrapped it around her so she wouldn't become cold, as he continued working into the night, trying his best not to disturb her more peaceful looking sleep.
The next day, Takumi got right back on the horse, and was training once more. He saw all of the blades spread out around him, with Kinhime taking a stance with her own blade. The blades hummed with electricity, something that Takumi had noticed the previous day.
"Here we are again, Takumi-kun. I'm sure that you're going to enjoy this battle as we did yesterday. Though that bath last night. You must have enjoyed that~"
"P-Please don't remind me about that!"
"How cute, you are adorable with your feelings, aren't you?" Takumi shrugged his shoulders. "Then show me what you've got today. Though if you're just going to be doing the same stuff, you wont be able to attain Bankai. I thought you wanted to beat Byakuya?"
"Of course I do!"
Kinhime took her blade, and pointed it towards Takumi.
"Then show me Takumi, show me your resolve. You should know about it by now!"
Once more, they got into a fight.
As like yesterday, there wasn't much he could do against the blonde haired woman.
She was simply skilled.
She was powerful.
She also had a great defence.
She was quite strong in the ways that she can fight.
After training for a good long while, Takumi didn't believe he was any closer to getting his Bankai. Fighting her wasn't working, trying to out manoeuvrer her wasn't working, she could simply use electricity to enhance her bodies movements.
He couldn't get through to her body with any tricks that he tried.
She wasn't going to go down without some kind of trick.
He had to think of something else.
He had to come to terms with her in a different way.
Recalling what she said the previous day, he wondered more about what he could do.
But as another blade was swatted out of his hand, Takumi panted, his eyes running themselves over his Zanpakuto spirit.
"...Kinhime, you said that we were different to most people. That we have a close connection, what did you mean by that?"
"Hehe, if you don't know, then I can't help you with that. You'll have to figure what that means."
"But I don't know what it means. It seems that you're driving me to some conclusion...but, I don't know what that is. I don't remember."
Kinhime cocked her head.
"Then tell me, why did you come to the Soul Society? Really?"
"You know why."
Kinhime dashed forward, attempting to embed a fist into his torso. But he managed to dodge out of the way, however the aftermath of the electricity surrounding her caught his body and flung him down into the dirt.
"Tell me anyway."
Takumi pulled himself up from the dirt.
"...I came to save Rukia-chan, that's why."
"That all?"
"I have nothing else here. My life is in the human world. My friends and loved ones are in the human world."
Kinhime wagged a finger.
"That's not entirely true though, is it? You've always felt it. A desire to explore more about yourself. You've known about your Father for years. You didn't have any powers for years. You wanted to know more about your family, what it was about the Soul Society that you wished to understand. Their systems, their flaws. It's always been rattling around in your mind."
Takumi grabbed a nearby blade, and clenched it tightly.
"Even then, this world isn't mine, not anymore."
"No, but it could be, again. This world, is a very flawed, isn't it? But so is the human world. Think about how that world was also a mystery, and still is. Then there's the Hollows world, and the world that's between worlds like the Dangai, among other places. You have to wonder about it."
"Naturally I do."
"But more than that...this place is a place that's done nothing but try to kill you."
"Yes...of course they have tried that before."
"So...why are you here now? You could just screw the Soul Society, they turned on you Takumi. They didn't want to know. They labelled you a monster without even knowing what you've done and keep doing for everyone. So, why?"
"Should I say the thing you're expecting? Or should I say what I truly think?"
Kinhime's lips rose.
"Tell me, what you really think."
"...Then, you're right. I have wondered about what I truly was doing here. Apart from saving Rukia-chan that is. This world seems to have written me off and has tried to execute me. Everyone...near enough, had some kind of beef with me without allowing me to explain...but, that's because of Aizen."
Kinhime raised an eyebrow.
"Even if it was, they didn't have to believe that. They could have trusted their memories of you, and trusted you'd not be evil."
"No, they didn't have to believe that. I'm not saying what they've done is right, but we all make mistakes. I've made mistakes before, and I'm trying to not repeat them now. I didn't like interacting with people in the beginning. I was social, but I also kept a distance from people."
Kinhime slowly nodded.
"I see. Keeping people at arms lengths, it makes sure you don't get yourself hurt."
"Right...but, that's not the way to form true connections with others. During my time here, I've understood that fact. No one can take on the world alone. Aizen...I genuinely believe that's how he thinks. He can do everything on his own, but I don't think that's right. He writes off those around him, my Dad said that it's probably because he's cocky and overconfident..."
"But you don't, do you?"
Takumi shook his head.
"I believe he has elements of it...but, I also believe that something deep within him...he's probably looking for something. Some kind of reason to exist. Maybe he's already found it with whatever his ultimate goals are. We all are looking for that thing, the reason to exist, what we strive for. Evil or good, we all want something to go after. Even if it's a small thing, it's something we all share. Aizen just takes his to a new level, he wouldn't settle for anything other than what he truly wanted."
"And if Aizen offered you something...if he offered you a chance to be beside him. What would you do?"
"If you're asking me that, then you and I aren't as connected as I thought we were."
Kinhime gave a humbling smile.
"Maybe I just wanted to hear it. It's no fun if I don't hear it from you."
"...Then, I'd never hurt others in the pursuit of my goals...no, rather. I'd only resort to violence if it's the last resort."
"Yes, that's a good reason. It's why I really am glad that we're together. Because I know that you'll do amazing things, you put yourself on the line for others. Even against people who should be your enemies. You shield them with your body. You protect their hearts. But, you also aren't stupid and believe everyone can be saved. Yet, you'd fight tooth and nail to save a person that needs it, whether they realize it or not."
Kinhime strolled forward.
Her hand reached out towards him, and touched his forehead.
What Takumi saw was a memory.
A memory of him as a young child…
But not just him.
Him, with Aizen.
Being friendly with Aizen of all people.
Takumi couldn't understand it.
Seeing them actually interacting as if they were friends...
It just didn't make sense to him.
Snapping out of that short memory, Takumi looked towards Kinhime in pure shock.
"What you saw...was but a fragment of the past."
"...That was...I was friends with Aizen..."
Kinhime pulled forward, allowing her arms to wrap around him in a comforting way.
"Don't forget, I'm also your number one fan. Together, we'll do many different things." Her fingers gently push against his forehead, and she smiled. "Now, it's time to subjugate me? Do you understand now? How to subjugate me?"
Takumi peered into her eyes.
Seeing the way she stared at him, he believed he understood what to do now.
How to subjugate her.
It wasn't simply beating her.
It was something more than that.
Then, Takumi did it.
It took a number of hours of hard struggling. Putting his thoughts across to her, fighting her, and showing her his true sides, what she truly wanted to see.
Eventually, that allowed them to connect deeper, and a powerful explosion happened around him once he did.
Yoruichi, who was looking on, was astonished.
Seeing them come together, blending. The beautiful electricity flowing around him like it was water. Takumi's body was enveloped in the lightning, but it wasn't like his Shikai. This was on a different level. Even the sword he had, had changed into a sleeker design, more beautiful in Yoruichi's eyes which she thought fit rather well.
But then he released his Bankai, and exhaled slowly, falling down to his knees.
Yoruichi rushed closer, bending down and met eyes with him.
"Yoruichi-chan...I did it."
"Yes, and a day early. Astonishing Takumi, I'm sure your Dad would be proud. So tell me, what was it that she wanted?"
"She wanted me to not only subjugate her in a fight...she wanted me to explain my thoughts, she wanted to know what goals I truly had, what my life was heading too. Honestly, she's quite like me. She just wanted to know...what we'd do together, and how we'd benefit others around us. I suppose you could say that she wanted to not only be subjugated in battle, but also with my mind...yes, it's quite like that. Still...aaah, that was a very hard battle, she can be quite the stubborn woman...but, she's my partner, and I trust her completely, as she does me."
"Aah, she's a poetic woman~ I like her~"
Takumi let out a small laugh as Yoruichi got in close.
"Yoruichi-chan...one step closer now."
"Yes, one step closer."
"But...I have to ask...Aizen and I, did we have history?"
Yoruichi's eyes went towards the right hand side, mostly to avoid eye contact with him, partly because she wasn't sure how to explain this.
"It's a little complicated...but yes, you and he once had a close relationship."
"...But, why would I? After what I've seen...how cold his eyes were...how could I have been...friends with him?"
"That...That's a question only you'd know the answer to, Takumi."
Takumi hummed as Yoruichi leaned closer, and pressed her lips against his own.
It was only for a few seconds, so he couldn't enjoy it long. But for those seconds, he definitely could feel the passion of Yoruichi, entering him with said passion.
When she finally did break apart from him, she adopted a light smile.
"Imagine if Orihime found out about our passion~"
"Y-Yoruichi-chan...she already knows."
Yoruichi snorted.
"Yeah. I suppose she does. Well, it can't be helped. I promised myself that I'd do that when you awakened Bankai. Maybe I should have done that for Shikai, and taken your virginity at Bankai."
"G-Geez, you don't hold back, do you?"
"Naturally, I'm a cat. We do what we want~"
Takumi couldn't stifle a small laugh.
But, he also wondered more about his relationship to Aizen.
What possessed him to be friends with Aizen?
Was it Aizen manipulating the situation?
Or was it something else entirely?
Whatever it was, it just added mystery to Takumi's life that he wasn't sure on how to begin handling it.
But, he wasn't going to stop either.
He was determined to understand what it truly was about.
He'd find the answer.
Later that night, after it had happened, it had finally happened, Takumi was quite excited.
He couldn't contain his happiness at achieving it. And with a day to go as well, Takumi thought that he was on cloud nine right now.
"Seeing you so giddy is adorable~"
Rangiku called as she moved closer.
Takumi lightly chortled.
"I suppose, it's just that I've done it. Achieving Bankai...aah, that was an emotional experience."
"Emotional huh? Did you, with your Zanpakuto spirit..." Rangiku nudged him, with a sly wink. "...you know, take control over the situation and...subjugate her?"
Takumi got where she was coming from, shaking his head several times.
"Eeh, no, not like that. But I'm surprised you're here. Did you want to talk to me?"
"Well, everyone else has had a talk with you, so I want to as well. Lets see if you can give me any insight."
Takumi raised an eyebrow at that.
"So, you just wanna have a chat?"
"Naturally. Lay it on me, the Urahara wisdom~"
Takumi lightly chuckled.
"Though I don't know if I'm that wise, I could try and help you with any problems that you have. Do you have any?" Rangiku shrugged as Takumi tossed his mind back to the fight with Gin. "...Actually, there is something I did notice back when we met. You and Gin, the way you looked at one another, how he stopped when you arrived...perhaps I'm off base, but is there history between you? Though if you don't want to tell me, then I'd be alright with that. Don't worry about telling me anything you don't want to, I wont ask again."
Rangiku waved her hand, showing that she was alright with it.
"Perceptive...yeah, we do have some history. It's...he helped me understand about spiritual power, and things like that. We hung around together for a good while, and eventually, joined the Shinigami academy."
"So, are you...how to say it...are you worried about him right now? I believe...maybe it's hard to hear but...he probably is aligned with Aizen. Judging on what he tried to do with Hinamori-san, and what he tried to have happen to me, among other things...maybe he's not but most likely, he is."
Rangiku breathed slowly.
"I thought that he might be. He's been acting different, especially when you came to the Soul Society. Gin has always been...different to others. But now...I just feel as if he's moving further and further away..."
"Are you in love with him?"
Rangiku began laughing, patting Takumi's back so hard he nearly fell over.
"Don't be silly! We're like family, that's all!"
Takumi blinked, wondering more about their story then, and why she seemed disheartened about Gin, more so than anyone else was being.
"That's not, that's all, you know? It's important, family that's blood or family that was made like that. It's okay not to be okay."
Rangiku exhaled as she hugged her knees to her chest.
"...You know, this entire situation, I've never been one to really involve myself in the ins and outs of the Soul Society. Now, my friend is going to be going to the other side...I just want to know...why he'd do this. What would possess him to try this stuff?"
Takumi could see that she was struggling.
He didn't want to see her struggling like that.
He pulled closer, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"I am sorry about all of this."
"It's not your fault, you didn't force him to do anything. He did it of his own accord. But...I feel as if there's something behind it. Some secret reason...I don't know what it would be though. Aizen...he's evil, isn't he? No redemption I mean...he's evil to the core?"
Seeing that she wished for what he believed to be the truth, he decided to level with her.
"...Most likely, I'm not sure right now. Off my own instincts...I'd say he probably isn't fully evil, but he's definitely got some real darkness in him. I've seen the dude once...and I got vibes from him. His face was smiling...but, his eyes, were emotionless. He didn't seem to care about anything around him." Takumi pulled even closer to Rangiku. "But I didn't get that from Gin."
"Takumi-kun..."
Takumi hummed, trying to articulate his words in the best way that he could do.
"I, got something from Gin that I couldn't understand until I began speaking to you. Something about the way that he looked at me...I don't know. I didn't feel evil from him...I felt something else. Of course, this is my own gut speaking, and I could be wrong. But, that's what I got from him. Perhaps he does have a reason. And if he does, lets try and find that reason Rangiku-san."
Rangiku gave a light hearted chuckle.
"Yeah...that would be good. But still, he needs to be stopped...if he does end up hurting, or killing someone...Takumi-kun, can I ask you something?"
"Sure, what is it?"
"You came here, not knowing if you'd die, or if you'd succeed...why? Why did you do that?"
"Because Rukia-chan needed to be saved…"
"But, was that really worth your life?"
Takumi nodded, and began to explain.
"Yes, I do believe it's worth you. You know, all I ever wanted was to know about this place. When I was younger...in the human world I mean, I just wanted to see this place. My Father, I knew he was a Shinigami from a young age, I knew he had these powers, I discovered it on my own and asked him about it, eventually he told me about it. But now, after seeing it. It isn't that different to the human world. I wondered if this was a magical place, that had all sorts of different concepts."
"Haha, I guess that means it's disappointing."
"Actually, it's kind of relieving."
Rangiku didn't quite understand that.
"How so?"
"Well...I'm quite a logical person. I thought the Soul Society would be this place I might not be able to understand, and to an extent, it does have magical elements to it...but, it's also just like the human world. So, I can understand it quite well."
"Well, personally, I'm glad you're here. You're probably one of the only normal guys around here. Between people like Zaraki, and the others...God, I can't even think about that at all. But yeah...thanks to you, we can understand this truth. It isn't going to sneak up on us out of nowhere."
Takumi waved his hand towards her, waving off her worries.
"It's alright, I'm glad that the truth is out there now...and less people are trying to kill me now."
Rangiku let out a small laugh.
She couldn't even fathom how it would
"Also, I'd like to say...thanks. If Gin can be stopped without his death...I just want to understand why he's doing what he's doing."
Takumi gave a strong nod, and then bowed his neck.
"Right...then I'll try my best to see what's happening with him."
"I couldn't ask you to do that...to place that burden on you..."
Takumi shook his head, trying to relieve her of her worries.
"I promise, I'll try my best to stop him, and bring him back alive. Back to you, his family."
Hearing that, Rangiku couldn't help but feel something bubbling inside of her.
To take that burden on, just for her...
"Takumi-kun, I..."
Rangiku laid her hand on his own.
He could feel her hand slightly shaking, so he turned his own hand, and held onto hers.
"It's alright, you can rely on me. I'll bring him back, then you can question him as much as you need to."
She didn't say anything, but she could feel her face turning slightly redder all the time that he held onto her hand.
Minutes passed, and eventually, Rangiku was able to express her gratitude.
"Thank you, Takumi-kun. I see it now...why that Inoue-san really likes you."
"Oh?"
"Yes...oh. That's exactly it, Takumi-kun."
Takumi raised an eyebrow at her.
He wondered what she was thinking.
But it seemed like she was content right now. Just holding his hand, it reassured her that he'd try his best to understand more about Gin. What he was thinking and how he was feeling. That alone allowed her to understand the kind of man Takumi was.
He wasn't out for himself.
He wasn't trying to take over the worlds.
He was trying to make them better.
Trying to understand them.
But most of all…
He wanted to help the people around him if he could.
It was something she quite liked.
The next day, Takumi was busy working on a number of things for the next day. Working on gadgets, and other things with the help of Nemu. Without Mayuri around, Nemu was able to show her true intelligence, and he could see that she truly was a smart woman.
She had knowledge on many things.
"Takumi-sama, I believe this is finished."
Takumi glanced, and saw that she had finished a complex calculation that he had asked her to do, in half the time he thought most intelligent would be able to finish it, so seeing Nemu doing it so quickly, he was quite happy to see.
"Nemu-san, I'm thankful you're helping me. But tomorrow, it's going to be hectic. I said to everyone they could have the day off today and relax."
"But, you're still working."
Takumi couldn't refute her words either.
He clearly was working.
"Haha, you got me there. I've just got a few things to finish off here, and then I'll be relaxing."
"Then when Takumi-sama is finished, I shall be as well."
Nemu didn't want to leave his side.
Even in minor things like this.
Takumi didn't mind.
In fact, he was glad that she could come to him for advice, and he'd do his best to offer it her.
"Nemu-san...thanks. You really are growing in awesome ways, I'm enjoying getting to know you more and more."
"I...Yes, Takumi-sama. I also am enjoying learning more things about myself. I'd like to continue that. But, I'd only like to continue it with Takumi-sama beside me."
"Nemu-san..."
Nemu's facial expression didn't change.
But Takumi felt as if she was trying her best to show a smile.
"Takumi-sama, it's going to be dangerous. So, I'd like to request that you don't do anything reckless."
"Reckless? Heh, I'm not that reckless-"
"According to my data, there's a high percent chance that you'd do something reckless to protect someone else which could lead to a life changing injury, or being severally damaged. So, I'd like to ask that Takumi-sama refrains from being reckless. But, in failing that. I'd request Takumi-sama seeks medical attention immediately, and comes back to the rest of us."
Hearing her words, it might have sounded rather robotic to most.
But to Takumi, he could feel the passion behind her words.
The emotions that she had.
Something she couldn't have expressed in a long time.
"Alright Nemu-san, I'll do my best."
"Yes, I am...I believe the word is, happy Takumi-sama. I am happy that you will do your best. So, I shall also do my best. To stay beside Takumi-sama, that has become a dream of mine. Takumi-sama once said that goals in life can push you forward. I have begun thinking about my goals. I have decided that I will stand beside Takumi-sama, always. That's one goal. Another goal of mine is to stop Mayuri-sam...Mayuri for what he intends to do and has done."
"I see...then they're nice goals Nemu-san. I'm sure you'll also think of others. You can do anything, be anything you want to be Nemu-san."
"Be anything I want..." Nemu took Takumi's hand, and held it tightly. "Takumi-sama, I'd like to request to be your Lieutenant."
"I-I'm not even a Captain."
"Yes, you are Takumi-sama. As Yachiru-sama has explained. The Taku Squad is a legitimate Squad, Captains Ukitake, Kyoraku, and Unohana are supporting this Squad. Now, it's the Fourteen Squads instead of Thirteen."
Takumi chortled unevenly, wondering how much Yachiru has been saying about that.
"Eeh, that's...eeh...right. Nemu-san, I'd be honoured if you were my Lieutenant."
"Yes, thank you Takumi-sama."
Takumi couldn't hide his smile.
While Nemu was odd.
She still was a good person and fun to interact with.
And he was glad that all the time, Mayuri's influence over her was fading away, becoming a distant memory, now that she could begin truly having a life of her own.
Nemu ended up sitting close by Takumi, and held onto his arm.
It seemed to comfort her.
It seemed that she wanted to do it, so Takumi simply didn't say anything and stayed with her for a good while, just working together on some projects.
The night before the execution of Rukia, Takumi gathered the members of the group that he and the others had formed. Seeing all of them before him, listening to him, and even following his words. He couldn't help but look back at the beginning of their break into the Soul Society, and how they had come so far in such a time.
Looking down, he saw Yachiru casually sat on his lap, and grinning up towards him.
Seeing that she wasn't going to move, he simply petted her head, causing her smile to grow even more.
Lightly smiling to himself, Takumi begin.
"As you all know. Tomorrow, we'll be going to be doing the plan. Which means, the remaining Soul Society, will be against us." They each looked seriously, with Takumi continuing. "So that's why, I've got jobs for each of you to do. Some of you will have to fight..." Kenpachi raised his hand so Takumi continued with a smile. "You'll definitely have to fight Kenpachi-san."
Kenpachi did a fist pump, his excitement growing more and more.
"Yes!"
"Alright Ken-chan! You're going to be fighting!"
Takumi was glad that they were enthusiastic.
"Anyway, back on topic. While doing this, we'll have to rescue Rukia-chan. Aizen..." He saw Momo's face becoming slightly downtrodden. "...the person that's behind this, could make a grab for her, and while her powers have somewhat returned, she's not back to full strength, so she'll need to be protected. Plus, we'll have to think about the Captain's themselves, and who they'd be fighting..."
"Takumi, I'll fight Soi Fon. I've got something's to talk to that girl about."
Yoruichi confidently said.
"No doubt, you'd be able to fight her. I'll leave her with you." Yoruichi nodded as Takumi turned to the two oldest Captain's, apart from Unohana. "Ukitake-san, Kyoraku-san, I'll leave the old man to you. That guys completely in a different league to anyone here."
"Haha, true enough. He's a complete monster."
Shunsui laughed out, as Takumi turned to Unohana.
"Unohana-san, if it's alright, can I ask you to go to the Central 46 tomorrow? With your fighting prowess, I'm sure that you could force who's behind this out."
"I don't mind."
"Thanks, I'm sure that even Aizen might think twice before fighting you. Plus, I'll also have a few others go with you...making Aizen reveal himself is one of the main priorities. It would be easier if the entire Soul Society would listen...but, that's not something that will come easily."
"Takumi, I'll go with her too."
Karin added, surpising Takumi.
"Karin-chan...you sure?"
"Definitely, I'll be going to meet this dodgy bastard. Besides, didn't I hear you saying that the possibility of his Shikai having affected everyone in the Soul Society? If that's the case, then it's going to be difficult for them to fight him, right?"
"Indeed, I might even be included in that..."
"But, I'm not. I've never met him, so I could see through his Shikai right? If he pulled crap in front of the others."
"As long as he doesn't release it in front of you, from the information my Father provided."
Karin put on a strong expression.
"Right, then I'll go to that location as well." Karin leaned closer, and whispered in his ear. "By the way, I think you should come up with some kind of inspirational speech. You're like the leader of this...interesting group."
"Eeh, I've never done anything like that though Karin-chan."
Karin lightly punched his arm, though Takumi winced, her 'light' punch felt more like a hard one.
"Come on smart guy, think of something. They're all here because we worked together to change them, and their beliefs and make them come together like this. So, give them something at the end of this. Show them that you're dependable...well, as dependable as you can be anyway."
"Ooh thanks, and I thought you said I should be inspiration, maybe take your own advice next time."
Karin lightly smirked.
"I'm not the leader, consider me like Vice Commander or something."
"Yeah, alright then."
Finishing their whispering, Takumi turned back to the others.
Seeing how they were all looking towards him, he slightly chortled.
"About the Sokyoku, that giant firebird...erm, Yoruichi-chan, Ukitake-san and Kyoraku-san...I believe you've got what we need to make sure that thing doesn't end our lives."
"It's being released as we speak, should be ready by early tomorrow morning."
Ukitake replied with Takumi lightly smiling.
"That's good. Ooh, I've also got this for you Ukitake-san." Takumi took out some kind of syringe, full of a purple liquid, and tossed it to him. Ukitake took it, examining it curiously. "That should help you with your condition. If it decides to flare up. By no means is it a cure, or even gonna be something that prevents a bad session of your condition. However, after spending time with Unohana-san and examining your medical notes, your physicals among other things, I believe that should at least stun the progression of the condition if it decides to flare up in that moment."
Ukitake looked at the liquid, then towards Takumi with appreciative eyes.
"E...Even though you've been busy with Bankai training...when did you even find the time..."
"Eeh, going without sleep helps with that. Train during the day, experiment during the night. Simple, yet effective~"
Ukitake and some others were surprised by what he had said.
"You've not slept in a few days?"
Toshiro had to question it.
"Been busy. Got my pills to keep me awake. It's no big deal. Though, you shouldn't take too many or it might make your head explode..." Most of the Shinigami's grimace. "...but, it's alright for me, since I'll be sleeping tonight. I'll be ready for the fight ahead tomorrow. Damn Byakuya better watch out, I'll shock him..."
Karin laughed lightly, nodding in agreement.
"Completely agree. Shock him Takumi, make sure he understands not to mess with humans!"
Takumi snickered, nodding.
Then he continued addressing the others.
"Then tomorrow, you Shinigami's can go to the execution grounds before everything begins. We can't draw attention to all of us until the moment that we rescue Rukia-chan. If the old man finds out...geez, we're going to be turning crispy in a moments notice. But yeah, I've got jobs for all of you. Hopefully, it will succeed. I believe I've planned for most things that could happen...though you can only plan so far ahead. Even then, I'll work on any revisions tonight and brief you all tomorrow morning if anything changes, if I think of anything Aizen might pull..."
Takumi then continued the meeting, and explained what he'd have everyone do during the save Rukia fights going down.
Each of them seemed to be rather receptive to what he was saying.
Remembering what Karin had said before, and now it was the concluding part of the meeting, he thought he'd try something inspirational. He was more technical minded than inspiring, at least that's what he thought, but he still tried his best.
"Then with all that out of the way….about tomorrow...it's going to be difficult, I'm not going to lie. However, I will say that if we pull this off, then Aizen wont get what he wants. And we'll expose him to the Soul Society. I'm gonna have to count on all of you for this. People say that you shouldn't shoulder everything yourself, and I think that's rather true. People can come together to accomplish a goal. I think that's a place where Aizen might not have down. I trust...all of you, but Aizen...he might not trust anyone. That's going to be a deciding factor. So, lets do our best tomorrow, and kick some ass!"
That's the only thing he could think to say.
Thankfully, by their faces, it seemed that he was able to inspire some strength within them.
Though he didn't think things would go this far.
He was happy that he could truly help the Soul Society, and also...save Rukia.
Once that meeting was done, Takumi went towards the outskirts of the area. His back met a slanted rock, and he peered at the ceiling. Though it was quite bright despite it being night outside, he felt pretty good just staring at the lights dancing in the air.
However, while he was simply enjoying the lights, and the breeze that was around, he felt the presence of something coming...rather, he knew this presence very well.
Lifting his neck, he saw that it was Orihime who was approaching.
"Ah, Orihime-chan. Something going on?"
Orihime gently shook her head.
"No, nothing's really happening Taku-chan. I just wanted to see if you were okay."
Takumi put his hand up, and gave a cheery smile.
"Yup, I'm completely ready for tomorrow! Come hell or high waters...that's what they say, right?"
"Eheh, I think~" She replied, sticking out her tongue. "But Taku-chan, the fight tomorrow...I talked to Unohana-san before, and if you go through with what's...if you go through with your plan, there's a good chance that you could...you could..."
Seeing her sadness growing, he pulled closer, placing a hand on her shoulder.
"I wont die."
"Taku-chan..."
"It's going to be difficult, but I wont die. Got too many things to see, to do. I can't die yet. Besides...I'll have you beside me, Orihime-chan."
Orihime couldn't contain her smile, and she gently poked his right cheek.
"Hehe...Taku-chan, I'll always be beside you."
"Yes...I'm blessed. To have you by my side, I'm sure I'll be able to fight anything that comes about..but you know. The more we're in the Soul Society, the more I'm conflicted on how to feel about it."
"Hmmm? How so Taku-chan?"
Takumi placed a finger to his cheek, and lightly scratched it.
"Aizen. That...guy. Apparently, I was friends with him in the past. I saw it when I was fighting Kinhime...she showed me something about my past...I don't understand what to do with this information. It doesn't change how I feel about him now...but, it makes me wonder, why I'd ever be friends with him? When I first saw him when coming here with you and the others, I got this cold vibe from him. He was smiling...yet, he had this cold look in his eyes. If I saw the same thing back then...ugh, it's all weird. I just can't wait for it to be over~"
Trying to laugh it off, Orihime could see that it was weighing on his mind. He was thinking about it deeply.
She leaned closer, and gently kissed him.
It was brief, but it was quite comforting and soothing.
"Taku-chan, I'm surprised you're thinking this hard about it."
"Huh?"
"Yeah, if you and Aizen were friends, then that must mean you saw something inside of him. Maybe these hundred something years has turned him cold so you feel like that. Maybe you saw some goodness inside of him when you were younger."
"Haha...yeah, maybe you're right. I must have seen something. If at all possible, I'd like to know what's going on with that. But it isn't going to stop me either. What he's trying to do, what he's done...I still have to stop him."
Orihime wrapped her arms around his neck, and pulled closer.
"Taku-chan...promise me something."
"Sure, what?"
"Promise me...you'll come back, okay? No matter what, always come back."
"Heeeh, that's quite the promise. But, I'll do my best. If you promise me something."
Orihime cocked an eyebrow up.
"What Taku-chan?"
"No matter what, don't lose your smile, okay?"
"My...smile?"
She seemed confused by his words for a few moments.
Thankfully, he clarified for her.
"Yes, the smile I fell in love with." Orihime's cheeks burned red as she felt his arms fully around her. "Things will be tough. So, I'll beat all the bad guys and come back to see you smiling. It might sound weird, but it inspires me to do my best."
"Then, I'm like a muse?" Takumi chortled, nodding slightly. "Well, I don't mind being Taku-chan's muse. Though, you don't have to beat the bad guys alone. We all will stand with Taku-chan. We came together because of Taku-chan, so we'll always be there to help Taku-chan and protect Taku-chan as he protects us."
"Yes...we'll do this, together."
Orihime nodded, and they just sat their, in silence as they stared at the ceiling.
Their minds thought about what would happen tomorrow.
How the fight was going to go down.
Takumi thought more about what Orihime said.
If he had seen something in Aizen…
Did he have any good in him?
Was it wishful thinking?
Takumi wasn't sure.
Whatever was going to happen next, he was going to keep fighting for the truth.
But more than that…
He was going to be fighting to save Rukia from her fate.
End chapter!
So, while this was a more relaxed chapter with Takumi bonding with some of the girls before the fights ahead, Takumi attained Bankai at the same time.
He did it in a bit of a different way to some others might do. He did subjugate her, but it wasn't all about beating Kinhime to subjugate her. It was more than that, she wanted to see everything he'd be capable of not just fighting prowess, but his mind and his heart along with his determination.
The Bankai's looks, will be described during the fight with Byakuya which is going to be rather soon, and will show what that's capable of doing.
Karin's progressing well with her training with Kenpachi, and could be showing her new strength rather soon. Yuzu and Giselle are also training together, and we could see some cool stuff from them as well.
Nanao and Takumi also spent a moment together, it seems that Nanao's rather shy when speaking about her feelings, something Shunsui wishes to help her with.
Yoruichi had planned to spend sometime with Takumi alone in the baths, but the others got involved, and things soon heated up~ It seems that also Toshiro's becoming less guarded around Takumi, while trying to understand him.
Momo and Takumi also had a moment where she found comfort in Takumi and could see that she could rely on him.
Rangiku and Takumi had a moment, speaking about Gin, and promised to help her find out why Gin's truly doing this, and stop him and save him if he can.
Nemu and Takumi also spending a moment together, and assured her that he'd try his best to not be, in her words, reckless, allowing Nemu to also wish to become his Lieutenant of his Squad that he doesn't have...just yet, soon though he will.
Then finally, after having a meeting with the others, and speaking to Orihime who assured him to just be him and come back to her, everything's ready for them to prepare to save Rukia, and to expose Aizen for what he's done.
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!
Takumi; Orihime, Rukia, Yuzu, Karin, Nemu, Giselle, Liltotto, Momo, Soi Fon, Yoruichi, Hiyori, Nelliel, Tier, Rangiku, Toshiro (fem), Nanao.