Hey everyone! It's been a long time again, I know. I've honestly been writing a lot again, just not Bleach stuff really. Ever since Kubo published that heaping pile of garbage he calls an ending I've been kinda growing away from the series, but, in the end, I still love Bleach and so I came back with the latest chapter. Anyways, please enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach, Highschool DXD, nor any of their respective characters.

Guardian of the Dead

- Chapter 6 -

~ Two months after the announcement of Ichigo's death

When the initial news broke in the Soul Society it spread like wildfire, reaching the ears of those who knew him personally, those who had only met him in passing and even those who had merely heard of him through word of mouth. The common theme, however, from all the people who were aware of the Winter War hero's mysterious passing was outrage. To have such news announced only one month after his initial disappearance, a period in which no search teams were sent out to look for him, to hear that Ichigo had died, and not even get the slightest idea of how or why it happened, it was unacceptable to many Shinigami and they made it known.

Disorder and mayhem quickly broke out in the Seireitei only this time there were no Captains to calm their divisions, no Lieutenants to sooth their subordinates. In this case, with the exception of three, the Captains and Lieutenants were just as lost as the other Shinigami, they too had no information. Those who had fought, bled and nearly died alongside the orange haired Shinigami were simply told that he was now gone, for unknown reasons, in an unknown location Ichigo had died, and that was supposed to be the end of it, but it would never be so simple.

The Captain Commander knew this of course, but in such a situation there was nothing he could do, he was forced to sit at the top and lie to all of his subordinates about the truth, to watch his army fall into dismay, to watch anger grab hold of hearts and force voids in between once friends and comrades. It was times like this that he wished he no longer held the responsibility of his position, but it was not yet his time to leave the battlefield behind. There was quite simply no one who could replace him, and so he would stay at his place atop the Gotei 13 and bear through the anger and frustration sent his way by the many people who just want to know why.

Now it was three months after his initial disappearance, and two months since his death and things had thankfully settled down. They weren't back to how it used to be, nowhere near, and it probably would be that way for a long time but at least the fires had simmered down and order had been returned. The squads had resumed training, though this time much more rigorously than before. It wasn't just the lower and unseated members either, even now the Captains had begun further honing their skills, no longer resting on their laurels, and all for the purpose of never repeating the same mistake again.

Sure, the true cause of his death wasn't known and thus it was impossible to actually say whether or not it was their fault, but it was the constant nagging in the back of their mind that told them it just might have been which pushed them to grow their strength. If Ichigo had never been forced to enter to supernatural, forced to fight their battles for them, and was able to live out his human life as he was supposed to then maybe he would still be alive. The negative to that scenario would be his never meeting them, but at least he would still be alive.

In the human world, things had gone pretty much as expected, Inoue had balled her eyes out with Tatsuki consoling her, Chad had remained silent but you could see the pain deep within his eyes as he stared down at one of his clenched fists. He had trained so hard to stand by Ichigo and watch his back, yet in the end, his strength didn't do anything, his brother had died and there was nothing he could do about it.

The most surprising reaction, however, came from the stoic and usually arrogant Quincy. Ishida had completely lost his composure, almost instantly he reached across the table so he could grab a couple handfuls of Urahara's haori which was followed by a violent shaking as he demanded answers on Ichigo's location and how they could get there, but he received no answers. Urahara just let him vent his frustrations, he like everyone else knew that no matter what kind of front he put up, Ishida saw Ichigo as a brother just as Chad did.

Ichigo was the leader of their group and the one to draw the Karakura gang together, he was the one who made allies of the Visored, he was the one that swayed even the coldest of Shinigami hearts and made his cause their cause, he was the one who befriended hollow's even while they were in a war with that very same race. Ichigo was always so strong, stronger than everyone, no matter who the enemy was, no matter how bleak the situation looked he always won, and now for him to be gone just like that, it was a tough pill to swallow.

His sisters had taken it the worst out of everyone, becoming closed off once more just like how it had been after their mother's death, Isshin tried to comfort them as best as he could but Ichigo's death hit him harder than most thought. He couldn't help but think that it was his fault, nor could he stop the 'what ifs?' from plaguing his mind. What if he had come clean with Ichigo sooner? What if he had let Urahara awaken his powers and start training him before Rukia had even first shown up? Would Ichigo still be here with them? It was something he supposed he wouldn't ever know the answers too, so all he could do was apologize through his tears to his deceased wife for how he had failed their only son.

Those like Keigo, Mizuiro, Chizuru and everyone who had been close enough to Ichigo and his circle of friends to know about the real reasons for their prolonged absence's had been told before the first day back to school. There was a lot of disbelief among those who knew but after it had been accepted as a reality the tears followed quickly after.

The first day of school after the news broke went just as expected, their teacher Ms. Ochi had announced it to the class. The cover story that had been agreed on was that Ichigo Kurosaki had been killed after being attacked by a group of thugs on his way home from the store over the holidays, which honestly wasn't too unbelievable. Understandably, just as in the Soul Society the news spread like wildfire, before the school day had even ended everyone knew about it.

A week later the funeral was held, a specially made gigai from Urahara which would disappear after a predetermined amount of time was laid inside the coffin since they did not possess his real body. It was only a small gathering, mostly consisting of Ichigo's friends as well as his father and sisters since Isshin's and Masaki's families were both tied to the supernatural and nearly if not completely wiped out. After everything was said and done 'Ichigo' had been buried right beside his mother where they knew he would want to be.

~ World of Fire and Ash

"That's enough, Ichigo." the strongest fire type Zanpakuto announced and his posture relaxed, the only response that followed his statement was a heavy sigh and a thud as the orange-headed teen's back hit the rocky plateau under him, his chest rising and falling rapidly as he tried to regain his composure from their most recent training session.

Ichigo found out very soon after meeting Ryujin Jakka that he was not a kind and compassionate teacher, he didn't give Ichigo breaks when it looked like he couldn't go on anymore and he didn't scale down his strength to start the session, only increasing it slowly as Ichigo grew.

No, Ryujin Jakka was merciless. His punches and kicks rattled Ichigo to the very core and every time their blades crossed it felt as if his arm would snap in two. If that wasn't hard enough, on the occasion that Ryujin would seriously injure him or he would land in one of the many flows of molten rock the teen wasn't even given time to regenerate the gruesome wounds, instead the assault would continue. The Zanpakuto would put him right back into the ground without remorse.

The way Ryujin Jakka saw it, if Ichigo couldn't break up his never-ending assault with his own skill and strength to allow himself time to recover, then, in the end, he didn't deserve to. If Ichigo couldn't improve then he would die. It may have seemed cruel, and it probably was, but Ryujin Jakka vowed that he would never let one of his wielders die if he could prevent it.

He had trained Shigekuni the same way and now look at the man, he has held the title of strongest Shinigami to ever live since they were initially created and in his prime, he had power which rivalled that of a Heavenly Dragon. He was easily one of the top ten strongest beings in the world surpassing that of even Amaterasu herself and Ichigo would be no different- no, that wasn't exactly right, with Ichigo's Hollow and Quincy heritage aiding to his already unnatural potential he would surpass even Shigekuni one day.

'Yes, one day very soon Ichigo will stand at the top, known and feared by all, with the power to reduce this very world to ashes,' and with those final thoughts he shifted his attention back to the other occupant of this world. Ichigo, who had moved into a seated position against one of the boulders which had been ripped from the ground after their spar was still panting heavily but he had a satisfied look on his face.

"I am very proud of you Ichigo, these couple months of training have put you through many hardships yet not once has your resolve waned, you took everything head on and gave it everything you had," the Zanpakuto started, if he actually had a mouth it would be set into a smile, he truly was proud of his newest wielder, "Even though your reiryoku levels haven't increased that wasn't the purpose of this training, your reiryoku itself has gotten much denser, making you stronger then you have ever been. Your Hakuda, Hoho, and Zanjutsu have all increased immensely and you have even begun to learn Kido.

Most importantly though, your control has now increased by many leaps and bounds and you are now able to wield my Shikai," that statement brought a very large smile from Ichigo, one filled with childlike excitement, like he was back to being a young boy and had just been promised an all expenses paid trip to a candy store.

Even though Ichigo's enthusiasm at obtaining his Shikai made the old Zanpakuto happy he couldn't let the lighter mood settle just yet, he needed to make sure that Ichigo was truly ready. "You know how dangerous fire is, how dangerous your fire is, so promise me Ichigo, never lose yourself in battle, always keep a cool head, because one slip up and you will destroy not only yourself but many innocents around you as well."

Those words were very sobering for the teen, Ryujin had given him a demonstration of his Shikai's base power early on, he hadn't used any techniques or anything, it was just the base flames which were released upon activation and it was breathtaking. Everything around him had been consumed, nothing was spared, and immediately he thought back to the first vision he was shown of the burning Karakura town with his family being consumed by those flames, he would never let that happen.

With words full of conviction, he answered his partner, "I promise, Ryujin. I have obtained this power only so that I can protect those who cannot protect themselves, I will never let it harm someone who has done no wrong, I swear it on my soul." his answer earned him a pleased nod of the head.

"Good, then with that I think it's time you return to Takama-ga-hara."

As Ichigo crouched down and placed a hand on the stone below him he couldn't deny that he was elated, he was finally hearing those words which he had wanted to hear for so long, he could finally return to everyone after these long months of training, he was happy, truly he was, so why then did he hesitate in opening the Schatten Bereich? It was because of fear.

After all the time which had passed there was no doubt everyone thought he was dead, it was impossible to hide it, how could he show his face once more after everything he undoubtedly put them through? His father and sisters, his human friends, Kisuke and Yoruichi, the Shinigami and Visored, how could he go back there and look them in the eyes while telling them this whole time he had actually been alive and well, just training in another dimension?

Sure, they would undoubtedly be happy that he was in fact still living, and Ichigo knew that they would certainly forgive him for all of the stress and hardships he had put them through, but that didn't mean he would be able to forgive himself so easily.

Ryujin, sensing the unease in his wielder stepped up behind his crouched form and placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder, "Why do you hesitate Ichigo? You yourself just said that they will forgive you, so why do you fear? It was not because of your choice that things played out as they did, the fault lies not with you and thus you have nothing to forgive yourself for. Just focus on returning to the heavenly plains for now, then go from there, once all is explained things will return to normal."

Those words immediately calmed his scattered mind, Ryujin was right, just because he was finally going back didn't mean he would have to meet everyone this very same day, he could spread it out and return to his world only when he was ready. The words that were once spoken to him by Zangetsu once more entered his mind, 'Cast off your fear! Move forward and never stop! retreat and you will age, hesitate and you will die.'

He huffed out as a small smirk made its way onto his face, gripping the darkness in his hands he pulled up, it was time to go.

~ Takama-ga-hara.

It was business as usual for Tsukuyomi and Susanoo in the higher planes, it was their job to meet with the other faction heads throughout the world and they had just gotten back from a very long meeting with Odin, the allfather of the Norse. The meeting had gone well thankfully, as had the meetings with the other various faction of the world. Some were more annoyed with the Shinto then others but the Trinity couldn't blame them, after keeping to themselves for so long they finally came back and re-established contact with the major leaders only for them to abruptly disappear again.

Unfortunately they couldn't give the exact reason why they vanished again so suddenly as they didn't think the various other leaders would appreciate an answer of, 'The powerful young man with the potential to eventually kill a God that we were about to send down to earth as our enforcer has just died,' no, that would most definitely earn them more enemies then friends.

As the two men reached the shared shrine of the Shinto Trinity they entered to find their sister already present and waiting for their arrival. Of course, they could feel her energy signature before they even arrived however they couldn't get a strong reading on her emotional state. Although still weighed down by the death of Ichigo she had been slowly improving, once more finding happiness after the young hero's passing. They were both pleased to see a smile now on her beautiful face as she came into view.

"Ah, my sister how are you feeling?" the young voice of the Moon God, Tsukuyomi, called out as both he and Susanoo came out from behind her seat.

She greeted the pair with a warm smile, she was happy they were back, "I am well, my heart is slowly coming to terms with what has happened, I assure you I will not let it affect my work anymore."

The second part of her reply was met with a lighthearted but stern look from the elder looking Susanoo, "There is no need for you to say such things, I can assure you that both Tsukuyomi and myself have never once been overburdened by your state of mind during this hard time."

She gave him another grateful smile, she knew they wouldn't hold it against her but it really was time for her to get back to her own duties, sure she hadn't been neglecting them completely, no, bad things would happen should she do that, however she hadn't been as public with the other factions as she should have. It was fine having Tsukuyomi and Susanoo meet with everyone, but with how long the Shinto Faction was out of the game and with their most recent absence it would do well to have her handle some of the politics, she was the head of the Shinto after all.

After her two brothers had gotten seated in their own respective thrones, ones on each side of her she began the diplomatic talk, "So how did Odin-dono react this time around?"

The God of the Sea and Storms took this question due to his once good friendship with the fellow geezer, "Hm, it wasn't too hard to placate things with that old goat, they just wanted to be sure that the Shinto have only plans of peace in mind, with how the alliances of old have been deteriorating these last years I cannot blame them."

"Indeed," she replied curtly, "and what of the most recent issue?"

"Well as you can guess most of the factions weren't too pleased that we were unwilling to give a reason for the abrupt cutoff but none of them pushed too hard, in the end, they have secrets just as we do, no faction is completely open with its neighbours, it is due to this common fact between the faction heads that allowed us to get by lightly this time," the other brother fielded the question this time.

Amaterasu herself grimaced at the answer, "Yes, it seems we will have to be more careful, our former relationships with everyone have indeed granted us some leeway but our fellow leaders cannot let things go by lightly forever," there was a small pause and the tensions between the three slightly rose, the next topic was one they all wished they could avoid, if only life was so easy. "And what of the Devil faction?" she asked but did not receive an answer, something which she expected.

The Devils were the only race that the Shinto had yet to fully reconnect with. Sure they had exchanged some pleasantries through voice communications, however, there had yet to be a true meeting between the heads of the two factions due to the increasing tensions between the two. Despite how they constantly talked as if peace was on their agenda, their actions towards the Shinto did not mimic it, not with how they treated her land, the land in which she graciously let them use when she had no obligation to do so.

It was only because they stopped accepting human souls as payment for tasks did she relent and give them permission to set up their little 'territories' on her land, but it would never be so simple as to revoke the contract between them now that they had started to misuse that generosity. It would cause many negative repercussions, many of which could and would most likely lead to war.

It was because of this that their plans involving Ichigo had such high hopes, they were going to drop him down right in the middle of the joint Gremory, Sitri territory, and through him the Devils would get the picture that the Shinto Faction was not to be messed with, and if they foolishly thought that they could walk over the Goddess of the Sun and misuse her generosity then they would be in for a very rude awakening.

Of course, there was no guarantee that it would've ever worked in the first place. Amaterasu would never force Ichigo to do something, so if he had told her that he wished to return to Karakura and continue his life as a normal student whilst resuming his old substitute Shinigami duties again than she would accept that and send him back with a smile on her face. However now, now the Shinto were at the disadvantage, they could either break the contract with the Devils, sending negative ripples throughout the supernatural, or just let things be and essentially give them permission to walk all over them.

"What a troublesome situation," she finally said with a small pout.

The God of the Moon couldn't help but release a small chuckle at his sisters childish antics, "Sometimes it is necessary to take a risk if the reward is great enough, sadly this time lady luck wasn't on our side and we lost the gamble, but that doesn't mean we are out completely," this comment brought a light smile back to Amaterasu's face and much larger grin to Susanoo's who very much agreed with that statement.

"Exactly! Our faction is not so weak, should it be necessary we can always-" whatever the rest of his sentence was would not be finished for at that very moment a new presence had entered the heavenly planes, something that was in simplest terms, impossible, without the permission of the Trinity.

Not even sparing a glance toward each other the three vanished in their own teleportation circles, appearing not even a breath later inside of Amaterasu's garden, mere feet from the shrine which held the souls of Ryujin Jakka and Hyorinmaru. The most frightening thing about this situation was the method of travel this person was using, the Schatten Bereich. There were only a handful of Quincy who could use this technique, and of them all, only one would be able to use it to enter this space.

Yhwach.

However, even though the only person who should be able to enter Takama-ga-hara with that technique was the Quincy King, it wasn't him. The signature inside of the room was a mix of Shinigami, Quincy and Hollow, something that Yhwach definitely was not. In truth, that mix was something that should never have existed in the first place, and with the exception of one person, it never has.

Even as she stepped towards the door of the shrine Amaterasu knew she shouldn't get her hopes up, but she still couldn't stop the light feeling from entering her heart as she slid the door open revealing the lone figure inside.

~ Takama-ga-hara with Ichigo

Although the shadow realm was incredibly useful and he was glad that he had learned to use the technique, he really didn't miss the vast expanse of darkness and the feelings of loneliness and despair it brought forth within him. Upon entering the Schatten Bereich his original plan was just to head straight for the garden which lay behind Amaterasu's mansion, however, as he felt the all-encompassing warmth coming from the Zanpakuto held in his left hand the destination quickly shifted. He didn't think it would be anything major just yet, but he had to see for himself if there had been any changes to the blade which represented his partner's soul since he last was there.

Once the shadows receded around him he could feel a weight lift off his shoulders that he hadn't known was there in the first place. To finally see such a familiar place after spending almost the whole of the last three months fighting and training in Ryujin's world it was quite simply a relief.

The small room was just as he remembered it, faint light filled the shrine from the multiple torches which burned on the walls. On the far end, side by side were the two pedestals with the respective sword stands each holding a familiar blade. Just like last time his gaze first went to the right side, the painting while faded still proudly displayed Hyorinmaru, the great dragon of ice which he luckily never had to seriously fight against.

It wasn't that he doubted his abilities, but Toshiro was one of his good friends and not one he would ever wish to seriously fight. The aura the blade was giving off felt stronger than before, perhaps Toshiro had been training? Or maybe it was just because he no longer had the sensory abilities of a rock.

Glancing to the left side now he looked up towards the painting first, the image was the same, a large volcano as the centrepiece with glowing veins of lava running down its side, it was odd to think that he had actually been there just a short while ago training. Oddly enough he was still unable to see Ryujin's physical from anywhere in the scenery, though perhaps that was intentional. He wasn't even sure how these were made in the first place so who was he to question it?

Finally, he glanced down at the Zanpakuto below it, his Zanpakuto and he couldn't help but smile softly at what he saw. It wasn't perfect, not even close, but it looked better than before. The hilt which was faded and frayed now started to regain some of its once royal purple colour and the oval guard no longer sported such large cracks and chips as before. 'This is only the start, I promise to return you back to your former glory Ryujin,' he spoke out in his mind, receiving a warm pulse from the depths of his soul in return.

Though he had been training primarily in reiatsu control and the sensory abilities that came with it he was completely oblivious to the three presences that currently stood outside the shrine, only when the doors slid open bathing the room in a golden glow did he turn around.

'Amaterasu,' he thought to himself happily, he had thought about the Goddess of the Sun quite a lot during his absence, she had such a motherly aura around her and the first time they had met she left a strong impression on his heart. Though the smile that was slowly making it's way onto his face immediately disappeared upon locking gazes with the divine woman, her eyes were glassy with unshed tears and they were filled with such happiness but also a deep pain.

How could he have been so stupid, 'she thought I was dead, this whole time she had to sit here believing I was gone, it probably broke her heart, and now I return so suddenly..' he shook his head violently at the realization, he felt like scum for making this woman before him cry like so.

He was brought from his self-loathing by a whisper of Ichigo followed by another body impacting his own, without even thinking he wrapped his one free arm around the Goddess of the Sun, happily returning her embrace. He could hear slight sniffles coming from her which stabbed at his heart, he would apologize later but for now he just pulled her closer and let her hug him as long as she wished.

A few moments passed before she finally relented her firm grip on him allowing them both to leave the small building, Ichigo couldn't help the instinctual reaction to close his eyes and tilt his head upwards, letting the warmth of the sun wash over his skin. It had been months since he had seen a real sky or breathed in such clean air devoid of smoke and ash. That wasn't to say that he disliked it, no, now that his soul was that of a raging inferno he found that such smells gave him comfort much like the moon always had when his soul was named 'Zangetsu,' but still, it was nice to clear your lungs every once in a while.

This time it was a thoughtful hum in a male's voice that forced him to turn his attention back to the world around him, there were two men before him, one much older in appearance then the other – though in the world of spirits looks could be deceiving – and both of them had their eyes set on the blade that he grasped in his left hand. He sensed nothing negative from them, just genuine curiosity and a hint of surprise.

"That's quite the Zanpakuto you have there, Kurosaki-san," the younger of the two spoke up, his voice was very calm but it held notes of happiness that made Ichigo feel at ease. His facial expression was calm and didn't give too much away, but it wasn't a serious look, more like one of relaxation. Truthfully, this man reminded him a lot of what Byakuya would be like if he took that stick out of his ass for a little while.

Ichigo broke into a wry smile at that remark, "Yeah, our initial meeting didn't really go too well, but everything worked out in the end."

This time it was the second of the two, an older looking man who spoke up, well he didn't speak as much as release a burst of loud and boisterous laughter, "Quite the understatement there my boy! If I'm not mistaken you were killed by him, what's with your lack of a reaction?"

The teen merely shrugged at the question, "I've died a couple times already, it's not so shocking the third time around, besides it's not so easy to get rid of me." he finished with a cocky smirk.

The two men in front of him looked briefly taken back with surprise at the response but before too long could pass the older man burst out laughing again and even the more youthful man had a smile of his own. Amaterasu didn't look too pleased that they were making light of Ichigo's deaths but she was just happy he was alive and well and thus would let it pass.

However, that did raise the question of how he came back, both of his deaths thus far were negated due to the power of the real Zangetsu and even though he still had those powers Zangetsu himself was gone and so it was highly unlikely that Ichigo could have resurrected himself, yet here he was.

"I would definitely like to hear about what has gone on for these past months that you have been away, but that can wait as I'm sure you would like to get yourself cleaned up and a new change of clothes put on," She spoke up, causing Ichigo to glance down at himself, she was right.

He hadn't actually been paying too much attention but he only had enough clothing on to cover his private areas and part of his right leg and all of his exposed skin was filthy with sweat, grime, ash and a little blood from these many months of training. His mouth twisted in distaste as he actually realized what a disgusting state he was currently in. "Uh, yeah that would be nice," he finished, giving a sort of bashful smile.

When he had first sunk into the warm water after vigorously washing from head to toe he couldn't help but let out a pleased sigh that sounded oddly close to a moan of pleasure. He was sore, his bones, his muscles, his mind, everything was just sore. Sure, if it was necessary he could've kept going for a lot longer then this, but it really felt nice to just relax after so long and let all the stress and weariness wash out from him.

His thoughts briefly shifted to that of his friends and family back home who were still most likely mourning his death, he would see them soon and set things straight, that was for sure. Then when he thought of his current situation he couldn't help but release a tired sigh, he wasn't even out of the teens and yet he felt so old, so mentally exhausted. It started with learning about his real heritage, the fact that his mother was a pure blooded Quincy, his father a pure blooded Shinigami of noble descent. As if that wasn't enough. through Aizen's machinations, a Vasto Lorde class hollow had been thrown into the equation as well, and all of that compiled itself together to create the freak of nature that was himself.

After fighting countless uphill battles, dying twice only to be brought right back because the fighting had yet to be finished. After being forced to carry the burden of three worlds on his back in a fight against a megalomaniac who had stepped into an incomplete state of Godhood. Then, even worse he was forced to sacrifice part of his very soul and live powerless without his purpose for months before learning that what he thought the world was, actually wasn't even half of it.

Learning that the Goddess of the Sun had saved his life when he was younger, meeting Ryujin as rough as it had been, dying again only to be saved by someone he didn't even know. The training with Zangetsu and the eventual goodbye's, unlocking his true power and meeting with Ryujin once again. What a wild journey this past couple of years had been, and even though there had been just as many, if not more downs then there were ups, he wouldn't trade those experiences for the world.

The only question that remained on his mind was what now? His powers were back, so would he now just return to Karakura, continue going to school and re-take up his old duties as a substitute Shinigami? That was the most obvious choice, but in truth, it didn't feel like the right one. If he had to be honest, the most stand out event that had happened since that night he first encountered a hollow all those years ago wasn't becoming a Shinigami, nor breaking into the Soul Society to save Rukia, not saving Inoue from Hueco Mundo or even sacrificing part of his soul to defeat Aizen. No, in his opinion the greatest highlight was finding out everything that truly existed in this world.

The knowledge that there was something more pulled at him without relent, like a constant nagging in the back of his mind. He wanted to go home and see his family, his friends, to tell them that he was alright, to apologize for worrying them so, but did he want to stay there?

As bad as it may sound, no, he didn't.

"It is not wrong for you to feel such a way, Ichigo. Ever since you were young you have been bound to Karakura town by friends, family, and later your duty as a Shinigami. It is normal for someone to wish to spread their wings as it were and explore the world around them when they were unable to do so before."

Ichigo nodded slowly at Ryujin's words, he understood and agreed with his Zanpaktuo's wisdom, however agreeing and actually taking action were two very different things when it came to someone like Ichigo, someone who was far to selfless for their own good.

Ryujin who had gotten to know his new wielder quite intimately in their months of solitude understood this very well, "You really must start making decisions for yourself from now on Ichigo. You feel that after what you have unintentionally put your family through you are unworthy of the happiness you would get from freedom, but this could not be farther from the truth."

A knock on the door to Ichigo's bath broke off any remaining words the two of them were going to share, but nonetheless, Ryujin said what he wished to and got his point across. All that was needed at this point was for Ichigo to stew on his words and come to a conclusion himself, and the old Zanpakuto knew it would be the right one.

"Ichigo-sama, your clothing has been prepared and Lady Amaterasu, Lord Tsukuyomi, and Lord Susanoo are awaiting your arrival." the soft voice of Ayame spoke, slightly muffled by the wall separating them.

"Alright, I'll be out shortly, thank you." was the simple response he gave back, he had long since understood that the '-sama' suffix wasn't going away anytime soon and thus resigned himself and accepted it.

No more then five minutes later he was back in his room, a white towel wrapped around his waist covering his modesty and another in his hands drying up the remaining water that persisted in his hair. It was already getting dark outside and so he figured it wouldn't do well to make the Trinity wait any longer, however upon turning to the dresser which his clothes sat on he noticed something, or better yet the distinct lack of something that sent his mind into a panic.

The blade which represented his soul was no longer there, he distinctly remembered laying it down on the sword rack right before undressing and stepping into the bath. However now in the spot where it should be was instead a simple blue-hilted Katana with a plain round guard in a black sheath, he did not recognize this blade at all and for his Ryujin Jakka to be missing he couldn't help but fear that his powers had somehow vanished once more.

"Relax Ichigo, I am here, all is well." The calming voice of his partner ring out through his head, "I apologize, I should have warned you beforehand that my blade would disappear without being in contact with you." immediately his wielder slumped, relief flooding all of his senses.

After taking a calming breath he wasted no time in getting answers, "Why did your blade disappear? How do I summon you again?"

"Truthfully you shouldn't have been able to summon it in the first place but certain circumstances bent the rules a little for you. No Shinigami with the exception of you has ever been able to summon their Zanpakuto without the aid of an Asauchi, due to yourself and Zangetsu being unique by every definition of the word."

"So then I have to get one of these 'Asauchi' before I can wield you again?"

"Indeed, but worry not, it seems that Amaterasu has foreseen this and already given you one."

Immediately the teens eye went to the unknown blade which rested on his dresser, no words were actually spoken by the Zanpakuto spirit but Ichigo could feel that his partner was affirming his current assumption and thus he reached out with his right hand and grasped the sword by the sheath, drawing the blade itself in one smooth motion with his right.

The sword in his hand gave off no energy, the usual feeling of life which he felt whenever holding Zangetsu or Ryujin Jakka was not present. If he had to describe this sword in just one word it would be normal. It felt like any other sword you could buy back in Japan, well there was one small difference, this sword while not giving off energy or a feeling of life, felt empty, hollow, and it was slowly but steadily drawing on his reiatsu.

Immediately he understood what must be done.

Slowly he pushed some of his energy into the sword, he could feel it greedily absorbing any and all that he fed it and after only a few seconds he felt it was ready. "Ryujin Jakka!" simply calling out the name of his soul the blue-hilted Katana was engulfed in a brilliant display of fire, he could feel that familiar life once more within the blade in his hand.

The fire continued to dance along the silver blade of the Zanpakuto but it had settled down enough as to where the hilt and guard were visible, and once more Ichigo was left mildly confused by what he saw. The guard was black, in the shape of a slightly elongated hexagon instead of the bronze circle which he was used too, and instead of the royal purple hilt, it was now a deep grey much like that of burnt ashes, and it was inlaid with red diamonds which resembled the fire that burned throughout his soul.

"Ryujin?" he questioned simply, hoping for an answer. The Zanpakuto in his hands was most definitely Ryujin Jakka, however, it obviously didn't look the same.

"It is nothing too complicated, simply your soul putting its own personal touch on my blade. You have to remember Ichigo, before we bonded you were the wielder of Zangetsu, a black blade with black reiatsu, your soul is quite dark and this is just its way of changing myself to suit you better."

Ichigo nodded in understanding, it made sense. There was one more change to the current blade which he held that all but confirmed what Ryujin said. There was a small red tassel attached to the end of the hilt which swayed slightly every time he moved, kind of like the cloth of his old Shikai and the chain of his Bankai.

Upon leaving the room Ayame who Ichigo was sure hadn't been there a second before seemingly appeared out of thin air announcing that she would be his guide again, something which he had no qualms with after getting over the initial shock of her abrupt arrival.

The walk through the manor was silent but it didn't bother him, he felt good, really good. After sorting out the ordeal with his Zanpakuto he looked at the clothes which had been prepared for him and he couldn't help the nostalgic smile from creeping onto his face as he gazed upon the black Shinigami robes that he was so familiar with.

It was odd, no longer having that once familiar weight on his back. Through thick and thin, all of the ups and downs during his time as a Shinigami, the one constant was Zangetsu, that easily recognized slab of metal he called a sword. Now he had a gentle warmth that radiated from his left hip where his new partner Ryujin Jakka rested. Though the few months of training alone helped speed things along immensely between the two it would still take a while for the bond between Ichigo and Ryujin to really grow deeper, and for the absence of Zangetsu to no longer play so heavily on his mind.

"So, how have things here been since my departure?" he couldn't help but ask that question before arriving at his meeting with the Shinto Trinity. He already had a general idea of what might have happened during his absence but to be honest he hoped he was wrong.

He could see the short-statured girl to his right cock her head slightly, giving him a small glance before facing forwards again once more. "Not very well, Ichigo-sama. The cheerful mood you felt upon arrival has only returned to Takama-ga-hara recently. Your assumed death caused our Lady quite the grief, and when the Sun is wrought with sadness, the world too is enveloped in darkness."

From the corner of her eye, she could see the brief pause in his lengthy stride as well as the downcast look that took over him. He did well to hide it behind that slight scowl and serious face he always seemed to be wearing but she knew Ichigo well enough to guess how he was feeling.

Sure, before his first arrival into the higher planes Ayame had never met the man but she had been one of her Lady's closest personal aid's for many years now and ever since that night so many years ago in which Amaterasu broke all of the rules, jeopardizing the balance of the worlds just to save some young child's life it had been Ayame that her Lady confided in about everything that was Ichigo Shiba.

In all honestly, Lady Amaterasu had been quite literally obsessed with watching him, every moment that she had free from supernatural business and politics was spent in her garden watching the young Ichigo struggle, persevere and grow through the worlds eye. Ayame herself would admit to being quite interested in his life as well, finding herself just as absorbed as her Lady was in observing him. It was because she knew so much about him, what he had been through, how he had struggled and still came out on top that she respected him so much, that she actually felt honoured to be in the presence of a hero such as himself.

Even though he would never refer to himself as such.

"You have no need to feel so burdened, our Lady knew of the risks she would be exposing you to should she follow through with the plan to return your powers." though he offered no verbal response, she could see that her words had placated him somewhat at the very least, a sure sign of his maturing.

Upon reaching the door where the trinity waited for him, memories of his first meeting with Amaterasu came to his mind and this one would no doubt be different. The easygoing mood of the first would no longer be so present, this time there were more serious things to discuss. The details of his absence so far, more importantly how he managed to come back from the dead, something that even still he was unsure of himself. The cryptic words of Zangetsu still hung in his head about this so-called mystery saviour.

Next and more importantly would be the discussion about his future, he would have to see his friends and family again to set things straight with them, however what after that? Go back home and start re-attending school? For some reason that didn't seem so appealing to him anymore. Even more so then that, he had a feeling deep down that he was about to be offered a position which would change his life forever should he accept. It wasn't that he doubted Amaterasu's intentions, but for her to go through all this trouble just to return his powers and send him back home, it didn't add up.

Well, he supposed he would find out right now nonetheless, as the two shoji doors opened he was met with a room much larger than the one he previously met in. Whereas before there was just a small floor level throne, a small table and a few cushions for guests to sit, however now he was in a much grander room. The overall size was probably just as if not greater then his house, only not as tall. Wood floors, white panelled walls, and chandeliers providing light from above.

Servants lined the walls on each side of the room ready and waiting to attend to whatever needs the three before people him could have. The three themselves were sat at a large, oval-shaped table with Amaterasu in the middle giving him a warm and motherly smile, the younger, black-haired man was on the left of herself, he too was giving Ichigo a soft but warm smile much like the ones Ukitake usually had on his face. The third, white-haired and elderly looking man who sat on Amaterasu's right was not smiling, he didn't look hostile towards Ichigo, however, he was watching him intently.

As Ichigo was directed to the seat just opposite of the Goddess of the Sun she started to speak. "I believe that some formal introductions are in order, Ichigo-kun," she stated as he settled in his chair. "I am Amaterasu, the Goddess of the Sun, Head of the Shinto Faction and Shinto Trinity as well as the Commander of the Royal Guard which holds authority over the Seireitei and the Shinigami."

On her right, the wrinkled man let out a huff of air before straitening up in his seat, "My name is Susanoo, Ichigo Shiba, I am the God of the Sea and Storms as well as a member of the Shinto Trinity. I am the head trainer of all members of the Royal Guard."

Finally, the youthful black haired male took his turn, "I am the final member of the Shinto Trinity, Tsukuyomi, also known as the God of the Moon, my role in Takama-ga-hara is the head of foreign relations between the other supernatural factions."

Upon realizing that the introductions were over Ichigo awkwardly tipped his head forward in acknowledgement, unsure if he was supposed to re-introduce himself as well, "uh, I'm Ichigo Kurosaki, well I guess Ichigo Shiba would be best used here. I'm a Shinigami Substitute, I think.." he wasn't sure if he should have said that or not but the whole time here he had been referred to by his Shiba family name and not once as Kurosaki, so obviously it meant a big deal to them.

Amaterasu nodded her head in acceptance of his introduction, awkward as it may have been. "I'm sure you have noticed that while here no one has called you by your mother's maiden name, only by your father's surname. It is not out of disrespect for your mother however in terms of the hierarchy the Shiba's are, or were one of the highest standing families in all of soul society and Takama-ga-hara. Unfortunately, due to Sosuke Aizen, they were ungracefully knocked down from their place as the greatest noble family, but those up here who know the truth about the situation still hold the Shiba's with the highest regard, and you being the heir to the Shiba Clan makes it more so for you."

That was surprising to the teenager, he knew he was related to the Shiba family and at one point his father was the head, however, he didn't know that he was the current heir to the clan, 'I wouldn't know the first thing about running a clan, let alone one of the five great clans in Soul Society'

"I don't know if I'm the right person for a position like that,"

"You shouldn't sell yourself short Ichigo-kun, I believe you would do a fantastic job as clan head but that is neither here nor there, we have gathered here for a different reason than that."

"Sister is right, if you don't mind we would like to hear your tale of what has happened in these few months of your absence," Tsukuyomi replied, "We were made aware of your death at the hands of the very Zanpakuto that now rests on your hip, yet here you are today alive and well before us."

Ichigo figured this question would come early on and didn't really have a problem telling them what happened, other than the test which Ryujin put him through and the goodbye's to Zangetsu, there was nothing too personal that he would want to keep most of the details to himself. "Well, after blacking out in the shrine I awoke in the Seireitei, more exactly the destroyed Seireitei with no recollection of anything that had happened between the moment I defeated Aizen and when I awoke there.

Basically, I came to find out later that it was the test Ryujin Jakka had prepared for me, he wished to find out if I was not only strong enough physically, but mentally as well to wield his blade, as you can guess I failed. I was deemed unworthy by Ryujin and left to die in darkness, and by all rights, I should have, but.."

The pause in Ichigo's tale, as well as the shadowed look that filled his eyes, caused the Trinity to grow suspicious, now they were really curious, "but what..? Ichigo-kun," the Goddess of the Sun probed.

"Instead of dying I awoke once more in a different location, this time my first inner world and both Zangetsu, the old man and my hollow were there waiting for me." that brought wide eyes to the three before him.

"How is that possible? Your Zanpakuto should have been destroyed after using the Final Getsuga Tenshou.." Susanoo questioned more to himself than anyone else, as the creators of the Shinigami the Trinity knew everything about their powers and how they worked. The only subject which they weren't complete masters on was the Zanpakuto due to Oetsu Nimaiya being the one who created them, however, they still knew enough to know that should be impossible.

After a couple more seconds of silent contemplation Ichigo continued, "Yeah, I knew it shouldn't have been possible as well and so I asked them what was going on but they just told me I had been saved by someone, not who, also that the person who saved me collected the memories in my reiatsu to allow me one final meeting with Zangetsu."

He paused once more upon noticing the temperature in the room rise by a hairs breath, so minutely that most would have completely missed it, but Ichigo due to being a wielder of fire now was able to catch it and he knew the cause of it right away as well. Amaterasu had stiffened up at the table and her eyes had narrowed slightly, clearly, she knew something about what happened, or at the very least had an idea.

Ichigo was right, and it was no trivial matter which was why she was taking it so seriously.

'There are only a handful of people in this world who can complete tasks of such a magnitude that they defy death, and none of them bring good things. Satan and the God of the Bible are dead which rules them out. Hades is an evil and detestable man who would rather kill then save lives, I cannot see him being the one to interfere, though if it was then I doubt it would be for a good reason. That leaves the divine pair, the Apocalypse Dragon, and the Infinite Dragon, though they are not evil beings they also care nothing for this or any other world choosing to instead stay to themselves in the silence of the dimensional gap, thus both of them are unlikely.'

"I won't lie to you Ichigo-kun, that fact that some unknown person or entity saved you bothers me, I have idea's on who it could be however each one is so improbable and ridiculous that I just cannot see it happening, however, myself and my brothers will look into it for you. Just know that you have nothing to fear, we will protect you no matter what." She finished with a smile again, Tsukuyomi smiled as well and Susanoo merely grinned with giving a nod of his head.

Ichigo was grateful for their words and said so while returning their smiles with one of his own, however deep down he was bothered by this turn of events. If whoever saved his life really was bad news, so much so that he required protection from the Shinto Trinity then he would need to grow stronger, he didn't regain his power just to be protected again, he did it so that he may protect others.

"Worry not Ichigo. Even now your power strengthens and that will only increase as we return to our official training, and eventually, once you are ready for my Bankai there will be few in this world who will be able to threaten you."

'ah, I know, thanks Ryujin.'

With that over and settled, it was time to return to his tale, "After finding out how they were there with me it was time to figure out the 'why' as well. They told me that it was a lesson, one last lesson in which they would finally impart me with all of their knowledge.

We fought for many days without rest and during those days I learned all of the secrets of my soul, and when the time came in which we needed to say goodbye I pierced them with my blade and they once more became one with me, however, things didn't stop there. The first thing I did after leaving my inner world was a hunt for the seal which held my powers at bay, the seal which Zangetsu placed on me at birth. Upon finding the seal I broke it, releasing all of my hidden potential, that was where my problems started though."

Tsukuyomi and the other two caught on quickly to what Ichigo was implying, "I see, because you no longer had Zangetsu you were unable to control the power which you awoke."

The teen nodded in the affirmative, "Right, I couldn't risk hurting weak souls by going near them with the amount of reiatsu I was constantly releasing but I still needed someones help to figure out why I couldn't pull in that power. The only person I could think of which was alone was Ryujin, thus using the Quincy's shadow which I learnt from old man Zangetsu I transported myself to his world where we briefly fought once more, after which he accepted me as his wielder and since then we have just been training, training so that I may return here."

Silence once more overtook the room, the story had been told and there were no more questions that the Trinity had for Ichigo so, for now, they would take a quick break and eat, something that Ichigo was very grateful for since he had yet to eat since his initial departure. However, once the feast was done with it was back to business.

"So tell us Ichigo, what are your plans for the future now? Will you be remaining in Takama-ga-hara for some time yet? You are more than welcome to stay." Susanoo spoke simply, not trying to hide the implications from his words.

"First and foremost I'm going to see my family and friends, set things straight with them, but I suppose that isn't what you meant, is it?" he questioned, earning a cheeky grin from the eldest of the three. 'Well, I knew this was coming eventually, so let's hear it.' slowly the corner of his own mouth twisted up in an almost unnoticeable smirk, almost, the three across from him noticed it quickly, "I suppose it all depends, there wouldn't happen to be something you'd like to say to me pertaining that decision, would there?"

"Indeed there is Ichigo-kun. I will not 'beat around the bush' as the saying goes, I would like you to cross the parallel and be the front line peacekeeper and representative for the Shinto Faction, a position that myself nor my brothers can fill ourselves due to our standings."

"I see, so the role of an enforcer essentially, a frontline fighter who puts those who threaten the balance of peace in their place, almost like what your role as a substitute Shinigami was. The decision will be yours to make Ichigo, just know that whatever it is that you chose I will stand by you and our flames will reduce any enemy to ash."

Unnoticed by the three before him Ichigo briefly brushed the hilt of his Zanpakuto, a gesture showing his appreciation towards Ryujin, "You know, It's not that your offer sounds bad or anything, but.. I've never been very good at following orders."

Much like when they first met, Susanoo burst out into laughter which filled the room they were in, Tsukuyomi and Amaterasu followed suit just in a much more reserved manner, "I am well aware Ichigo-kun, that is why your position would be somewhat.. unique."

"oh? I'm listening."

It was weird, finally being back on the marble bridge in which he first arrived on. It seemed like so much time had gone by when in reality it had only been a couple of months, perhaps time seemed so warped because of all that had changed since he came here. Nothing much in the way of outward appearance, he was a little taller, his hair a little longer and his body a little more built with muscle much like he was when he fought Aizen, in simplest terms, physically he was at his peak. The largest changes, however, came mentally, his thoughts were a little clearer, his movements a little sharper, his emotions no longer so hard to control.

Most importantly, however, was his outlook. His understanding of life, his understanding of the world and those with power, the understanding of having power himself and what he truly wished to do with that power, protect. His understanding of what it really meant to want to protect someone or something.

Quite simply he had matured, much faster then anyone his age should need to but that's how it had always been and so once more he did.

Currently, on the bridge it was only Ichigo and Ayame, the Shinto Trinity were unable to be present for his departure due to having another faction to meet with before Ichigo's visit home was finished and thus had already given their farewells to the young Shinigami. It wasn't like he would be away from the higher planes for long anyway. Just a quick return to set things straight and then he would be right back in Takama-ga-hara preparing for the next stage of his life.

"Well, I guess this is goodbye for now, Ayame."

"Indeed it is Ichigo-sama. I wish you good luck on your visit home."

"Thanks, I think I'll need it," he replied, letting out a small laugh.

Slowly he turned and started moving towards the golden archway, reaching a finger out to tentatively probe the gate much like he did the first time passing through, after being chased by the cleaner in the Senkaimon and nearly falling into oblivion in the Garganta he was pretty weary of world penetrating gates. Sure the Schatten Bereich was complete darkness which left his feeling horribly alone but at least it was safe.

Looking back over his shoulder he gave a warm smile, bringing a light dusting of pink to the cheeks of the girl who had helped him during his stay, and with one more small wave he was off jumping into the darkness.

~ Urahara's Underground Training Area

"I don't know about this after all Yoruichi-san.." the shady shopkeeper commented as he narrowly dodged the many fists which came at his body, maybe in their younger days he would have been able to keep up better but his old friend hadn't earned the title of 'Goddess of Flash' for nothing. It was only thanks to the extra reach granted to him by his Zanpakuto which forced her to stay at farther distances, nullifying her speed to an extent that allowed him to safely dodge most of her attacks, the ones that did connect only lightly grazed his body. Though because they were enforced with reiatsu they still hurt a fair bit.

Yoruichi merely felt her face settle into a bit of a frown at that, "Hah?! Don't be such a big baby Kisuke! It's been a long time since we were able to let loose like this, and besides-" she was forced to pause quickly as the shimmering Benihime narrowly missed her shoulder, "After everything that's happened it's kind of nice to release this frustration, you know?"

In truth he did know what she was talking about, frustration, anger, sadness, the feeling that he had somehow let Ichigo down, all of that had constantly plagued his mind ever since the death had been confirmed, constantly building until he felt like he would explode. Her initial offer for a spar came out of nowhere earlier that day however it wasn't unwelcome.

He couldn't help but let a crooked smile on his face, "I do, Yoruichi-san, believe me, I do."

"Heh, so stop moping around and come at me then!" and come he did, Yoruichi was almost taken back by the sudden shift in her longtime friend, despite his goofy and carefree outward appearance he was a lethal and powerful Shinigami, and the feel of cold steel brushing her skin as she barely managed to dodge the rapid strikes was proof of that.

Body blurring even to someone as experienced as Urahara she vanished in a burst of Shunpo, reappearing just long enough to strike at his exposed abdomen and back only fully connecting once every second or third punch before she would vanish again, so quickly that only her afterimage would remain.

They weren't sure how long this game of cat and mouse went on for, Yoruichi's speed and hand to hand combat versus Urahara's Kido and skill with a blade, however at the end of their spar they were left panting and out of breath, littered with many cuts of varying sizes and bruises to match. In fact, they were so distracted that they failed to notice the third reiatsu signature which had entered the training room at some point during there battle.

The sound of soft clapping caused both of them to jump a little in surprise before turning in the direction that the noise originated from. There, at the base of one of the boulders which had survived their spar was the one man they thought they would never see again, stood there with that same casual smirk he always wore on his face.

It was like their brains were in a state of denial, they were seeing him with their own eyes but their minds were denying the truth of the situation, Ichigo had been confirmed dead by the Shinto, so why was he now stood before them in Shinigami attire like nothing had ever changed?

It seemed that Yoruichi was the first to regain her senses, Urahara followed shortly after as he felt the familiar jump in reiatsu that accompanied his longtime friend's activation of Shunko, one second she was there and the next she was gone, covering the distance between herself and Ichigo in the blink of an eye. Urahara's vision just caught up at the last second to see her fist connecting with the orange haired teen's jaw before he was sent crashing backward through every rock, big or small, that crossed his path.

Once more she flickered from his view chasing the rocketing teen across his basement, deciding that it would be best not to let her beat him into the ground he quickly followed however upon catching up he was relieved to see a much less violent scene taking place. Ichigo was leaning up against – halfway embedded in – the rock that eventually stopped his path of destruction, oddly enough his injuries were completely healed already, not even blood remained from the wound he had just seconds ago.

Yoruichi was kneeling down in front of him, tears streaming down her cheeks as she shook him violently by his Shihakusho, any thoughts Urahara had of getting his own revenge on the former Shinigami Substitute for making them worry so much and eventually having them believe he was dead vanished upon seeing his eyes.

Ichigo had punished himself enough as it was, the shopkeeper knew him well enough to know that this whole time he was probably torturing himself, feeling like scum knowing what he had put everyone through. He would let Yoruichi's Shunko empowered fist to the face mark the end of it, at least on their part, there are many other people who would undoubtedly want a piece of him after all this.

"It's been a while Kurosaki-san, if I knew you were coming I could have prepared some tea for you."

The teen would be outright lying if he said he didn't appreciate Urahara's lighthearted joking right now, "ah, it has Urahara-san, Yoruichi-san." Upon saying the name of his former Shunpo and Hakuda teacher his arms tightened their grip around her body, pulling her closer, thankfully her tears had stopped but he would let her hug him for as long as she wanted.

A few more seconds of silence passed before the tanned goddess herself spoke up, her words leaving no room for debate, "You have a lot of explaining to do Ichigo."

His face took on a sullen look once more, "Believe me Yoruichi-san, I know I do." Glancing towards Urahara this last part was directed towards him, "Although it's quite the story so maybe we can gather the gang here that way I'm only saying it once."

The man in question nodded in acceptance, "and your family?"

"No," he replied with a shake of his head, "I'll tell my Oyaji and sisters separately tonight, they deserve that much."

Urahara nodded once more, Ichigo was right, sure he owed his friends an explanation, but his family? That was far more important and they deserved to have Ichigo all to themselves when they heard everything that had happened since his disappearance and later 'death.' Waving over his shoulder he signalled for the other two to follow him back upstairs where he would need to locate Tessai, they were going to need a lot of tea for this conversation.

~ A/N:

Alright, so not much to say about the chapter itself, I know the time skip at the start it going to seem lazy on my part, however, I don't think it was really that bad of me, nor something we really needed to read. It's obvious how everyone was going to react, we know the Bleach characters well enough to know who would cry and who would be pissed. I think the more important scenes will be the return ones which I will be writing.

This chapter really just took so long because I knew what I wanted to write, just not how I wanted to write it. I don't really plan anything out, just write off the top of my head so sometimes it takes a little longer to post things but it's what works best for me.

If you have any thoughts on the chapter than feel free to leave a review, I'm always looking to improve my writing and so constructive feedback is appreciated. If you have any questions then feel free to message me, I always reply when I can.

- Vertius