Hey everyone, I'm finally back with the next chapter, sorry it took so long! I just haven't been writing too much since it's been summer. I don't know about you guys, but sitting in front of a computer sweating my ass off isn't really good for productivity. Thankfully, summer is coming to an end and so I should be able to write more frequently. Anyways, here's a really long chapter to make up for the delay.
Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach, Highschool DXD, nor any of their respective characters.
Guardian of the Dead
- Chapter 8 -
A light sound of vibration to his side pulled him from his meditation. With his sisters and friends at school for most of the day he was left with quite a bit of free time, time which he used to meditate and further hone his skills with Ryujin Jakka since he couldn't freely walk around town as he pleased.
Yes, Urahara had placed special barriers around some of the locations that Ichigo frequented quite regularly which could hide any and all information the man wished from the twelfth division, but that only worked for their monitoring equipment. If Urahara blocked Shinigami from physically entering a specific barrier then that would only raise suspicions against him. So he couldn't really do much about the Shinigami who patrolled this town, if they spotted Ichigo it would be game over.
Breathing out lightly he reached over and plucked the annoying device off of his desk. Upon glancing at the caller his relaxed posture switched to that of seriousness, seeing the small chibi version of Urahara dancing on his screen told him that preparations were done, it was time.
[Kurosaki-san, everything is ready.]
"You're sure Soul Society won't find out if things turn sour?" the young Shinigami didn't like doubting his friend but this couldn't be messed up, there was no 'what if?' in this situation. There would be a fight between Ichigo and the Fullbringers and everyone knew it, Ginjo wasn't one to be reasoned with, his one-track mindset of getting power and destroying the Shinigami had corrupted his mind.
[I am. It wasn't easy but I've devised a temporary barrier that will essentially cut of the Fullbringers hideout from the rest of the world. So unless you do something as drastic as release Bankai the Soul Society will not find out, just make sure whatever it is you're going to do, you do it quick. If the barrier stays up too long Soul Society will pick up on it and questions will be asked that I cannot answer.]
Before the teen could reply he heard a light scoff from the depth's of his soul, obviously, the oldest and most powerful Zanpakuto didn't agree with the shopkeeper's words. "How foolish, even still people undermine your strength. The barrier won't last should you release Bankai? Has he not considered the possibility that your Shikai alone could match and topple most of the Bankai from this new, weak generation of Shinigami Captains?"
Realizing that Urahara was still waiting on the opposite end of the line he turned his attention away from his inner sanctum and irritated partner. "Don't worry Hat n' Clogs, the fight will be over before it begins," and as scary as it was those words weren't an exaggeration. Ichigo could most likely incapacitate each of the Fullbringers with just the force of his reiatsu alone that's how outclassed they were. If they couldn't pull their heads from their asses and decide to resolve this peacefully, then it would be a slaughter.
Ichigo's eyes were dark as he jumped from rooftop to rooftop, headed towards the spot in which he would be meeting Chad, Tatsuki, and Inoue. He had already re-dressed himself in his Shihakusho, Ryujin was secured at his waist, and he was wearing a special cloak made by Urahara which would keep him hidden until he reached the barrier.
His mind was on the conversation he had just spoken with Urahara, as well as the last words he had spoken to Yoruichi when she came to report her findings to him, 'how can you be so nonchalant about this?' those were the words she had said. At the time he hadn't thought much about them, but now after talking to Urahara a realization had donned on him. When had he changed so much?
Asides from Kariya, Ichigo had never actually killed anyone. He purified Hollow's, setting their souls free from the endless eternity of torment they were stuck in, and it was Zangetsu who brought Ulquiorra to the state just before death, not Ichigo. So when had he become able to so easily talk about crushing- killing his opponents like that?
It was frightening.
"It isn't a bad thing to fear change Ichigo, fear is what keeps you alive and grounded, but it is crucial that you not let that same fear consume you because that fear which helps you now can very easily hold you back if given the chance. You must remember why it was you wanted to change in the first place, then control the fear which is born from that change and use it to your benefit, this is the only way you will succeed."
As the orange haired teen mulled over those words the darkness slowly receded from his eyes and his heart became light once more. He could remember one instance not too long after he'd originally met old man Zangetsu, he had been in one of his depressed funks and the old man had told him exactly what he needed to hear to get it out of him. But, when Ichigo thanked the man he replied, 'There is no need to thank me, I was just saying what you already knew to be true,' and as a manifestation of himself Ichigo couldn't really deny the truth in that.
However like then, and now with Ryujin too, sometimes what a person needs the most is not to be led around on some wild goose chase of self-discovery, to find one's purpose or the meaning for their existence. No, sometimes all a person needs is to just be given the answer, no matter how simple the puzzle.
It was because of this that Zangetsu, and now Ryujin meant so much to him. To have someone always with you who can say such simple words with such large effect, words that you yourself already knew but may have been clouded from your view by worthless fear, it calmed his mind and soul and made moving forward so much easier.
It didn't take long for Ichigo to meet up with his three Fullbringer friends, clearly, the cloak given to him by Urahara was doing its job as his arrival gave them no small amount of surprise. It was a weird bit of technology, by adding a touch of Kido into the cloak it perfectly masks the users reiatsu allowing them to seamlessly blend into the surrounding air rendering them practically invisible to those which the user didn't wish to see them.
Ichigo would admit that it was a little awkward on the way there, his friends clearly wished to know what he planned on doing to handle the situation but couldn't really find a comfortable way of breaching the subject. It was sad to see but understandable that they no longer found him as approachable as before.
He'd always had above average amounts of reiatsu and it continued to grow as he fought more and more battles, yet it was always so unrefined, so untrained that even though it was so large it never really felt all that intimidating to people who had experience fighting in the supernatural like they did.
Now it was different. He not only had a fair amount of control over his reiatsu and could exert it in some creative ways, but he had gone through many long hours of reiatsu strengthening exercises, exercises which made his reiatsu a lot more dense, a lot heavier, and just much more frightening to be in the presence of. More so, now his reiatsu now had the attributes of fire which made it all the more lethal, he could set his surrounding on fire by merely exerting his power.
He was no longer that untrained kid who just grabbed some reiatsu and threw it around in Getsuga Tenshou's, now he used it as it was intended. Firstly by augmenting his body and blade to fight with speeds and with a strength that most couldn't match. And secondly, to strengthen his flames which had a whole plethora of uses on their own.
"Y'know Ichigo," Tatsuki finally said breaking the silence around them, "I've heard the stories, I hope your plan isn't just to 'go in there and kick some ass' as it usually would be," this was said in a lighthearted manner of course, but there was also a hint of skepticism in her voice. Yes, he had changed a lot, but it was hard to believe Ichigo could come up with a plan other than swing his sword until all the enemies were defeated.
Said Shinigami couldn't stop the huff of laughter which escaped him at those words, memories of his initial strategy lessons with Ryujin returning to his mind. The Zanpakuto due to their now shared bond was allowed access to some of Ichigo's memories and well after witnessing the orange haired teen's strategy – or lack thereof – when fighting his battles Ryujin had understandably lost his cool and paused all other training until he deemed Ichigo was at an acceptable level of intelligence when it came to stratagem and planning.
"Don't worry, I'm not just going to jump in there and start swinging if that's what you're worried about, believe it or not, I do have an idea of how things will play out and a plan to go with it. If they become suspicious of you three then it will turn dangerous so just go in there like normal and let me take care of things," and that was it, despite not being as comfortable around him anymore they still trusted him as much as ever. He said to let him handle it and so that's what they'd do.
Glancing to the side he noted that the softhearted healer still had the troubled look on her face, the same one which had been there since their initial conversation back at the Urahara shop. "What's wrong Inoue?" he asked bluntly.
"Kurosaki-kun," she replied lightly, brow scrunching up in thought. A part of her wanted to play off his question as not to bother him with her worries, even though she knew Ichigo would never let that slide. On the other hand, however, if she did ask the question that was plaguing her she wasn't sure if he'd even be able to answer it, but she knew this would eat away at her if she didn't get some closure now.
"Kurosaki-kun.. how strong is Aizen?" she finally asked, voice unsure.
It only took a brief moment for her questions true meaning to sink in, though he wasn't sure how to answer it as he really wasn't supposed to give much away to his human friends. In all honesty, he wasn't supposed to say anything, only after a slightly heated discussion between himself and the Trinity in which he made blatantly clear he wasn't going to lie to anyone, especially not his friends and family they came to an agreement, half-truths would have to suffice.
And so he gave the best answer he could, "..he isn't the strongest."
This only made the healers face fall further, "Then why didn't they deal with him?" even though unspoken the rest of her thoughts were heard just as loudly, if not more. 'Why did we have to get dragged into this world, what was the point of risking our lives when in the end it wasn't even needed?'
A few silent seconds passed in which Ichigo gazed off into nothingness, a mirthless half-smile marring his face, "I've asked myself that question many time's Inoue. Why did we have to go through so much, give so much to defeat an enemy which in the long run had no chance of succeeding in the first place?"
With an expression of melancholy, he continued, "The answer is because of me."
Now that certainly wasn't what the trio was expecting to hear from Ichigo, and immediately they made to vehemently deny those claims, but any words they may have had instantly died in their throats when they met his guilt filled eyes.
Ichigo knew they'd want to deny it, but he wouldn't let them, because it wasn't just him being mopey and depressed, blaming himself like he used to, this time it was the truth. It was his fault that they got dragged into all of this. "Ever since my birth, maybe even before that I have been watched by the supernatural, scouted by beings who knew of my heritage and potential, for me it was never a question of if, but when I'd get drawn in.
You guys were never meant to set foot on the spiritual battlefield, even after your deaths you'd be normal souls, however, due to your close proximity with me, your powers grew and with it, you were dragged in head first along with me. You may not see it as a big deal, but I'll never forgive myself for taking away the peaceful lives you guys could have- should have had."
What could they say to that? Those were his deepest most heartfelt feelings, it would be disrespectful and disgraceful to try and deny them, especially because he was right. It was because of him that they got dragged in, however, it was also true when he said they might not have seen it as a big deal because they didn't. They were happy to have been able to fight alongside him throughout all of these hardships, but still, what could they say? There was nothing.
When they had crossed through the barrier which surrounded the Fullbringers hideout, as well as the surrounding couple blocks of abandoned buildings the effect had been immediate. Urahara, Yoruichi, Tessai, Ishida, his father and sisters, they had all vanished from his senses, there was nothing past the shimmering wall behind him, it really was like they were in a different world.
But that rose the question, wouldn't the Fullbringers notice the change as well?
He was the last of the four to enter the elaborately disguised base and as soon as he did his question was answered. The tension in the room was so thick you could cut it with a knife, they were each trying to act normally but you could see it in their rigid posture, the way their eyes flitted briefly between the four of them and the various walls of the room which had become very interesting all of a sudden.
The only one acting normal – well as normal as possible for him – was Ginjo, it was a little offsetting to Ichigo how relaxed the man was. Was he really so confident in his fighting prowess? Or perhaps there was something else going on, oddly enough Ichigo couldn't sense that Tsukishima which Yoruichi mentioned. The first time he came here he had felt the mans presence in the back room, but he didn't know who it was, now that presence was nowhere to be felt.
'Odd..' according to Yoruichi's report Ginjo had quite the quite the high amount of faith in that mans abilities, so it struck Ichigo as peculiar that he wouldn't be present for this meeting, or at least somewhere in the close vicinity.
"Remain vigilant Ichigo, something is off about this situation."
The teen wholeheartedly agreed.
"Yo, welcome back Chad, Tatsuki, Inoue, Kurosaki." Ginjo greeted with a neutral tone, offering a slight gesture of hello with a wave of his hand.
Chad and Tatsuki returned it with accompanying grunts, Inoue chirped out her own little greeting though it was a little more rigid then usual, Ginjo didn't seem to think anything of it, and if he did he didn't show it.
Ichigo tipped his head forward in response, a casual look on his face, "My business took a little longer then I thought it would, it's done now though so I should be able to help with your problem."
The Fullbring leader shook his head in a dismissive manner, "It's no big deal, you're here now and that's all that matters."
"So why don't you tell me a little bit more about what it is you actually need from me?" the Shinigami asked with a quirked brow. He was actually interested to see what the man would say, yes he had been given some information before coming here but he wasn't told everything.
Ginjo nodded his head in agreement, quickly finishing the drink he had been nursing before the group's arrival then stood to face the teen. "It's simple Kurosaki, as you've probably heard, each of us," he further emphasized his point by gesturing around the room at the various Fullbringers with a wave of his arm, "each of us have had a parent that was attacked by a Hollow and tainted with it's reiatsu before our births, and when we were born it transferred to us giving us the various powers we have today, we want to get rid of those powers and become regular humans."
The Shinigami hummed in thought, "So where do I come into all of this? What do I have to do?"
Glancing up in a sort of reminiscent manner he began to answer the Shinigami's question. "I was the one to actually bring this group together you see, I found others like me who were outcasts from society because of the abilities they possessed but had no control over, and, I offered them a place to live in peace with others like themselves.
I don't remember when exactly it happened but I was given the unofficial title of leader, it didn't bother me really so I accepted it and time moved on. Things were going well for a while but then we were betrayed by two of our own, they had decided that they no longer wished to lose their powers and so they killed the first Shinigami that we had found who had agreed to help us and ran away.
In order to make sure something like this wouldn't happen again we made a pact, and to set this pact into stone and make sure no one would betray us again each of the remaining members gave me a bit of their power, linking themselves to me.
Through this link, I can take their powers away and accept them all into myself. The problem with taking their powers is that I'm left unstable and would eventually die, so that's where you come in."
The teen nodded his head in understanding, however, there was still something he didn't get, "But why me? What's so special about me or the first Shinigami that attempted to help you, that's what I still don't understand."
Ginjo laughed at this and waved his hand dismissively, "It's nothing overly complicated, just simply that official Shinigami would be more likely to kill us or throw us in a lab then actually help us. Substitute Shinigami aren't fully affiliated with the Seireitei and can actually think and act for themselves, there's a better chance that you'd help us than a real Shinigami."
Ichigo couldn't deny that statement. He wouldn't give it long before Kurotsuchi had each of them strapped to a table in his lab that's just how the elder council of the soul society was. If there was even a slight chance that they could advance themselves and make their organization stronger than they said fuck morals.
"So you take their powers then what? How do you give them to me?"
His expression shifted, becoming downcast and remorseful for what he was about to say, "I have to stab you," this statement earned a sharp gasp from Inoue as well as wide eyes from Tatsuki, Chad, and Ichigo himself, "By thrusting my sword through the core of your being I will temporarily link our souls, enabling the power transfer to occur."
Ichigo smirked internally, enemy or not he would give credit where credit was due, the man was a damn good actor and he knew what he was talking about. If this had been the previous Ichigo he would have taken those words at face value and accepted it without a second thought, but he was no longer so naive only seeing the world in black and white.
Now he could see all of the shades of grey which lay in between. He could see the dark malice which swirled in Ginjo's eyes even while he outwardly seemed like a nice guy who just wanted to become human once more. Eyes sparkling with mischief he finally spoke, "You forgot to mention one thing."
Ginjo's brow rose in question, waiting for the Shinigami to elaborate.
"That transfer you speak of where you give me your power, it can go both ways."
The Fullbring leader actually looked taken back for a moment, and then the facade shattered. A twisted shit-eating grin spread onto his face and a deep rumble reverberated from his chest, "Hah! You're a clever bastard, aren't ya? Oh well, it's already too late."
Ichigo didn't even get time to consider what those words had meant, out of the corner of his eye he saw Yukio do something on the game console right before an easily recognizable beeping – much like that you'd hear in a classic game – rang out behind him. Inoue's gasp was the only warning he got before a sword was plunged into his heart.
He had felt it, there was no question a blade had just pierced through his heart, yet even as his hand brushed over his chest there was no blood, no tear in his clothing, no wound on his body. "What the hell was that?" he mumbled to himself, slightly stunned. This was different from when he first fought Kenpachi and the man's murderous intent felt like a sword cutting through him, that still didn't feel anywhere close to as real as it did just now.
Inoue, Chad, and Tatsuki looked halfway stuck between shocked at what had just occurred and ready to see some heads roll. However seeing that Ichigo didn't have a wound – at least not one that was visible – as well as the man who just appeared behind him, forced them to stay their hand, first they needed to know what was going on.
The soft tapping of shoes on the tiled floor to his left caught his attention, but who the footsteps belonged to surprised him the most. With a practised poise and elegance, Tsukishima glided past Ichigo no more than a foot separating their shoulders. He only caught the briefest glimpse of the man's face when he passed but Ichigo knew what he saw, his mouth was twisted upwards in an arrogant smile that seemed to be mocking him.
A slight flash of white drew his attention downwards, in Tsukishima's hand was a simple white bookmark, it was confusing as to why he held it for Ichigo could see no book in the man's possession. Just as he was about to dismiss it and look away a small spark of green light told him that maybe not all was as it seemed.
Remembering back to his lessons with Ryujin he slowly and discretely as not to alert the others stretched out a tendril of his own reiatsu and connected it with the bookmark, within seconds all of the answers were revealed.
There right before his eyes a ghostly image of a Katana formed, the tsuba took the same form as the bookmark in his hand it even had the same tassel hanging off the top of the guard. The hilt was a mix of purple and white, it too matching the theme of the bookmark with another red tassel attached to the hilt. Most surprising was the thin layer of blood which coated the tip of the blade, it didn't take very long for Ichigo to connect the dots.
'He was the one that attacked me just now! It was his blade that I felt go through me, but why? Shukuro has always been such an important person to me, always there for me since mom's death, so why would he do that?'
It was like he had been slapped across the face, fear and panic set into Ichigo heart as the realization of what he'd just said donned on him, why did he think so fondly of that man just now. With eyes narrowed and voice set in a low growl he spat out, "What the hell did you just do to me, bastard?"
The three friends which had accompanied him here immediately startled and turned their head towards Ichigo with wide eyes, never having heard such a venomous tone from their friend. what the hell had just happened to piss him off so thoroughly.
All attention shifted towards the laughing Ginjo, leader of the Fullbringer group, no longer putting any effort into hiding his true nature. The insanity and depravity which had long since consumed him now filled his expression for all to see. "Don't worry Kurosaki, we're just assuring our victory."
The teen's eyes only narrowed further at this, "What do you mean?"
The head of the Fullbringers sighed out deeply, shaking his head lightly in disappointment, "I don't know how dumb you think we are Kurosaki, but we all felt that barrier that was put up around this place, conveniently just before you were about to arrive.
I don't know how you found us out or what your planning but right now the four of you are too weak to do anything against us. So, before your backup arrives I'm going to kill each of you and take your power, then it won't matter who comes after. As for what we did to you? Well, I'm sure you can feel its effects already."
Turning his sight inwards Ichigo focused on his memories and very quickly made a disturbing discovery, Tsukishima had with that strike somehow inserted himself into all of Ichigo's most fond memories, and even though right now he was aware of the truth, slowly that line between falsehood and reality was blurring, and his mind was subconsciously putting that smug prick on a higher and higher pedestal.
Against his better judgment, he was slowly letting his mind fall into a panic as this man erased his mother, father, sisters, and friends from his life, instead, putting himself there and there was nothing he could do to stop it. He could only wince as a flash of pain ripped throughout his head as he tried to separate the truth from the fake.
Ryujin Jakka who clearly had seen enough of his wielder's foolishness spoke up, "What are you doing Ichigo?! Clearly whatever that mans ability is it inserts himself into your memories making you unable to fight him, that is their goal, to make sure your blade stays sheathed so hurry up and attack him before it's too late!"
Ichigo didn't even think, as soon as his Zanpakuto finished speaking his hand fell to Ryujin's hilt and he prepared to attack, though what actually happened when his sword was drawn was not anything like what he had intended. He'd meant only to release a small burst of fire from Ryujin's blade to force Tsukishima to retreat, giving him enough space to better plan out his next course of action and the most efficient way of taking them out quickly, instead, something much more horrifying occurred.
The Fullbringer's weren't given much of a warning, a slight shift in the air as his body twisted, the sound of metal scraping against metal as the blade left its sheath, a slight rise in the temperature as a fire began to spark around the gleaming blade which cut silently through the air.
Tsukishima had just turned around as the Shinigami's swing was finished, his face no longer looking so smug, instead, the lightest hints of fear could be seen in his eyes steadily growing larger, but it was too late. Between one second and the next, a brilliant fire of yellow, red and orange exploded out of the tip of the Katana which extended towards him, launching a tsunami of flame which gave no chance of escape.
No sound could be heard over the deafening roar of the fire which threatened to consume everything, Tsukishima wasn't even given a chance to scream before the wall of fire consumed him. His hair, skin, blood and very bones, none of it could resist the all-encompassing inferno which surrounded him.
When the flames finally gave way and sight was returned once more, the hellish reality of the situation was presented.
Tsukishima was gone, nothing remained, but that wasn't where the carnage ended, the back wall of their hideout, as well as the next couple warehouse buildings behind it, were gone, only smouldering ashes and remnants of walls remained as proof that something actually existed there in the first place. What truly horrified those still standing was the fact that Tsukishima wasn't the only victim, Jackie and Giriko who had unfortunately been in the wrong place at the wrong time both found themselves reduced to nothing but ashes, and Ginjo was now unconscious on the floor, the left side of his body horrifically burned and the whole of his left arm completely destroyed.
After what seemed like an eternity the silence was shattered by the loud clang of Ichigo's Zanpakuto hitting the ground, it having just slipped from his hand. The teen in question had fallen backward and was now propped up on his hands looking outwards with empty eyes. He was deathly pale and was profusely sweating. He didn't even notice when the door burst open behind him and in walked his father and two mentors.
Isshin quickly went to Ichigo's side and gently lifted him up, after securely resting him on his shoulder for support he led the unresponsive teen outside.
Urahara and Yoruichi surveyed the room briefly, taking in everything before acting, Yoruichi went straight to Inoue and consoled the terrified girl, they would need her to heal Ginjo when she was able. Yes, they had wanted to stop the Fullbringers, but not like this, and they knew that Ichigo certainly didn't wish this either.
Urahara cast a shadowed and unimpressed glance back at the Zanpakuto which now lay still in the middle of the floor, he knew what had happened and why Ryujin Jakka did it, but he didn't think it was right, there were other ways to test Ichigo, other ways to further prepare him for the life he was stepping into, this was too much.
He felt nauseous, his mind was sluggish and there was a cold sweat breaking out all over his body.
He felt lost, he didn't know what to say or do, what could he really? He'd just killed three people in a brutal fashion and severely injured a fourth when his original goal was to simply incapacitate them and see if they could work out something peacefully. Yet now he had three lives on his hands.
He could feel himself being lifted upwards and he recognized the reiatsu that was next to him, however, his mind was much too out of it to actually put a face to the signature. Wherever he had been taken the air was fresh, not filled with smoke and ash, it soothed him a little, however, it was a double-edged sword.
With his mind a little clearer he, unfortunately, remembered the scene he'd just witnessed – caused – and he could no longer suppress the feeling of sickness within himself, falling to his hands and knees once more he began heaving, emptying out everything he had eaten that day.
"Easy there Ichigo," a soothing voice which he now recognized as his fathers spoke from behind him, as large comforting circles were rubbed into his back, "You'll be alright, just let it all out."
Let it out he did. He wasn't sure when the tears had started, but after he was fairly certain nothing else would come up he shifted over, slumped back ungracefully against the wall and cried. He didn't wail, didn't thrash around and complain about how unfair the world was, he just sat there lazily gazing up at the sky with his father next to him and silently cried, letting out everything he had held inside of him, not just from today but the past eight years of his life.
After holding it all in for so long it seemed that his emotions would no longer stay in check, the dam had finally been broken and it would stop until everything he'd pent up inside him had been let out.
A good twenty minutes had passed with the both of them just sat there, Isshin wanted to say something but he didn't know where to start. He knew he'd been a pretty shitty father to Ichigo, yes he'd always been better with the girls but that wasn't anywhere near a good enough excuse to ignore Ichigo like he had. Sure the kid was self-sufficient and mature for his age, but even the most grown-up people need a shoulder to lean on now and then, but Ichigo never got that.
Masaki would beat his ass if she were still here.
Glancing over at Ichigo he was pleased to note that some of the colour had returned to him, he just needed a hot shower and a good nights rest and he'd feel a lot better, but before that, it was time to talk. Just as he was about to breach the silence Ichigo beat him to it.
"I feel like shit."
The man knew it was wrong in this situation but he couldn't help the huff of laughter which escaped him at those words. So simple and blunt yet the point was conveyed so greatly. He was worrying too much, he and Ichigo had never been much for heart to heart's, instead expressing themselves through more.. physical means, why did this have to be any more complicated.
"I don't doubt it, you look like shit too."
Ichigo snorted in response, casting a halfhearted glare at his father.
"So what happened, Ichigo?"
The teen stayed silent for a couple minutes, whether he was thinking about what he wanted to say or just didn't want to talk yet Isshin wasn't sure., but when Ichigo finally did speak Isshin got the answer he expected.
"I wasn't ready," he spoke honestly, "I went in there hoping to end it peacefully."
His father nodded his head in understanding, "And that's not a bad mindset to have, along your journey you will definitely meet good people who have just strayed from their path, and in those situations that mindset of yours will be very helpful in saving lives, but one thing you must always remember, no matter how trivial it sounds is that most people who do bad, do so because they are inherently evil, and they won't be willing to turn away from their paths just because one guy came along and asked them too, no matter how strong you are.
I know you have resolved yourself to this life of fighting, but with your power now that's only half of it. You're going to attract and be drawn to a lot of strong enemies, the types of enemies who won't hesitate to take your life at the first sign of weakness.
You must never enter a battle that you haven't resolved yourself to kill in, because if you do and something happens which you didn't anticipate, then a situation like what happened today might occur again only next time you may not get off so lucky, remember that."
Ichigo nodded his head, he understood that now, he wouldn't let the same mistake happen twice though that didn't mean Ryujin was off the hook for that little stunt he pulled, they would be having a nice long chat soon enough.
Letting out a small grunt Isshin stood and stretched his body, sure being in Shinigami form gave them much more resistance against things like muscle ache and fatigue but even still that only goes so far when you've been sat still on and against hard cement for a good amount of time.
Reaching down he grasped Ichigo's hand and hauled him up to his feet as well, briefly, their eyes met and Ichigo gave a resolved nod of his head.
As soon as he entered the room all eyes went to him, on one side was Tatsuki, Chad and Inoue, the first two looked fairly normal but the young Shinigami could see that they felt a little uncomfortable, that really told you how bad it was if even the stone giant that was Chad looked fazed. Glancing at the healer of the Karakura team he was saddened to see that she couldn't even meet his gaze head-on, her eyes were just fluttering around the outside edges of his face.
Of the three remaining Fullbringers, Yukio was sat hunched over with his game console in hand though he wasn't playing anything, he didn't look frightened of Ichigo per say but you could see that the whole ordeal had hit his mental state hard. Riruka was visibly scared of him, obvious by the way she flinched under his gaze and shrunk away at his mere presence in the room.
Ginjo was conscious once more and much to the relief of Ichigo fully healed, missing arm and all. He wasn't sure if the man was aware of it or not, however, the Fullbring leader was repeatedly clenching and unclenching his left fist, whether this was out of anger or the fact that his arm had been restored Ichigo wasn't sure, both were equally viable as the man was currently glaring venomously at him. Though it looked like whatever the case Ginjo had no intentions of starting anything again so he would leave it be.
Finally, looking towards his two mentors he was happy to see they looked normal, of course there were hints of worry directed at him but they didn't seem particularly bothered by anything that had happened here, obviously due to their vast amounts of experience when it came to dealing with things like this, come to think of it his father had been completely uncaring as well.
He wasn't sure if he wanted to ever become like that, to become indifferent to death and destruction. Then again he supposed he had no choice in the matter, anyone will become numb to something if exposed to it enough times.
"How are you feeling Ichigo," the dark-skinned woman asked.
"Better now, I just needed to clear my head a bit."
Both of his mentors nodded at this, "I'm glad to hear it Kurosaki-san." Urahara responded, reaching under the cloth of his Haori he pulled out the sheathed Ryujin Jakka and gave a crooked smile, "I think you dropped this."
Ichigo didn't hesitate in reaching for his Zanpakuto again, he did feel bad about just dropping his blade and leaving it there but the situation was a little unique so he wouldn't let it bother him too much. He hadn't actually heard a peep out of his Zanpakuto since Ryujin's small outburst after he had been stabbed by Tsukishima, although if he reached inwards and grasped their connection he didn't feel any particularly strong emotions from the spirit. Ryujin didn't seem troubled at all so Ichigo supposed that the spirit would just wait for Ichigo to return to their inner world and then they could set things straight.
"Not that I'm unappreciative, but why are you guys here?"
"Call it a mentor's intuition, Kurosaki-san." the shopkeeper stated cheerily.
Yoruichi snorted beside him, expression flat and unimpressed, "More like a Woman's intuition and a mad scientists curiosity, you just wanted to get some on-site readings from the barrier, I was the one that called Isshin."
With a soft snap, Urahara's famous fan was out and waving lightly in front of his face, hiding his bashful expression.
Ichigo just deadpanned at the man, that was so like him.
Seeing Ginjo shift awkwardly to the side he set his mind back to the task at hand. He didn't really want to be here any longer, this oppressive atmosphere was a bit too heavy and simply kept reminding him of what had just transpired, unfortunately for Ichigo, however, there was one person he needed to speak with again before leaving. Silently he walked over to Ginjo, the man's eyes briefly stopped on the Zanpakuto which was now resting on his hip once again before meeting his eyes and challenging his stare.
"So, you going to turn me into your Shinigami buddies?" the man all but spat out.
"No," the teen replied simply, earning a look of disbelief from the man across from him. "As you know I'm not an official Shinigami or whatever, I only came here cause I knew you guys were up to something."
"How?" he asked almost instantly, he knew that he'd covered all of his tracks and that the other Fullbringers would never give the plan away to anyone, so that rose the question, how did this Shinigami know what was going on from the start.
Ichigo didn't reply right away, obviously, he couldn't just say 'oh, you know, the Goddess of the Sun told me, no big deal right?' yeah no. So instead he just settled for, "I have sources, let's just leave it at that." As expected Ginjo didn't like that answer though Ichigo couldn't really care less.
Sighing and rubbing his eyes tiredly he continued, "Look, I'm not going to 'finish what I started' if that's what you're worried about, and while I won't apologize for what happened here today I do want us to come to a peaceful end here." that seemed to piss Ginjo off a little bit, but when he made no move to speak Ichigo continued instead.
"I mean you can try and get revenge or whatever but I can assure you that no matter how strong you are, those three behind me are bigger monsters than you could ever imagine, and even if you somehow managed to defeat the three of them you'd not only have the Soul Society investigating it but I'd be turning up on your doorstep again and I can assure you that if it comes to that I'll make sure there is no chance for a third meeting."
Those were harsh words from someone like Ichigo, and he didn't really enjoy making threats like that, however, he couldn't afford to mess around, not when his friends and family were living here. Yes, they had top-notch protection from not only his father but Urahara, Yoruichi and even Tessai, however, his sisters were powerless, all it would take is one sneak attack and they could lose their lives before any of the powerful fighters in Karakura were any the wiser.
Ichigo needed to make sure that there wasn't even that smallest of chances.
Ginjo didn't reply again though Ichigo could see it in his eyes that the warning had gotten through, the man while crazy could at least tell when he stood no chance.
~ Urahara Shop, Underground Training Room, One month after Ichigo's arrival
"So this is it, huh?" the shopkeeper spoke out, expression slightly downcast. The gathering was smaller then one would expect, only Urahara, Yoruichi, Tessai and Isshin were present. They had held a large farewell party a couple nights before because they knew if the gathering was too big on the day of his departure it would be much harder for him to actually go.
"Only for now, I won't let this be the last time we see each other," he responded in a light, hushed tone as nostalgia took over. After everything that he'd been through he was finally about to leave off on his own of his own volition to a world much farther from this one than he'd ever been. Honestly, now that he was here he found it hard to take the first steps so to speak.
"I'll hold you to that son, it was hard enough getting Yuzu and Karin to agree to this in the first place, I'd rather not have to be subject to those puppy-dog eyes of theirs because you let something happen to you." and those words both Isshin's and Ichigo's expressions shifted to that of exhaustion.
When Ichigo had first gotten back and made it up to them for having them believe he was dead – that was a chore in itself – he then had to tell them that he actually wasn't staying, that did not go over very well and took a lot of hard work to get them both to accept it. And now that the time finally came for him to leave they should've known better than to think it would go smoothly. All of their progress evaporated into thin air within seconds and both sisters became very unwilling to let their brother leave again.
Thankfully they had worked it out and so here he was.
"Good luck over there Ichigo, use that new position of yours to do a lot of good," Yoruichi added.
"You know I will," he replied with a mischievous smirk, "You guys stay safe over here, if something happens then let me know, I'll drop everything and come help if you need it."
"We know Kurosaki-san, though you'd probably find out and come here yourself before anyone could actually tell you." It was a lighthearted joke, Ichigo always had a knack for being in the right place at the right time, always ready to help someone when they needed.
And that was that, nothing more needed to be said between the four. Ichigo gave Yoruichi and hug – more like she demanded one – and just clasped hands briefly with his father and Urahara, Ichigo didn't particularity feel like hugging them and they most likely felt the same so it all worked out well.
Once more he knelt down and 'grasped' the shadows beneath himself and pulled upwards opening the Schatten Bereich, seconds later the shadows consumed him and fell away, leaving an empty spot where he once stood.
~ Takama-ga-hara
As the shadows receded around him and the familiar floating island came into view before him he couldn't help but just smile. He'd never forgotten the beauty that these planes held, but seeing them again in person took his breath away just like they had the first time he'd arrived here.
As the sun shone down on him from above it truly felt like the warmth in its ray were surrounding him in a soft hug, welcoming him back to the Heavenly Planes, he wouldn't be at all surprised if Amaterasu had something to do with the sensation he was feeling. Speaking of the woman he was very happy to be able to see her once more, not that he wasn't happy to see Tsukuyomi, Susanoo, Ayame or any of the other great people he'd met his first time around, but with Amaterasu, there was something different.
After meeting her in person he truly understood what people meant when they said she was the mother of Japan and all its inhabitants were her children. He truly felt like he was in the presence of his mother when around her. She would never replace Masaki, the young Shinigami wouldn't even let someone try and replace his mother because he knew no one else could, but he would be lying if he said it wasn't nice to be able to feel that sort of motherly love once more.
When he had set off from the Urahara shop he could have easily just gone straight to Amaterasu's manor yet instead he found himself stood once more on the marble bridge which stretched out over the nothingness that surrounded Takama-ga-hara. He couldn't help wanting to experience the land once more by walking the fair distance to his destination. This time perhaps he would do a little more exploring, he wasn't completely free to do as he wanted yet he wasn't in a total rush to get there either.
He still needed to figure out what he was going to be doing for school, he was roughly three months behind now and that was constantly growing with each passing day. Though he didn't see the problem as too urgent, he had always been very smart and a quick learner not only for fighting but studies as well, that was how he'd always been able to stay high ranked within Karakura High despite missing so much school due to Shinigami duties.
Shaking those boring thoughts from his mind he set forward at a semi-brisk pace off the bridge and into the woods. It didn't take long for him to reach one of many villages that dotted this land and the one which sat closest to the arrival bridge, much like the first time around his appearance brought forth many stares from the people of the town, though none bad.
The Shinto Trinity weren't kidding when they said the Shiba's were held in high regard, as soon as word spread that he was not only a Shiba but the son of Isshin and the heir to the clan he became like a celebrity. Everywhere he went the children would run around him giggling and laughing, always fascinated by his hair and Zanpakuto, and the people greeted him with smiles and waves, gestures he would always return.
He couldn't look down upon their curiosity of him because much like they were fascinated with certain aspects of him, he was fascinated with certain aspects of them, namely their ears and tails. Even now he found it hard to believe that such things could exist, then again he had met Komamura who was an anthropomorphic wolf if he remembered correctly, so really he shouldn't have been so surprised.
All in all, he would guess it took him about an hour to reach his destination, which was quite a long time though it was only due to his curiosity getting the better than him on a few occasions leading him to explore the forests on his journey here. As he approached her manor he could see Ayame stood diligently at the gates waiting for him. Not wanting to keep her waiting longer than he probably already had he stepped up the pace a little bit.
"Welcome back Ichigo-sama," she greeted warmly with a smile and bow as soon as he got within a few feet of her.
"Yo Ayame, it's good to see you again," he replied, a large smile of his own.
"And you as well Ichigo-sama, I trust your trip to Karakura was fruitful?" Honestly, she already knew what had happened during his visit, both the good and the bad, Lady Amaterasu and herself had spent much time gazing through the worlds eye this past month.
A look of contemplation formed on his face as he thought back to everything which had happened, "It was.. good." he finally spoke out, "I smoothed things over with my family and friends and I learnt a little bit more about myself which I didn't know before, I don't think it can get much better than that."
The girl next to him nodded her head in understanding, she had seen his reaction to accidentally killing those three Fullbringers and it made her heart clench, she was happy to see he had been able to overcome it so quickly and move on.
"So whats on the agenda for today? Will I be meeting the Trinity?"
"No, I'm afraid not," her hair swayed softly as she shook her head in the negative, "The Trinity is currently in a very important meeting that will likely last for the rest of the day. It's unlikely that you will meet with them before tomorrow evening at the earliest."
Well, that was disappointing, but he understood, "Alright then, I'll just have to find something to keep myself entertained until they're ready, it shouldn't be too hard."
Ayame nodded her head encouragingly, "Yes, if you need anything just ask one of the manor servants or come and find me Ichigo-sama."
After those words, Ichigo thanked the girl and they bid each other farewell before both went their separate ways, Ayame to do her official duties and Ichigo to.. well he wasn't decided yet but he would find something.
"Good, very good Ichigo. While it's a little unstable you're progressing nicely."
With those words said Ichigo released the breath he hadn't know he was holding and let the reishi in his fingers dissipate. Kido was tricky but it was because of this reason that Ichigo enjoyed learning it. Most things came to him really easily and while he was learning Kido at a much more accelerated pace than normal Shinigami would, it was still slower for him than other forms of combat training and thus he liked it a lot.
He was mostly sticking to defensive spells and barriers as he didn't really need more offence right now. His Zanpakuto was purely offensive, even if you tried to use Ryujin's flames for defensive purposes there was still a good chance you'd hurt the enemy in the process. More so he had his Hollow's techniques including Cero and Bala alongside the couple low-level destructive Kido spells that he'd already learned when their training first began.
So no, he really didn't need any more offensive abilities right now, though more would come eventually.
It had been two days since his re-arrival to Takama-ga-hara and the Shinto Trinity still hadn't returned, thus his first thought was to train. He was pleased to know that Amaterasu had set aside a large clearing for his personal use, he didn't think she'd appreciate him burning her forests down.
Since his control over his reiatsu in his sealed state was fairly good they decided it was time to step it up. So he now sat cross-legged in the centre of the clearing, Ryujin Jakka released and stuck into the ground in front of him, it's flames licking at the earth all around him as he meticulously worked on further honing his skills in both reiatsu control and Kido. It was best to do them together as both worked hand in hand with each other.
He would admit with a bit of childlike amazement that he looked pretty cool sat there with the fires dancing around him. It seemed other people thought so as well as he would often find spectators watching him during their breaks. This honestly didn't bother him, in fact he thought of it as a plus because the spectators were an added distraction that made the training more difficult for himself, something he nor Ryujin would ever complain about.
Speaking of Ryujin Jakka, their relationship was once more on the upturn, he did have that little chat with his Zanpakuto like he said he would, though it wasn't so much of a chat as a full-on fight. But that was what worked best. In most cases, the Zanpakuto is the Shinigami, a manifestation born from their soul, even though Ryujin was a little different their souls were still connected, and the best way to talk to your soul is through physical contact.
Ichigo had lost the fight unsurprisingly, however, Ryujin seemed to know what Ichigo was trying to do and thus held back enough to where they could be fairly evenly matched and trade a lot of strong blows because it was when their swords clashed that their truest feelings were sent through to each other. Thus, after a roughly two-hour-long fight filled with lots of anger, lots of destruction, and many memorable wounds the two had come to an understanding and their bond had begun to repair itself.
Feeling the three immense presences of the Shinto Gods arriving onto the planes he stood stretched his body before resealing Ryujin Jakka and sheathing him at his hip once more. Finally, he loosely slipped back on the top half of his Shihakusho and set off back towards the manor in which he was staying.
Though they probably wouldn't be meeting with him right away the day was still young and so he wanted to make sure he was washed up and had something to eat, that way if they did call for him later he would know he was good to go. He was feeling a little too anxious and excited to train anyways, he just couldn't stay focused. He was no more than a couple days away from going to essentially a new world, how could he not be filled with anticipation.
It wasn't until much later that he actually received some word from anyone, a servant which he hadn't met yet informed him that he'd been invited to have dinner with the Trinity, an offer he wasn't going to turn down. Instead of his Shinigami garb, he wore a montsuki – a formal black silk kimono – overtop a white under-kimono and grey hakama, and finally, on his feet, he had a pair of black zori with no tabi. As much as he disliked doing so he left Ryujin in his room on the sword stand which sat atop his dresser, Shinigami – or any swordsman for that matter – weren't really supposed to carry their swords around at all times, only for training and during times of war, though Ichigo didn't really agree with it.
When he arrived in the dining room he was greeted and ushered to the table by servants where the Trinity were already waiting for him, "Good evening, Amaterasu, Tsukuyomi, Susanoo," the young Shinigami greeted with a nod of his head. Okay, maybe it wasn't the most respectful way to act around three Gods but Ichigo just couldn't do the whole deep bows and '-sama' thing, he showed his respect for people in a different way and if they didn't like that well tough luck.
Luckily for him, the Shinto Trinity wasn't bothered by his unique way of showing respect, maybe they were just naturally laid back when it came to such things much like Kyoraku and Ukitake in the Seireitei, or maybe it had something to do with him. He noticed that a lot of times he got away with things he probably shouldn't have, he never complained of course but he did notice the extra leeway he seemed to be granted in specific situations.
'That meeting of theirs must not have gone too well.' Ichigo noted inwardly seeing the tired lines under each of their eyes, more so Amaterasu looked less cheerful than usual, it was honestly quite weird seeing such a displeased expression on the woman's face.
"The joys of diplomacy, Ichigo-kun," Susanoo cut in sarcastically after catching the young man's gaze, "If you ever think about joining the world of politics, don't."
"Now now, it isn't so bad, it just depends who you're dealing with."
Ichigo would be lying if he said he wasn't curious, so after Tsukuyomi said his peace he asked about that which had been plaguing him, hopefully, they wouldn't mind as it wasn't really any of his business, "Who were you guys meeting with?"
The three before him took on contemplative looks weighting the options born from such a question, they probably shouldn't tell him too much, not that it was bad per say just that because he wasn't officially a member of their diplomatic party so it would be seen as a little distasteful. It was a sort of unwritten 'gentleman's rule' between faction leaders to keep things between themselves and not go spreading it around like some high school girls gossip.
But, Ichigo was going to be going head first into this worlds supernatural and he was bound to speak with other faction leaders at some point or another, so it would be wise to tell him this now if only for his benefit.
"We were meeting with the four Satan's of the Underworld, The Shinto and Devils have never quite seen eye to eye."
It didn't take long for Ichigo to think of a reason why that could be, "Because they ask for souls as payment?" Amaterasu saw the people of Japan as her children, so it was no surprise that she wouldn't like someone who was claiming their souls.
The Goddess of a Sun gave a mirthless smile, "That was one of the reasons, thankfully it is a practice they no longer follow, however.." she paused briefly, expression becoming darker, "A devil is still a devil whether they want peace or war, just because they have knocked one or two bad habits doesn't mean they have fully turned a new leaf. No matter how alluring their words are the end reward is never as sweet as their words first make it seem, always remember that Ichigo."
And remember he would.
"Alright, enough of this dark talk for now," Tsukuyomi cut in with a clap to draw their attention, "We will tell you everything soon Ichigo, for now, let's enjoy dinner."
The mood lightened significantly after that and with a signal from one of the Trinity, the food began arriving. It was delicious, maybe even better than Yuzu's – though he would never tell her that – and it was never ending as well, hell, there would be a servant at his side refilling his cup before he even knew it was empty.
It was nice being pampered like this every once in a while he would admit, though he didn't think he'd ever want to live in a house of his own with servants like this. It just wasn't something that really suited him, he liked living in smaller more cozy homes doing things for himself, the manors were beautiful of course but he felt like they'd just feel too empty and lonely most of the time.
It wasn't until the next day that their conversation from the previous night's dinner was continued, but after hearing everything they had to say it was worth the wait.
"We'll be sending you to a place called Kuoh Town in Japan, also you will be transferring into and starting classes at Kuoh Academy this upcoming week so you'll have a couple days to familiarize yourself with the town and your new home." Amaterasu started.
Now Ichigo wasn't stupid but things did tend to slip past his mind from time to time and much to his embarrassment a house had been one of those things this time around, it didn't even click in his mind that he would need somewhere to stay. "My new home?" he could only hope that it wasn't some extravagant luxury manor that would make him stand out.
"Indeed," the God of the Sea and Storms couldn't help but chuckle, he could see the apprehension in the teen's eyes, "Worry not my boy, we know you prefer to live a modest lifestyle so we took the liberty of preparing a simple two bedroom apartment for your use."
Ichigo sighed out lightly in relief much to the amusement of the Trinity, "I'll have to work on getting a part-time job then."
"Don't be silly! You'll be much to focused on schooling and other issues to waste time on a job, We've already taken care of all expenses," the elder-looking God continued, "More so, we've assigned someone to take care of your property when you're out, things such as keeping your home stocked with food and other various supplies, cleaning, and repairs should something.. unfortunate occur."
Ichigo wasn't sure what to say, he was very appreciative of course but he felt like it was too much for him, though he knew how stubborn these three were and that they wouldn't budge no matter how much he tried to persuade them, so instead he just smiled gratefully and said thanks.
"So why Kuoh Town specifically?" the Shinigami asked.
"A very good question," Tsukuyomi replied, head nodding approvingly. "It isn't the town itself that's particularly special but instead the people who inhabit it. The Town is a joint devil territory holding the current heirs to both the Gremory and Sitri clans."
'Oi Oi, are they trying to create a political shit storm?' he couldn't believe what he was hearing, "Won't this create problems? I mean, I know that Japan is your territory, but it's no secret that these girls are residing there right? It's not like you can just drop me there and play it off as an accident."
"Yes, once your true identity and your affiliation with the Shinto comes to light it will cause problems, but that's the point." A mischievous light entered Amaterasu's eyes as she spoke, one that Ichigo wasn't sure he liked. "We devised this plan for two reasons, the first was so we could regain a foothold in the supernatural as well as have someone who can actively interact with it, the second was quite simply to make a statement to the devils and to everyone else that the Shinto Faction is not to be trifled with."
Ichigo merely shook his head, giving an expression of mock exasperation. "Alright so tell me more about this place, the school I'll be attending, I'd probably be correct in assuming that both of these girls hold high positions within it right?"
"Correct, Sona Sitri or Souna Shitori as she goes by in the human world is the student council president and the rest of the council's members are filled up by people in her peerage. Rias Gremory, on the other hand, is the president of a club, the 'Occult Research Club' which merely stands as a front for their devil activity, as with Sitri-san the members of the Occult Research Club consist of the members of Gremory-san's peerage.
The school itself it's a fairly prestigious academy and until this year it was an all-girls school." Tsukuyomi couldn't help but huff in laughter after seeing Ichigo's reaction to that last tidbit of information, he was always so serious and yet so expressive when it came to such trivial things.
'You have got to be kidding me.. of all the schools it had to be one that recently changed to co-ed?' dragging a hand down his face he sighed out, there was no point in getting too bothered by it just yet, for all he knew lady luck was finally on his side and it had already filled up with a lot of boys evening things out.
"Well, what's the ratio of girls to boys? Surely it can't be too bad right?"
Giving a crooked smile Susanoo replied, "It's about a 4 to 1 ratio." a choking sound was all he heard in response from the teen, however deciding that there was still fun to be had he continued, "Don't go kicking the bucket on me yet boy, I still haven't gotten to the best part, a vast majority of the boys there are all perverts who transferred thinking they could get an easy harem."
"..fuck me." Who did he piss off in a past life? His mother had raised him to respect and treasure woman, and that's how he had lived his life until now. People always called him a prude but that wasn't it, he just didn't believe in sleeping with any woman that would join him in bed, to him that was meaningless. It was because of how his mother raised him that he hated perverts like the ones he would be going to school with now, treating woman like objects, trophies, things for pleasure and collecting them in a harem, that kind of thing pissed him off.
"That is a noble mindset to have Ichigo but one thing you must realize is that in the supernatural something like a harem is not looked down upon like it would be in normal human civilization, you must be more tolerant of the people who believe in such practices at least for the sake of peace."
Ichigo merely grunted, begrudgingly agreeing with his Zanpakuto.
Seeing that the Trinity had settled down from laughing at his misery he figured it was best to get back to business. "Last night you said 'just because they have knocked one or two bad habits doesn't mean they have fully turned a new leaf, what did you mean by that?"
Instead of answering right away the Goddess of the Sun signalled to one of the servants lining the room who then proceed to place a brown folder in front of Ichigo. He glanced at the three curiously but asides from the downcast expressions they now held looking at the folder before him they gave nothing away."
Upon opening the folder and glancing at the content within his body went tense and his blood boiled.
Classified: Shinto Intelligence
Subject Name: Yuuto, Kiba [Current] Isaiah [Formerly]
Subject Species: Reincarnated Devil [Current] Human [Formerly]
Sacred Gear: Sword Birth
Information: An orphan claimed by the church for participation in 'The Holy Sword Project.' Was deemed a failure by Valper Galilei who planned to have this batch of children killed with poison. If action had been taken quickly enough his life could've been saved with an antidote. Sirzechs delayed the report to his sister until the poison set in so that she may use the premise of 'saving him' as a reason for reincarnation.
Subject's Status: Reincarnated as a Knight by Rias Gremory.
Classified: Shinto Intelligence
Subject Name: Hyoudou, Issei
Subject Species: Reincarnated Devil [Current] Human [Formerly]
Sacred Gear: Boosted Gear
Information: A human teenager with no prior knowledge of the supernatural or the Sacred Gear which he possessed. The Fallen Angels had begun to target him for elimination. The Gremory heiress was made aware of the situation. On the day in which Issei Hyoudou was to meet the fallen in disguise, Rias Gremory had summoned her familiar and set it at the location in which the meeting would occur. We believed that she would hand him a flyer imbued with summoning magic allowing her to come when the boy is attacked, this would give the Gremory heir grounds for eliminating a Fallen Angel. Our hypothesis was incorrect, the summoning magic only activated after the boy had been brought to death's door, the Gremory heiress offered to save him under the condition that he becomes her servant. He accepted.
Subject's Status: Reincarnated as a Pawn by Rias Gremory.
Classified: Shinto Intelligence
Subject Name: Argento, Asia
Subject Species: Reincarnated Devil [Current] Human [Formerly]
Sacred Gear: Twilight Healing
Information: Abandoned by the Church after healing a Devil. Was roped in with Fallen Angels and after coming to Kuoh Town she befriended Issei Hyoudou. The Fallen Angels who wanted he power performed a ritual which pulled her sacred gear from her body nearly killing her. Rias Gremory who was present at the time was more than capable of killing the remaining fallen and returning Twilight Healing before the girl passed away, she did nothing.
Subject's Status: Reincarnated as a Bishop by Rias Gremory.
Classified: Shinto Intelligence
Subject Name: Toujou, Koneko [Current] Shirone [Formerly]
Subject Species: Reincarnated Devil [Current] Nekomata (Nekoshou) [Formerly]
Sacred Gear: None
Information: Shirone and her elder sister Kuroka were members of the late Astraeus Marchosias' peerage. The Marchosias clan head wished to tap into the powerful abilities that the sisters possessed as not only Nekomata but the rare breed of Nekoshou and thus began experimenting on the older of the two. Shirone's older sister (Kuroka) succeeded in awakening her latent abilities, Astraeus planned to experiment on Shirone next, Kuroka discovered this plot and planned to free her sister. Kuroka killed Astraeus Marchosias as well as his peerage, she was almost caught but managed to escape, she is now a wanted Devil. The other heads of the remaining 72 pillars wished for Koneko to die so that such a tragedy may never occur again. Sirzechs has covered up the truth of the situation, the story agreed on is that Kuroka while drunk on power killed her master and fled the underworld. Sirzechs has claimed he will transfer Koneko into his younger sisters peerage where she may 'watch over' the young Nekomata who shouldn't suffer for the sins of her elder sister.
Subject's Status: Rook in the service of Rias Gremory
A loud snap rang out through the room as a large chunk of the table which the four were sat at broke off under Ichigo's immense grip. The teen was completely silent and still, the only movement you could see from him was a slight trembling as he shook with a continually growing anger.
'Why?!' he just couldn't fathom it, "They weren't even given a choice!" he roared, slamming his fist off the table once. "How could they play with someone's life like that?!" and again his fist slammed off the table which was slowly cracking under the onslaught. "To let someone is poisoned! To let someone feel the pain of being cut down! To let these people experience the terror of being brought to death's door! And for what?! To become someone's servant?!"
Finally, he snapped, "DON'T FUCK WITH ME!" Again his hand came down, this time it was met with no resistance as the table shattered beneath the force and the ground beneath his feet blackened from the fiery reiatsu which seeped from his body.
The Shinto just remained seated as the teen vented in front of them, they weren't angry as it was damage easily repaired. They understood what Ichigo was feeling, they had felt the same thing when they first found out too.
"Don't fuck with me," he spoke out again quieter this time as his anger started easing off, instead, turning into sadness. Ryujin was containing all of Ichigo's reiatsu for him so that he wouldn't do any more damage to the room or the servants. Each of them was trying their best to maintain composure but couldn't handle such power and were using the walls behind them as crutches.
"And what of the girl, Shirone.." he started once more, gaze downcast, "lied to by the only people she thinks she can trust. Told that her sister, the only fucking family she has left was a monster who got lost in power when in reality her sister was just saving her from the same horrid fate she was forced to go through."
"Don't fuck with me," he spoke one final time as he fell limply back into his chair, he just couldn't understand it. If someone tried to turn Yuzu and Karin away from him like that he didn't even know how he would react, the one thing he was sure of was when the dust settled after everything he probably wouldn't be proud of it.
It had been two days since that last meeting with the Trinity. After Ichigo had read the file and his emotions consumed him they figured it would be best to just call it a day. That whole event would have no doubt been mentally exhausting for him and the last thing they wanted to do was push Ichigo.
The Shinto Trinity had actually called to meet with him again today to discuss the possibility of pushing back his departure date another week so he had more time to collect himself but he turned it down saying that he was alright, and so here they were gathered in the gardens of Amaterasu's manor preparing to bid farewell to Ichigo.
"Are you sure you're alright Ichigo-kun? I don't mind postponing your transfer into Kuoh Academy another week."
Ichigo smiled at the woman addressing him, she really worried like a mother. "No, I'm fine really," he replied shaking his head lightly. "When I returned to my room that night I entered my inner world and let out my frustration with a spar against Ryujin. After getting a good nights sleep I re-thought about everything with a clear head and though it still pisses me off that they would do something like that I won't let my emotions get the best of me again."
Amaterasu smiled and nodded her head in acceptance, an action that Tsukuyomi and Susanoo followed, "Well, before you go we have something for you from everyone here in Takama-ga-hara, a gift filled with love and wishes of success on your journey ahead."
It was something simple, but it suited not only him but Ryujin as well and because of that he loved it. They had gotten him an elegantly made, deep crimson obi that matched nicely with his orange hair, golden brown eyes and the hilt of Ryujin's blade. He didn't like standing out too much but after securing it around his waist he couldn't help but think how perfect it looked on him.
"I'm sure you felt it but that is no regular Obi," Susanoo began earning a nod from the teen, "It was crafted by Senjumaru Shutara, one of the Captains in our Royal Guard, it's made with special material that grants the wearer a significant boost in defence, so use it well."
"I will, thank you," after hearing that bit of information this really was the perfect gift he could've got.
Starting slowly and growing in radiance as the seconds passed an intricately constructed golden magic circle started to form beneath Ichigo's feet, the man in question was gazing at intently, fascinated by this form of magic which he'd only see a handful of times.
"Just push some reiatsu into the circle and it will bring you to your apartment Ichigo-kun."
He nodded, briefly locking gazes with Ayame who was stood in the back and offered her a smile and nod of his head, she had become a good friend to him in these Heavenly Planes. Turning his attention back to the Shinto Trinity he offered each of them a smile as well, "I'll come back soon for a visit, and if something happens on the other side don't hesitate to tell me."
The God of the Moon smiled amusedly that was just like Ichigo, one world wasn't enough for him to protect, but that was one of the things that made him, him. "Of course, Ichigo-kun, and we look forward to seeing you again,"
With that, he fed a little bit of reiatsu into the circle below him and waited as the golden glow consumed him, however, much to the surprise of everyone present he suddenly stopped. His head was tilted forward causing his bangs to shadow his eyes and keep them from view, his mouth was also set into a thin line, one showing contemplation and a little hesitancy, "Amaterasu." he spoke slowly,
Somehow the Goddess of the Sun knew she wouldn't like whatever Ichigo was about to say, "Yes, Ichigo?"
"Who is in charge of maintaining the sinners of Hell, making sure they don't get out."
'Oh dear..' she thought to herself, glancing discreetly at her two brothers it was obvious that they knew what this was about as well, 'Yuzu and Karin are lucky to have a brother that cares so dearly for them.' the Goddess of the Sun just hoped he didn't do anything rash, Ichigo already had a pretty low opinion of the Crimson Lucifer, now he would know that it was that same mans blunder which almost lost Ichigo his sister to the chains of Hell.
"Sirzechs Lucifer, Ichigo-kun."
The young Shinigami gave a nod of thanks but without saying anything else a golden glow enveloped him and he was gone.
Breaking the silence of the clearing was Susanoo as he burst out laughing, "That Lucifer brat had better watch it, Ichigo may be too weak to do anything right now but soon, very soon he will unlock Zanka no Tachi and when that happens.. his safety will not be so secure."
Ichigo wasn't sure what to expect when he crossed over – and he knew he had because as his senses stretched out he felt only unfamiliar reiatsu signatures – however, he didn't think it would be this. It looked exactly like his side of the parallel, like he was just in one of the adjacent towns to Karakura which was a little disappointing. The disappointment didn't last long however because the beings he sensed already were worlds different than anything he'd ever felt before, and that was enough to grab his interest.
"Stretch your senses out further Ichigo, tell me what you feel."
Doing as his Zanpakuto instructed he quickly found what Ryujin had, 'Eight signatures in close proximity, four of them fluctuating wildly, a fight!' this would be a good chance to get a sneak peak at how people fight over here, a small burst of flame enveloped him and when it cleared his Shinigami garb and Zanpakuto were no longer visible, instead displaying a white long-sleeved shirt, faded grey jeans and sneakers, 'That is way more convenient than my side, having to leave and re-enter my body was such a pain in the ass.'
A brief sound of static raced through the air as the teen vanished from sight.
When he arrived at the destination he noted that this was the school he would be attending which made him frown, if the people were fighting here than it could be.. 'What are the odds, the first people I see on this side are her and her peerage." the teen clicked his tongue in distaste from his perch above, with a soft shake of his head he turned towards the fights themselves, Issei Hyoudou and Kiba Yuuto were fighting two unknowns. 'It doesn't seem to be too serious, the only one actually releasing any malice is Yuuto though it doesn't seem to be directed towards the blue haired girl he's fighting, odd.'
Silently he watched as the fights progressed, the blue haired girl was simply deflecting all of Yuuto's hate-filled blows, fighting with anger wasn't necessarily a bad thing but only if you channelled it and used it as strength, he was just throwing his emotions around haphazardly, he would never win like that.
The chestnut haired girl had just been avoiding letting Hyoudou's gauntlet touch her, it seemed like he was trying to use a technique that required physical contact but he couldn't hear too well.
Weighing the pros and cons he decided to move a little closer though he'd have to be careful, he noticed right away that the white-haired girl, Koneko Toujou had been scanning her surroundings quite frequently since his arrival, he'd heard that Nekomata had amazing sensory ability and thus she probably felt something but couldn't quite pinpoint him, then again not many people could stand in the air so she probably hadn't thought to look up.
"..You have a lecherous face Issei-kun, I wonder what you're thinking."
Now that she mentioned it, the Hyoudou boy really looked like a pervert with that grin and his nostrils flaring.
With a small flick of her wrist, she sent him backward creating space and giving Koneko a chance to step forward with something to say, "Please be careful. Ise-senpai has a technique that will destroy the clothing of any girl he touches."
Striking a dramatic pose the chestnut-haired girl replied, "What a disgusting technique, oh lord please forgive this sinful pervert!" even though the girl said that she didn't really look too put off by the idea if the blush on her cheeks were anything to go by, perhaps there was a history between the two? She didn't seem to be a pervert.
Issei was on his hands and knees begging Koneko to not look at him with such a sad gaze, 'Lose that damn technique and you probably wouldn't have such issue, dumbass.' Ichigo could help but facepalm as he watched the scene before him, 'Oi, am I dealing with a bunch of loons over here? Maybe I shouldn't have agreed to do this.'
Slowly this 'fight' continued on though Ichigo just sat there with a deadpan expression on his face. You had one guy whose anger was blinding him into fighting stupidly and the other was using perversion as a fuel for his power, and the worst part was that it actually seemed to be working!
Nonetheless, it seemed Issei was finally running low on energy and thus he made one last attempt which was actually pretty close, had the chestnut-haired girls agility been slightly worse he would've gotten her, but he didn't and as the Red Dragon sailed over her on a direct path for Asia and Koneko, Ichigo decided he had to step in.
"Bakudo #81, Danku," he whispered, seeing the translucent wall appear caused each of those below him to startle however their attention was quickly drawn to the pervert who had just smashed head first into it. With a small sadistic smirk, Ichigo turned and Shunpo'd away, he'd seen enough for now and he still wanted to familiarize himself with the town and his home before school started.
~ A/N:
There we go, this chapter was a lot longer than I originally planned but I can't really complain, Ichigo finally made it to the DXD side of things!
So there are a couple things I want to mention here, firstly that we see a sort of contradiction in this chapter. I keep talking about how Ichigo has matured, he's stronger mentally, he's ready to kill, yet the first time he actually does so he collapses and shuts down, however, this was a necessary thing for his growth. Its one thing to fortify yourself mentally to do something, but a completely different thing to actually do it. this was Ichigo's first taste of actually killing someone and the brutality that would occur with the fire he now wielded. he needed this to continue growing.
Secondly, I just want to clarify something with how Ichigo powers work in the DXD side of things. As you noticed when he arrived I had a line about how he was enveloped in flames and after the vanished his Shinigami garb and Zanpakuto were no longer present, that is how his powers will work on this side. Much like a Fullbring where you can equip and unequip your gear as you need it.
The thing to remember is that in DXD there is no soul form where only spiritually aware people can see you, in DXD everyone can see everyone and the powers they use. Ichigo is essentially in his soul form right now only everyone can see him be they human or not. Also, it's already been shown that people can summon outfits, just look at Akeno, she summons her Miko clothing when getting serious so I gave Ichigo something like that too.
Also a quick note about him using Danku which a very high-level Bakudo spell, don't worry, he isn't a Kido master by any stretch of the meaning yet, he literally only knows like three spells, a couple low-level destructive ones, and Danku, him and Ryujin have been solely focusing on training that one spell so Ichigo would have a strong defensive ability to complement his massive offensive powers.
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