Black Peninsula

by Vilmarix

"Chichi-Ue, could you tell me how you met Otou-San?" Byakuya asked as he snuggled into his father's embrace. Wrapping his arms around the boy, Sojun smiled fondly at the orange haired man sleeping beside them, "It all began…" Ichigo/Sojun, Koga/Sojun, Time Travel, AU, Mpreg, Mild Violence

7. Resolved Waves

Disclaimer: I own nothing

A/N: Thank you all for the reviews; and apologies for the delay in an update. I am pleased to see such appeal for this story and I would like to pass on some of the credits to 'Lilinoe', my wonderful beta, who obviously contributed towards its success.

Summery: "Chichi-Ue, could you tell me how you met Otou-san?" Byakuya asked as he snuggled into his father's embrace. Wrapping his arms around the boy, Sojun smiled fondly at the orange haired man sleeping beside them, "It all began…"

Warnings:

Time Travel

AU

Mpreg

Mild Violence

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Black Peninsula

VII. Resolved Waves

55.

Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez had very little in his life to regret. There were times he did make stupid mistakes; such trying to take bite out of Lilynette once and had his arse handed to him by Starrk and that time he tried to court Mila Rose, which resulted in him being violently interrogated by Tier Harribel. Unfortunate lapses of judgement, but nothing he would want to die over. When he actually gave it some thought, there hadn't been a single decision in his life where he desperately wished he had a second chance to change it. However, that changed when he took up his new position at this most recent form of employment.

Accepting Aizen's offer and becoming Arrancar had to be the best decision he had ever made to date, but it was also his worst. Nothing made him feel regret except when comparing his choice to become an Espada.

It had it perks and it did wonders to his pride, being ranked the 6th. Nevertheless when he realized his employer was a retarded insane dumb fuck, all Grimmjow wanted to do was send in his resignation. Unfortunately one couldn't do that with this kind of occupation, much to his annoyance. Being one of the Espada was all well and good, until Aizen had given Ulquiorra and himself a mission in the Seireitei. He didn't really pay attention to the details for that was the depressed bat's job, all he took from the briefing was that they had to kidnap this guy's mate and cub. He wasn't all that interested in the mission itself, since abduction wasn't his style or speciality; apparently he had to keep this 'Ichigo' guy busy, while Ulquiorra did the actual abducting.

It didn't seem so difficult; but breaking into the Seireitei was a bit daunting since he would be overwhelmed by Shinigami captains, and they were quite resilient from what he heard from Barragan's henchmen that survived their failed attempt of an invasion. Nonetheless Aizen told them to take as many Privaron Espada and Números as they wished. Grimmjow contemplated taking his fracción, but decided against it for he didn't want to risk their lives unnecessarily. All in all the mission seemed to be pretty straightforward, keep this Ichigo and the others preoccupied until the bat got his mate and cub. Nothing complicated and promised a good deal of violent fighting, just how he liked it.

However Aizen forgot to mention one tiny detail.

A minor detail like, this Ichigo wasn't a Shinigami, but an insanely powerful mix of everything.

At first when he engaged the red head in battle, Grimmjow thought his senses were muddled due to the environment of the Seireitei. However further into their battle, the arrancar realized that his senses were not lying to him. This being he was fighting had the reiatsu of a Shinigami, Human, Hollow and something else which was human like, but that didn't matter. What made him rethink this entire mission was this hybrid's reiatsu levels and the fact he had the signature of a Hollow. Throughout their entire fight, Grimmjow felt that the hybrid was treating it more of a spar and not as a battle. From what he had learnt about Shinigami, the male hadn't shouted a release neither did he have any special attacks. All he did was use the Shinigami version of Sonído and block attacks. Yet he still managed to keep up with Grimmjow effortlessly. The Espada did contemplate using his Resurrección, but decided against it since he didn't want the Shinigami to be aware of their abilities.

Another aspect that made him doubt this mission was, that the male had Hollow characteristics. It didn't matter what other spiritual signatures he possessed, Grimmjow didn't like abducting another Hollow's mate and cub. It wasn't his style and went against his personal code. He believed that if you wanted to threaten someone, you attack them directly not their family. It was a coward's method and it was dangerous. Sure you get them unhinged, but considering a Hollow it was steep gamble. He had seen sires literally go insane if their carriers and cubs were so much as intimidated, and gauging the hybrids power level; it was a bad idea waiting to happen. Hollows were far more sensitive to reiatsu when compared to the other races, and Grimmjow could practically feel the sleeping power within the red head.

He really didn't want to be anywhere near the crossfire when this shit blew over.

'But it was my fucking face he saw.' The Espada sighed unhappily at his predicament.

The red head was going to come to Las Noches, there was no doubt about that; and Grimmjow was pretty sure the hybrid was going to come after his arse first. Not that he was coward, but he knew when he was outmatched. He was brash not stupid. Which was why, when he felt the red head's very pissed off reiatsu a day later, Grimmjow seriously contemplated whether he should just run for his life, pride be damned.

The reiatsu that flooded Las Noches barely resembled what he sensed in the Seireitei. If he hadn't met and fought the hybrid beforehand, he would have thought that it was strangely overpowered berserker Hollow. Looking around, he could see the lower Números begin to shake with fear, those higher up the food chain would only tense up with their flight or fight responses kicking in. Grimmjow knew this was coming, but he didn't expect it to be so feral and malicious. The human markers that the hybrid possessed had been completely suppressed; from what he could feel out, the Hollow and Shinigami markers were at the forefront fighting for dominance.

Distractedly Grimmjow mused that if he wasn't part of this mess and had come across the hybrid in Hueco Mundo, he wouldn't have minded becoming a carrier for the red head's offspring. Not that he pictured himself as a carrier always; he thought himself as a sire more than a dam. It was clear the male was strong, much stronger than him and his offspring would be strong as well. He recalled the Hybrid's mate and found nothing special about him. He was easy on the eyes but apart from that Grimmjow couldn't sense anything remotely powerful from the Shinigami. The Shinigami mate did seem awfully protective of his cub, though the cub himself was at an age that didn't need to be coddled. If that was what attracted the hybrid and not power, he himself could have fit the build. Seeing the hybrid go so far for the retrieval of his mate, even after the cub had been borne and lived past his first decade, was appealing for Hollows who had even a remote desired to carry.

Following this train of thought, he recalled about century or so back; a rumour floating around, about a strange Vasto Lorde who looked after carriers who had been abandoned or had their sire killed. As per the rumours, the Vasto Lorde didn't ask for anything and provided them with protection, even going so far to protect the young of the weaker carrier Hollows. At the time he had been a newly evolved Adjucha, so creating a couple of cubs was the last thing on his mind. Plus, he stayed well away from carrying Hollows, because the protective instincts that reared up were too much of a hassle to deal with. Though much later he did meet another Adjucha, who was under the strange Vasto Lorde's protection when he was with a cub. He mentioned that the Vasto Lorde had orange hair and greatly resembled a human. The Hollow didn't have a visible hole or skull fragment, if it weren't for his reiatsu, they would have thought him a Shinigami.

It was odd for a Vasto Lorde to take care of carrying Hollows. Of all the classes, they had the most control over their instincts; so for this one to actively seek out and protect offspring that weren't his own, was an odd quirk. It reminded him of the hybrid, since it was obvious the cub wasn't his, one could tell from the cub's reiatsu composition, although it behaved similarly to his. Hinting that since it's conception the hybrid had been with contact with the cub.

'It's always the weirdos that are out to get me.' Grimmjow moaned to himself making his way to the centre field.

A rather terrified Numero had relayed to him that Aizen and his Shinigami lap dog were heading to world of the living with Barragan, Tier, Zommari, Yammy, their fracción, Wonderweiss and that disgusting pet of his. Apparently the rest of them were in change of keeping the hybrid occupied and Grimmjow felt a sense of déjà vu wash over him. Making his way to the centre field, they came up with a plan that that they would all attack him simultaneously. It wasn't Hollow like behaviour, since it would be like encroaching upon the same prey and none of them shared well. However the Hybrid's reiatsu did make them put aside their differences for once. Looking around at the group, Grimmjow notice Starrk and Nel were not present.

He remembered seeing Nel rushing towards Starrk's chambers with the Hybrid's cub in tow, but never really interfered for he wanted little to do with the Shinigami cub. So he assumed she was in charge of looking after the cub, and from Nnoitra's bitching, he found out that Starrk had taken charge of the mate. That's if he deciphered that bastard's speech correctly, after all he could hardly imagine that lazy wolf actually having the motivation to fuck anything, let alone a Shinigami. He also noticed since the Hybrid's mate and cub had arrived, he didn't see either Espada much. Not that Starrk was the social type, but he would normally see Lilynette running around the halls and Nel usually accompanying her. Nel had her fracción to guard the cub, even though they were stupid, they did manage to do the job; and no matter how unmotivated Starrk was he was Primera for a reason, so the mate escaping him would be virtually impossible. So it struck him as odd to consider them recluse, and from what he saw of the female Espada sonidoing with the cub to the Primera's chambers, he couldn't help but wonder if something was amiss.

"Curiosity killed the cat." He finally reasoned out and picked a spot to wait until their guest made an appearance.

They didn't have to wait long.

With an explosion, the Hybrid arrived to the area where they gathered, and everyone stilled. His long orange hair flowing freely behind him, he stood surrounded by Espada, their fracción, Privaron Espada and some high level Números. The air around them thickened with warring reiatsu, each individual spiking it for dominance. Nobody said a word as they merely assessed one another. Grimmjow noticed that the Hybrid's appearance had changed. His outfit wasn't the usual Shinigami uniform and instead wore a black trench coat and hakama. Even his zanpakuto pair had changed shape from a Khyber and Trench knife to a solid black Nodachi and Katana respectively; but what unnerved him the most was the red head's eyes. Previously the amber had held some form of amusement and some form of emotion, right now they were blank. Like those who had only one goal in mind and everything else around them was not worth paying attention to. He had seen that look before, mostly in those who would literally cut down everything in their path.

Like many others in the arena Grimmjow figured the Hybrid had released his blade and was ready to attack; so in turn they all activated their Resurrección.

Though they were all poised to attack, nobody moved. Everyone was watching the Hybrid and he stood perfectly still, not showing a single sign of emotion. Grimmjow hated this type of opponent, you couldn't read them in battle, which was why he and the bat never got along.

Clearly tired of waiting, Nnoitra yelled at the male, "Hey are you going to freeze up like your bitch when we raped his arse?" With his maniac laughter, "You should have seen how the brat cried when it happened."

'Are you out of your fucking mind?' Grimmjow yelled in his mind, not taking his eyes of his opponent.

'Should not have done that.' The panther thought, last thing they needed was to agitate their already enraged opponent. 'Should. Not. Have. Done. That.' If Nnoitra and he lived after this, he was personally going to end that insect's life.

The male's reiatsu stilled and then completely disappeared, eye's flashing yellow a sudden burst of spiritual energy shot up around the hybrid, far more potent and malevolent than he had ever felt before. Grimmjow could feel the Shinigami markers completely disappear leaving them with a thick animalistic Hollow reiatsu. They all watched as a mask formed on his face and a Hollow hole opened in his chest as the trench coat was blown away by the torrent of reiatsu leaving him bare. Markings appeared on the pectorals of his lightened skin, and tuffs of red fur grew around his wrists, ankles and neck. When the burst of spiritual energy died down, the Hybrid let out a reptilian hiss.

From this moment, Grimmjow knew they were up against something that had no reasoning and would just destroy everything in its path. Clenching his first and gritting his teeth, he fell back into stance. They had awakened a beast that shouldn't exist in the first place. Hoping that he would somehow survive this battle and cursing the circumstance that led to it, he attacked along with the rest of the group.

Next time some crazed genius offered him power, he was going to tell them to fuck off. Eating hollows and evolving the old fashioned way worked just fine.

56.

Sojun flinched and clutched Byakuya to his chest, who whimpered unintentionally. Even with the collar they were able to feel the reiatsu that had flooded the air. It was far from the, vibrant and fearless nature of Ichigo's they were feeling just moments in prior. The spiritual energy was dark, violent and feral. Only thing it had in common with Ichigo's reiatsu signature, was the sheer sense of power that seemed to flow through the air. It was almost difficult to breath, due to the sheer oppressing nature, but having being in constant contact with Ichigo both Kuchiki males had built some form of tolerance. However unlike calm and soothing nature Ichigo's spiritual energy normally contained, it had been replaced with something far more malicious and fearsome. It was almost as if it were someone else altogether.

"Chichi-Ue, is that Otou-San?" Byakuya whispered, trying to keep the tremble out of his voice. If it were appropriate Sojun would have applauded him, for him to show this much courage facing such dark reiatsu was admirable.

"It appears to be." He answered, pulling his son into a tight embrace. Since his reiatsu was sealed by the collar around his neck, it was impossible for him to provide some comfort to the boy by cloaking him with his spiritual energy.

"Appears?" Their Espada guard repeated, waking up from his slumber. However Sojun knew the male was awake from the moment they felt the change in reiatsu, for his sleeping form had remained perfectly still. Nel had left them earlier to retrieve her fracción and place them in a safe area. "It is your mate, and he is highly displeased at the moment."

"How would you know?" Sojun asked eyeing Stark. The thought of the Arrancar knowing Ichigo on a more personal level, didn't sit well with him.

Lilynette was being uncharacteristically silent and still, looking in the direction of the window, "Stark, I've felt this reiatsu before." She said clutching his white uniform tightly.

He hummed in response, "You were still very young when it happened." The Primera glanced at the Shinigami and child huddled on the bed, "As I mentioned before, Ichigo helped me once before." Looking out the window, "That was a lie."

Sojun narrowed his eyes and tightened his hold on Byakuya, who looked up at him in confusion. He was still too young to understand the possible implications of that admission.

"Your mate had aided me twice before." Stark continued as he laid a hand on Lilynette helmet. "The first, was teaching me to control my reiatsu, as you know." Glancing down at the smaller Arrancar, "The second, was when he saved Lilynette's life."

Relaxing his posture, but not his guard he nodded to the Espada to continue his tale, "I am a natural born arrancar, my power hadn't stabilized yet leaving her and me incapacitated for periods of time back when the split first happened. During one of these moments, she had been abducted and about to be raped by Barragan's fracción." Seeing Sojun's look of disbelief, "Females are rare in Hueco Mundo, especially those at Lilynette's power level and above. They can carry larger litters to full term, so that combination is much desirable amongst the Hollow community who want many strong offspring." Clicking his tongue in annoyance, "Thankfully, Ichigo was there at the time, and as an instinctual reaction to his anger, Ichigo turned into what you are sensing right now." Pausing for a moment, to read the reiatsu, "Well, he is angrier now than he was before."

"I'm sorry but I do not follow." Sojun interrupted, "I am familiar with Ichigo's reiatsu, and his hollow reiatsu; but this is far more…" He trailed off trying to find an appropriate word to describe the spiritual energy.

"Ruthless? Brutal? Malevolent?" Stark supplied. Although the older Kuchiki didn't nod his head his silence indicated his reluctant agreement.

Letting out a heavy sigh, Stark made his way towards the bed and Sojun unconsciously leaned back. "You consider him your mate, yet you know nothing about him."

Fear forgotten momentarily, Sojun snapped at the Primera in anger, "I'm waiting for him to trust me to tell me things, I don't pry."

"Never said that you did." The Espada replied with amusement, "However this isn't something he would tell, even if he trusted you with his life."

Seeing the Shinigami's controlled fury but reluctant curiosity, Stark explained, "Ichigo's status as a hybrid is very volatile. If you notice, his reiatsu would slightly shift as per the race he interacts with. With us it take on more Hollow characteristics, and with Humans it adopts more human markers. Although the mixed characteristics are always present; depending on the race he interacts with his reiatsu would unconsciously highlight the similar markers." Sojun nodded recalling their first encounter on how Ichigo used his Hollow reiatsu to frighten off the invading souls. "Although he has significant control over his reiatsu, due to its volatile nature it leads to certain transformations under great emotional stress."

"What do you mean?"

"What I mean is, that your mate is very angry, Shinigami." Stark clipped, uncertainty leaked into his tone as he felt another wave of Ichigo's darker reiatsu, "You and your offspring's abduction obviously angered him; but I am sure a provocation said by the other arrancar about your wellbeing has snapped his already tenuous control." Taking a deep breath to calm himself, "So when you meet him, he won't be the Ichigo you know."

"Are you implying my husband has somehow turned into some kind of monster?"

"Not implying, but informing."

"How dare you?" Sojun snapped in anger, the stress of the situation finally eating away his famous Kuchiki control, "Ichigo is good man, regardless of what he is." Pointing his glare at Stark, "You said it yourself, he transformed due to the abduction of your child and saved her. So what if he loses his control? He still has enough control to not harm your daughter, although you say he has turned into some mindless beast. He has been my husband for over a century and not once, no matter the situation, has he ever let his emotions best him."

The Kuchiki stopped his rant when he saw the Espada smile, "Good." Stark remarked, "Remember that when he comes for you." He picked up the green haired girl and began walking towards the exit.

"Why are you leaving?"

"If I stay here with you when your mate is in that mentality, I would be his enemy no matter the history we share." Starrk looked at the slightly shivering girl in his embrace, "Nel and I will not return to this room until he has calmed; which is something only you and your cub could do."

"Don't be frightened, we will be waiting outside." Turning on his heel and walking towards the door with Lilynette in his arms, "Like you said Ichigo is a good man, and judging by how angry he is about your abduction, a good mate as well."

57.

'It seems that there is a limit to how much reiatsu the collar can suppress from the outside.' Sojun realized when he felt the violent reiatsu approaching the chambers in which they resided. Byakuya shifted closer to him and he tightened his hold on the child. When they felt the other reiatsu signatures all but disappear, he knew that Ichigo had won the battle. Though majority of the spiritual pressure was muted he could follow what had taken place, with every spike of his husband's, one reiatsu signature would disappear. Their owner could either be knocked out, or simply dead. From what he had been told by Starrk, Sojun had a feeling it was the latter. There was nothing forgiving or tolerant in the way Ichigo's reiatsu felt.

Hearing the door slide open, he steeled his resolve and watched unblinkingly as the figure entered.

Long orange hair fell to his waist. His skin was white and his clothes were in tatters. All he had on was his hakama, in which one pant leg was mostly missing. There was a hollow hole in the center of his chest with rippling black markings leading from it arching across his upper torso. Red fur covered his ankles, wrists and neck, and each hand gripped a solid black blade. His entire body was covered in blood and the red liquid dripped from each sword. Sojun could see that that the male didn't have a single cut on his body. Either he had instant regeneration or none of that was his. Either way there was one thing certain.

It was Ichigo.

With a hollow mask.

Sojun remembered Ichigo telling him that the hollowfied shinigami were now able to use hollow techniques and wear masks. However he had a feeling that their masks wouldn't be like what was in front of him. There wasn't a single bit of humanity or recognition behind those golden eyes, it seemed that Ichigo had been reduced to a creature of pure instinct. With horns pointing outwards from the skull mask, could help but think, 'He really does looks like a demon.'

"Ichigo is good man, regardless of what he is."

His words rung in his head repeatedly as he watched the male approach him. Breathing deeply to calm his anxiety, Sojun slowly stood up when Ichigo stood a foot away from him. Placing Byakuya by his side and an arm around him, the Kuchiki stared fearlessly back into the eyes behind the mask. They stood there staring at each other for a moment, and Ichigo released a reptilian hiss making Sojun use all his will power not to show any reaction to the sudden sound. Hesitantly gathering his courage, Sojun reached out slowly, making sure his every movement could be seen, to touch the mask. There was no movement from the taller male, as his fingers touched the bone. Once his palm was fully placed against the side of cheek of the white cold mask, Sojun whispered breathlessly.

"Ichigo…"

With that he felt the oppressive reiatsu calm down gradually and wisps of white started to fly off the male's body. Slowly Ichigo's natural skin color was revealed, the hole on his chest closed and, the red fur and hair receded into his body. Once those features disappeared, Sojun heard the clatter of the man's blades falling on the floor and reverting back to their original forms. Not breaking eye contact or withdrawing his hand, Sojun watched as Ichigo reached upwards to place his larger palm on top of his. Both Kuchikis watched as cracks began to form on the mask and slowly fall off the males face. Little by little, Sojun and Byakuya began to see his face under the mask. Ichigo had his eyes closed, but his expression was peaceful. His reiatsu had calmed into that familiar sense of protection and safety. Slowly opening his eyes, Sojun saw the black in sclera and yellow in his irises fade into their natural colour. Once all the changes had finished, Ichigo let out one of his warm smiles that he showed only them.

"Sorry if I'm a bit late." His voice was deep and rough.

"It's fine." Sojun replied trying to swallow the emotion that had lodged in his throat. "You're here now." His voice was cracking and his eyes were becoming wet.

Ichigo immediately grabbed the collar around his neck and ripped it apart. Doing the same with Byakuya, who in returned embraced his father tearfully. Without the collar, Sojun could feel Ichigo's earlier somewhat muffled reiatsu now thrumming around the room powerfully. It reminded him of when Koga had been alive and the red head would use his reiatsu to comfort both babe and himself. Sojun could sense Byakuya's reiatsu instinctively reach out for Ichigo's and entwining with it in relief. His husband hummed and stoke his son's head as he curled his spiritual energy around the boy, allowing the child to slowly relax in his arms. Once the teen had settled, Ichigo rose from his previous crouched position, still having Byakuya's arms wrapped around his waist, and stared at him directly. A palm resting on Byakuya's head, Ichigo reached out for Sojun, pulling him into his embrace.

"Sojun…" He murmured, as he leant closer to kiss the Kuchiki.

Realizing what his husband was going to do, Sojun immediately place a hand on Ichigo's lips. He could still taste Aizen's release on his tongue, and he couldn't bring himself to kiss the male with that on his mind. The humiliation and shame was such that he couldn't even bring himself to look the red head in the eyes. Trembling slightly, Sojun muttered a simple, "I can't."

He watched Ichigo, remove his hand resting on Byakuya, and used it to tilt his chin upwards while his free arm curled around him, drawing him even closer. Though he didn't attempt to struggle in his husband's arms, Sojun could feel the amount of hidden strength in them. Hesitantly lifting his face, he saw the saddest smile on his husband's face, making his heart clench in pain.

"I know." Ichigo whispered, "I can faintly sense his reiatsu on you."

Sojun closed his eyes, trying to hide the shame that flooded his entire body. Feeling tears welling up behind his closed eyelids, he lowered his head, "I'm sorry."

Instantly he felt the grip tighten and his head was tilted up again roughly. Before he knew what was happening, Sojun felt Ichigo's lips on his with a bruising force. Though he tried to push the man away initially, he couldn't help but unconsciously melt into the kiss. It was rougher than what he had ever experienced. The way Ichigo's tongue dived into his mouth, feeling every inch of it with explicit possessiveness. Breaking away for air, Sojun breathlessly stared back at the larger male. His eyes were constantly changing from amber to gold and his reiatsu thrummed and swirled violently around the room. Placing a palm on his slightly bruised cheek and gently stroking it while sending a wave of healing Kaido, Ichigo whispered, "Never, ever apologize for something like that." Calming himself, his irises settling on their usual warm brown, "It is not your fault."

Placing his hand on Ichigo's, Sojun closed his eyes again. However he could still feel the traitorous tears sliding down his face. Feeling his face being cupped by strong hands, Sojun shuddered as Ichigo began kiss them away. Feeling the soft tongue slide across his cheeks as he remained in his spouse's arms, the memories of the tall arrancar and Aizen lost much of their sting. Kissing his wet eyelids, Sojun opened his eyes and shakily let out a smile and timidly leaned forward to capture Ichigo into a kiss. Soon as he felt the man's tongue enter his mouth once again, Sojun yielded to the dominance his husband displayed. This time the kiss wasn't as possessive or as rough, but it did have the undertones of neediness from both of them. Sinking into the larger males arms with his palms on Ichigo's hard toned chest, Sojun allowed himself to fall into the cocoon of safety and protection. Once they pulled apart, he rested his head against his husband chest, and listened to the rhythmic steady beat of Ichigo's heart.

Feeling the man rest his chin on his head, Sojun explained tiredly, "Despite my appearance, they didn't get very far." His uniform was barely on him and he hadn't tried to fix it because so much was happening in such a small time frame, taking up his attention. "Byakuya saved me." He smiled looking down at the teen, who blushed shyly at the praise before turning his attention to his other father.

"I'm proud of you." Ichigo stated smiling with paternal pride, "I always knew, I could count on you to look after Chichi-Ue."

Byakuya turned a deep shade of red, as he burrowed deeper into his parents' embrace, "I didn't do anything."

"But you are the one who brought the reinforcements." Ichigo countered, "I can sense the lingering presence of Starrk and Nel in the room."

Upon mention of their names, the two Espada made their appearance.

Not releasing his hold on his family, Ichigo nodded and greeted them, "It's been a while. Starrk. Nel. Lilynette."

"Likewise." Starrk responded with a small nod. Lilynette waved and Nel bowed.

"Forgive me Ichigo-Sama, but at the time I wasn't aware the cub was yours and I had to take him away from your mate." Nel blurted out, clearly flustered and anxious about the entire situation.

"You have to stop calling me that." Ichigo chuckled, "Frankly I am glad Byakuya landed in your hands."

"Yes." She agreed nodding her head vigorously, "I assumed that it is because, Aizen wanted someone with adequate power to watch him without needing to cause unnecessary harm to your cub."

Ichigo hummed in response, tightening his hold. "Either way, thank you."

All three arrancar nodded in acknowledgment, before Starrk spoke up again, "What is your next course of action?"

58.

The plan was that Nel would remain in Hueco Mundo and clean up the mess he made, while Starrk and Lilynette would accompany him to the Fake Karakura Town. Ichigo had spoken to Urahara and subtly guided the blondes thinking to Aizen's plan of sacrificing one hundred thousand souls in half a spirit mile to make The Ōken. Then placed in the suggestion of making a fake town, once the captain deduced that Karakura was the only geographical location in the Living World that fit that specification. It had taken time, and his normal patient manner had diminished leaving him with burning rage when he found out Sojun and Byakuya had been taken. It was the voices of his sword spirits that kept him from acting rashly, and forcing his control.

"You are going to Hueco Mundo alone?" Urahara asked with disbelief, "I know you are strong, but to take on an army by yourself is just daft."

"I won't be taking on the entire army." Ichigo corrected flexing his tensed muscles, his hollow instincts were calling for blood. His darker side was scorned at the mere thought that someone dared to touch his mate and cub; and it wanted revenge. "There is nothing to gain from taking Sojun and Byakuya, other than focusing our attention on retrieving them. This would leave the Living World defenseless. I will go alone to retrieve them, the rest of you will defend Karakura Town."

"But even if there was a fraction of the forces remaining in Hueco Mundo, going alone is suicide."

"It is my husband and child that bastard has taken." Ichigo stated harshly, letting some of the raw rage he had contained out, making Urahara, Yoruichi and Visoreds flinch. Quickly reigning his wrath, "I was living in Hueco Mundo for a long time, I have quite a few allies in that world."

No one said anything but only nodded in acquiescence.

Ichigo let out a sigh. His anger was barely controllable when he first arrived to Las Noches, but once he heard Nnoitra's jeer, the string that was holding that wrath back snapped. He didn't remember much of it, but there were flashes. He didn't hold back at all, every arrancar that approached was cut down like an animal. Sometimes he didn't even use his swords, ripping them apart with his bare hands. There was no pity or mercy in his mind or heart. He wanted retribution. He wanted those insects to understand what it meant to touch what was his. Ichigo swallowed down some bile that made to his throat. It was nauseating to remember that feral glee that flooded his system as he tore apart target after target. He remembered taking his time with that mantis, Nnoitra. Breaking and ripping arm after arm, making sure everything he did was painful. Ichigo recalled tearing the male's tongue out of his mouth and hearing the arrancar's scream. Apparently the pink haired Espada was the male's mate and had tried to save him, but Ichigo mercilessly tore him apart before he could even strike with his Resurrección.

It was a bloodbath and a thrill of pleasure had flown through his body knowing those who dared to touch his mate were nothing but a mess of blood and organs. Ichigo remembered finding a beaten up Grimmjow by a boulder. The feline had managed to avoid most of his rampage and survive. Maybe because his hollow side did haves some warped bond with the cat that it didn't want to tear the Espada apart, but wanted to slice the male's neck instead. However as he raised his sword for the kill, the panther rolled on his side as sign of submission.

"Wait." Grimmjow rasped, coughing out some blood. "I can take you to your mate and cub."

Ichigo applauded the male's quick thinking for that immediately stopped his hollow side from killing him off. Only to tilt the male's chin with his nodachi. Watching the Espada crawl on to all fours and crawl slowly towards one of the exits. Following behind the cat, he was lead to door and then the Espada slumped on the floor, gasping out "In there." Before passing out cold on the floor outside. Due to that, Ichigo had allowed the arrancar to live. He remember sensing the remains of Nel's, Starrk and Lilynette's reiatsu signature and snarling at that. However once he had stepped into the room and seeing Sojun and Byakuya huddled together on the futon, his rage immediately quieted down.

He could sense the fear from them, but when Sojun stood up and met his gaze defiantly, his hollow growled in approval. Byakuya had also been staring at him, frightened but determined. Ichigo was ashamed of this form, it only happened when he lost control and turned into a creature of animal instinct. He wanted to hide in shame and disappear, but a palm on his face stopped him from moving away. He remember being shocked when he heard his husband call out his name, and the Hollow within him began to retreat. Taking control of the transformation back to human, he could feel the sense of happiness that took over him.

Breaking those infernal collars he pumped out much of his reiatsu to fill the room, he wanted to wash them from any effects of feeling his hollow spiritual energy and mark them as his. Bringing Sojun closer he could sense what had to have happened and his Hollow rumbled again with rage. Ichigo squashed it down promising retribution, after he had calmed and reassured his mate and child. Kissing Sojun was first to rid the man from any thoughts he might have conjured up thinking that Ichigo no longer desired him. However it then turned into possessiveness. Ichigo wanted to remove all traces of that brown speck of dirt that dared to dirty what was his. Being aware of his son watching the whole ordeal he retrained himself to keeping his action inexplicit as possible. It had been difficult, but seeing Sojun's tears had distracted him from all the claiming he wanted to do, and focused his mind into obliterating Aizen.

Much as he desired to reduce that man in nothing but ashes or dust. Ichigo knew by now he should have reached immortality, and much to his reluctance, he knew they would need his assistance when Yhwach made his appearance. The only silver lining to this situation was that he would be able to beat the wannabe god without having to worry about holding back. Being pressed for time, the plan was to go straight to the Fake Karakura town with Sojun and Byakuya; since making the trip to Soul Society and then to where the rest of the troops were would be too time consuming. Starrk had agreed to come along with them to provide protection for Sojun and Byakuya, while Ichigo himself would be busy driving Aizen into the ground.

Nel had agreed to remain at Hueco Mundo and clean up. Carrying the wounded Grimmjow away to her chambers and bringing Pesche and Dondochakka back out. Back in his universe he always though the Nel was the youngest from her mannerism, just exceptionally strong to be an Espada. However when he arrived to Hueco Mundo about two and half centuries ago, he was surprised to see her in human form heavily pregnant and running away from a pack of adjuchas. Considering she was the original Tres Espada in his universe, and he knew Starrk, Barragan and Ulquiorra were natural arrancar so it would have made sense she was a natural as well. However being the mother of her fraccións caught him off guard, but it would explain the unnatural loyalty they had for her in his world.

When she brought out her children, Ichigo immediately realized what had transpired. The two younger arrancar's reiatsu was fluctuating wildly and never remained stable. Arrancar's that have been made with the effects of the Hogyoku needed their mask piece to control their power, since they didn't evolve naturally. Normally through hollow evolution, arrancar could only be possible after reaching Vasto Lorde, for that is when the hollows body has stabilized allowing the shift. Those who were transformed prematurely with the help of the Hogyoku were stable, but dependent on the mask fragment to balance the scale of hollow and shinigami reiatsu. Ichigo smiled sadly at the two, apparently Nnoitra and Szayelaporro still managed to cause them harm, but at least Nel had been spared this time.

Though she never said anything, Ichigo could see the helpless pleading in her eyes. Too afraid to ask in case he said no, but the mother in her desperately wanted her children back. Removing the mask would cause the Shinigami part of their power to overpower the hollow part, throwing the delicate balance off. Since they were originally hollows, the out of control shinigami energy was causing them to become unstable. Therefore, in theory, if he flooded them with his hollow reiatsu it should put them back into balance. Nonetheless Ichigo wasn't Urahara or Kurotsuchi therefor couldn't accurately predict things like this; he was the type who went on instinct. "I cannot promise you anything." Ichigo told her and she nodded with barely contained anticipation. Placing a hand on each arrancar, he closed his eyes and focused on pulling on his hollow reiatsu and sending it out of his palms. After all these years his control was still crap.

After he felt the reiatsu drained from him, Ichigo opened his eyes when he heard Nel's startled gasp. Beneath his palms Pesche's and Dondochakka's masks were cracking and falling away, revealing their humanoid faces underneath. Their mask pieces reformed and their reiatsu had stopped fluctuating and had settled down. Both fraccións gradually open their eyes and took in their surroundings with uncharacteristic quietness. When their eyes fell on Nel, both of them in unison said the one word that she had been longing to hear for decades.

"Mamá."

Nel choked on a sob, tears running down her face, "Mis bebés" she replied tearfully, opening her arms to welcome them in an embrace; which they instantly ran into.

Smiling the rest of them left her and her fraccións, giving them some privacy.

59.

Wrapping his arms around Ichigo's neck, Sojun breathed in the scent of his husband as they flashed through the garganta. His son was being carried by Starrk and Lilynette was using sonido beside them. After seeing the rather human like behaviour from Nel with her children, he had begun to understand that all Hollows are not mindless animals and had a sense of love and caring. From the way Starrk displayed his loyalty towards Ichigo, it was disheartening to see the prejudice and bigotry displayed by those in Soul Society. Resting his head against his husband's shoulder Sojun allowed his mind to wander idly. Ichigo had indirectly refused to let him go or wander out of his sight since they reunited in Las Noches. From the way he was being carried, Sojun could tell he wasn't the only one desperate for the other's touch.

Ichigo had informed him of the plan; that they were heading towards a Fake Karakura Town instead of the Seireitei. He was little apprehensive about bringing Byakuya along, but if the battle had begun the moment Aizen had left his chambers, there wasn't time to waste. He cursed the fact that his zanpakuto wasn't with him, but from the deterioration of his health all he would be able to do was to throw some high level Kido or heal. He remembered an idle comment made by his father, that if he hadn't been the eldest of his siblings he would have been able to join the Fourth. He was exceptionally talented in Kido and his passive nature was ideal for the environment of healing; sadly his position in society prevented him from following what he was more suited for.

When they jumped out of the garganta, Sojun gasped.

The entire place seemed to have been through an apocalypse. Buildings were reduced to rubble and of the structures that were still standing, most had large chunks missing. The air was thick with reiatsu, and bodies littered the ground. Looking at his son in the arrancar's arms, he cringed. His child was far too young to be seeing the horrors of war, but he was training to be a Shinigami. This was going to be a part of his life. Sojun sighed with resignation; he finally understood why his father tried as hard as he could for him to remain a simple nobleman and not join as a member of the Gotei Thirteen.

They shunpoed to one of the remaining buildings that had remained standing against the disaster of battle. It was filled with the injured and Unohana-Taicho was currently healing the Twelfth Division lieutenant. Those who had some semblance of consciousness and strength, had drawn their sword. However didn't attack because Byakuya was in the arrancar's arms and was being accompanied by both his parents. Once Ichigo and Starrk had gently put them down, Sojun immediately ran towards the healer captain asking where he could be of help, with his son by his side. Ichigo was already in a discussion with the other captains, introducing Starrk and Lilynette to them.

"What has happened so far?" Ichigo asked Kyoraku-Taicho who was sitting beside an unconscious Ukitake-Taicho

"Yama-Jiji, and Ginrei are currently battling Aizen, while we heal and protect the wounded."

"The senior citizens are doing all the grunt work?"

An amused snort was let out by the Hirako-Taicho, "Hardly, we ended up like this from getting rid of the cannon fodder." Wincing slightly, "Aizen has fused with the Hogyoku, so he kinda did a number on us.

"The idea is to make the Hogyoku reject him by beating him repeatedly." Urahara-Taicho jumped in. "But that would only separate him from the orb. Once he is parted from it, we should be able to seal him."

Ichigo remained silent and nodded. He still remembered the time he crossed blades with Aizen from his world and feeling that sense of bone-deep crippling loneliness from the blade. He didn't think that Aizen was actually rejected by the Hogyoku but his true desire was to find someone who could defeat him, "Where is the old fart and Ginrei?" Looking around, "Their reiatsu is everywhere."

At that moment, Sasakibe-Fukutaicho shunpoed to the rooftop with a severely wounded Ginrei.

"Otou-Sama!" Sojun called running to his side, trying to assess the damage.

His father stirred awake and weakly opened his eyes staring at him, reaching out slowly, he felt the man's palm against his face. "It's seems you are alright." He rasped out, causing him to cough out blood. Unohana-Taicho appeared to his side and began to heal him. Once his father calmed down, he turned his head towards, Ichigo he smiled faintly, "35.79 hours. Not bad."

"I keep my promises." His husband replied.

"Good." Ginrei replied losing consciousness, spurring Sojun to panic. However the initial assessment from the Fourth Division Captain calmed him by informing him that his father was in critical condition but not beyond saving. Once basic first aid was completed, they immediately arranged for back up and summoned a Senkaimon to call additional Fourth Squad members to transport those who were unconscious.

As this was taking place, the first division lieutenant, addressed Ichigo, "Soutaicho and Aizen are heading this way, he wanted to keep Aizen from the wounded until they were stabilized. Kuchiki-Taicho managed to defeat Kaname Tosen before I brought him here." Taking a breath to calm himself, "Aizen initially sensed your arrival and the traitor stated he has some personal business to settle with you, so he immediately charged in your direction. However Soutaicho is occupying him at the moment, buying you some time."

Ichigo nodded in understanding and thanked the man, turning his attention to Starrk and Lilynette, "You know what to do. Don't hold back." The male hummed in response and drew his sword. Placing a hand over the girl's head and with a flare of reiatsu, she disappeared in a puff of smoke. When the smoke dissipated, they all gasped with apprehension. The arrancar's uniform changed and an ornate pistol was held in each hand.

"Don't tell us what to do, Ichi-Nii." Sojun blinked in confusion as he heard the little girl's voice coming from one of the pistols.

Flicking the mouth of the barrel, Ichigo replied, "Then you better do a good job."

"I will." She replied boastfully, "It's the lazy mutt who wouldn't."

"You are part of that lazy mutt brat." Starrk replied, placing one of the pistols in his holster and whacked the barrel earning a sharp cry. It was an odd sight to see the arrancar spank a gun, and hearing the weapon beg forgiveness.

The light mood immediately disappeared once they felt a thunderous clash of reiatsu spiking through the atmosphere. The air felt drier and his throat began to feel parched. Seeing those enormous flames burn through the air, Sojun along with the others watched the Head Captain battle the enemy. If he hadn't become accustomed to Ichigo's high reiatsu output over the years, he would have felt crushed by the sheer pressure like Byakuya had. Pulling the teen into his arms and cloaking him with spiritual energy he could feel his son relax and his breathing return to normal. Once the two had exchanged blows, Aizen stopped and turned his attention to them.

"He turned himself into a fucking butterfly?" Hirako-Taicho muttered under his breath, giving voice to everyone's thoughts. This new form bore almost no resemblance to the man they all once knew. A hollow hole in the centre of his chest with a cross running across it. His irises and eyebrows vanished along with the lock of hair that hung in front of his face. Embedded in his forehead was a diamond shape object.

"I see you have betrayed me, Starrk." The megalomaniac stated with a bored tone.

"I wasn't on your side to betray you." The Primera answered causally, "But it is amusing to hear that come from you."

Aizen remained silent and stilled, Yamamoto-Soutaicho also kept his guard up but didn't attack. Finally after a few tense moments, "Ichigo." He called out. "I believe I have a score to settle with you."

"Do you now?" Ichigo lazily replied, but the hold on his blades was firm.

"This fourth evolution will jog your memory."

"That an interesting power you got there." Ichigo began to spike his reiatsu, "Should have used it on Yama-Jiji; the old geezer tends to forget a lot of things."

"Shut up, Brat." The Head Captain dispelled his flames and sheathed his sword, "Keep your smart-ass comments for later."

"It's part of my charm." He replied, letting his grin turn a little mad. "You know-"

"Ahhh, Sojun."Aizen interrupted, focusing his attention on the Kuchiki, "Seeing you is always a pleasant surprise. After this I hope to carry on where we left off."

Before anyone could reply, everyone stilled feeling a surge of spiritual energy flood the area. Black and blood red spiritual energy flared and flickered angrily around him. Sojun and Byakuya shivered; though they had felt it before, it wasn't something one could simply grow accustomed to. Even Starrk shifted uneasily and the Visoreds became a little more docile. Although it wasn't as animalistic as when they were in Hueco Mundo, it was malicious.

"I will make you regret saying that." Ichigo promised, his voice taking a darker note.

60.

Everyone watched the battle anxiously. The fight was on a completely different level. Aizen could teleport on top of having instant regeneration and enhanced strength. Yet Ichigo was able to overwhelm him. They were aware that the red head's speed was clearly in a class of it's own, with his bankai it was beyond even that. He was moving so fast that, even with his teleportation Aizen could not keep up. Despite the obvious turbulent spiritual energies swirling around the combatants, Sojun noticed they were holding back, not releasing any energy attacks or special techniques. Eventually they both stopped because no matter the damage inflicted upon Aizen, he would regenerate.

"Let's speed things up a bit." Ichigo announced and a figure began to materialize beside him. Shock settled over the group when they realized who it was. However Sojun secretly smiled.

As they were running across the spiritual pathway between dimensions, Ichigo made an unexpected confession to him.

"I know this is a little late, but it's better late than never." He began, not looking at him but focusing on constructingthe reishi platform which they were running on. "During my fight with Koga, his zanpakuto spirit had entered my mind. When I ended Koga's life, I thought Muramasa had disappeared as well. However I found out later that the spirit had bonded with my soul."

Sojun was about to respond but Ichigo cut him off, "I know I should have spoken to you about it earlier, but I didn't know how to bring the topic up." He explained guiltily, "I didn't want to upset you, since none of your memories of Koga were pleasant. I would have preferred not to speak about it, but in this coming fight I might have to use some of Muramasa's abilities and I didn't want you to be in the dark about it."

There was a moment of silence in which Sojun gathered his thoughts, "Thank you for telling me." He smiled, secretly enjoying the surprise in Ichigo's face, "However you seem to beforgetting that a Zanpakuto Spirit is part of their shinigami's soul. The Muramasa that Koga wielded is not the same Muramasa you have. Although they are similar, they are not the same." Ichigo embraced him tighter but said nothing.

"You really should stop worrying about me." Sojun added a little later.

"That is one thing I cannot do."

"Muramasa, hold him." Ichigo commanded, and the sword spirit nodded and used his spiritual threads to grasp Aizen.

"Interesting ability you have there." Aizen commented fascinated.

Ichigo had been gradually pushing his opponent over a nearby visible body of water for the sword spirit's technique to work. Ichigo knew he had only a small window of opportunity before Aizen figured out the trick. Channelling his rage and reiatsu into his diasho pair he released his attack in a cross.

"Getsuga Jujisho."

As the energy crackled away, he glanced at Muramasa and smiled in thanks, the zanpakuto spirit return the smile before disappearing back into his inner world. Now all he had to do was to wait for Aizen to evolve into his 'Final Evolution'. He didn't have to wait as long, because apparently Aizen was far more enraged than he had been in his universe. Ichigo also noticed the Hogyoku felt weaker than what he remembered, then he recalled Urahara telling him that Aizen had fed his Hogyoku to the one he created, strengthening it's power. Since he had destroyed one, the orb currently used by Aizen was limited and not as strong as the one in his universe.

Reminded on how disgusting the man looked when he reached his final form, Ichigo decided to summon his mask. He could feel Zangetsu thrum with excitement and even Ossan perked up. When Aizen had finished his monologue, he charged. Using his Blut Vene as a defense he began ruthlessly attacking the shinigami traitor. In the course of the flurry of his attacks, Ichigo lost sight of Aizen and saw him teleport near Sojun and Byakuya. Thankfully Starrk had charged his gun to fire a set of Cero Metralleta, enough to distract Aizen from them, until Ichigo pushed him away. His hollow side surged with anger at the site of his prey approaching his mate and cub. Letting out a hiss, Ichigo used that rage to increase the power behind his strikes. Aizen tried to use his favourite Kido attack, Hado 90 Kurohitsugi, but Ichigo shattered it and sent another flurry of attacks.

Noticing the slight delay in Aizen's regeneration, since he had been taxing the energy of the Hogyoku, Ichigo once again focused all his remaining energy into his nodachi and swung the blade. This time his reiatsu lost it's red glow and became purely black. It was all his reiatsu mixed into one, with perfect balance from all four sources within him; Human, Shinigami, Hollow and Quincy. The attack mimicked the Saigo no Getsuga Tensho 'Mugetsu', with it's massive veil of black reiatsu slicing through the air towards it's target. Ichigo knew this was the last of his reserves and he didn't have any more spiritual energy left as his mask dispelled on its own. Unlike in his universe, he hadn't spent three months training in the precipice world to train and recover. Even though he was powerful, taking on all those arrancar in Hueco Mundo did tire him a bit.

'How nostalgic.' He thought, 'At least I won't lose my power this time.'

As expected Aizen regenerated but his power began to fade, Urahara realizing his cue, set off his sealing Kido 'Kyujurokkei Kakafumetsu'. Rods of flaring red reiatsu pierced the man, causing him to scream in anger and pain.

'It was a decent fight.' Ichigo thought, 'Although it is a pity I can't kill him. Yet'

Hearing the male scream at him and Urahara, Ichigo reached out and gripped the brunet by his hair pulling his head back and snarled darkly, "I told you I'd make you regret those words. You're lucky that I didn't tear out your tongue, like I did with a certain insect." Leaning down to whisper in his ear, "Touch my mate and cub again, or even look at them; I will ensure you will have the most painful death imaginable." Then allowed the seal to complete it's process, cutting off Aizen's response.

Turning around and leaving the clean up to Urahara, Ichigo sheathed his swords and walked towards his husband and child, smiling tiredly at them.

He slumped against some rubble on the roof top were the remaining captains and lieutenants had gathered. Sojun and Byakuya had come to his side immediately and he reassured them that he wasn't injured, only tired because his reiatsu had been depleted. Although he had held back on his power and hadn't used certain techniques, it was daunting that Aizen with an inferior Hogyoku could still push him to this state. Glancing at the Head Captain who was seated on another piece of rubble, he saw that the man had acquired quite a number of injuries. To be fair the old fart hadn't used his Bankai, but it was worrisome since in about a century or so they would have to deal with Yhwach and his team of merry men. The old man met his gaze and it was obvious they both understood the situation was grim. At the start of their monthly sparring sessions, he had ambiguously mentioned the Quincy king who was currently sealed. Though he hadn't explained how he acquired the knowledge instead allowing the man to think it was due to his Quincy heritage, the effect was the same. Their sparring sessions did help them from not becoming rusty, but this wouldn't be enough to deal with Yhwach.

Feeling a familiar hand on his shoulder, Ichigo broke out of his thoughts and turned towards it's owner. He could see concern written across Sojun's face and a worried look on Byakuya's. Reassuring them that he was fine, he placed a light kiss on his husband's lips and ruffled his son's hair. Pulling them into an embrace, he allowed himself to wind down from the fight. They were safe for the moment, he had a century to prepare for the next genocidal megalomaniac. This time he was going to reduce the number of casualties. Far too many died in his universe and he couldn't bear the thought of them dying again.

He intend to keep those promises.

Kyoraku gave him the report on those who had fallen in battle. Apparently the Tenth Division had lost both it's captain and lieutenant, and majority of the rest of them were critically injured. Since only those above fourth seat had come to the Fake Karakura Town, majority of the troops were spared. The Eleventh Squad, who hadn't listened to orders and brought lower ranked Starrk upon deactivating his release, had found Harribel and her fraccións. Checking their vitals he found them battered and unconscious, but alive. He explained that with Barragan gone, none of them were interested attacking Soul Society; giving then a brief background of the Segunda. The Primera claimed that since Ichigo was an ally and residing in the Seireitei they had little interest and made a slight complaint that running Hueco Mundo would fall on his shoulders.

"You could always tell Tier to do the grunt work and represent you." Ichigo supplied amused at the lackadaisical attitude the Primera had for the entire situation.

"Fair enough, but she is still young." He explained, "Nel had no interest save for her children and Grimmjow just wants to fight." Sighing and pinching the bridge of his nose, "So the title of King will come to me."

"What does the King of Hueco Mundo do?" Shinji asked inquisitively.

"It is not like we have a system to govern or implement. However there is always some high powered Hollow out there trying to do something stupid and I'd have to prevent it from exterminating the rest of us." Starrk replied.

"Picture this." Ichigo explained laughing lightly at the confused looks everyone wore, "Everything is based on power, and Starrk is far more powerful than Barragan. Only thing is the guy's a lazy bum." Earning a snicker from Lilynette and huff from the arrancar. "If Starrk had actually taken the mantel of King, he would have been obligated to deal with Barragan since he was killing off a lot of hollows."

"Why didn't you?" Hiyori snarked.

"It's a rather tiring job." The brunet flippantly replied, "And I did stop him at the end."

"So what do you plan to do now?" Yamamoto asked the arrancar with slight weariness in his tone.

"All there is to get Tier and her fraccións then head back to Hueco Mundo." Starrk replied stretching and yawning, "Don't worry, I am a man of my word. I am indebted to Ichigo and so is Nel. Tier has no interest taking life and prefers to follow orders from a superior. Only wild card is Grimmjow, but I think he has been properly warned by Ichigo."

He chuckled at that, he might have ruffled the cat more than necessary, but at the time he was a bit sour after the whole kidnapping of his family incident. Thinking about still annoyed him.

"You really do make strange friends in strange places." Urahara commented as he approached their impromptu meeting, "Aizen is secured and all there is for Central to do their job."

"Gift wrapped and all." Hiyori added, "If they don't sentence him to death, I will kiss Shinji full on the mouth."

"Bitch, don't drag me into this." The Fifth Division Captain retorted immediately

"Actually, they can't Hiyori-Chan." Urahara taking on the tone of the playful and jovial shopkeeper Ichigo had come to know before, "The Hogyoku has made him all but immortal."

There was a moment of silence, which Mashiro broke by chanting "Kiss, Kiss, Kiss" much to Shinji's and Hiyori's horror. Laughing they all began to leave for Soul Society to recuperate and finalize things. Bidding goodbye to Starrk and thanking him for the effort, Ichigo embraced his family and let out a breath in relief. Walking towards the Senkaimon hand in hand, Ichigo idly thought, 'One down, one more to go.' He really wasn't going to consider Ginjo a threat, more like a mild annoyance which he had to sort out before it became an issue.

61.

Ichigo stomped back to the manor with a scowl. He knew the old man would find some way to make his life miserable. The recovery of Soul Society had been slow but steady. Prejudice against the Visoreds had declined significantly after seeing them in battle, but wasn't completely eradicated. Ichigo sighed, there would always be a percentage of the population which would remain ignorant regardless of the facts. It had only been a week and majority of the Captains were discharged from the Fourth and already back in their offices filling out paperwork, although Unohana had warned them to keep their work load light for about a month. Byakuya had already returned to Shin'o Academy and Sojun had been busy with the Sixth Division since their captain had yet to be discharged. Ukitake and Ginrei were the most critical amongst them, but luck and timing had been on their side ensuring a speedy recovery.

As expected Aizen was convicted and had gotten twenty thousand years in Muken. Gin had been appointed as the lieutenant of the fifth, which Ichigo later found out; was a bad idea for all of them. The brat and Shinji were more alike than anyone guessed and it was quite disconcerting to see the twin smiles and snarky humour. Seeing them get along so well made Ichigo feel as if he really didn't do this universe a favour. Urahara had finally grown the balls to approach Yoruichi, or the more probable version of her jumping the man, and sparked a chain reaction of couples forming. Something about nearly dying had given some the courage to confess. Although it was a hundred years too soon for Hiyori and Shinji.

"Ichigo-San." Kyoraku's voice called his name out catching his attention. He was surprised to see a small group had gathered in the garden as an informal picnic.

Under the Sakura trees seated on the mat was Ukitake, Kyoraku, Ginrei and Sojun with cups of tea and sake. Changing his direction he walked across the garden and picked the seat next to his husband, wrapping an arm around the male's waist. Since he had brought the man back from Hueco Mundo he hadn't let him out of his sight and had become more tactile. During Sojun's work hours he would make himself at home on the roof of the Sixth Division, only leaving to accompany the male home. It had been such a known fact that anyone who wanted to find him would always be directed to find his husband first. Though Sojun was annoyed by the 'stalking' as he had called it, he ultimately acquiesced to having an orange shadow for some time.

Pouring himself some sake, he greeted them politely.

"By the annoyed look on your face, I assume Yama-Jiji had broken the news to you." Kyoraku smiled in amusement.

"No thanks to you lot." He grouched.

"What news is this?" Sojun asked curiously being the only one out of the loop.

"The old geezer wants me to become Captain of the Tenth." Ichigo explained sighing, "And I have the recommendations of all the captains."

"You have to learn to address the Soutaicho more respectfully now." Ginrei chided him.

"As if." Ichigo replied, annoyance still colouring his tone, "I thought I told the geezer I didn't want to join the Gotei Thirteen."

"But Ichigo-San, we don't have anyone else appropriate for the job." Ukitake reasoned.

"You could always turn down the offer." Sojun supplied helpfully.

"I did and then got beaten into accepting it." Ichigo supplied dismissively. Cringing as he remembered the feeling of having Ryujin Jakka's flames flying at him. The old man played dirty acting all frail and sickly at first. When Ichigo had defiantly refused the Head Captain had sent a flurry of flames his way, thanks to his instinct he had managed to dodge the attack but still managed to become singed. Normally he wouldn't be intimidated but the geezer had been aiming for family jewels. Having them at risk, made him reconsider his decision faster than anything else. At the end he conceded and had to make a much unwanted drop in to the fourth, where Unohana wasn't that pleased to have. Given a change of clothes he had walked broodily towards the Kuchiki Manor. He really didn't want to be in the same squad as his father, but it seems his wishes weren't being heard by the cosmos.

"Well then, let's toast to your forceful employment." His husband finally said after a small awkward silence.

"Thank you." Ichigo accepted taking a sip from his sake cup, enjoying the familiar burn of alcohol as it ran down his throat. "Though the wording did make me sound as if I was a freeloader."

"Weren't you?" Ginrei blandly replied, but his eye flickered with amusement at the glare Ichigo sent his way. Prompting the rest of them to chuckle.

"Excuse me, for being charitable with Aizen." Ichigo snarked.

Once calming his laughter, Sojun stated, "Regardless, celebrations are in order."

Taking in the form of his husbands laughing and flushing slightly. It was rare to see the Kuchiki so relaxed in the company of others and to feel his usually subdued reiatsu flicker with his in happiness was treat. The male had come a long way from the time he had first met him. It was almost as if he was different person all together. Sojun was far more confident and self-assured, and didn't need to hide behind the infamous Kuchiki façade of coldness. He even gotten over that whole ordeal caused by Aizen rather quickly. He reminded Ichigo of a Sakura tree he found withered and almost about to die, but with the right amount of care and affection, he was in full bloom.

'King, ya spewing out sappy poetic shit again.' His ever faithful zanpakuto spirit interrupted his musing, prompting the routine non-verbal reply of him flipping the bird. He couldn't bring himself to care right now.

"What do you plan to do for the celebration?" Sojun asked after the rest of the members of the gathering had retired to their own quarters.

Ichigo whispered into his ear, "I have just the idea."

62.

Before Sojun could respond, he felt himself being scooped up and being carried out of the garden towards their private chambers. Blushing madly he half-heartedly thumped Ichigo's chest, "Put me down, you Barbarian."

Ichigo simply laugh lightly in response, before kissing his temple and burying his nose in the raven hair breathing in the scent that could only belong to Sojun, "Barbarian or not, to the victor goes the spoils." Licking the shell of his ear causing the slighter man to shudder and his blush to deepen, he lowered his voice, "Which I intended to collect now."

Letting out a breathy sigh and sensing no one in the corridor, Sojun reached up and cupped his husband's face before gently pulling down and kissing the man on his lips. It started out chaste and innocent, but then he felt Ichigo's tongue trace his lips as if asking for permission. Parting them he felt the wet muscle enter his mouth and tangle with this. Stroking and exploring each other's taste, Ichigo faintly tasted of the sake he was drinking previously and Sojun had the lingering traces of the Camellia tea served at the picnic. Wrapping his arms around Ichigo's neck and drawing the man closer, Sojun deepened the kiss. Running his tongue across the red head's teeth and playfully fighting with his tongue. Neither of them felt the time as they approached their room.

Not wanting to let go of his precious cargo, Ichigo used his feet to slide the door open and close. Once the shoji screen was closed, he turned around and gently lowered Sojun's feet to the floor. Pressing the man against the doorframe, Ichigo relentlessly continued to attack his husband's lips. Placing a hand on each side and locking him in, Ichigo felt thinner arms remain wrapped around his neck. One cupping the back of his head and the other raking it's fingers through his hair. Sojun tasted better than all the curry and rice wine mixed together, and was much more addictive. Breaking apart to look at the male he had backed into the wall, Ichigo began to feel his clothes tighten below the belt. There wasn't anything more erotic than the breathless Kuchiki, with his hair and clothes mussed, his pale skin now tinged with red and lips plumped and bruised. Pupils blown so wide, there was only a ring of silver around the black. However what really made Ichigo nearly lose control was expression the male wore. There was almost a coy smile dancing on his slightly parted lips, and his gaze was steady and unashamed of the lust it held.

Ichigo let a low growl before pulling the man into his arms and attacking his lips again, this time with a little more force. Freeing one hand he undid the belt that held Sojun's pale blue yukata closed and slipped it off the man's body. With a finger he undid Sojun's fundoshi, and tossed it carelessly across the room. In a matter of moments, Sojun was completely bare in his arms and letting out the most lustful sighs. Tracing the male's ear with his tongue and running his hands across the milk smooth skin, Ichigo heard the breathy muttering from his husband, "Too… Much... Clothes…" fisting the material and moaning after every word. Smirking against his neck, Ichigo reached down and ripped off the belt in on swift motion making his hakama join the yukata on the floor. Sojun noticing the lack of material, hand immediately reached out and removed the upper clothing allowing it to fall on onto to the floor. Once his undergarment was also disposed of, Ichigo embraced Sojun into another rough and possessive kiss.

Sojun arched his back and pressed his entire front against Ichigo's, moaning into the larger male's mouth as their erections rubbed against each other. Hands were everywhere, his were tracing the many scars on Ichigo's body, while Ichigo's was reverently mapping every inch of his. Ichigo's palms were calloused from endless hours of Zanjutsu practice. The rough texture only heightened the pleasure as they brushed his sensitive nipples, eliciting a sudden gasp from his mouth. Ichigo started to deviate his attention from Sojun's ear towards his neck. This time he didn't prevent himself from marking it, he couldn't hold himself apart from the Hollow instincts crying out to claim their mate and ensure the whole world would know it as well. He could tell this was another pleasure spot on the Kuchiki, because the male would rake his fingers in his hair and try to hold him to that spot.

Suckling Sojun's neck and collar, Ichigo scooped him up into his arms again and carried him towards the futon laid out in the room. Despite his roughness and preoccupation, he carefully lowered himself to his knees and slowly placed his spouse on the mattress. Crawling between Sojun's opened knees Ichigo spread himself on top of the male and kissed him once more on the mouth. Moving south, Ichigo began alternating between licking and sucking random part of Sojun's skin. Reaching his chest area, he took a pebbled nipple into his mouth and suckled lightly. Instinctively Sojun wrapped his legs around his waist an arched back, as if trying to mesh their bodies together as one. Ichigo took the opportunity to slide his arm under the man's back and pull him closer to him and began to grind their erections together, while his other arm steadied them.

Switching nipples and releasing it, Ichigo lifted himself off the male beneath him and stared into his eyes, "I intend to take you this time." He informed, searching Sojun's face for a response. Sojun smiled softly, and tightened his legs around Ichigo's waist and lifted his hips up, ensuring the tip of the red head's erection brushed his entrance. Ichigo smirked at the way the raven had communicated his consent, and thought about Koga, 'Pearls before swine.' Chuckling he lowered his mouth to Sojun's ear and huskily whispered.

"Since it's our first time together, I intend to draw this out as much as possible." Hearing the wanton moan and hands fisting his hair in response, he continued, "I will take you as many times as possible and in many ways as possible, until neither of us have the energy to move."

Sojun responded by placing a palm against his chest and pushed him back. Curious as to what the raven had plan, Ichigo allowed him to be guided into position. Soon he found himself seated, with Sojun between his thighs and his length is his mouth. Letting out an aroused moan as that talented tongue circled his length and teased his tip. Using one hand to hold himself in place, Sojun used his other to stoke the length and fondle Ichigo's sack. Little by little he would try to take his husband's impressive length deeper into his mouth, but he still couldn't control his gag reflex which would force him back up a bit. Not wanting to be the only one receiving, Ichigo wetted three of his fingers and bent forward. Placing them at Sojun's entrance, he rubbed the saliva at the opening. Circling it with one of his fingers before, penetrating the tight ring, Ichigo nearly lost his control. They hadn't done this for a while, so the hot wet sheath was tighter than usual. Feeling around and massaging the warm walls, Ichigo added the second finger. Thrusting it in and out of Sojun's passage to relax the natural tenseness, Ichigo felt the man moan with his length in his mouth and raise his hips higher. Scissoring his fingers to stretch the opening, he added the third. He could tell the stretch was slightly painful because Sojun stop his suckling for a moment. Stilling his hand, he waited for the male to become accustomed to the feeling, and when he felt Sojun's hips push back against his three digits he knew it was alright. Thrusting his fingers in and out, while alternately spreading them Ichigo felt his husband's entrance loosen considerably.

Sensing his climax nearing, Ichigo placed his unoccupied hand on Sojun's face and lifted the male's mouth off his straining erection. Using his hands, he directed his beautiful spouse back to their previous position, with him on his back, placing a pillow under his hips, Ichigo parted the man's legs. Lifting one to his shoulder he placed the tip of his length at Sojun entrance. Glancing at the man, Ichigo took the raven's nod as the go ahead, and slowly inched inside. Thankfully, Sojun had already drenched his length, so he didn't have to worry about lubricant. All of his concentration was focused on not slamming into the tight wet heat that slowly enveloped him. Once he was fully sheathed, Ichigo paused and let out a groan.

Bending Sojun's knees and leaning forward, Ichigo captured the male into kiss. This time trying to convey all the care and affection he had through that action. Feeling the raven relax eventually, Ichigo pulled out slowly before thrusting back in. Changing his angle with every thrust, he finally found the position in which he would hit Sojun's pleasure spot. Upon finding it he began to pick up speed, drawing out a cry with every thrust from male writhing beneath him. Sojun's entire body flushed pink, hands twisted in the sheets and his mouth partially opened with the look of someone drowning in pleasure. With a flare of animalistic possessiveness, Ichigo was glad he was the only one who would see Sojun like this. Seeing the male so responsive to his touch and pliant, made his inner Alpha purr in contentment.

Sojun couldn't even form coherent thoughts. Every nerve ending was overloaded with pleasure, he had never felt so complete or full before. The times with Koga couldn't even begin to compare to what he was feeling right now. He could feel Ichigo touch places he didn't know existed within him. With every wet slide he felt himself lose another part of his mind into the feeling. Eventually he gave up trying to think and let his body take over. Sojun could feel his climax building and automatically tightened around Ichigo's length. Hearing the low moan in response he clenched again, eliciting the same sound. "I'm not going to last long, if you keep doing that." The red head informed him breathily in between thrusts, as he grabbed Sojun's erection and began to stroke him with the rhythm of his hips. This all proven too much for the Kuchiki heir because soon after he felt an explosion set off within him, making his entire body shake and clamp down on Ichigo's member as he came. With a few more thrusts, he felt familiar warmth flood within him.

Only this time it didn't sting nor burn.

Not pulling out of him, Ichigo lowered himself on top of his body. Sweat and his spent release between them, his husband kissed him. This time it was sweet and innocent. Running a hand through Ichigo's damp orange hair, Sojun watched has he partially lifted up to stare at him. Sojun felt the male brush his hair aside and smile.

"I love you." Ichigo confessed, taking Sojun completely by surprise. When Ichigo didn't receive a response, his brows furrowed, "Did I say something wrong?"

"N-no!" Sojun stuttered feeling his blush return full force, "I always knew, I just didn't expect you to say it out loud."

Smiling lightly, Ichigo kissed his cheek, "Why not? I'm not ashamed of it."

Turning his head, Sojun kissed Ichigo chastely on the lips, "I love you, too."

They remained as they were until their heartbeats calmed and their combined reiatsu hummed lightly around the room.

63.

A century passed peacefully, and gradually took over.

Ginrei had retired from his position as Sixth Division Captain and stepped down as Clan Head. Sojun took over the responsibility, and became the 28th Kuchiki Clan Head. However he too retired from service and focused solely on his clan duties. Currently Byakuya was the captain of the Sixth with Renji as his lieutenant. No one was surprised at their son's appointment, he was considered a prodigy. Rukia had just made fifth seat in the thirteenth division and was crushing hard on Kaien with Renji pinning after her. It was the Seireitei's own sitcom romance, while Byakuya's and Hisana's was considered to be one out of the story books. The Shinigami Women's Association had tried to grab an interview from either partner, but Byakuya had assigned some of the Kuchiki guards to protect Hisana.

"Chichi-Ue. Otou-San." Byakuya addressed them one evening. "I have something to tell you."

It was rare to see the young man fidget as if he were a child, so the couple stopped their work sensing the importance of the topic.

"I am interested in someone." He strangled out, a blush creeping into his face, "She is not of nobility and neither is she a Shinigami. Therefore becoming involved with her will not be accepted by the clan. However regardless of what they say, I wish to pursue a romantic relationship with her, and I seek your approval and blessing."

Ichigo hid his smile and looked at Sojun, nodding at him to speak on behalf of them, "As long as you both want this affair, I wish nothing against it. The clan has to grow and develop; following the rules and traditionsblindlywould be a mistake. The clan policies are meant to guide and help us not to govern us. So you have our blessing."

Byakuya couldn't hide the rather obvious joy that spread across his face as he bowed his head and thanked them.

Before he could leave, Ichigo added, "Oh, Bya-Chan." He called playfully, smirking at the annoyed look on the young man's face, "Please do bring Hisana-Chan over sometime."

Ichigo had never seen the Kuchiki turn such deep shade of red and fidget, "H-How did you-"

"We are your fathers Byakuya, a little credit to the men who raised you." Sojun answered, obviously enjoying seeing their son all flustered.

Nodding and apologizing Byakuya fled the room, making Ichigo and Sojun burst into a fit of laughter.

It was amusing to see Byakuya in love; and though he was a spitfire as a teen, he had matured well calming his temper. However though he was calm and collected, he wasn't unnecessarily prideful and conceited. What took Ichigo by surprise was his relationship with Renji, in his universe the captain and the lieutenant had a strange relationship but it worked. Here, they openly spoke and had casual meet ups; Ichigo could almost see a bromance in full bloom. Maybe it had to do with becoming acquainted earlier on or that they had no hostile feelings for one another in the beginning; since Ichigo had introduced them to him, along with Sojun. Although his husband didn't know why he found it so amusing, Ichigo treasured the sheer irony and the captain having to ask his lieutenant to see his adoptive older sister romantically. Despite the strangeness of it all, Ichigo found it endearing to watch Byakuya and Hisana interact; it made him think how different Byakuya would have been if she had survived in his world. They were the epitome of polite and sweetness.

Urahara and Yoruichi were the complete opposite. More like the craziest couple in the entire Seireitei, however if it worked for them it wasn't something anyone should interfere with. Mayuri was still trying to exterminate the blonde captain, but failing miserably. However the man did manage to create his 'daughter' Nemu; which made Ichigo slightly nostalgic for his world, she was the only one who acted exactly the same, regardless if it was his world or this. Even a century later, Shinji and Hiyori hadn't even reach any stage. Some even contemplated locking them in a closet but there wasn't a guarantee they wouldn't kill each other. The other Visoreds had bonded well over their common affliction and Ichigo still spared with them to bump up their time limit, although the training schedule wasn't as rigorous as it once was before the war. Ichigo already had brutal monthly spars with the old man, which were exhausting on it's own.

He resigned from the Tenth, when Isshin proved to be proficient for the post of Captain. As his lieutenant for a couple of decades the Shiba wasn't any different from his version. The Shiba Clan remained one of the Five Great Nobel Clans, since Kaien wasn't attacked by the hollows created by Aizen and Ganju had recently graduated from the Shin'o Academy. However he was re-elected as Captain for the Tenth after the rather mysterious disappearance of Isshin. Neither Rangiku nor Toushiro were capable of taking the post just yet; even though the third seat had achieved Bankai, he didn't have the experience of handling it yet. Additionally the old geezer apparently took pleasure in making Ichigo's life miserable, so he was forced into accepting his old position.

Sojun and he were always as they were. They decided to have another child, a little girl named Akimi, and she was turning fifty in a few years. She had a similar aging process as Byakuya, and with burnt orange hair and grey eyes; Ichigo could already tell she was going to be a heart breaker. The timing could have been better with the threat of Yhwach's attacking growing near, but some things just couldn't be predicted. Personally Ichigo had found himself contemplating the idea of having children but with the Quincy madman looming around the corner, he didn't allow himself to even fantasize about it; let alone bring it up with Sojun. However when Sojun had broached the subject of having another child, Ichigo found himself unable to refuse. His spouse asked rarely for anything, and it had pleased Ichigo seeing the male voice his request, he had come a long way from being that nervous and uncertain man he met on the rooftop in Rukongai. Seeing Sojun with her, Ichigo found something primal flood in him. It could have been the hollow side of his soul purring with contentment upon seeing his mate carry and birth their offspring; and for once Ichigo didn't fight the feeling and instead embraced it.

He had visited the Living World a couple of times and found his parents happily married. Isshin had somehow acquired a special gigai (he could smell Urahara's work in this) and his mother had eloped from Ishida's family. Even though this time she wasn't afflicted with hollowfication she still chose to marry the crazy bastard. No matter what universe he was in, his family was crazy. Ichigo would make informal trips to watch his mother. It had been so long since he had seen her and he had forgotten just how beautiful she looked. Isshin could sense him, and would stare in his direction but since Ichigo hadn't approached either of them, he had begun to nod in acknowledgment. Currently the couple was at the cemetery, laying down some white camellias at a head stone. He had found out this universe's Kurosaki Ichigo was stillborn. Ichigo figured, since he was the soul, the body couldn't survive outside the womb. It had caused him pain, knowing he had hurt his mother once again though indirectly.

As they left, Ichigo felt a familiar presence beside him.

"Was that Shiba-Taicho?" Sojun asked with a slight hint of curiosity leaking into his tone.

Closing his eyes and enveloping the male with his reiatsu, he replied, "It seems he has found love."

"You watch her a lot."

"Yes, I do." Ichigo held out his palm, "It seems it is time to tell you."

Not completely understanding as to what Ichigo was referring to, but placing his hand in his spouse's larger one, Sojun allowed himself to be guided to the grave that the woman and the missing captain had been paying their respects.

"Let me tell you the story of Kurosaki Ichigo." Ichigo began warping an arm around Sojun's waist, pulling the man closer as he stared at the name carved into the stone, "And of the world where he lived…"

---

The End.

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A/N: I am ending the story at this point for the next arc still has yet to be completed. I may consider a sequel, but I'll leave that thought hanging until the end of the series.

I am sad to see the fic come to an end, but I had already planned it to be around maximum 7 chapters at most. I am already struggling with a large multi-chapter fic, and I didn't want another incomplete story added to my list. I know the pacing was really fast, but I didn't want to drag it unnecessarily. Initially it was supposed to be a very large one-shot, but as I was writing it, I realised that it was too long to be one.

This was the hardest fic I have ever written to date. I was practically on Bleach Wiki the entire time, re-reading portions of the manga and re-watching sections of the anime; just to make sure every detail was in place and nothing seemed improbable. Studying character's to make sure they remained in character, calculating the timeline, reading up on Japanese culture etc. Even if I missed something, my Beta 'Lilinoe' would always be there to double check and point out discrepancies, so she has my many thanks and respect *bows*.

I would like to thank you, my loyal readers, and those who enjoyed following the development of this fic. Your comments and responses were much appreciated and I hope I have done justice, by giving you pleasure in reading this little story of mine. Hopefully you found it time well spent.

I will add another chapter or two with small, random collection of snippets I wrote on the side. I just need to tidy them up bit, that's all. So keep an eye out for the fic updates. If you have scenarios in relation to this fic's universe, please feel free to drop me a message and I'll see what I can do with them.