Not so evil, not so hated
It really did frustrate Yamamoto to no end that Naruto could come into this place and leave again as he wills. Was it once or twice that he crossed blades with him since his awakening? His mind no longer served him as it did during those younger days. But still, he hated, and loathed the fact that Naruto could come here, despite being an enemy of the Gotei 13 and the dead Central 46. He had no fear whatsoever, and moreover, he had enough power to make him, Yamamoto, the strongest Shinigami to have ever been born, fearful.
During these past two encounters with the former captain, comrade, he was never able to do any damage, no damage whatsoever. Naruto always left the place perfectly and without even using much of his power. Many could point out that even he got out of the encounter in perfect condition, but he knew well enough that it was only because Naruto never seriously attacked him. He was always trying to defend, and threw some punches at him, but it was nothing ever serious.
He had fought seriously with that once or twice, and during that time, he'd used all his power, and he knew well enough what happened when Naruto was fighting serious. Bankai or not, there was no leaving the battlefield without a scar. He had watched Naruto fight the Royal Guard, evenly, despite them being stronger than the entire Gotei 13. For years Yamamoto had delusional thinking that Naruto was just a child that needed a beating. The cold-hearted truth had dawned upon him in the last encounter though; Naruto was a man who was powerful enough to kill him.
But he wasn't going to resign because Naruto was that powerful. Hell no. Not even if Central 46 miraculously came back to life and ordered him to back down because there was no winning against the powerful former captain. Fighting Naruto was more than doing justice for Soul Society; it was also a personal goal for him. It was why he was willing to die fighting the blond. If he wasn't willing to put his life on the line, he couldn't hope to defeat that man.
He had lived a long and worthy life, if dying in the hands of that man was his fate, then so be it - As long as he put an end to his parade.
Yamamoto looked at the captains; there were all gathered to discuss their next step. Everything had already been set to fight Aizen, and they were all prepared to leave Seireitei and go to the human world to battle that man once and for all. This was a battle that Yamamoto didn't doubt he would live through. No matter what Aizen armed himself with, he would still be a boy before his eyes.
The Sotaicho cleared his throat, ''shall we begin?'' despite being put in a question, that was no question and everyone else knew that. Yamamoto didn't beg for his children to do anything, he merely instructed them. As such, it wasn't upon them when the meeting has to begin.
Kempachi really found these meetings to be an annoyance more than anything. It was all talk and talk, nothing more fun for him to do. There was this talk about this Uchiha Naruto, yes, he'd seen the man before, and he knew he was strong. But the only way he could prove it for real, and through his body was if he clashed blades with the ,man rather than hear stories. It was such a pity that each time that man clashed swords with Yamamoto he was never present. However, the fact that Naruto could give Yamamoto a run for his money did not scare him a bit; it only filled his system with a lust for a good battle.
A strong opponent was always appreciated before him. He didn't care for much, but getting a good battle was what he needed, and wanted. At least it looked like things were going to get messy soon enough and he would be able to have his fun. But he really wanted to fight that man who could make Yamamoto sweat. Yes, nothing would soothe his battle-hardened soul other than fighting either that man or Aizen.
The 11th division looked at Yamamoto carefully; if anything, it looked like the Sotaicho didn't want to share the fun with anyone. Yes, he wanted Naruto for himself. While the other captains weren't in so much of a hurry to fight that man, Yamamoto seemed to be on pole position to be the one to dance with that worthy man who could give him a battle of a life-time. Well, he would stick around - just in case the Sotaicho couldn't do the job. The thought made him grin, and chuckle inwardly.
Unfortunately Mayuri, who was standing beside him, seemed to notice that he was laughing inwardly. ''What amuses you, barbaric for a captain? Are you dreaming of another barbaric battle with a... strong opponent?''
Kuchiki Byakuya merely shook his head; talk about uncivilized Shinigami. While deep inside him he relished the idea of battling it all out with the man who was constantly called a barbaric captain by the 12th division captain, he didn't go all his way to provoke the man into an argument - that man left all arguments into his blade though. Mayuri seemed to love getting under the skin of Kempachi and didn't seem to like the 11th division very much. Well, everyone was used to their usual catfights.
Yamamoto didn't allow the usual scene to occur as there were more pressing issues to deal with, ''Don't start you two,'' he stated, sternly, only his left eye partly opened. ''Unohana, what is Soi-fon taicho's status?''
It really displeased Unohana that Naruto was willing to make something like that happen only because his pride was wounded. Yes, he was a man full of pride and he carried it high above all things, and insulting his pride was blasphemy. She knew that he was going to do something, but she still didn't ensure that Soi-fon was safe from him. Well, he probably would have dirtied his own hands without touching her if she stood in the way. He was stubborn and would do anything he set out to do, regardless of the consequences.
If she had been a second later, that young captain would have died. For now, she was only able to keep her alive, but Yamamoto's blade had done much damage - it had almost cut her in half, and it was a miracle that she was still alive. But that was it, her heart was beating and she wasn't brain dead, but she wasn't waking up either. Unohana didn't think that she would be waking up any time soon given the internal damage she suffered from Yamamoto's blade, and it was just one swing.
That just showed that Yamamoto didn't hold back when fighting against Naruto. It was a wonder just how strong he was. A swing that would've cut Soi-fon in half if Yamamoto hadn't held back when he realized what Naruto had done, the same swing could've just found its way to Naruto's hand, and if not, it couldn't have cut through him to make any wound. He was a god indeed.
''She's stable, but still unconscious; she hasn't regained her consciousness since we started healing her,'' Unohana finally said. ''But we'll keep treating her...'' she didn't want to add anything. It was no secret that it was Yamamoto's blade that put the stubborn 2nd division captain out of commission. It would only hit the morale of the Gotei 13 if something were to happen...
''At least she's still fighting,'' Shunsui sighed. He really wished that Naruto could have handled the issue a little better than this. At this stage, Soi-fon couldn't help them with anything in their battle against Aizen. ''What are you going to do about him, Yama-jiji?''
No matter what he would say, Shunsui already knew that there was no turning back now; Yamamoto was going to fight Naruto to a fight of death. There was nothing that anyone would say that would change his mind, and the recent confrontation that resulted in Soi-fon's condition surely had only strengthened Yamamoto's decision to see the blond right below his feet.
''We cannot put out the fact that he may involve himself in the war against, Aizen,'' Toshiro stated, knowing that Shunsui was referring to Naruto in his question. ''We've seen how strong, at least, he is. We cannot go into battle without a strategy on how to deal with him.''
Personally, Toshiro would rather they fight the man together. But he knew first hand someone like him couldn't be involved in the same battlefield as the Sotaicho. The only miracle that allowed him to keep standing after the man had released his Shikai was Naruto's presence, which despite being undetectable made it easy for him to stand firm. He had felt the kind of pressure the Sotaicho produced when in battle, and even when he wasn't close to it, it was enough for him to thank the gods that he wasn't participating.
Yamamoto was out of his league, and Naruto was supposedly stronger than the Sotaicho didn't make him much of a match. If he involved himself, he would only be holding Yamamoto back. The only ones who could possibly withstand the atmosphere were the Shunsui, Kyoraku, and Unohana. But the latter captain refrained from fighting. Now that Toshiro thought of it, in all his days as captain, he'd never seen the woman clashing her blade with anyone. The thought made him stare at the Unohana, who quickly noticed his stare.
''Something on your mind, Hitsugaya-taicho?'' while she preferred to keep her mouth shut in such meetings, Unohana couldn't help herself since she had already opened her mouth to respond to Yamamoto's question.
The 10th division shook his head quickly, ''no,'' he said. He berated himself for allowing his thoughts to cloud the fact that Unohana was that scary woman.
''I will fight Naruto,'' Yamamoto said. ''You concern yourselves with Aizen and his Arrancar. If Naruto doesn't show up, we will continue with what we've already planned.''
Zaracki almost shouted, ''I knew it!'' The man had called dips on Naruto and he had predicted something like that happening. However, if the man does show up while they are dealing with Aizen, it would only made things much more interesting as he could call it dips on Aizen while Yamamoto fought with Naruto.
''Urahara, Yoruichi and Ichigo have also been called so that we can discuss a battle strategy with them.'' No matter how one looked at it, their power was needed in the war. While on normal situations, Yamamoto wouldn't have even bothered to call them, they were needed here, especially when they'd been helping since everything begun.
''Karakura town will be left open for attacks if we remove those three, even if it is for a short time,'' Ukitake pointed out. Aizen's main target before anything were the souls of the humans living in Karakura town, and they couldn't leave it open for the man to act.
''All vice-captains will reside there while those three are here. They aren't going to stay here for too long anyway, and we've been assured that Aizen won't attack Karakura town in the time-frame of those threes visit here,'' Yamamoto responded calmly. Even time moved differently between here and the human world. They wouldn't be gone to too long, that is why he was not worried about anything.
More issues were discussed as time flowed slowly. In the end, other than the fact that Ichigo was coming soon and the fact that he might get the chance to fight Aizen, Kempachi was annoyed will all the other talks. No wonder he didn't even participate in everything that was being said, other than possible battles that were to take place.
Naruto's Dimension
There were many things that Gin believed that Aizen could accomplish, and he never thought anyone but him would be able to defeat that man. It wasn't because he had trusted on the man too much or that he was a faithful servant. Ever since he joined that man, it has always been about discovering his secrets, while plotting for his revenge. Aizen is powerful, cunning and a sneaky bastard. He had all preparations to render Yamamoto's power useless, or to strip him of all his power, ensuring that he doesn't use his Zanpakutou.
While powerful, Aizen didn't show much arrogance to believe that he could actually defeat the Sotaicho without the Hogyoku.
Uchiha Naruto appeared in the face of the spiritual world. Though Aizen seemed to have done a lot of research about him, including finding his surveillance lab and study underneath the Fifth division's barracks, Gin knew nothing of the man. Well, it couldn't be helped since the history including that man was kept hidden from many eyes, even the eyes of captains. When he appeared, Aizen did admit to him that Naruto was a monster more powerful than Yamamoto. Then Gin was interested in the man.
The battle between Aizen and Naruto was really good. He knew for certain that Aizen wasn't allowing Naruto to hit him - he was actually trying to defend and attack, the man who proclaimed to be god was just stronger than him. There was nothing more amusing that watching Aizen fall victim into the same trick that he uses on other people. It was worth to see the look of surprise on Aizen's face when he saw that Naruto kept shrugging off everything he put toward like it didn't hurt at all.
Illusions or hypnosis - if you listen to Aizen a lot; While Aizen had the power to fool all senses of one into seeing what was not there, Naruto had the power to put one under an illusion, while it didn't affect all senses, the man said it was unbreakable as you'd have to be stronger than him to do so. Naruto's illusions were just effective as Aizen's hypnosis. The only difference was that Naruto could put one down without even lifting a finger. There was a certain type of illusion that target the mind, if Gin were to be honest with himself, he wouldn't want to be in that genjutsu again - Naruto had put him under it, just for demonstration.
Gin had already seen Naruto made things with his hands. Even the second blade he now carried was formed out of nothing. The man had just brought fourth his imaginations into a thing of tangibility. As he put it, ''It is simple really; I have the power to materialize my imaginations. Anything I want, I can give a physical form.''
Of course that man never told him about the eyes, or any more about his other abilities. He simply explained what he could do, but he never told him how, and if there were any prices to pay for using such power. Gin assumed he wasn't trusted that much, but it was alright. He was a traitor, a snake. Naruto had already given him so much - mostly power. Yet at the same time, he made it a point to ensure that Gin knew that even if he attempted anything, he couldn't kill him, no one could. And he never revealed any weaknesses. The only weakness the man had was his arrogance.
Despite everything that Gin had seen, he'd never quite thought that he would be able to see a dead spirit being brought back to life before his very eyes. If the sun shined within Naruto's dimension, he would be saying he never thought of seeing such an impossible occurring in broad daylight. Yet it had happened. Senjumaru Shutara, the black haired former royal Guard, and a beauty had been brought back to life while he watched. Even Aizen would have been awed by the ability.
But this only confirmed one thing; Naruto was truly a god.
Gin took a few steps towards Shutara - who was standing in front of Naruto's throne. She'd just been restored a few moments ago and had yet to move or even say a damn word. Naruto didn't seem to be concerned about anything. Not that his expression displayed any sort of emotion to begin with. ''When you said you could actually do this, I had my dou-''
The words were stopped right at his throat by a black blade that was pressed against his neck. Gin was actually surprised. His expression didn't betray the feeling. His normally closed eyes, parted as he stared at the woman who could've actually cut his head off his shoulders without he, who had been doing training with Naruto, even realizing it. Unfreaking believable. Yet, he smiled in the end. ''Well, that was scary,'' he said.
But the fact that this woman could move that fast, and she had to materialize her sword since she didn't have it upon her rebirth, without his knowledge, only meant that she was far more powerful than he previously believed. She indeed did have the element of surprise since he wasn't expecting anything of that kind, but the fact remained. Well, it shouldn't be surprising that she was powerful - the woman was a former member of the royal guard and was Naruto's partner, surely she had to be stronger than the normal captain.
She was alive. There was nothing to doubt, nothing to be fearful about, but everything to be furious and bitter about. At this moment, after her life had ended in seconds when that bastard exploded like a balloon, she was in a foul mood. She wasn't going to celebrate that he'd actually revived her after her death, she wasn't going to say that she was happy to be alive again, seeing his stone face. What she had in her heart was nothing more than fury, and nothing would soothe her soul than cutting that ignorant bastard into pieces.
Shutara was even surprised that he hadn't brought his beloved Retsu to witness this miracle since he hadn't displayed this power before - he couldn't back then. But the fact that he now could meant that he was back at his full glory. He couldn't be more of a glorified bastard now since he was back at his full power. All this scheming had nearly ended her life. Why couldn't he just be satisfied with what he had? He already had the power to match the Soul King, what more did he need.
The black haired woman looked at the stone faced boyfriend of hers - he was looking down on her like some sort of an emperor. She wasn't going to run after him and be all lovey dovey. She merely matched his expression and spoke in an ice cold tone that made Gin took a step back. ''Is this your new pet?''
''Gin,'' Naruto called calmly. ''You may want to distance yourself from here.''
Gin didn't need to be told twice; he left the room, and the palace altogether. Not a second later a large explosion rocked through from the throne room - the room was the center of the palace, and the explosion tore through the palace's entire roofing, leaving nothing but black walls. What was so amazing was that the palace had two above ground level floors, and the second floor had plus 30 rooms - three more floors were buried deep underground - Gin suspected that it was another dimension. After the explosion, the second floor was nowhere to be seen. Only the first floor remained.
Gin rushed towards the throne room, well what was left of it anyway. He found Naruto still sitting on his throne, same expression and it looked like he hadn't moved at all. However, most of his clothes were burned off and a black steam was pouring out of his body, but there was not even a scratch. Gin assumed that if it had been, it could have quickly closed because of his regeneration capabilities. Shutara was standing a few feet away with hands folded across her chest.
''Naruto Taicho, just how powerful is she?'' Gin questioned. He figured that woman wouldn't answer him since she has already called him a 'pet.'
''When she is like this, she is stronger than Yamamoto, But on a normal day, just below him. She has power given to her by me, but she never really use it,'' Naruto responded, before turning his attention to Shutara. ''Are you satisfied, dear?''
''Not the least,'' a cold response came from Shutara. ''Are you finally happy that you're sitting on that throne? I mean, you've been trying to reclaim your glory for many years, and now that you have it, you must be pleased. A pity some of us had to die along the way. Eh, who cares? You're just gone bring us back anyway, no?''
Naruto was silent for a few moments. ''I am happy to see you too, Shutara.'' The woman merely gave him a blank look. Naruto stood up, not minding that he was close to being nude. He walked straight at Shutara and stopped only a few inches away from her. ''I've truly missed you...'' his right hand, which was moving towards her face was slapped away.
''Don't,'' that was the only warning.
Naruto stared at her for a few moments before responding, ''I see,'' he said. ''Let us go see that woman who killed you; her body should be restored by now and she should be conscious by now.'' Shutara didn't have a chance to respond because a black portal opened under them before swallowing them whole.
'Well, that was good drama,' Gin thought.
Human world
Yoruichi sighed looking at the ice cold look on Ryuuken's face; she didn't dare think that this man would involve himself in Soul Society matters. Urahara already suspected that since Naruto was said to have reclaimed all his powers, it was unlikely that Aizen would come to the human world, more specifically Karakura town to sacrifice all the souls to create the key that will enable to get through to the Soul King's dimension. That probably meant that Naruto would be able to solve the equation since he was capable of passing through to any world.
This was all troublesome; Shunsui and Ukitake said that Naruto wouldn't attack Seireitei and he wouldn't go on a rampage and kill all souls just because he felt like it. They both said it with confident smiles; Naruto wasn't evil. She didn't have the strength to ask Unohana since she was the one who obviously knew him better than anyone, but those two who were his friends said he wasn't evil, then they didn't have much to worry about.
However, both Captains had said that Naruto wouldn't stop Aizen if he attacked Soul Society and would even go as far as opening a gate towards the Soul King's dimension for Aizen to go through - this was something that has always been the main subject; just because he wouldn't attack Soul Society doesn't he would stop anyone from doing it. They just had to ensure that nothing happened that would invite that man to allow Aizen to go through.
Personally, Yoruichi would rather not be involved in Soul Society matters, but they were dragged into the matter because Urahara was already involved with the matter, and they couldn't be 100% sure that Aizen wouldn't come here if things didn't work out for him with Naruto. If things were going to happen in Soul Society, then the Quincy weren't going to be involved, and even if they do occur in this world, Ryuuken wouldn't drag himself into it. Well, at least they had more than enough power.
''How did it go with Shinji's group?''
''Predictably,'' Urahara said mildly. ''At least they didn't tie Ichigo down and lock him in a barrier so that he doesn't join the fight,'' he was relieved at that. Not that Ichigo would've agreed to it anyway, and Ishin would have taken needed measures to free his son so that he can fight. As a former captain, he wouldn't just stand by and watch Soul Society being destroyed - it was his former home after all.
''Well, it wasn't anything unexpected and we know they still hold a grudge against Soul Society,'' Although things would be different now because Central 46 was non-existence since its destruction by Naruto, the Visoreds would still not think of moving onto Soul Society to aide it in the times of need. ''So it will just be the three of us then...''
Urahara nodded, but it was Ichigo who spoke, ''aren't the others coming with us?'' he asked. The others was being referred to his friends and the ice faced Quincy who was standing just beside, Urahara. He'd only arrived here a few moments ago, so he didn't know what was happening before he got here.
''No,'' Urahara said. ''It isn't like we're going to battle anyway,'' the former 12th division captain stated with a smile. The fact that they weren't going to fight put him at ease a bit. He just wanted the others to be ready, just in case, but they weren't convinced of the danger. But he did know that they loathed Aizen more than anything and thoughts of vengeance were probably within them.
''We're just going to discuss battle strategies with the Gotei 13,'' Yoruichi added. ''Besides, Yamamoto only requested the three of us,'' which was understandable since her and Urahara are former captains and Ichigo is someone with Reiatsu that rivals a captain. His friends may have special power, but they were not strong enough.
''Oh,'' Ichigo paused, scratching the back of his head, ''I thought we were going to fight.''
Urahara shook his head. ''Come on, we must not keep the Captain-commander waiting,'' he said. Seeing the look on Ichigo's face, he smiled. ''Don't worry, your father will protect Karakura town if the Arrancar attack while we are away, and Soul Society has equipment to detect any hollow activity.''
At the mention of his father, Ichigo frowned slightly. That idiot was a Shinigami. He'd only stumbled on the truth by mistake, but he wasn't told of how that came to be, and why he never said anything. He accepted that his father would tell him when he was ready, but that didn't mean that it didn't bother him.
''By the way, Yoruichi,'' Urahara turned to his friend. ''How is Soi-fon's condition?''
It was the former head of the Shihoin clan to frown deeply at the thought of her Bee's condition. Yamamoto didn't even seem sorry that he'd nearly killed her. Well, she could guess that the stories about him treating fellow Shinigami was expandable ashes was true. ''Not good,'' she woman said.
''What's wrong with her?'' Ichigo asked, obviously not in the loop about the incident that nearly took Soi-fon's life. Judging by Yoruichi's face, he could guess that it was something serious.
''We will tell you along the way,'' Urahara said.
Soul King's Dimension
''I haven't been here in a long time,'' Naruto said to himself breathing the air of the dimension he once called home. Yes, life was truly joyous when he was living in this world. This was his former backyard, his beloved new home. For the second time in his spiritual life, he had been truly happy. But that all faded away.
A frown quickly slipped into his face when the thought came to his time; that woman. Amaya had been his reason to be happy in his miserable godly life. But even so, she still took away everything from him. First it was his memories, and she made him a child, lastly, she'd killed Shutara and left him for dead. Yet, after all those things, when he'd sworn he would chop her down into pieces and serve her to her beloved son, he couldn't bring himself to cut her.
'That is because you've never been the one to hold a grudge,' the voice that had been silent for some time started. 'Sure, when insects commit blasphemy, they've to be crushed, but that woman actually managed to do something that no one has ever been able to do. She proved she wasn't an insect, but someone who could fully harm you.'
'Are you saying that I should respect her for her actions instead of cutting her?'
'No matter how you look at it, that woman brought you to your knees,' Amaterasu stated. 'I think she deserves some credit for her will.'
Credit? Perhaps. Children only made intolerable noise before him and when he gave them his attention, they never said anything sound, they never gave a challenge. To him, they lacked respect for their elders - that is why they needed to be punished, either with death or by being beat down to the inch of their lives. But that woman wasn't a child; she was a grown-up who proved to be more than enough for him. He couldn't punish her for what she did; he could give her a hand for bringing him into his knees.
However, she would be punished for her treachery.
'Some credit, she deserves alright, but...' Naruto trailed off when the fools of the Royal Guard all came up to him - he was floating just away from the royal palace. 'Ah, we've got some visitors...'
'Are we going to play with them?' Amaterasu asked a little excited. The last time they played together, it was lots of fun. Fighting off against the royal guard, with Yamamoto watching wasn't something ordinary, but they'd done it and she had quite thoroughly enjoyed it and she didn't mind having a go at them again. It would be even more fun since they've obviously grown stronger over the past thousand years.
''This is a warm welcome,'' Naruto said. ''If I'd that fool was going to give this kind of welcome, I would've come via a chariot of fire. It would've been worthy for a god, don't you think?''
''It isn't very nice to speak of the Soul King like that now is it?'' Ichibe said, not clearly pleased by the fact that Naruto could call their king a 'fool' before their very own presence.
''Ichibe, you're still the head of the Royal Guard I see,'' Naruto said. ''I raised that child, and he is truly a fool. But I'm not here to make argument with you pesky fools. Will you lead the way?''
''I'd thought you would've changed, but you're still the same.'' Ichibe sighed. ''I must warn you, don't do anything foolish, or you'll come to regret it.''
Naruto gave Ichibe a looked that cleared said; are you serious? ''Do not make idle threats Ichibe.''
''Didn't we defeat you last t-'' Naimaya was cut off when Naruto's left eye caught his side. He seemed to have seen something scary because sweat started pouring of his face. He said nothing further - he had been warned.
''I'll be going ahead,'' with that, Naruto was gone, in a flash.
A few moments later, Tenjiro blinked, ''Oi, just how powerful has be become? He's already there.''
''I don't know, but we must always be on standby, just in case. For now, the Soul King has said he won't do anything serious, so we can rest assured that we won't fail to do our jobs,'' Ichibe said, as they all head towards the Soul King's palace.
Naruto walked into the room the Soul King rested inside his pod. He made himself comfortable on a king-like chair that was obviously prepared for him. He folded his legs, rested his palm on the right cheek, and a frown settled on his face as he looked at the fool for a king, who was settling on to look at him with a blank expression on his face. This was no happy reunion, even though he hadn't sat like this with the Soul King in thousands of years.
Before he fully recovered all his memories, the Soul King was just a fool, and something he didn't really like. While he had vague ideas, he was never sure about anything. His memories were now fully complete, he now understood everything. But just because he doesn't like the fool doesn't mean that he actually hated the idiot child. There were so many experiences that he had with the royal family, a lot of them were pleasing, joyous, if he could be honest with himself. Life wasn't that bad, until the betrayal.
''Hello, Raiden,'' Naruto greeted. ''You've grown unpleasantly lazy and weak,'' the frown deepened as he felt just how powerful the soul king was. If the fool really wanted to grow almighty in terms of offense, he truly could become a monster. Yes, there was no one could handle Raiden's power, but he was still weak before his eyes.
''It's good to see you too, Naruto,'' Raiden responded mildly. He didn't particularly hold any hatred towards the Uchiha, not even anything close to it. The only thing that bothered him was that his power didn't work on the blond, neither did his mother's. Perhaps that is why she feared him most after seeing a glimpse of his full power.
The only reason he'd bothered to release the man from his seal was that he knew that Naruto wouldn't do anything that could be called 'evil'. The only possibility was that he could usurp him, and take over the responsibility of regulating souls in and out of soul Society. Besides, the seal was already loosening. It was only going to work on his favor to re-seal the blond. What he did know was that he had allowed the Royal Guard to defeat him. He hadn't known the reasons, but now he could make a guess.
The foreseeable future didn't hold anything good for him, and if he wanted to change that, he would have to have the blond take part in the present, otherwise, nothing would change. He could only see a future that doesn't have Naruto's hand because he couldn't see anything futuristic of the man.
''I'm becoming against everyone using my name so cheaply,'' Naruto said quietly. ''I should have everyone refer to me as his Majesty or Emperor - I did have fun while being emperor during my days as a human,'' the last statement was said in thought than anything.
''I'm not just anyone, now I am? Besides, after everything, I am more than worthy of calling you by your name,'' Raiden responded.
''Perhaps,'' Naruto said before taking a moment to go through a few thoughts. ''You've seen what your pathetic son is planning and know of the future; you want it to change, hence my presences here.''
''Have you seen it too?''
Naruto shook his head, ''but I can make a guess,'' he said. ''Your son doesn't like you very much, and he won't be pleased until you're dead. When I met him during those years he fought against Soul Society, he seemed to know of me more than I did myself. I didn't understand back then, but I do now,'' he narrowed his eyes a bit. ''Still, knowing that he's going to awaken soon, what are you doing about it? Nothing?''
''I should be asking you the same question,'' the soul king said. ''You could've killed him back then, but you did nothing. Is it that some part of you assumed he was related to me? Is it why you didn't partake in the Quincy war?''
''Maybe,'' Naruto shrugged. ''However, I will deal with it soon enough. Right now, I want to show you a present,'' Naruto snapped his fingers, and a crystal form of Amaya appeared within seconds. He didn't care about the lack of reaction from Raiden, he merely smiled and spoke, ''she's still a beauty isn't she? Until, I decide what to do with her, you will keep her company. Don't do anything stupid, or I will strip you of your power and send you to Hueco Mundo - where you will live on the run for your life until I'm satisfied.'' He disappeared from view after those words left his mouth.
The crystal shattered in a matter of seconds, and the soul King could only say two words, ''hello mother...''
Two weeks later, Hueco Mundo
Harribel wondered what could be so wrong for Aizen to hasty call for them. When they held meetings, it was always from one to ten, but things had changed this day - it was just one to six. She had a sickening feeling that the man was going to have them do something together. Probably start the war with Soul Society. She didn't think that now was the time though, but she was just a subordinate, and her thoughts didn't matter.
Ever since that day he came back like he'd been beaten by someone in battle, he'd kept things tight, and had become much scarier than he was before. Her instincts always kicked in when fear switched on within her. There was also the betrayal of Gin. What was more surprising was that Aizen didn't seem to care about it and said it changed nothing. But to her it changed everything, especially when he'd left to join that man. Still, she didn't doubt Aizen a bit.
Aizen smoothly walked into the room with Kaname trailing right behind him. The man smiled, ''I see you've all gathered,'' he said. ''Now then, we're going to Soul Society.''
''Aizen-sama?'' Stark gave the man a questioning look. He was looking for what that actually meant. Besides, he would rather lie down that be engaged in a battle with someone.
Grimmjow understood what the man meant more than anyone, ''yes,'' he slammed his hands on the table. ''We're finally going to wreck that place,'' though he was excited and all, he knew it was daring move on Aizen's part. Especially when it seemed that he was only taking just the six of them.
'Just as I thought,' Harribel thought mildly. Well, there was no use in thinking deep about the matter. All they had to do is follow their orders and all would be well - As long as Aizen wasn't sending them on a suicide mission.
Soul Society
''Hitsugaya Taicho!'' a member of the third division shouted, smashing into the younger captain's office. If it wasn't the look on the shinigami's face, Toshiro would have done something to teach the fool proper manners.
''What is it?''
''Its bad news, captain,'' the young male reported. ''Aizen and his Espada are here!''
''Are you serious?'' Toshiro asked with wide eyes, he got the response when multiple amounts of heavy Reiatsu hit around Seireitei. He didn't doubt anything, quickly, he rushed towards the first division's barracks.
A few moments later
Yamamoto wasn't going to allow this fool to leave this place without tasting the blade of his Zanpakutou, but still, he didn't think that Aizen would be so bold to attack their stronghold after thinking that he would go to Karakura town to use the souls there to create the keys sot that he could enter the Soul King's dimension. Of course, once he did that he would only be welcomed by the Royal Guard who wouldn't accept any apology. That is not to say he was going to allow the man to enter the place.
The fact that he was here meant that there had been a change of plans, but they were prepared for anything that the man might attempt to throw at them. If there be a need, he was willing to make some sacrifices in order to vanquish this soul from the face of Soul Society. Moreover, the hollows that were brought along with the traitorous captain looked like strong children, but nothing to make him sweat. It was only a good chance to sweep every threat from Hueco Mundo in just one go.
But fighting within Soul Society wasn't within his plans, if anything; he would rather they fight somewhere secluded in the human world, or in this world. He didn't want any damage within the sacred home he'd sworn to protect the day he created the Gotei 13. He didn't want anything happening to it as a result of the battle that was going to take place, but if it couldn't be helped, then he wasn't left with a choice, and he wasn't going to hold back because things might be destroyed. If it meant he would have to destroy this man with everything, then so be it.
Komamura gritted his teeth as he looked upon his former colleague, someone he saw as a friend; Kaname. Even till this day, he couldn't understand how 'blind' the man had become to join forces with a traitorous snake like Aizen. The man had spoken about justice with so much passion that he never thought the day would come were Tousen would be his enemy. He had joined the Gotei 13 because he wanted justice, but ended by betraying that justice in favor of joining a snake and that greatly confused Komamura.
''Tousen,'' he muttered through gritted teeth, unable to hold his anger for allowing something like this to happen. He wasn't mad at Tousen for betraying the justice he joined, he was more specifically mad at Aizen for manipulating Tousen.
The man he was calling was a bit away from him - he was standing a distance away from him along on Aizen's right hand. Behind Aizen, were Espadas from 1 to 6 or so he assumed. They'd appeared in this world not too long ago, and Yamamoto hadn't taken too much time to mobilize his strongest guards to handle the issue as a battle was inevitable.
Shunsui sighed; ''looks like a battle is inevitable,'' he said tiredly. He really didn't wish to fight, but it appeared that it couldn't be helped. ''At least he didn't bring an army of hollows to fight,'' there were only 6 hollows behind the traitors former captain, and that meant that it wouldn't be much of a hustle for them.
''I'm still surprised that they would boldly attack us at our stronghold,'' Toshiro said, glaring at Aizen. Although Momo had recovered fully, thanks to Naruto, he would never forgive Aizen for what had happened to her. Nothing more than slicing that man in half would sooth his young corrupted soul.
''What does it matter?'' Kempachi questioned, a bit loudly. ''Coming here means that they feel strong and we shouldn't complain about that.'' If they were confident of their abilities, then they would no doubt offer a good battle. If not, it would be a disappointment.
Byakuya shook his head. That man thought of nothing but pleasing his thirst for a good battle. He was even more surprised that he hasn't pounced on Ichigo yet because since they arrive at this place to halt Aizen's movements, nothing has been happening. But something was indeed going to happen, and he hoped to do exceedingly well as the head of the Kuchiki clan, and a member of the Gotei 13.
''But it also puts innocent lives in danger,'' Byakuya said. There was nothing to make certain that those hollows wouldn't move on to attack the innocents to put them on edge or just for the fun of it. Hollows tended to be, Mindless killing beasts after all. But then again, these were a bit special given all that Aizen has done to them.
Aizen and his small army stepped forward to get closer to the Shinigami, ''I would imagine that we caught you off-guard by coming here, but to make things fair, we've given you a time to form a strategy, but if you feel that it isn't enough, we can give you more time,'' the former captain stated smoothly with that smile of his playing on his face.
''Are you mocking us?'' Toshiro demanded. If anything, the man was mocking their power by saying such words. To think that he would dare say such to their face so boldly when he'd run away from this place with his tail between his legs the last time he made his appearance here.
''Not at all,'' Aizen said, still smiling, making it difficult for anyone whether he was joking or being quite serious, either way, the captains wouldn't listen to his offer, and the King of Hueco Mundo was aware of it.
''Aizen, you foolish child,'' Yamamoto started. ''You made a mistake of coming here. Your arrogance will only lead to your doom. I will not allow you to leave until I have given you a beating,'' the Sotaicho's voice was stern. Since he wasn't the one for jokes and sarcasm, no one could doubt that the 'eldest' Shinigami was being deadly serious.
Well, Aizen had betrayed Soul Society and had massacred Central 46 before he fled, he'd also fooled everyone for years, it was only given that the Sotaicho be displeased with him. Aizen's actions warranted nothing but a painful execution within the flames of Ryujin Jakka. A traitorous former captain and one dangerous as Aizen shouldn't be allowed to roam free within the spiritual world. Besides, the Royal Guard was already pressuring him to take action as it concerned them, but he knew they were only worried about Naruto.
Speaking of the blond, Yamamoto could only hope that he doesn't come here, because if he does, things would only become tricky and difficult to deal with. If Naruto chooses to involve himself, the danger would be that he won't be at anyone's side, but on his side, and if he got involved, the Soul Society would be in trouble, especially Seireitei.
''You're mistaken Yamamoto; I didn't make a mistake in coming here,'' Aizen responded smoothly. Everything was calculated, and he was certain that coming here only made things interesting and pushed things into his favor. He didn't exactly need to use Karakura town since Naruto would create the key for him or open the portal for him if he does perform to a satisfactory level.
Harribel wondered if it really was the wise choice to attack the Shinigami in their stronghold. Her eyes tracked down all the captains that were present - only one was missing and there was also a former captain, Urahara Kisuke, and Kurosaki Ichigo. At least there weren't any other Shinigami. The lieutenants were not even present and it only meant that they believed the captains were more than enough to handle them. Well, they outnumbered them, but numbers meant nothing when faced against overwhelming power.
Aizen had said they had nothing to worry about and judging from the air of confidence and power oozing off the man, Harribel didn't doubt that the man was more than prepared for anything. She didn't doubt the man's power as she had seen power from him - power that terrified her. What she doubted was his intensions. Once he said they would come here, her unwavering faith started to have cracks, but she was still here, and willing to fight for him. He had saved her life after all. At least she could repay the debt by fighting for his side.
Harribel's eyes turned to her 'colleagues'; they all seemed happy, excited was the right word. No doubt the likes of Nonorita and Grimmjow were only thrilled about the idea of a good battle with captain-class Shinigami. Baraggan seemed lost inside his own thought - she guessed he was probably thinking of ways to stab Aizen in the back. Stark and Ulquiorra looked impassive. The latter never gave anything and neither did she. The good news was that they were all prepared.
''Aizen,'' Tia's eyes turned to the former captain who'd called her master's name. ''The change of plans in using Karakura town have something to do with Naruto, doesn't it?'' Mayuri glared at Urahara for asking a question he wanted to ask. He comforted himself in the thought that he could've done it a better way.
''Yes,'' Aizen responded, ever so smiling. ''That man doesn't care about humans, so if I involved them, he wouldn't have cared enough to intervene, but the same can't be said for Soul Society. Have you ever wondered why never kills Shinigami like he does with hollows and Quincy? Or why he's never done anything that could destroy this world, despite having the power to do so?''
Urahara sighed, ''I'd thought as much,'' he muttered. Questions were raised at his mutterings, but the no one got the chance to respond as an oppressing atmosphere flooded the air when a black portal opened just above the two groups; Naruto and Gin walked out slowly, they were followed by two women, who looked a bit similar in body built and looks. The portal closed and the four jumped down and stood still between the two groups.
What was obviously different about Naruto was that he wasn't wearing his usual cloak; today he was wearing a black sleeve-less coat that stretched down beneath his ankles. He wasn't wearing anything under the coat, except for a few bandages around his waist section. Black shinobi pants covered his lower body and bandages covered his feet. His hands were placed inside his pockets, and another thing that stood out was his ocean blue eyes. Perhaps 3 or four had only seen those eyes as he usually had blood red eyes.
There was nothing different about Gin in terms of appearance. The only difference in the snake was his Reaitsu output; it was pouring out with such intensity that Kempachi wanted nothing more than to lunge at the former captain. Despite feeling a lot stronger, Gin wasn't giving off the most powerful spiritual pressure; the two women who flanked both Naruto's sides were. The one on the left could be easily recognized as a former royal guard and captain, Shutara. The other woman seemed harmless despite the powerful aura that she gave.
To sum it all up, ''I feel out of place,'' Toshiro said. ''Those three are already powerful enough, and we haven't even counted Him.'' Even the Arrancar were agreeing with his thoughts.
Aizen had no such thoughts though. ''You've finally arrived,'' he said. ''It looks like you've brought some guests though...''
''Brining dead souls alive wasn't easy to do, especially when only small fragments of the souls had remained,'' Naruto responded casually, like brining someone from the dead was a normal thing that happened every day. But it wasn't normal, and it didn't happen each at all. Once you died, you were dead and that was it - that is what everyone, even hollows believed.
''Interesting,'' while the others were shocked that a dead person had come back to life, Mayuri was grinning like a mad man. Through science, he could create artificial life, but it could never be as real as the real person. But this man had brought back to life someone he could prove, with his science, was dead. He had to have some sort of life force to be able to do which was impossible.
Unohana hadn't thought it was possible when he had said it thousands years ago, but now she was seeing it. Shutara had been dead, but now she was alive. Her existence had been erased to nothing, but she was standing there, beside Naruto. The reality was unbelievable, and all medical Kido couldn't explain just how he had made Shutara again, after an explosion had erased her existence. It would have been understandable if he had brought her back when her body was still intact, but there was no body to work with.
She guessed the other woman was 'that woman' he sometimes spoke of. Unohana didn't really look much into beauty, but she was sure even Yamamoto would nod in agreement if she said the other woman was truly beautiful she'd thought Shutara was something, but this was something else.
''So there is some truth to the tale you told,'' Ukitake said, in resignation more than anything. He'd never actually believed it, but he had no choice now because that dead woman was standing beside him, along with the other woman.
Yamamoto wasn't concerned about anything else, ''why have you come here, Naruto?''
''I've now decided that my name shouldn't be used so cheaply Yamamoto,'' Naruto simply said. ''But that isn't why I am here - I want to play a game'' He snapped his fingers and everyone disappeared, before appearing into a new world that was like a desert. Above the air, two stands were created, one for the hollows and the other for the Shinigami. Each stand had about 5 monitors in the front. The gate of hell appeared above, and another white gate formed. Naruto sent those with him to the Shinigami side, before he flew downwards, and landed smoothly.
''The game is simple; if I'm defeated, Aizen will enter through the white gate, and Yamamoto will continue to rule Soul Society as he pleases. I will even make him look younger. However, if I win, Aizen will be made the new warden of hell, and his Espada will manage Hueco Mundo. Yamamoto will die.'' Naruto smiled, stretching out his hands, ''now then, shall the game begin?''
End Chapter
I was supposed to write something to give a detailed view of Naruto's abilities, but this chapter was done in a bit of a hurry and I didn't have the time to do one. I will, however, do one in the next chapter.
So battles will be in the next chapter, and the one that follows that will be the last. That said, two more chapters are left before this story is marked as complete.