Tamashi no Kiri
Chapter 2: "Like the Heart of Mist"
We all have a raison d'être
A reason for going on
It is as strong as steel and yet fragile
Like the Heart of Mist
This Soul of Fog
He sat next to the sleeping Harper Bradbury. Her breaths were becoming shallow. He looked at his watch and then he looked back at her. Her face was becoming flushed again and her aura was becoming brighter. He then saw something rising from the glow and he smiled.
"It's happening," someone said.
He looked at the woman standing in front of him. She was fingering her chin-length black hair. She was clad in a pair of tight leather pants tucked into knee-high boots and a very tight and low-cut white sleeveless shirt that showed off her considerable bosom.
"Hello, Emily, you're looking as lovely as ever."
"Shut up," she said, slightly annoyed. "How close is she?"
"It's very soon. I'm glad I found her when I did, otherwise she would have disintegrated by now."
"Milton, she still could…you know…disintegrate."
"If that happens, then her Spirit will return to where all Spirits are first formed to be remade into a new Spirit. However, I don't intend to let that happen."
"You never do, but it still happens from time-to-time."
"I know. Not all things can handle the course of Evolution and thus fade away. And Spiritual Evolution is the most difficult path to travel."
"Why is it so difficult, though? I almost disintegrated during my own Awakening. I don't want to think what she might have to go through."
"It's difficult because the Spirit is the most fragile and yet the strongest part of any being. It's what gives the being its raison d'être and yet it's like the Heart of Mist. It can easily be broken."
Kurosaki Clinic
"GOOD…MORNING…ICHIGO!"
Ichigo Kurosaki opened his door and stood to the side as his dad, Isshin, flew into the room and then out the open window. Ichigo couldn't help but smile now that his dad was back to normal. The time where Isshin hadn't been trying to knock his son unconscious, or at least trying to drive him insane, every moment of the day was rather weird.
Ichigo made his way downstairs and his dad opened the door. Isshin was grinning and looking at his son with obvious pride.
"Excellent job," Isshin said.
Ichigo only planted his foot in his dad's face.
"Would you stop trying to kill me first thing in the morning?"
"Come on, son, you need to stay alert."
"Well, it's good to know that things are getting back to normal around here," one of Ichigo's younger sisters, Karin, said.
"Come on, Dad. You're going to get in trouble with the neighbors," his other sister, Yuzu, said.
"Well, someone has to keep your brother on his toes," Isshin said.
"And someone needs to put you in a mental asylum," Karin said, rolling her eyes.
"Not to mention," Ichigo said. "Someone needs to take away your morning coffee."
"Oh, Masaki," Isshin said, rushing to the large poster of his long-dead wife and mother of his children. "Our little babies are getting into that rebellious stage. They're…they're growing up," he said, sniffing.
"YOU SAID THAT A LONG TIME AGO!" Ichigo and Karin shouted.
"Now, now, that's enough," Yuzu said. "You don't want your breakfast getting cold, do you?"
"Fine, whatever," Ichigo said. "Hey Dad…"
"Leave him," Karin said. "It just means more for us."
Karakura Town
Captain Mayuri Kurotsuchi looked down at the Hollow's corpse. His gold eyes glittered with the maniacal glee that usually came into his eyes when he was looking at something new. His Lieutenant and "Clone-Daughter", Nemu, was busy doing a full scan of the Hollow. Akemi leaned against the alley's wall, watching as the team from Squad 12 was scurrying to collect samples.
"This is most intriguing," Mayuri said. "There appears to be some kind of residue that I've never come across before. Nemu, get a sample of that residue, you worthless girl."
"Yes Master Mayuri," Nemu said in her monotonous voice.
Akemi rolled her eyes. She hoped that one day Nemu would simply have enough and rip out Mayuri's balls. However, the likelihood of that happening was the same as Captain Zaraki growing tired of fighting. Also, did Mayuri even have balls anymore? She shook the thought out of her mind. She just hoped that Captain Freakshow didn't keep her waiting much longer.
"Hey Akemi," someone said.
Akemi turned and smiled when she saw her fellow Squad 13 member rushing towards her. As usual she was in her Gigai. A school bag was clutched in her hand. She was not surprised to see a Chappy the Rabbit charm hanging from the bag's grip.
"Oh, hey Sachiko," Akemi said.
"So, what's going on here?"
"Oh, Captain Mayuri's examining that Hollow over there."
"What…a dead Hollow in the World of the Living? Don't they usually disintegrate?"
"They do, but this one didn't. Also, it was partially devoured."
"Who found it?"
"Why do you think I'm standing here? I mean, I've got better things to do than having to watch Squad 12 collect their little samples."
As she said "little samples", two of the team passed, carrying a rather large container to the opening that led back to the Soul Society. They were having problems with trying to carry it.
"NEMU!" Mayuri shrieked. "Make sure those idiots don't drop that sample."
"Yes Master Mayuri."
"How long have they been at this?" Sachiko asked.
"Let's see here," Akemi said thinking. "I reported it at around 10:33 PM, Karakura human time and it's…about 8:27AM," she said looking at her soul pager.
"Wow," Sachiko said. "Well, I better get going. I'm supposed to get to class."
"Oh, does that mean you're being stationed here?"
"Yeah, and I want to surprise Rukia. Oh, and they're also sending a couple of students in as well."
"They're not any of the former Arrancars, are they?"
"No, just two ordinary students who need to do their three month internship in the World of the Living. It's too bad. I would like to meet one of them. I've heard lots of stories about them from my friends who are still in the Academy. Well, I better get going."
"Yeah, later," Akemi said.
She saw that Mayuri was approaching her and she stood at attention. She hoped that he didn't have too many questions for her. Protocol required that any Soul Reaper who found something unusual remain at the scene until the investigative team arrived and they filled out the proper paperwork and were dismissed by the team's highest ranking officer.
"Ah, you're still here," Mayuri said.
"Yes sir, do you have any questions for me?"
"Not really…after all, you are a simpleton. Why would I even bother asking a simpleton for further details when I can just get them myself? I only need you to sign the forms and that's it. God, you're such an idiot."
Akemi did her best not to let her rage show. She was forced to stand around for hours, waiting for Mayuri and his gang of nerds to get through with their little research and he only needed her to fill out forms. Hell, he could have just given her the forms at the beginning and she could have been making her rounds. She really hated Mayuri and wondered how anyone in his squad could stand him. She also wondered why none of them have stood-up to him by now. Then she remembered that he always put explosives in the new recruits and he could destroy them on a whim.
"Of course, Captain Kurotsuchi," she said, signing the forms. She made sure that the words "you fucking bastard" did not slip out.
Soul Reaper Academy
Starrk walked down the hall towards the practice yard. Today the former Espada had exams with Yoruichi Shihoin and Sui-Feng to test them on their hand-to-hand combat skills. He yawned slightly, and realized that he should have taken a nap. That way he would at least be somewhat refreshed before having to spar with two of the best fighters in the Soul Society.
"Hey Starrk," someone cried out.
He turned and saw one of the older students rushing towards him. Starrk smiled and waved.
"Hey, Daisuke," Starrk said. "How are things?"
"Oh…they're going great. Hey, a bunch of us are going to the bar tonight. You wanna come?"
"Sure, what's the celebration?"
"Oh, Arata and Shizuka are being sent to the World of the Living for their internship."
"Really, that's great. Of course I'll come. I'll see if Captain Kyoraku and some of the others would like to come as well."
"Really, you'd ask Captain Kyoraku to come and hang out with us students?"
"Sure," Starrk said, shrugging. "Shunsui's not one to pass up a party."
"Wow, you actually call Captain Kyoraku by his first name?"
"Well, sure," Starrk said, seeing the awe in Daisuke's round face. "I wouldn't advise calling the more serious Captains by their first name, though. Some of them get pretty touchy about it."
Daisuke laughed and nodded in agreement.
"Great, I'll tell the others that you'll make it. It's tonight, starting at sunset at the Cherry Orchard."
"Thanks, Daisuke, well I better get going. I don't want to keep Yoruichi or Captain Sui-Feng waiting."
"Can't say that I blame ya," Daisuke said, laughing.
When Starrk arrived to the practice yard he saw Ulquiorra, Harribel, and Lilynette sitting under a tree. Yoruichi and Sui-Feng were just arriving, but there was no sign of Grimmjow and Nnoitora. He saw the bleachers filling up with students and instructors who wanted to observe the Espada and was not surprised to see Kyoraku and Ukitake. However, he was surprised to see Yamamoto sitting beneath a cherry tree away from the others.
"Well, look who finally arrived," Yoruichi said, grinning at Starrk.
"Oh, good morning, Lady Yoruichi," Starrk said.
"Come on, you can drop the formalities," Yoruichi said, laughing.
"I'm sorry…uh…Yoruichi."
"Much better," Yoruichi said. "Now, get with the others."
"Uh…where are Grimmjow and Nnoitora?"
"Oh…they should be here. Sui-Feng, make sure that they're actually practicing."
"Yes, Lady Yoruichi," Sui-Feng said and vanished.
"Wait, let me guess," Starrk said. "You're having them practice their Hoho because of what happened yesterday."
"Oh yes," Yoruichi said, smiling. "You and Ulquiorra were the only ones who passed. Nnoitora failed by default and Grimmjow failed because he got caught. I had to find some way to get you guys to demonstrate your Hoho. I just felt that the best way to see how well you could do against an enemy is to have you face a bunch of rabid fan-girls."
"Did you set the whole thing up?"
"Oh…I only watched you guys. However, I didn't have to encourage those ladies. They just did what came naturally."
"Oh," Starrk said.
He looked and saw Nnoitora and Grimmjow suddenly appear and then run towards where the other three were waiting. Sui-Feng was chasing them, looking delighted at the torture she was putting them through. Starrk was glad that he didn't need extra practice. He heard the crowd laughing and Yoruichi was also laughing at the sight of Nnoitora and Grimmjow stumbling over each other to get away from Sui-Feng. Starrk only shrugged and made his way to where Harribel, Lilynette, and Ulquiorra were sitting. He was surprised to see that Ulquiorra was laughing as well. Would wonders never cease?
Karakura Town
"Milton, it's happening," Sylvia cried out.
He dropped the copy of Clive Barker's The Thief of Always that he was reading and rushed to the couch. He saw that Harper's spirit body was bucking and tendrils of a misty material were beginning to rise. Howard was leaning over the computer and then he pushed the ENTER button. At once, a soft luminescent glow surrounded the girl's spirit body and the Gigai.
"The Net is up," he said.
"Good," Milton said.
Sylvia was running her hands through her shoulder-length black hair, as she usually did when she became nervous. Milton watched as the tendrils of mist that were seeping from her fading spirit body tried to escape from the Net, but were unable to find a way out. Eventually the girl's spirit body was gone and there was only the mist floating around inside the cut off area.
"How long?" Milton asked.
"About 3 minutes," Howard said.
"Come on…come on," Milton whispered.
Then the tendrils of mist began to rejoin each other. Milton's eyes widened when he saw that none of the mist thought about entering the Gigai where it would be easier to reform their original shape. Milton looked over Howard's shoulder and smiled.
"Milton, what is it?" Sylvia asked.
"She's another like us. Her spirit particles are rejoining themselves naturally."
"Does that mean she might also have acquired Risveglio?" Howard asked.
"Yes, I believe so. It would be interesting to see what it is."
"That would bring our number to eight," Sylvia said.
"Yes, but for now, just look at how beautiful it is," Milton said, gesturing to the swirling mist coming together to reform Harper's spirit body. "It's like looking into the Heart of Mist."
Soul Reaper Academy
"Now then," Yoruichi said. "I understand that you're all extremely proficient at swordsmanship. However, what if you don't have your sword with you?"
"That ain't gonna happen," Nnoitora said.
"Oh…don't be too sure. Where's your sword now?"
"Right here," Nnoitora said, but when he reached for his Zanpakuto that he always kept ready at his waist, he found that it was gone, sheath and all. "What the… Hey, where's my sword you fucking bitch?"
"Right here," Yoruichi said, holding up his Zanpakuto.
"Give it here," Nnoitora said, getting up. "Or I'll make ya, ya fucking cunt."
"Don't worry, you'll get your sword back…if you can beat me in hand-to-hand combat."
"Lady Yoruichi, that should be my duty," Sui-Feng said.
"Nah, I kinda want to see what they got," Yoruichi said. "Lilynette, you're exempt from this since you already practiced hand-to-hand combat with us earlier. However, you may watch if you wish. Now, I want the rest of you to hand over your Zanpakuto. If you can defeat me, then you will get them back. However, if I beat you, then you'll only get them back after you've practiced hand-to-hand combat with me and Sui-Feng for two hours. "
"Ha, that's easy," Grimmjow said, getting up. He pulled his Zanpakuto, Pantera, from his sash and pushed it into Sui-Feng's arms. "So long as I go first and show these pansies how it's done."
"Very good, Grimmjow, you get to go first. Then…Nnoitora will be next."
"Hey, why can't I go first?" Nnoitora asked. "You took my Santa Teresa first, so I should go first."
"You didn't offer to go first, though. Grimmjow did, but you can go second."
"No way, I don't want his sloppy seconds."
Harribel slapped her face and Sui-Feng looked ready to kill Nnoitora. As was becoming custom for him, Ulquiorra muttered something along the lines of "Trash" or "How vulgar" under his breath. Starrk rolled his eyes and yawned. Lilynette and Yoruichi only laughed.
"I don't think you'll have to worry," Yoruichi said. "I'm pretty sure I can take both of you out before you can come."
Sui-Feng looked shocked that her Lady Yoruichi could be as bold and vulgar as Nnoitora. However, if Kisuke Urahara was there, he would have been rolling on the ground, laughing. He knew just how vulgar Yoruichi could get when it came to witty comebacks. Nnoitora gave his iconic lecherous grin, revealing all of his piano teeth.
"Holy shit," Yoruichi said, laughing. "Did you try to swallow a grand piano?"
"Oh…you are…so dead," Nnoitora said, his grin widening even more.
"I doubt that. Come on, Grimmjow, let's get started. We wouldn't want to disappoint our audience," she said and gestured to the large crowd that had gathered.
"Shit, there's more of 'em than there were when we were doing Kido," Grimmjow muttered.
"Alright, let's get started," Yoruichi said.
She immediately launched herself at Grimmjow. Grimmjow's eyes widened and he was quick enough to duck under her foot. Yoruichi smirked and grabbed hold of his kosode and pulled. Grimmjow felt the pull and then he found himself on the ground.
"He shouldn't have ducked," Ulquiorra said.
"FUCK!" Grimmjow screamed. "That wasn't fair. You attacked me before I was even ready."
"Do you think that your opponent will always be considerate to give you warning?"
Grimmjow muttered something under his breath as he got up. He returned to where the others were sitting, sulking. Starrk knew that Grimmjow was disappointed to losing, but Ulquiorra was right. Grimmjow shouldn't have ducked. He saw that Ulquiorra and Harribel were also looking at Yoruichi, trying to assess her.
"Starrk," Lilynette whispered.
"What is it?"
"You know that she can't really be assessed," Lilynette said. "She can change her movements at any given moment."
Starrk nodded. He already had an idea that the purpose of this exercise was to teach them something about facing an enemy. He understood that the first lesson was: always be prepared for an attack. He suspected that Grimmjow's reaction was exactly what Yoruichi expected and so took full advantage of it. That would mean that lesson two was: try to do what your opponent doesn't expect you too.
"Lilynette, tell Ulquiorra and Harribel this," Starrk whispered and Lilynette nodded.
"Ha, I always knew that Grimm-Kitty was always too polite," Nnoitora cried out, laughing. He got up and made his way towards Yoruichi. "You won't have that same problem with me, bitch. My sword's as good as back in my hands."
"Do you really think so?" Yoruichi asked.
"Fuck yeah," Nnoitora said, grinning.
"Alright then let's…"
Before she finished, Nnoitora rushed her. Yoruichi only shook her head and stepped to the side before Nnoitora could lay a hand on her. Nnoitora turned and kicked out, however Yoruichi caught his foot and flipped Nnoitora over onto his back. Nnoitora wasn't finished though, he lashed out with his other foot, but Yoruichi only dodged that and yanked him forward with the foot she held. Nnoitora screamed in fury and brought out his hand to grab Yoruichi.
"Nice try," Yoruichi said, and let go of Nnoitora's leg and stepped to the side.
When Nnoitora was perpendicular to her, she brought out her foot and stepped on him, mid torso. The force brought him to the ground and made him loose his breath. Nnoitora looked furious and grabbed her ankle to try to flip her. However, Yoruichi only crouched down and struck him in the face with the palm of her hand. Nnoitora's grip loosened.
"You were impatient. Just because you attacked first doesn't mean you'll achieve victory. Fighting isn't attacking your opponents like a wild beast, without reason or plan. There's an art behind it. You lost, Nnoitora. Now then, get up and return to your fellow students."
Nnoitora glared at her. He couldn't help but think that she and Nel had so much in common. Now that included pissing him off. He muttered as he made his way to the others and Ulquiorra stood up. Ulquiorra also brought out his Zanpakuto, Murciélago. He held it out with both hands to Sui-Feng and bowed. Sui-Feng returned the bow as she took the sheathed sword. He looked at Yoruichi, his emerald green eyes meeting her golden eyes.
"I heard much about you, Ulquiorra," she said, smiling. "Now then, shall we begin?"
"Of course," he said, closing his eyes.
Yoruichi leapt at him and Ulquiorra side-stepped to the left. Yoruichi flew past him and landed on the ground. She turned and rushed at him. Ulquiorra turned and struck at her with his right hand. She reached out to grab it, but Ulquiorra brought up his left hand and grabbed her wrist. Her eyes widened in surprise as Ulquiorra turned to strike her in the torso with his right hand. She leapt up and used her other hand to support herself on Ulquiorra's left wrist.
The audience gasped in surprise as Ulquiorra's right hand passed underneath her while Yoruichi grabbed his left wrist as she flipped over his head. As she turned overhead, Ulquiorra was being dragged slightly, but with a quick motion of his wrist, he got free from her grip. Yoruichi landed on the ground and grinned at Ulquiorra, whose back was turned to her. She rushed at him.
Ulquiorra sensed her coming and flash-stepped to the left. Yoruichi immediately understood what he was doing and flash-stepped to the right. Ulquiorra appeared there and his eyes widened in surprise as Yoruichi's hand clamped over his face and brought him crashing down.
"You over-thought it," she said. "For anyone other than me, those moves you did would have probably worked. Unfortunately, Kisuke had a habit of using those techniques when we practiced. Fighting is not just about planning and strategy. It's also about following your instincts. Do you understand?"
"I understand, Sensei. Thank you for your instruction."
"You're welcome, Ulquiorra. You may rejoin your comrades," she said.
The audience applauded Ulquiorra. Starrk noticed that another man had joined to watch. He didn't recognize him, but his face was as expressionless as Ulquiorra's usually was. Kyoraku and Ukitake were talking with some of the students. Then Harribel got up. She went to Sui-Feng and surrendered her Zanpakuto, Tiburón, in the same manner that Ulquiorra did. Starrk watched her, wondering what Yoruichi would do. He noticed that Yoruichi was increasing her attack as she progressed and was even incorporating Hoho into it.
"BITCH FIGHT!" Nnoitora yelled. "C'mon how about ya do us all a favor and strip before ya fight."
"Yeah, bring out the mud, too," Grimmjow called out.
There were plenty of cheers and applauds and laughter from the crowd at that. Ulquiorra rolled his eyes and shook his head. Starrk only watched as Harribel and Yoruichi were getting into position. Yoruichi launched herself at Harribel who dodged easily. However, she had a counter attack ready and when Yoruichi was perpendicular to her she brought her foot up and kicked Yoruichi in the stomach.
Everyone thought that Harribel might have actually beaten Yoruichi. However, Starrk's sharp eyes caught something that none of the others saw. As Harribel was bringing her foot up, Yoruichi had brought her hands over her stomach and pushed down on Harribel's foot and pretended to double, over, but was actually preparing an attack of her own. Harribel must have realized what happened because she ducked to the right as Yoruichi's foot flew at her shoulder.
Yoruichi must have thought that she had the best of her opponent because she brought her right leg down in an attempt to make Harribel lose her balance. However, Harribel was prepared for it. She threw her upper body into Yoruichi's side. She then proceeded to wrap her arms around Yoruichi, but then something happened. To everyone's amazement, there were two Yoruichis. One was being tackled by Harribel while the other was leaping at Harribel with her leg out and foot straight.
However, Harribel kept her cool. She quickly released the other Yoruichi who vanished and grabbed Yoruichi's outstretched foot and lifted up. As Yoruichi lost her momentum, Harribel brought her other hand and struck her in the lower back with her palm. Harribel then released her grip on Yoruichi and leapt back, never taking her eyes off her opponent. When Yoruichi landed she got up and laughed.
"Wow, I didn't think that anyone could beat my Utsusemi," Yoruichi said. "Man, I was hoping that I would beat all of you."
"It's not your fault. I sparred with someone who could do something like that when I first joined the Espada."
"Oh, who was it?"
"It doesn't really matter. He's not even here to show it off. He called it 'Gemelos Sonído'."
"I see," Yoruichi said. "Well, congratulations, you may retrieve your Zanpakuto and return to your comrades."
"Thank you, Sensei," Harribel said and bowed. "It was an honor sparring with you."
"The honor was mine as well. Now then, that just leaves us with…"
"I guess," Starrk said as he got up. He brought out his Zanpakuto, Los Lobos, and gave it to Sui-Feng, in the same manner as Ulquiorra and Harribel.
"From what I heard, you used to be the Primera Espada, right? Well, it should be interesting to see what the Primera can do," Yoruichi said.
Karakura High School
Rukia took her usual seat and saw that Ichigo was staring out the window, again. She sighed and saw that Orihime was laughing with Tatsuki at the back of the class. Chad and Uryu were being quiet, as always. She reached into her bag and brought out her textbooks.
"Whoa, who's the hottie?" Keigo asked.
"I think she's the new girl," his friend, Mizuiro, said.
"Alright, class, please settle down," their teacher, Miss Ochi, said. "Alright, we have a new student joining us, today. Everyone, please welcome Sachiko Amaterasu."
Rukia looked up. Her eyes widened at the girl standing at the front of their class. Her blackish blue hair hung to her shoulders. Her green eyes were wide with excitement. The uniform fit her well-enough to display her soft curves at the hips and bust. She gave a slight bow.
"I hope we can all get along, together," she said, smiling.
"Thank you, Miss Amaterasu. You may sit down at the open desk next to Miss Kuchiki…the girl over there," Miss Ochi said.
"Thank you, ma'am," Sachiko said and made her way to Rukia's desk.
"Hello, I'm Sachiko Amaterasu, but please call me Sachiko."
"It's nice to meet you, I'm Rukia Kuchiki, but please call me Rukia."
"Whew, it was harder than I thought in pretending not to know ya," Sachiko whispered as Miss Ochi began her lecture.
"What are you doing here?"
"Oh…I was sent here because my sister, Akemi's here too."
"That's right, how is she by the way?"
"Well, the last time I saw her…she was bored."
"Really, why?"
"Oh, it's because of something she found last night."
"Really, what was it?"
"Well..."
Soul Reaper Academy
Starrk didn't say anything. Instead, he looked at Yoruichi's stance. From seeing the others spar with her, he was able to deduce that when she was about to strike, she would always put more weight on her left foot and lash out with her right. He saw that she was doing that even now. As Yoruichi rushed him, Starrk sighed and moved to his left. When Yoruichi was passing him, he tagged her.
"Tag…you're it," he said.
When Yoruichi came to a stop, she looked at Starrk and smiled. She remembered that Kisuke would do that to her when they practiced. She found it funny that not only did Starrk remind her of Captain Kyoraku, but also a little bit of Kisuke. Even though, he hardly ever showed that side of him, Starrk did have a sense of humor. Lilynette and Harribel chuckled.
"You know, you could have ended it right then and there," Yoruichi said.
"I know, but…I wouldn't like to disappoint the audience."
"You may regret it," Yoruichi said and rushed at him again.
Starrk only side-stepped, but Yoruichi lashed out with her hand to grab his uniform. Starrk's eyes widened and he leapt back, barely avoiding being grabbed. However, as Lilynette pointed out, she could change her trajectory at a moment's notice. Now, instead of her hand coming at him, her foot was barreling towards him.
Damn it, I knew I should have ended it at the very beginning, Starrk thought as he leapt to the right. Why did I have to show off like that? That's not like me.
No, but it's like me, another voice said. Starrk widened in surprise, he never heard this voice before. The voice laughed, and the laughter sounded like the tinkling of silver bells. Oh don't sound so surprised, it's just me.
Lilynette, is that you? You know I'm…
No, I'm not Lilynette, though she used to be part of me.
Are you what we used to be?
No.
Are you Los Lobos?
Bingo.
Why are you here? I'm not meditating or anything.
Silly, I'm here to help you reach your full potential. The others are trying to help their partners, but weren't able to since none of them are exactly listening. Oh…you better pay attention.
Starrk looked up and saw Yoruichi back flipping towards him in a blur of motion. Starrk moved out of the way and was about to reach out to grab her.
Don't do that.
Why not?
She's expecting you to do that, as you very well know. Now, do you want my help or not?
Well…I could use all the help I can get.
Good, now then, how about we try that "Utsusemi" move she did. That kinda looks like fun.
But, I only saw it once.
So, replay it in your mind's eye. You'll understand it if you do that. Remember how you figured out Ukitake's Shikai?
Yeah, but…I had to practice it on him two more times before I got it.
Nope, you got it after only the first actual try. You just did that second try to see if you were right. Now, replay it in your mind's eye. But make it fast, she's coming at you.
Starrk leapt in the air as Yoruichi passed below him. She looked up in surprise. Clearly, she had tried to flash-step towards him using… Then he noticed the Yoruichi in the air barreling at him. She had used Utsusemi on him. He imagined her doing the same to Harribel and that was when he saw it. He saw how it could be done.
Yoruichi was surprised that Starrk fell for it. As the after-image was rushing towards him, he leapt into the air, which was what she wanted. She smiled as her foot made contact with the Starrk in front of her. Then the Starrk in front of her vanished.
"Sorry to have to do this," Starrk said from behind her.
Yoruichi's eyes widened as Starrk's hands pushed down on her shoulders. Yoruichi felt herself spinning out of control and crash to the ground. Starrk allowed himself to drift the ground and when he was standing before her, knelt and offered her his hand.
"Are you alright, Sensei?" Starrk asked.
"How…how did you…? No one…no one's ever beaten me like that before. How did you…?"
"'Do the unexpected.' Isn't that what you told us to do?"
"Huh…I guess I did. I certainly wasn't expecting that," Yoruichi said and took Starrk's hand.
"LADY YORUICHI!" Sui-Feng cried out, rushing towards them.
"It's alright, Sui-Feng. I'm fine. Now, return Starrk's Zanpakuto. He won fair and square."
"Y-yes, Lady Yoruichi," Sui Feng said.
Starrk took his sword from Sui-Feng and bowed to her and then to Yoruichi. Yoruichi smiled and bowed in return. He turned and saw the stern-faced Captain standing in front of him. The Captain looked at Starrk and then turned to Yoruichi.
"Hey, Byakuya," Yoruichi said. "I'm surprised to see you here."
"Yoruichi, I see that you're as disrespectful to me as ever."
"Aw, don't be like that. Just because you may have been made a Captain doesn't mean that you have a chance at beating me in a game of Chase the Devil."
"Well…at least I've never been beaten by an opponent who used a technique I came up with," Byakuya said, smirking slightly.
"That may be true, but…" Yoruichi suddenly thought about how quickly Starrk mastered it. "Hmm, not even you mastered that maneuver so quickly, Byakuya. I wonder. Well, never mind. Alright, let's see. Grimmjow, Nnoitora, and Ulquiorra, you get to spend two extra hours with me and Sui-Feng. Harribel, Lilynette, and Starrk, you are excused. Enjoy your time off."
"Uh…Yoruichi," Harribel said. "We were discussing it and we decided if we may be allowed stay and practice with our comrades."
"Of course you may. It would be my pleasure and honor," Yoruichi said with a smile.
Starrk saw Kyoraku and Ukitake preparing to depart, but they stopped to talk with the Captain-Commander. He suddenly remembered that he promised Daisuke to ask them if they could come to the celebratory party that evening. He rushed towards them. Ukitake noticed Starrk and waved while nudging Kyoraku.
"Well…that was an impressive display," Kyoraku said. "I never thought that anyone could ever beat the Goddess of Flash, but two…and with her own technique…" he chuckled.
"It was really nothing," Starrk said. "I only took a slow step right as I began Flash Step, but the timing was rather tricky."
"So that's how it's done," Kyoraku muttered.
"Yeah, but you have to time it perfectly, otherwise you lose all control of movement. I just got lucky. Anyways, I wanted to ask you something."
"Okay, shoot," Kyoraku said, "…just not in the back."
Starrk chuckled.
"Well, you see, my friend, Daisuke is getting some of the other students together at the Cherry Orchard to celebrate Arata and Shizuka for getting the internship. They wanted to celebrate before they were shipped off in the morning. I told them that I would ask if you would be able to come."
"Hell yeah, I'll come," Kyoraku said, grinning. "You know I never miss a party."
"That's true. Even if there are three parties occurring that the same time, he always tries to make it to each one."
"He's right. You should come too, Ukitake."
"Well I…"
"HEY, YORUICHI!" Kyoraku called out. "PARTY TONIGHT AT THE CHERRY ORCHARD!"
"OH, I'M SO THERE," Yoruichi called back.
"HEY, YOU AIN'T LEAVIN' ME OUT OF ANY PARTY!" Grimmjow shouted.
"Aw, is Kitty upset that he didn't get invited?" Nnoitora sneered.
"Hell, you weren't invited either."
"So, I'll just crash the fuckin' party."
Starrk suddenly had a bad feeling. He felt Harribel's hand on his shoulder. He put his own hand over hers and squeezed.
"That was sweet of you," Harribel said, smiling.
"Thanks, but it's the least I can do. Daisuke was one of the first to warm up to us when we started classes."
"Also, he's becoming a friend to you. A lot of the other students are warming up to us."
"Yeah, but…it will be interesting to see how the other Soul Reapers react to us joining them."
Shinigami Research and Development Institute (Squad 12 Barracks)
"NEMU, bring those samples," Mayuri Kurotsuchi ordered.
"Yes, Master Mayuri," Nemu replied, bringing one of the crates filled with the Hollow's remains over.
"Very good, Nemu," Mayuri said. "Now, where did I put that sample of that unusual Reiatsu?"
"Right here, Master Mayuri," Nemu said, holding up a jar filled with a glowing amber fluid.
"INSOLENT GIRL!" Mayuri screamed and smacked Nemu across the face. "How dare you handle such a valuable sample without telling me first? If anyone is going to handle the valuable samples, it's me. Do you understand?"
"Yes, Master Mayuri," Nemu said and held the sample, which Mayuri took with a grunt.
"Honestly, sometimes you're more trouble than you're worth. Oh well, no matter. Now then, let's see what we've got."
Mayuri opened the jar's lid and poured some of the fluid into a funnel that led to one of the many pieces of equipment in the lab. He watched as the machine processed the fluid and read the Reiatsu contained. The computer screens showed him the information as it became available. As Mayuri looked at the information, he began to grin.
"Well…looks like I may have something new to experiment on."
Kurosaki Clinic
Rukia stared at the ceiling of Ichigo's closet. She was lying on the mattress where she slept whenever she was in the World of the Living. She thought about what Sachiko told her about the remains of the Hollow her sister found. She wasn't sure just what to make of it. Usually, when a Hollow was killed in the World of the Living, it would immediately be purified or sent to Hell, but it would never leave a corpse behind.
"Hey Rukia, would you like something to eat?" Ichigo asked, knocking on the closet door.
"Yeah…hold on," Rukia said and opened the closet door.
Ichigo was putting a plate of rice and curry on the small table in his room. He took his own plate with him to the desk. He took one look at her face and became concerned.
"Is something wrong?" Ichigo asked.
"Nah," Rukia said. "It's just that…you remember the new student in class?"
"You mean the one who feels like a Soul Reaper? What about her?"
"Well, you see, she's in Squad 13 with me and her sister. Anyways, her sister found the remains of a Hollow in an alley last night."
"I thought you said that's impossible," Ichigo said as he took a bit of curry.
"Well…I thought so too. But, the thing is the corpse appeared to have been partially devoured."
"Do you think it was another Hollow?"
"That's the thing. When Hollows invade the World of the Living or the Soul Society, they never go after each other. Also, she mentioned that the bite marks appeared to have been made by a…a human spirit."
"Are you serious? You're not really suggesting that a human spirit has somehow gotten a taste for Hollow meat. The way you told it to me: Hollows devour humans, not the other way around."
"Well…that's probably why Captain Kurotsuchi was in Karakura Town earlier. She said that they were collecting samples for research."
"Jeez, I thought I saw Captain Freakshow earlier. So that would explain it. Hey, Rukia, have you ever heard of anything like this going on before?"
"No, maybe one of the older Captains like Kyoraku or Unohana or Ukitake has."
"Maybe Urahara," Ichigo suggested.
"Well…I suppose that Kisuke might have an idea of what's going on. I'll go over tomorrow and ask him."
Captain-Commander Yamamoto's Office
The Captain-Commander sat at his office, looking over his files on the former Espada and then looking at the notes that their instructors had given him. Grimmjow and Nnoitora had slightly improved since their first practical sessions in both Kido and Hoho, but they still excelled in swordsmanship. Despite their abysmal performances at hand-to-hand combat against Yoruichi, they were still above and beyond any of the regular students. Of course, they were staying with Squad 11, so it was only natural that they would excel in melee experience.
Then there were Ulquiorra, Harribel, Lilynette, and Starrk. Those four had even surpassed their instructors in many of the practical courses. Of course, none of the instructors were on the same level as Yamamoto, but it was still nothing to take lightly. After he watched their Kido practice, Yamamoto became very interested to see what those four were capable of. Now, after seeing how they were able to keep their own against Yoruichi Shihoin, he became even more interested.
"What do you think about these four?" Yamamoto asked and passed the four files over to Yoruichi who was sitting across from him.
Yoruichi looked at the files and smiled.
"They all show tremendous potential," she said. "I was actually astonished that Lilynette could actually keep up with me during our practices. Ulquiorra shows tremendous potential and I would even consider him a natural at Kido, Hoho, and combat skills. However, he needs to loosen up and stop over-thinking things. If he could do that, he could possibly rival Captains Kuchiki and Hitsugaya in overall skill and potential. Harribel has demonstrated tremendous skill in both Kido and Hoho. However, she sometimes has the tendency of rushing into things, but she is still as much a natural as Ulquiorra. Overall, she has the makings of being a great seated officer at the very least, with the possibility of a Captain's position. Starrk…"
"Go on. What are your thoughts on Starrk?"
"He has proven himself to be extremely and naturally skilled and adaptable on all levels. Unlike Ulquiorra, he doesn't over-think things. Instead, he can see a maneuver only once and be able to recreate it exactly or even find ways of improving it, like he did with my Utsusemi. He could belong to any number of Squads and excel in them. Likewise, he would make an excellent seated officer or a Captain. However, his major problem is that he always feels as though he has to hold back. However, considering what Kyoraku told us about him…"
"…it's only natural," Yamamoto finished, nodding.
"So, why are you interested in them?"
"It's because something like this has never happened before. Also, it seems that the former Arrancar have somehow retained some of their Hollow abilities."
Karakura Town
Harper felt ill and she ached all over. She tried to move, but couldn't.
"Are you awake?" someone asked.
She recognized the voice. It was the man from that night. The night where she was chased by that creature and something…snapped. The next thing she remembered, she was standing over the creature's corpse, covered in blood. Then he came. The man who took her in and took care of her, and she didn't know his name or even what he looked like. She opened her eyes.
She saw a man with long golden-brown hair and a neatly trimmed reddish-brown goatee. His blue eyes looked at her, filled with concern. He was wearing the same clothes he wore that night. She tried to reach up, but she still couldn't move. He only smiled down at her.
"A Gigai takes time to get used to," he said.
She didn't know the term "Gigai", and tried to ask him what he meant.
"Don't worry. I'll explain it when you regain your strength. But for now, just rest. I'm sure that you're still tired from your ordeal. I can get Sylvia or Shirley to get you something to eat, but in the mean time, just rest."
When he saw that she fell asleep, Milton stood up and walked to the computer. He checked the system that monitored the Gigai's performance ability and saw that her Soul was still getting used to its new body. However, he was surprised that it only took less than three hours since her Spirit Body reformed and was placed into the Gigai for her to wake up.
"How is she?" Sylvia asked.
"She's doing fine now. She just woke up and was able to move her eyelids, but nothing else. However, she's through the worst of it. Right now, she just needs to get used to her Gigai."
"Do you know what her Risveglio is yet?"
"Not yet, she's not strong enough for that yet. However, I think she will be strong enough soon. Have the others returned from their outings?"
"Howard and Emily just got back, but so far no one else has returned."
"I see. I hope they don't get in too much trouble. The last thing we need is for the wrong kind of attention."
The Cherry Orchard
The sounds of the other students drifted out of the large tavern as Starrk and Harribel approached. Even though it was slightly after sunset, they could tell that some of the students celebrating were already drunk. They could hear Kyoraku's voice rising above them, obviously leading them in some of his favorite drinking songs.
"God, they're already drunk?" Harribel asked.
"I suppose," Starrk said shrugging.
He opened the door for Harribel, who smiled before walking in with Starrk close behind. They saw that the other students were busy drinking while Kyoraku and Yoruichi were on the stage. Ukitake was sitting in one of the booths, drinking tea and shaking his head. To their surprise, they also saw some of the other Soul Reapers there as well. Matsumoto was at one of the booths playing a drinking game with Apacci and Mila Rose while Sung-Sun only watched, shaking her head. Renji, easily recognizable with his tattoos and his red hair styled to make him look like some kind of red pineapple, was sitting with Byakuya, who looked as though he was wondering how he even got there.
"Hey, glad you could make it," Daisuke said, and shoved a couple of sake bottles into their hands.
"I see that there was quite a turn-out," Starrk said.
"I'll say. As soon as Kyoraku announced that there would be a party here, many of the actual Soul Reapers came."
"Uh…how come Captain Kuchiki's here?" Starrk asked.
"Oh…we don't really know. Come to think of it, I don't think he knows himself," Daisuke said.
"Hmm, maybe Yoruichi had something to do with it," Harribel said. "She told me that she was always pestering him in trying to get him to attend one of these things."
"Let me guess, Renji just tagged along because Captain Kuchiki was being forced here?" Starrk asked.
"I guess," Daisuke said, shrugging.
"So, where are the guests of honor?" Starrk asked.
"Oh, Arata and Shizuka are over there," Daisuke said and pointed to one of the booths.
A boy and girl were dressed in the usual Soul Reaper uniform, except that they were light blue arm bands to show that they would be interning in the World of the Living. The boy was tall and very well-muscled and gave off an air of confidence and talked with some of the surrounding students. The girl was rather small and shy, her eyes downcast.
"Hey, Starrk," Ukitake said, noticing them.
"Hey, Ukitake, it's nice to see that you could make it," Starrk said, smiling.
"Well, someone's got to take care of Shunsui. He's going to need help getting back to his barracks."
"Hey, I can help out. So long as I don't drink too much," Starrk said.
"If he does, then I could easily help with both of 'em," Harribel said.
"Well, I'll let you get to it," Ukitake said, chuckling. "And I'll take you up on that offer."
As Starrk and Harribel were starting to enjoy themselves, there came a loud disturbance from outside. The two turned to the entrance, knowing who was making the commotion outside. Harribel rolled her eyes.
"Hey, no one starts a party without us!" Grimmjow shouted as he and Nnoitora walked in.
"No shit, Grimm-Kitty," Nnoitora said.
"Now, now, there's no need to argue. Just have some fun and enjoy yourselves," Yoruichi said from the stage.
"Yeah…and…and…drin' sam Sake," Kyoraku said, raising a bottle of Sake to them.
"FUCK YEAH!" the two cried out and grabbed some bottles of Sake from the counter.
Harribel and Starrk looked at each other and laughed. They took their own drinks and joined the fun.
Karakura Town
Akiye raced through the streets of Karakura Town. She served ten years in Squad 12 and showed that she could handle the missions that Captain Kurotsuchi sent her on. As a result, she was one of twenty Soul Reapers whom he sent out into Karakura Town to find traces of the strange Reiatsu left on the Hollow's corpse.
She checked her soul pager to make sure that she was still on the right track. She tried calling some of the other team members, but none of them were responding. It was strange. She didn't see any Souls or Hollows around. However, she also felt the spiritual atmosphere was a bit thicker than usual. Something was going on.
"Excuse me, but are you looking for something?" someone asked.
She stopped and saw a young man looking up at her. He was thin with wavy blonde hair that reached the nape of his neck. He was wearing a pair of black dress pants with a loose-fitting light blue shirt with the top two buttons unbuttoned. A black jacket was slung over his shoulder with his finger serving as a hook.
"You…you can see me?"
"Of course I can see you," he said, smiling. "Now, put that sword away. There's no need for it."
"Who are you? There are very few people in Karakura Town who can see us."
"Oh, where are my manners? You're right. I should have introduced myself first. I apologize. My name is William Marlowe. May I have the pleasure of knowing your name?"
"My name is of no concern to you. Now then…"
She stopped when she sensed his Reiatsu. It was very similar to the one that was discovered on the Hollow's corpse, but it wasn't the same. William looked up at her and sighed. He suddenly leaped up to where she was. Her eyes widened in surprise as he looked at her.
"So, you found the body," he said. "Milton was afraid that might be the case."
"Who's Milton?"
"He's someone whom you will never meet, but that doesn't really matter. What matters is that you haven't told me your name. Of course there are other ways of finding that sort of thing out."
Akiye became afraid. She tried to move away from him, but something was keeping her in place. Then she felt the cold coming from her feet and she looked down. Her eyes widened in surprise seeing that her feet were held in place by ice. She looked up, wondering if this young man was responsible. However, he was leaning towards her as if to kiss her. She then felt his lips on hers and the whole world swam before her and then became dark.
William Marlowe wiped his mouth when he was done. He looked down at the empty husk that used to be Akiye.
"So, is that all of them?" someone asked.
William turned and saw a woman wearing a pair of jeans that were tucked into a pair of motorcycle boots and a loose-fighting grey shirt under a black vest. She wore a choke collar with a silver medallion hanging from a thin chain around her neck. Her black hair was closely cropped on one side while the other hung over the left side of her face, hiding her eye and ear.
"Oh, Charlotte, I take it that you took care of some of the others."
"I did. Robert and Ambrose are dealing with the others. So, what did her memories show?"
"They are here because of the corpse, just as Milton feared."
"It was only a matter of time. Milton needs to hear of this as soon as possible."
"Yes, he does. You know…" William said looking at the Akiye's remains. "It's such a pity that it turned out this way."
"Yeah, but it can't be helped. We do what we have to in order to survive. We can't allow the Soul Society to know of our existence. If they find out…"
"Yeah, I know. But still, it is a pity. If only there was some other way."
"I know, but we need to feed somehow. Milton told us not to feed on any of the un-evolved souls. That just leaves Hollows and…"
"…and Soul Reapers," William said, smiling. "After all, as Milton would say, we are only fulfilling our raison d'être."
End of Chapter 2
Shinigami Cup:
"Hey, I just noticed something," Starrk said looking around the Cherry Orchard.
"What's that?" Harribel asked.
"Where's Ulquiorra?"
"Oh," Byakuya said. "He's passed out behind the bar."
"Are you serious?" Starrk asked and looked over the bar's counter.
Sure enough, Ulquiorra is curled on the floor behind the counter. He's clutching an empty Sake bottle, and mumbling something about bunnies and rainbows and unicorns and Orihime.
"Uh...how many drinks did he have?" Starrk asked.
"He only took one sip of Sake and then he was out," Byakuya said.
"Jeez, I didn't know he was such a lightweight," Starrk said.
A.N.: First time I wrote a Shinigami Cup. When I was writing the Cherry Orchard scene I just got a random picture in my head of Ulquiorra curled up on the floor behind the counter. I thought it would make a really good Shinigami Cup, so I just wrote the exchange around it. As for why Byakuya is even there, let's just say that Yoruichi was involved and leave it at that. Anyways, that's it for now. I should have the next chapter up in about a week or so. Please review.