Tamashi no Kiri
Chapter 7: Shadows on the Page
What do these words say?
What do these words mean?
What do these words show?
What is it about me?
That creates these shadows on the printed page?
Ichigo's head throbbed when he woke up Monday morning. He stretched and looked at the alarm clock by his bed. He was surprised to see that it was only 4:45 AM and thought that the clock must be slow, but when he looked outside he saw that it was still dark. He decided to just go ahead and get ready to go to school. Perhaps he would get lucky and his dad wouldn't try another one of his sneak attacks.
"GOOOOOOOD MOOOOOOOOOOOORNING ICHIGOOOOOOOOOO!" his Dad shouted from somewhere nearby.
So much for avoiding one of Dad's sneak attacks, Ichigo thought as he held out his right hand in a fist that hit Isshin on the nose as his Dad rushed in.
"Ow, that hurt," Isshin said.
"Maybe you should stop trying to attack me every frickin' morning," Ichigo growled.
"Come on, don't be like that," Isshin said. "You're up early again. Why?"
"I don't know," Ichigo said as he made his way to the bathroom. "Just leave me alone, okay?"
"Fine, whatever you say," Isshin said and watched as his son went into the bathroom to do his morning rituals of shower and brush his teeth.
"He's up early again," Rukia, who was dressed in a pair of Yuzu's old pajamas, said as she got out of Ichigo's closet.
"Yeah," Isshin said as he made his way back to his own room.
Rukia didn't say anything. Instead, she looked at the bathroom door where she could hear the sound of running water. She thought about what Lilynette said on Saturday night and knew that she was right. Ichigo thought that brute force was enough to control his Inner Hollow, but that wasn't the case. He had to face whatever his demons were head-on and come to terms with them.
She sighed and walked back into Ichigo's room and felt his bed sheets. Again, they were drenched with sweat and now she saw spots of what looked like blood on his pillows.
Mangiatori Hideout
Milton finished up his first lesson plan for his time as a teacher. The soundtrack for Game of Thrones played on his iPod. He moved a hand in tune with the epic score of tracks like "Main Titles" and "King of the North" and "Fire and Blood". His love for reading took him from Ancient Greece to the worlds of Tolkien and Robert Jordan and George R. R. Martin and he wanted to share that passion with the next generation. To his surprise, it had another bonus. He could keep an eye on the Soul Reapers stationed in Karakura Town.
"Big Brother," Harper said.
Milton pushed pause on the iPod and turned to look at her.
"What is it?" he asked.
"I had a bad dream," she said.
"Tell me about it," he said.
"I dreamt that everyone laughed at me at school and everybody said that they hated me."
"Aw, Harper, I highly doubt that anyone would say that to you. If they did, it just means that they're jealous."
"Really?"
"Really. Now, don't let those nerves get the best of you. Today, just be yourself and I'm sure you'll make lots of friends."
"You really mean it?"
"I promise. Well, since you're up, how about you get ready for your first day."
"You're getting ready for your first day too."
"Yes I am. Believe me. I'm a little nervous too. But, I've decided to just do my best and be myself."
"Does that mean you're going to show them your Risveglio and talk about Spirit Evolution?"
"No, because those things are private and I only use my Risveglio if I have no other choice. However, I'm gonna be like I am with you."
"Like a Big Brother?"
"Exactly, although not the George Orwell Big Brother," he said and chuckled. "Now, what would you like for breakfast?"
"Waffles with bacon," she said and grinned.
"Yes ma'am," Milton said.
While Milton was making waffles and bacon, William walked in.
"Cooking breakfast for her again?" William asked.
"What do you want, William?"
William ran a hand through his blonde hair.
"I want to meet our visitors," William said.
"I see. You want to deliver the message to them tonight?"
"Yes, I want to see what they're made of."
"You're only to talk to them and engage them in combat if you have to. I only want them to leave us alone; not pick a fight with them. If you can behave yourself, then I will give you the mission."
"Yes sir, sir," William said.
"I hope that means that you'll behave yourself."
Urahara Shop
"WAKE UP EVERYONE!" Tessai shouted.
"Ugh, do we have to?" Starrk moaned from the pull-out couch he slept on as he rubbed his eyes.
"Yes…you do," Tessai said and lifted Starrk by the collar and set him on his feet. "You have to go to school."
"Do we have to?" Dr. Fleur asked as she poked her head out of the tent she and Harribel shared.
"Of course we do," Ulquiorra said as he approached them, already dressed and ready to go.
"Now why can't you be more like this responsible young man?" Tessai asked and gestured to Ulquiorra.
"Whatever you say, Mom," Starrk mumbled as he shuffled off to the washroom that had been set up in the training ground.
"What about the others?" Harribel asked as she got out of the tent. "Why are you waking them up?"
"It's because the Boss wants to fill them in on the details. Also, this message arrived for you, Dr. Fleur," he said and held out a folded sheet of paper to Dr. Fleur.
"Oh…it must be from my Supervisor," she said and took the sheet of paper. "It must be details on his arrival." She unfolded the sheet of paper and began to read. However, as she read she began to look gloomy. "Aw, he won't be able to make it for another couple of days," she whined. "He says they have a situation going on in Europe that he needs to help evaluate and he ordered me to stop writing my reports in purple ink."
Captain's Meeting Hall
"We got the info you wanted. Now, when the Hell are ya gonna send us to join in the fun?" Grimmjow asked.
"I don't know, the situation in Hueco Mundo sounds more fun," Nnoitora said and grinned. "Just think of it. A fuckin' CIVIL WAR in Hueco Mundo involving at least FIVE ARMIES OF ARRANCARS! If there's anything more fun than that I sure as Hell can't think of it."
"Silence," Yamamoto said and thrust his staff against the floor.
The other Captains gathered looked at him. Many of them thought that the situation in the World of the Living was bad enough, but now to hear of a Civil War going on in Hueco Mundo. That was just as disturbing. Plus, it could be one reason to explain why Hollows weren't showing up as often in the World of the Living or the Soul Society and that was also threatening the Balance.
"Aizen's Winter War has brought about more chaos than we could have imagined," Yamamoto said. "However, the situation in the World of the Living must be dealt with before we can even think of how to handle the situation in Hueco Mundo."
"I agree," Byakuya said. "The situation in the World of the Living is our first responsibility. Whatever is going on in Hueco Mundo is none of our concern."
"At least for now," Unohana said. "The situation in the World of the Living is threatening all levels concerned. It shows that what occurs on one level of existence can affect all of the other levels as well."
"Indeed," Yamamoto said. "That is why you two," he said and gestured to Grimmjow and Nnoitora, "must go to the World of the Living. The very fact that you cannot unleash your Shikai means that you won't be as much help in Hueco Mundo as you would like. You need to learn to use at least Shikai."
"Tch…fine, whatever," Nnoitora said. "But as soon as we do, we'll be heading to Hueco Mundo."
"That remains to be seen," Yamamoto said. "Ukitake, make sure that the Senkaimon is ready for these two to go to the World of the Living."
"Yes sir," Ukitake said and bowed.
"Until Captain Kurotsuchi and Szayel Aporro have gone over the data retrieved, this meeting is adjourned."
Karakura High School
Ichigo looked out the window and Rukia looked at him from the corner of her eye. She didn't know what to say to him and so she didn't say anything. She looked over to where Sachiko was talking with Tatsuki and Dr. Fleur. She sighed as she got up and went over to Orihime who was humming to herself.
"Hey Orihime," Rukia said.
"Oh…hey Rukia," Orihime said, smiling. "Did you have a nice weekend?"
"Yeah," Rukia said. "And you?"
"Well, Tatsuki and I went to that new shop in the mall and I got this," she said and showed her the keychain with a chibi figure of Hana Hime from White-Out. "They have all kinds of cute things. So…how's Ichigo doing?"
"Oh…uh…he's…" Rukia muttered. She didn't know what to say about how Ichigo was doing. She wanted to tell her, but a part of her was afraid that Orihime was still in love with Ichigo. She knew for some time how her friend felt and what Lilynette told her only confirmed her suspicions. She was spared from having to tell her anything by the bell ringing.
"Alright people," Milton Dante said as he entered the room, a box cradled under one arm, which he set down by the podium. "Everyone take your seats. Now, since Miss Ochi is on vacation, I have the honor of being your teacher. For those of you who weren't here last Friday, I'm Milton Dante," he said as he wrote his name on the board behind him. "Before we get started, we have two new people who will be joining us." He turned his attention to the pair of sliding doors and smiled. "You may come in now."
Ichigo already had a good idea of who was going to be walking in, but it still did not come as less as a shock for him. He saw that Uryu stiffened when Ulquiorra walked into the room. However, most of the class's attention was focused on the girl who walked in with him.
"Oh boy, someone's going to have a lot of stalkers after her," Tatsuki sighed.
"Alright, I would like for our new students to introduce themselves," Milton said and he gestured for Ulquiorra to come up first.
"I am Ulquiorra Schiffer," he said in his monotonous voice. "I am originally from Spain and my family moved out here for business purposes."
"Thank you, Mr. Schiffer," Milton said. "You may take the desk next to…" he paused as he consulted the class seating chart, "…Miss Inoue."
"As you wish, sir," Ulquiorra said and bowed before making his way to the empty desk next to Orihime.
As usual, the whispers began.
"Why is he so pale?"
"I don't know. Do you think he might be one of those Goth people?"
"He looks more like one of those Emo people who like to slit their wrists."
"I don't know, I think he's kinda cute."
"Who cares? Check out the babe."
"Hey, Ichigo," Chad whispered to him. "Is that the guy you fought?" he asked and nodded to Ulquiorra.
"Yeah, it is," Ichigo said.
And I'll fight him again, his Inner Hollow said and Ichigo could feel the rage. Just look at how Orihime's looking at him. I'll fucking kill him for daring to show his Emo face again.
"Hello everyone," Emily said as she got to the front. "I'm Emily Dumas Straub. Mr. Dante is my Uncle on my Mother's side and my little sister and I moved here from the States."
"Wow, an American girl," Keigo said.
"Mr. Asano," Mizuiro said. "Your nose is bleeding again."
Urahara Shop
"Another boring day," Akemi said and sighed.
She leaned against the side of the shop and yawned. She made her usual rounds and only performed three Konsos during that time. Also, she only had to battle one Hollow and even then that didn't take long. She closed her eyes and sighed. She then heard approaching footsteps and she looked to see who it was.
"Whatcha doing?" Rangiku asked.
"Morning, Lieutenant Matsumoto," Akemi said and yawned.
"Oh please, you know the name's Rangiku."
"I know, but your Captain might get angry with me for not being formal."
"That's only if you're informal with him. So, how were the rounds?"
"Three Konsos and one Hollow," she said. "It's been a busy day for me. Have there been any new developments from the Soul Society?"
"Well, the team that was sent to retrieve data from Hueco Mundo got back and they mentioned something about a Civil War going on."
"Hueco Mundo can have Civil Wars?"
"I guess so. Anyways, they got the information and the Captain-Commander is sending Grimmjow and Nnoitora here. They should arrive later today."
"When Dr. Fleur gets back, we better inform her. She wanted to wait for all of the former Espada to arrive before she helped them achieve Shikai," Akemi said.
"I thought I would find you out here," Hitsugaya said as he rounded the corner in his Gigai.
"Captain," Rangiku said. "I just informed her that Grimmjow and Nnoitora would be coming along pretty soon."
"Really?" Toshiro asked, although there was a note of surprise in his voice. "I find it hard to believe that you actually took the initiative on something. Maybe you're starting to take some responsibility as a Lieutenant."
"Thank you, Captain," Rangiku said.
"Anyways, we just got orders to go back to Karakura High in a couple of days."
"Damn, Ichigo's class is gonna get crowded with the number of transfers into his class," Akemi said.
"Well, the last time we were put into a different class," Hitsugaya said. "We'll be split up among the classes that way the target doesn't get too suspicious."
Karakura Middle School
Lilynette stretched in her chair and yawned.
Great, she thought. I'm becoming more like Starrk.
"Tired?" Yuzu asked.
"Is it that obvious?" Lilynette replied.
"Of course it is," Karin said and laughed.
"Yeah," Lilynette said. "Next thing you'll know, I'll be sleeping 25 hours a day, 8 days a week," she said and laughed.
"Alright class," their teacher said as she walked into the room. "Take your seats. Today, we have a new student joining us. She's joining us all the way from the States."
"Ooh, a foreign exchange student," Yuzu said and leaned forward. "I've always wanted to go to the States."
"I would rather go to Spain. They have a better soccer team," Karin said.
Lilynette leaned forward. The teacher went out and returned with a girl who looked rather shy. Lilynette's eyes went wide when she felt the Reiatsu coming off of the girl. She knew that it was the exact same feeling that she got when they were exposed to the strange Reiatsu that Mayuri collected off of the Hollow's remains.
"Hi," the girl said and smiled at them. "My name's Harper Bradbury Straub. I'm pleased to meet you."
Karakura High
"'The mind is its own place, and in itself
Can make a Heav'n of Hell, a Hell of Heav'n.'
This passage from Paradise Lost is one of the most famous lines in all of Western Literature and one of the most provocative," Milton said. "It's essentially saying that what we view as being pleasant or torture is based on our perception and how our minds interpret it. The human mind is a world all to itself. From it, every work of human ingenuity and art flows in an effort to understand the world around us. Every culture is a product of the mind and its hopes and dreams and fears."
Ichigo sat listening to Milton Dante. He saw that most of the other students were intrigued. Uryu straightened his glasses as he wrote something in his notebook.
"Throughout History," Milton said, "artists and poets and writers and filmmakers have captured their culture's mindscapes in some medium. Now, you're probably familiar with some kind of work of Western Literature, whether it's through Harry Potter or the works of Stephen King. I'm sure that you probably read them for fun or for the story or for an assignment. However, there are layers below that. A work of fiction is like an onion. It is layered and the best of them can get us to reflect on our own natures. A book is made up of shadows on their pages and these shadows tell us something about ourselves. All that we have to do is learn how to read them.
"Even those works that most Literary Critics dismiss have merit to them if you know how to look. It's true that there are works that don't have much depth to them, but they can still be enjoyed by those who wish to do so. However, works like Twilight and Left Behind are not all there is to the world. For those who like Twilight would do very well to mature their tastes to include Carmilla and Dracula and the works of Arthur Machen and H.P. Lovecraft and Wuthering Heights. For those who may like something along the lines of Left Behind would do well to read the works of C.S. Lewis and Swan Song by Robert McCammon and The Stand by Stephen King and the story 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. Of course, the works I mentioned can be enjoyed by anyone who's willing to read them and if it suits their tastes.
"Now, Miss Ochi left me a note saying that she would like you all to do a report on a book of your choice. However, books are not just meant to be enjoyed alone, but also together. In ancient times, stories were told to the tribe as a whole and were passed down orally before written language was created. Even in modern times, parents will sometimes read their children a story before putting them to bed.
"So, here's what we're going to do. Individually, you'll all read one work of fiction by an American or European author and do some kind of artwork based on that book or you can do a report or even make a small film. I'll be providing a list of possible works and authors for you to choose from. In groups of four, you'll be reading an assigned book and next week, each group will present a report before the class. In your report, I want you to include something about the author, the era they lived in, the story, the characters, and an overall analysis of what the novel says about humanity and our relation with the world around us. Instructions will be provided in the syllabus that I'll be handing out with the books in your personal binders. Finally, as a class, we'll be reading one of William Shakespeare's works. Now, I'm sure you're all familiar with the plays Hamlet and Romeo and Juliet, but I would like us to go over Macbeth, which are being provided. Also, at the end of each day, I'll be passing out Xerox copies of an assigned story that you'll read. The next time we're in class, I'll include a small quiz to see how well you read it.
"Now, there are about 40 of you and I have five books assigned. That actually works out great since we'll have two groups presenting on the same novel and it would be interesting to see what each group sees in the same novel. Alright, I'll be coming around with a hat," he said and held up a Boston Red Sox cap. "Inside are 40 slips of paper numbered one through five. You'll each take out a slip of paper and get into the group you are with. Alright, let's get started," he said.
He went around and held the hat out to each student in turn. When all of the students finished, he went back to the front and pulled out the box he put under his desk. He went to the table next to him and began to pull out copies of books that he put into six separate piles. He then pulled out a pile of binders with sheets of paper already inside them. Ichigo guessed that those were the binders he mentioned earlier.
"Alright, when I call out your number, I would like for your group to come up and pick your book. I have enough copies for everyone so that way if you want to read a work from someone else's group, you may. Also, you will pick up your binder with your first assigned story, 'The Garden of Forking Paths' by Jorge Louis Borges, already in it. You will also pick up a copy of Macbeth. Alright, you'll have your choice between," he said and held up each book as they were called. "The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, Lord of the Flies by William Golding, The Turn of the Screw by Henry James, and Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad.
"Now then, look at your pieces of paper and see what number you received."
Ichigo looked at his slip of paper and saw the number 5 on it. By the time his group, which included Orihime and Ulquiorra and Keigo, was called up, there was only one book left: Heart of Darkness.
Department of Research and Development
"So this is the work you did?" Mayuri asked as he looked at the disk.
"Of course it is," Szayel Aporro said. "And you better show some appreciation. The work I did actually helped me develop my edible Fraccion."
"I'm sure it did," Mayuri said and rolled his eyes.
"So…why are we here?" Nnoitora asked.
"It's because the Captain-Commander wanted you to deliver our findings to the others when you go to the World of the Living…imbecile," Mayuri said.
"WHAT DID YOU CALL US?" Grimmjow shouted.
"Would you please shut up?" Mayuri said. "The sooner we get this done, the sooner you can get to the World of the Living and do whatever you barbarians like to do."
"Honestly, some people just have no respect for their betters," Szayel Aporro said.
"I would have to agree," Mayuri said. "Now then, let's see what we have."
"And I made the mistake in thinking that one Szayel Aporro was bad," Grimmjow moaned. "Two of them are even worse."
"No shit," Nnoitora said.
"Excuse me," Nemu said as she walked into the room. "Master Mayuri, Master Szayel Aporro, I came to inform you that the two assistants Master Szayel Aporro asked for have arrived."
"Really? Lumina and Verona are here already?" Szayel Aporro said. "Well, what are you waiting for, show them in."
"You're kidding," Nnoitora muttered. "He actually got those two sent here."
"I wonder if they'll still look like giant bouncing beach balls on legs," Grimmjow muttered.
"LUMINA! VERONA!" Szayel Aporro cried out. "IT'S SO GOOD TO SEE YOU AGAIN!"
"It's good to see you too, Master Szayel Aporro Granz," two sing-song, feminine voices said in unison.
"What the…?" Nnoitora asked and turned. His eyes went wide. "Holy…"
"…SHIT!" Grimmjow shouted as he stared.
Lumina and Verona stood side-by-side. They were both dressed in a Soul Reaper uniform similar to Nemu's and it showed off their well-endowed and slender figures. One had her long black hair tied in a braid while the other had her shorter black hair tied into pigtails.
"Damn it, Szayel Aporro, we were right in saying you were insane," Nnoitora said. "How could you possible commit the sin of making two such sexy ladies into…into…?"
"…INTO BEACH BALLS ON LEGS?" Grimmjow shouted.
"You two really are idiotic if you can't figure that out. I'm a scientist and they're purpose was to assist me; not look pretty. Come along girls. Help us sort through this data."
"Right away, Master Szayel Aporro," Lumina and Verona said and bowed.
"Hey, maybe when they're done they can…clean our test tubes. If you know what I mean," Nnoitora said with a smirk and elbowed Grimmjow.
"I don't know," Grimmjow said. "They were made by Psycho Pink after all."
Karakura High
"I have to say that I like Mr. Dante as a teacher," Tatsuki said as they sat down for lunch.
"I know what you're talking about," Orihime said as she took out her copy of Heart of Darkness. She saw that Ulquiorra was already reading his own copy. "I like the idea of the group projects. It's just like one of those reading circles I've been hearing so much about."
"Oh, we had one of those in Las Noches," Harribel said. "It was a chance for some of us Arrancars to get together and talk about something other than Aizen's plans or war."
"I remember those," Starrk said.
"I'm surprised," Harribel said. "You normally just fell asleep in them."
"Well…I listened."
"Alright, what was the last book we covered before we went on Aizen's little suicide mission to the World of the Living?"
"Let's see, it was A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway," Starrk said.
"Impressive," Harribel said and gave Starrk a peck on the cheek.
"I'm impressed," Uryu said. "I didn't realize that some of you Arrancars had good taste in Literature."
"Well, we also included a lot of popular books as well," Harribel said. "We read John Grisham and Stephen King and Stieg Larsson. In fact, one time Sung-Sun recommended a book called The Damnation Game by Clive Barker."
"And here I thought you Arrancars had taste," Uryu said.
"Oh, I don't know about that," someone said.
They turned and saw Milton standing over them.
"Mr. Dante," Ichigo said. "What brings you here? We hardly ever see the teachers eating lunch outside."
"I know, they normally eat in the teacher's lounge," Milton said. "I prefer eating lunch outside. This seemed like a nice place."
"Would you like to join us?" Orihime asked.
"Oh no, I don't wish to intrude."
"Oh please, join us," Dr. Fleur said.
"Well, if you insist," he said and sat on the grass. "So, what were you talking about?"
"We were talking about books," Starrk said as he brought his own assigned book that Rukia picked out for her group, Of Mice and Men. "Harribel and I belonged to a kind of reading circle."
"Ah, I love reading circles," Milton said. "It's fun getting together with a group of people and reading books that someone has you pick up and then the next time you meet you discuss it. It's a great way to make new friends. In fact, that's what inspired me to do the group projects for you guys."
"I really like that idea," Orihime said. "I wish we could do it with all of the books we get assigned."
"Who's to say that you can't?" Milton asked. "Anyways, I'm glad to know that some of you guys like the idea."
"What are you reading?" Harribel asked as she noticed the book in his hand.
"It's The Dark Half by Stephen King," he said.
"What's it about?" Rukia asked as she took a look at the cover which showed two birds, one upright and the other upside down, but the way their eyes were position gave the illusion of a face staring out at them.
"It's about a man divided into two," he said. "I guess you can call it a modernization of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Each part is fighting for the right to exist, but in order for that to happen, one must die."
Ichigo looked at the book. From the way it sounded, it described what he was feeling. He felt as though a war was going on inside him between himself and his Hollow Self. Rukia and Orihime also thought the same thing and they gave glances over at Ichigo.
"What happens?" Ichigo asked.
"In the end, he becomes whole again, but in a later novel Stephen King writes that the character never really got over what happened and he did not live happily-ever-after."
Outside Karakura High
Howard Machen looked at them through his opera glasses. He could see that Ichigo's Reiatsu was in an upheaval of some kind. However, his friends' Reiatsu were relatively steady. Then he felt someone's presence behind him. He stiffened and turned to face a man in a Soul Reaper uniform with a bald head.
"Well, you can see me," the Soul Reaper said.
Howard Machen stood up and held the lorgnette as though he was gripping a sword hilt. He smiled slightly.
"Good afternoon, Ikkaku Madarame," he said.
"You know my name?"
"I do."
"Huh, that's interesting. I don't remember telling you my name."
"Where's your friend, Yumichika?"
"He's making the rounds on the other side. May I ask what you're doing here…uh…what's your name?"
"I'm Howard Machen, I'm a Mangiatori."
"What the Hell's a Mangiatori?"
"It's just what we call ourselves."
"Is that so? That's good to know," Ikkaku said and he held out his Zanpakuto. "I challenge you."
"I refuse," Howard Machen said.
"What was that?"
"I refuse. I'm under strict orders not to engage in combat unless I have no other choice."
"Well, you don't have a choice. Now, bring out whatever weapon you use and fight me."
Howard shook his head and turned his back. Ikkaku looked at him and began to follow. Howard continued to walk until they reached a relatively quiet part of the park. He looked around and then stopped.
"From the way you followed me, I can assume that you intend to fight me. I didn't want to do it too close to the school in case it got out of hand."
"So…you…uh…Whatever have weapons?"
"It's part of our Risveglio, but I don't think you're all that familiar with it. It's awakened abilities that a Soul that has devoured either a Hollow or a Soul Reaper gains if their Soul is able to reform itself," he said and turned to face him. "This is my Risveglio." He held out the opera glasses by the lorgnette and he sighed. "See, Preconoscenza."
Ikkaku watched as the opera glasses turned into a silvery dust and then reformed into a thin, sharp blade.
"That's a nice trick," Ikkaku said and smiled. "But I don't think that blade can stand up to me."
"We'll see," Howard said and faced him. "Now, come at me."
"Alright then," Ikkaku said and yelled as he rushed him. As he brought his Zanpakuto down, Howard held up his sword in front of him and the clang of metal on metal sounded.
"One," Howard whispered.
Ikkaku swung again and Howard blocked the blow.
"Two," he said.
"What are you counting?"
"Three," Howard said and swung, hitting Ikkaku's blade. "Interesting, you can do a Bankai."
Ikkaku's eyes flew wide with surprise. He simply stood there, unable to believe what he just heard.
"What…what did you say?" Ikkaku asked.
"I said you that you can do a Bankai."
"How did you know?"
"My Risveglio's primary use is to gather information. When I look at you through the opera glasses, I can make out your Reiatsu levels, your name, your history, and basic statistics. However, when I fight an opponent, I can gather information on their abilities. One strike tells me their fighting method and style. The second strike tells me about their Shikai, from form to abilities. However, the third strike tells me whether or not they've achieved Bankai, and if so, what it is. Three strikes and I've gained all of the information I need to formulate a way to counter."
"Is that so?"
"Trust me. You don't want to try me."
"Why not?"
"It's because…" Howard began and then disappeared. Ikkaku looked in surprise and then he felt something pierce him from behind. "…there's no need to show you," Howard said from behind him.
"How?" he asked.
"The first thing I devoured before my awakening was a Soul Reaper," he said. "I'm sorry. But you lost."
Ikkaku fell, gasping for breath. He looked up and saw Howard standing over him. The sword was gone and was replaced with the pair of opera glasses with lorgnette that he was now returning to the inner pocket of his coat.
"You'll survive," he said. "I really hate to play tricks like that, but you left me no other alternative. You got a hold on my Reiatsu and you would have followed me. I merely canceled it out with that wound as well as make you forget what I told you about my Risveglio. It's another of my Risveglio's abilities. Now…you won't be able to track me and you won't remember a thing about my Risveglio.
"Ah, your friend's coming to check up on you. That's good. I hope you have a pleasant day," he said and was gone.
Department of Research and Development
Nnoitora and Grimmjow watched as the two mad scientists and their three sexy lab assistants continued pouring over the data. They were getting bored with having nothing to do but watch Aaroniero's two heads floating gleefully around in one of the specimen jars. They both thought it odd that the two heads seemed to like floating around in anything that resembled a lava lamp, but of course the former Novena Espada had always been a strange one to them.
"No, no, no," Szayel Aporro said. "You completely messed up on the formula on page 345."
"What are you talking about?" Mayuri asked. "You're the one who reached a false conclusion, or perhaps you misread a part of the problem."
"How…DARE YOU? You dare stand there and mock my ability to read such a simple formula?"
"Well…yes."
"Damn you, Mayuri Kurotsuchi. This is exactly why I hate you. You look down on me when it's obvious that I'm superior."
"Really? You downgraded yourself from 'Perfect Being' to 'Superior'. Well, at least it's a step in the right direction."
"GYAAAAAH!" Szayel Aporro screamed. "You're absolutely hopeless."
"Are you two finished yet?" Nnoitora asked. "We wanna get going before the fun ends."
"No shit," Grimmjow said.
"SHUT UP!" Mayuri and Szayel Aporro shouted together.
"Seriously, you two need to learn some patience," Szayel Aporro said.
"For once we agree on something," Mayuri said.
"Great, glad that we could help you two find some common ground," Grimmjow said. "Now would you please hurry up with your…whatever it is you're doing?"
"I suppose," Mayuri said. "NEMU get going on the analysis you lazy imbecile."
"Yes Master Mayuri," Nemu said in her monotonous voice.
"Lumina and Verona, I want you two to go over the notes and make sure they're all in order."
"Yes Master Szayel Aporro," the two said and got to work.
"This is…creepy," Nnoitora said.
"I know," Grimmjow said. "Two mad scientists and three monotonous drones in the same room is more than I can handle."
"THERE!" Szayel Aporro exclaimed in glee as the computer finished its own analysis of the data. "This is incredible," he said as he looked at the printout.
"I must say," Mayuri said. "This work is absolutely stupendous."
"Ah so even the 'Great' Mayuri Kurotsuchi admits that my work is stupendous."
"Don't get too full of yourself."
"Hmph, look who's talking," Szayel Aporro said.
"Great, so can you just give us whatever it is that you have so that way we can get out of here?" Grimmjow asked.
Urahara Shop
"So, you fought one of them and you can't tell us anything useful?" Kenpachi asked.
"That's right, sir," Ikkaku said. "He…he did something and I…I just have this large gap in my mind."
"Hmm, interesting," Kisuke said. "Yoruichi, have you heard of anything like this?"
"Well," Yoruichi said. "I know that some things can cause memory loss. From the way it sounds, whatever this guy did must have completely erased Ikkaku's memory of the confrontation except for his name."
"Yeah, he said his name was Howard Machen and that he was part of something called the 'Mangiatori'."
"Well, we got a name at least," Hitsugaya said.
"I'll run it through the database and see if anything comes up," Rangiku said.
"There's no need for that," Akemi said.
"What do you mean?" Rangiku asked. "We have to run this name through the database."
"Do you realize how many people with the names Howard and Machen would be in the database?" Akemi asked. "Squad 13 is partially responsible for maintaining the database. However, that's not the reason. I know where those names are from, thanks to my sister and her interest in writing."
"Get on with it," Hitsugaya said.
"My sister writes short stories that she publishes under a pseudonym. Her pseudonym is Arthur Lovecraft, named after her two favorite authors of macabre fiction: Arthur Machen and Howard Philips Lovecraft. Both dealt with stories of the occult and hidden knowledge. The Machen gave it away for me. And it confirms a theory that Dr. Fleur has."
"Go on," Hitsugaya said.
"She theorized that when a Soul evolves and gains abilities, they forget their real name. It only makes sense that they would take on a new name to replace the one they've lost. Although, I wonder how he took on that name. I mean, Lovecraft was greatly inspired by Machen and even used Machen's influence when he wrote 'The Dunwitch Horror' and 'The Call of Cthulhu'," Akemi said.
"That must be horrible," Yoruichi said. "They have no recollection of their names? What about their pasts?"
"It's hard to say," Akemi said. "But I would assume that they probably don't know their own pasts. Of course, I could be wrong on one or both counts."
"However, they are still a threat," Hitsugaya said. "What happened to Ikkaku only proves that we can't underestimate them. I suggest that we…"
"Captain, the Senkaimon," Rangiku said and pointed.
Hitsugaya looked and watched as the gates to the Seireitei opened. White light shone out and two Hell Butterflies flew through followed by two running figures.
"It seems like we're all here now," Hitsugaya moaned.
"WHAZZUP BITCHES!" Nnoitora screamed.
"THE BIG BOYS HAVE ARRIVED!" Grimmjow shouted.
Karakura Middle School
"So, did you have a good first day, Harper?" Yuzu asked.
"I did," Harper said, smiling at them. "Thank you for eating lunch with me and showing me around."
"Not a problem," Karin said.
"So, anyways, how would you like to come over some time?" Yuzu asked.
"Oh…I…I would love that, but I need to ask permission from my parents."
"I'm sure they'll be fine with it," Karin said. "Hey, maybe we should have a sleepover some time. What do you think, Lilynette?"
"Sure, I would love to," Lilynette said.
Lilynette didn't know what to make of this strange girl. She recognized the Reiatsu and knew that she wasn't normal, but she also knew that part of her mission was to keep an eye on Ichigo's sisters. She didn't think that Harper would do anything to hurt them…at least not on purpose. However, she knew that anything could happen when dealing with the unknown. That was why it was called "unknown."
"So, do you miss your friends back in the States?" Yuzu asked.
"I really didn't have that many friends," Harper said.
"Let me guess, it's because you're extremely shy," Karin said.
"Uh…yeah," Harper said and her face turned a bit red.
"Well, you have three friends here," Lilynette said and smiled at her.
"Really?" Harper asked and her face seemed to light up.
"That's right," Karin said.
"Hey, Lilynette!" Starrk called out as he made his way from the High School.
"Well, I better get going," Lilynette said. "Tell your dad 'thanks' for letting me stay the weekend."
"Not a problem," Karin said. "You know you're welcome back any time and you'll have to show me some of those techniques you talked about."
"Sure thing," Lilynette said and smiled. "Well, I'll see ya tomorrow."
"See ya," Karin said.
Karakura High
"So anyways, I told him to back off, but when he didn't…I kicked him in the crotch," Emily said.
"Hell yeah," Tatsuki said.
"Wow, you're really courageous," Chizuru said. "Boys are such creeps."
"Honestly," Tatsuki said. "Some people find you pretty creepy."
"I'm not creepy…I'm bold."
"Creepy," Tatsuki said.
"Emily, are you ready to go?" Milton asked from his car.
Emily looked and saw that Harper was already in the passenger's seat.
"Coming, Uncle," she said. "Listen, I better get going. But let's meet up sometime that way we can get started on our project."
"Sounds good," Tatsuki said. "Anyways, here's my number," she said and held out a slip of paper to her.
"Thanks, Tatsuki," Emily said and smiled. "I'll be sure to give you my number tomorrow."
"Sounds good," Tatsuki said. "Have a good afternoon."
"Well, I'll try, but I'm sure my parents and Uncle will be driving me to do my homework."
"I'm sure they will," Tatsuki said. "Come along, Chizuru, let's go."
Emily watched as the two girls headed off and then made her way to the car. She got in and reached over to rub Harper's hair.
"Did you have a good day?" Emily asked.
"I did," Harper said and beamed at her. "I made three new friends today."
"That's good," Emily said and turned to Milton. "Ulquiorra knows something," she said.
"I know. He was probably sent here with Starrk and Harribel. Anyways, I got a message from Howard. He was forced to engage the enemy. Fortunately he was able to make the Soul Reaper forget most of what happened and to lose his trail."
"He had to use his Risveglio then," Emily said. "Well, at least that's better than the alternative."
"We're lucky his Risveglio can do that. Anyways, I called William and he's going to deliver the message tonight. Hopefully, it won't result in the situation becoming out-of-hand. So, I'm sending Charlotte make sure he stays in line."
Karakura Park
"So, that little girl's the one?" Starrk asked.
"Yes," Lilynette said. "The Reiatsu felt like an exact match."
"I don't like it," Harribel said. "I mean, she's just a child about the same age as Ichigo's sisters."
"I know what you mean," Starrk said. "Dr. Fleur, isn't there anything that we can do?"
"I don't know," Dr. Fleur said. "Remember, we're talking about an unstable form of Spirit Evolution. It's bound to the World of the Living and can therefore be dangerous for it. At this point, we don't know how much of a threat they pose."
Ichigo, however, was not paying attention to what they were talking about. Instead, his mind was waging a war with itself. He caught himself looking at Rukia and Orihime, desiring both and yet wanting to destroy both. He looked at Ulquiorra the way that one would a rival.
You know you loved killing him the first time, his Inner Hollow said. Be a good horse and do as I command. Kill him and take Orihime as my prize. I promise I won't hurt her…much.
No.
You can't refuse me. You know that I'm growing stronger. Look at your right hand.
Ichigo looked down and saw his right hand tightening into a fist and then loosening only to tighten again. He tried to make himself stop, but he couldn't.
You see. If I can have this much control over you, then I can make you do what I want. I can make you rip that pale-faced bastard's head off in front of Orihime and Rukia. I can make you rip Rukia to shreds and take Orihime by force if I wish. Your time is running out, Ichigo Kurosaki. My time is coming closer.
I won't let you.
What makes you think you can stop me?
I have to.
You won't succeed.
I will because I have to in order to protect the ones I love.
Oh and who do you love more? Do you love Orihime more or Rukia? I can make sure that you're denied both or I can make sure that you get both.
You bastard.
You do realize that you're calling yourself a bastard, right? Now then, give into your urges. Rush at Ulquiorra and tear him limb-from-limb. I know you want to. Do it and you'll be free. Just submit to me and you won't have to hear my voice again.
Ichigo closed his eyes and then felt a hand grip his own. He looked down and saw Lilynette looking up at him.
"You do know that he's lying," Lilynette said.
"What do you know about it?" Ichigo snarled and yanked his hand out of Lilynette's grip.
"I know more than you might think," she said. "Try this…when you sleep…focus on your Mother."
"What are you talking about?"
"It's what Zangetsu told me to tell you," Lilynette said and she rushed back to Starrk who looked at her somewhat confused.
Urahara Training Ground
"Alright, I'm glad to see that you're all back," Kisuke said. "Welcome back Ichigo, it's been a while."
"I need your help Kisuke," Ichigo said.
"I see," Kisuke said and looked at Yoruichi. "I'll help in whatever way I can. At any rate, Dr. Fleur, all of the former Espada are here."
"Ah, so these must be Nnoitora and Grimmjow," she said and smiled at the two new-comers who were leaning against one of the rock walls.
"Yeah, that's us," Nnoitora said.
"Anyways, we've got some news to tell our comrades," Grimmjow said and turned to the former Espada who were gathered.
"What is it?" Harribel asked.
"First of all," Grimmjow said. "You'll be happy to know that Rudobon's alright along with Skullak and the other Privaron Espada."
"I'm glad to hear that Skullak's safe," Starrk said. "Do you think we can pay a visit?"
"That's the thing," Nnoitora said. "Hueco Mundo is in a state of Civil War right now."
The other Espada were brought to silence. Starrk felt a whirl of emotions going on in his mind. He knew that during Aizen's reign, the other realms in Hueco Mundo were in a constant state of confusion and in-fighting over whether or not all of Hueco Mundo was a united Empire or if they should form their own kingdoms since Aizen's focus was only on Las Noches and destroying the Soul Society.
"What's going on?" Harribel asked.
"Where should I begin?" Nnoitora asked. "Let's see. We know that there are at least five factions."
"Yeah, and they're made up of Arrancars," Grimmjow said. "We wanted to fight, but for some reason our Zanpakuto wouldn't release."
"What are the factions?" Starrk asked. "Is one of them Lupos Starrk's?"
"Why would your brother be involved?" Harribel asked.
"We only know that one of them is Skullak's and the other's is Mordrath Luisenbarn."
"Baraggan's younger brother?" Ulquiorra asked.
"That's right," Grimmjow said. "Apparently the arrogant bastard's trying to get the Crown and Throne…again."
"So, Hueco Mundo is more than just Las Noches," Yoruichi said.
"Of course it is," Grimmjow said. "Shit, I'm sure my family's involved."
"Mine would be," Nnoitora said. "Wherever there's fighting, you can count on the Gilgas being there ready to…"
"…to stab whoever's left in the back," Starrk said.
"Damn right," Nnoitora said. "So long as dear old Dad can gain more advantage from it than from just letting whoever's left polish the Throne with their ass."
"Sounds like something from Medieval European History," Dr. Fleur said. "Anyways, let's get started shall we?"
"With what?" Grimmjow asked.
"Your training," she said. "I'm gonna make sure that you can all achieve Shikai."
Outside Urahara Shop
Akemi and Sachiko Amaterasu sat on the porch to the Urahara Shop. The sun was beginning to set when Rangiku came out.
"How are things out here?" she asked.
"Quiet," Akemi said.
"You can feel it," Sachiko said. "It feels like summer in Florida."
"Have you ever been to Florida?" Akemi asked.
"No, but that's how Dr. Fleur put it and she's been to Florida."
"I know what you mean," Rangiku said. "I feel as though I should take a bath or something to get this feeling off."
The other two nodded in agreement. They did not see the blonde-haired young man walking towards them.
Urahara Training Ground
"Wait a minute," Grimmjow said. "Are you telling me that SHE mastered Shikai?" he asked and pointed to Lilynette.
"What are you suggesting?" Lilynette asked and narrowed her eyes at Grimmjow.
"It is rather strange that out of all of us only Lilynette has mastered Shikai," Ulquiorra said. "However, it does make sense."
"How the fuck…DOES IT MAKE ANY SENSE?" Nnoitora screamed.
"She's the equivalent of a Zanpakuto Spirit," Kisuke said. "She's now fully manifested to be able to exist in a human form, but she understands a Zanpakuto better than anyone."
"That's right," Dr. Fleur said and smiled.
"Did you know about this?" Harribel asked Starrk.
"Yeah, I did. I would have told you, but she swore me to secrecy about it," he said and ran a hand through his hair. "Lilynette why don't you show them your Shikai?"
"Yes, I wish to see this," Ulquiorra said.
"Fine," Lilynette said as she unsheathed her Zanpakuto. She held it flat in front of her and put her left palm under the blade, as though she was holding a rifle. "Howl, Los Lobatos," she said.
Her Zanpakuto began to let out an eerie glow. Then the shape began to change and a bright red mist rose to her left eye. When it cleared they saw that Lilynette held a blunderbuss with the muzzle shaped like a wolf's head. She wore a bright red sight over her left eye that was held place by a band decorated with a red flame.
"Look at what it can do," she said and aimed the muzzle at one of the stones. "Hado 1, Sho," she said and a burst of blue light flashed out. The stone flew backwards a good 25 feet.
"Damn, it can fire Kido spells," Grimmjow said and whistled.
"Not only that," Yoruichi said. "It intensifies the Kido spell by at least three times."
"It can even make it ten times stronger," Lilynette said. "Los Lobatos told me when I talked to her."
"You talk with your Zanpakuto?" Nnoitora asked and he looked at the Zanpakuto by his side.
"Of course," Lilynette said. "All Zanpakuto are a living entity. You just have to know how to listen and you'll earn their respect and service."
"It sounds insane," Grimmjow said although he didn't quite believe what he said.
"Thank you Lilynette," Dr. Fleur said and smiled at her. "You can reseal her now."
"Sleep now, Los Lobatos," Lilynette said and the gun and sight vanished and became her regular Zanpakuto again.
"Alright, that brings us to the method I'm gonna teach you. It's quite simple really. Sit down in a meditative posture with your Zanpakuto across your lap and put your hands on the hilt and tip."
The other former Espada looked at each other and shrugged.
"We might as well," Harribel said.
"This had better work," Nnoitora said. "I want to kill something."
"Is that all that you think about?" Ulquiorra asked.
"Of course it is," Nnoitora said and grinned. "I'm a Gilga after all."
"I hope I don't look like a complete idiot," Grimmjow said.
"Just get into position," Starrk said as he unsheathed his Zanpakuto and did as Dr. Fleur suggested.
"Fine, whatever," Grimmjow said.
When all five of them were in position Dr. Fleur held out her right hand. The charm bracelet let out a glow and then with a swift motion of her wrist, she was holding her Zanpakuto. She looked at each of them.
"The reason why the normal method didn't work for any of you is because your Zanpakuto used to be a part of you. This is why Lilynette was able to achieve Shikai while the rest of you weren't. She was a Zanpakuto and therefore could gain access to the Zanpakuto Realm. In order to master Shikai, you must earn the respect of your Zanpakuto and the only way to do that is to meet them in their domain.
"Since the normal way won't work for you, we'll have to go with Plan B," she said.
"What is 'Plan B'?" Grimmjow asked.
"This," she said and in a swift motion, she turned her Zanpakuto to where the hilt faced them and struck each of them on the forehead.
They didn't react in any way. Instead, they all slumped over. Lilynette looked at them.
"So…what happens now?" Kisuke asked.
"Well," Dr. Fleur said and looked at them as her Zanpakuto was re-sealed into the charm bracelet. She held it up and looked at it, remembering when she went through the process. "Let's just say they're in for a wild time."
End of Chapter 7
Dr. Fleur V.O.: Profilo Dei Mangiatori
Kon: Hello, it's everyone's favorite Bleach Idol, Kon here. Dr. Fleur is here today along with Howard Machen of the Mangiatori.
Dr. Fleur: Hello.
Howard: Hello again.
Dr. Fleur: Today, we're going to be talking about your Risveglio, Preconoscenza.
Howard: Well, I'll tell you what I'm at liberty to say. It pretty much only takes three consecutive strikes for me to know everything I need to know about an opponent's attack, their Shikai, and (if they've achieved it) they're Bankai. When I wound them, I can make them forget what I want them to forget. That way, I can keep them from remembering my Risveglio's ability. Unfortunately, I'm gonna have to do that now with you two since you now know. See, Preconoscenza.
Kon: Wait a minute. What are you...?
Dr. Fleur: Ow, that hurt.
Howard: Sorry about that, but it's only a scratch. You'll be alright.
Kon: Uh...where am I. Wait a minute, I have to do the Profilo Dei Mangiatori.
Dr. Fleur: I think we're out of time.
Kon: What...how's that possible? Did we do it and I just missed my cue?
Howard: Yeah...that's exactly what happened.
A.N.: Seven chapters down and now the confrontation between the Mangiatori and the Soul Reapers has officially begun. As for our dear former Espada, they're in for one crazy time as they face their Zanpakuto Spirits in order to achieve Shikai.
Howard Machen's ability to make his opponent to forget whatever he wants them to forget by wounding them was inspired by Tsukishima in the Bleach manga, however he does not have the ability to plant memories.
I'm currently working on a story that is focused on the Civil War in Hueco Mundo: "Blood on the Sand" so feel free to check it out.
Thank you for reading and please review.