Chapter Four

Captains' Meeting

1st Division Headquarters

The Soul Society, Japan

'This is our first meeting since we filled the three captain seats. I know that you will notice few changes made from that.' Captain General Shigekuni Genryusai Yamamoto stated looking around the room at the captains present. He could see questions in their eyes, why only the captains of 4th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th were in the room. Yamamoto glanced at the 8th and 13th Division captains and they shared a smile. Wouldn't the others be surprised?

'Now, as you know we have some difficulties because of the betrayal by Aizen, Ichimaru and Tosen, leaving us with no leadership in the 3rd, 5th, and 9th Divisions. That is no longer the case. Those seats have now been filled. These individuals have passed all necessary tests put to them by three seated captains. Also, there are changes to a few vice-captains seats as well. I will now announce the new taichos and fuku-taichos.' Yamamoto stated as the large doors began to open.

'Captain of 2nd Division is now Shihôin Yoruichi and her vice-captain is now Kurosaki Ichigo.' Yamamoto announced as they walked into the room. A few gasps echoed around the room, before it could continue, he went on.

'Captain of 3rd Division is now Soi Fon, with Izuru Kira still her vice-captain.' Yamamoto could feel the shock go around the room.

'Captain of 5th Division is now Kurosaki Isshin with Ootori Hitomi as his vice-captain.' He could feel tension and outrage fill the room. 'The previous vice captains for 5th and 2nd have been sent on long-term assignment.'

'Captain of 9th Division is now Kisuke Urahara, Hisagi Shuuhei has been kept as vice-captain.' Yamamoto watched as Kisuke walked into the room accompanied by his vice-captain. He heard a voice complain knowing it was coming from Kurotsuchi Mayuri, 12th captain, he could only smirk, and Yamamoto always had a soft spot for Kisuke Urahara like he did with Juushiro and Shunsui.

'Last, the vice-captain seat of 13th Division has been left empty for too long. That is no longer the case. The new vice-captain of 13th Division is Kuchiki Rukia.' Yamamoto finished as she walked into the room. He looked over to the captain of the 6th, who stared at him knowing that a discussion with Captain Kuchiki, but that would have to wait. There were more important matters to discuss.

He watched as the new captains along with their vice-captains take their positions. He was filled with confidence that Soul Society would be kept safe.

'Now that we are all here, we will now discuss the situation that we find ourselves in. In the past few weeks, Soul Society has not only seen an increase in hollow activity but a few of our Court Guard Divisions have encountered creatures that Soul Society has never seen. These creatures are nothing like the hollows that we usually come across. They do not follow any of our normal parameters in eliminating them. Because we were not aware of how to fight these creatures, some of our people have been injured. After everything that Soul Society has gone through this past year, I do not like being caught unprepared. Because we did not have the information in our database on what these creatures are let along how to fight them. I had the captain of the 12th Division with the assistance of Kisuke research on what organization would have to needed skills to fight these unknown creatures and he as found one. They are called Winchester Norma of Everato Venator or Winchester Organization of Demon Hunters, they are an organization based out of England. They have been fighting these creatures for over 500 years. They have the needed skills and weapons that we need. We have been in contact with the leadership of this organization and we are in negotiations to receive their assistance. It seems that they have also been running into hollows in their area, which they tell us they have not experienced before. Both sides are in agreement that something seems to be happening that is connecting our worlds, we don't know what that is, but we both are looking into what exactly is going on.' the Captain-General scanned the room to see that everyone was listening, he gestured to Ukitake, Captain of the 13th Division to continue.

'The 13th Division was given orders by the Captain-General to contact the Winchester Organization to inquire their aid in combating these creatures. It is through them that we now know they are called 'demons'. These are truly demons like from the old Japanese stories of creatures from 'hell'. But, they are not limited to hell demons, but also what they call supernatural creatures, werewolves, vampires, ghouls, shape shifters; just to name a few. They explained to us that because of modern technology and such, it was now possible for creatures that would only be found in foreign countries, these creatures could now travel anywhere, which is the case here in Japan. Though, they said that the creatures usually stay in the real world, because they are supernatural or a type of spirit, they are able to see us, though we are not in any gigai, and fight us in our soul reaper forms. This is what happened with some of our Division guards while they were on patrol in the real world. Because we were unprepared to fight them, our people were seriously injured.' Ukitake explained.

'The leader of the Winchester Organization, Lord Henry Arthur William James, Duke of Winchester; has already spoken with the Captain-General over that past few weeks and both have agreed to an alliance. Because, there is some urgency in coming to an agreement, the duke has agreed to send a delegation to Japan and meet with us. Urahara Kisuke has told us they will be in Japan by the end of next week. He will be meeting them in the real world and will help to transport them here to Soul Society, where they are to meet the Captain-General as well as the rest of the Court Guard Captains.' Ukitake finished as Yamamoto motioned for their attention.

'Before any argument can start, I have had Yoruichi, Soi Fon, Kurotsuchi, Kyoraku, Kisuke and Ukitake look intensely into this organization and they have determined that they are exactly what they seem. A well-established and well-skilled organization in fighting these hell creatures. They have the experience that we need to fight them, we need their assistance. In communicating with them, we have received some important information regarding the 'King's Realm' and it gives us concern. I will not get into the details now. We will wait until our guests arrive. Though, I will report that Aizen is aware of the situation Soul Society is in. 2nd Division has come across information that Hueco Mundo knows about our communication with the Winchester Organization. How? We are not sure. I am very sure that Aizen is somehow tied into what is going on right now.' Yamamoto explained.

'Their delegation is scheduled to be in Japan by the end of next week. I have decided the following: 1) because we don't know if Aizen has any plans regarding our guests and I do not want any harm to come to them, we will be sending a contingent to meet them at what the real world calls an airport. I will have Captains Ukitake, Kyoraku, Urahara, and Kuchiki, along with some their men at the airport. 2) I understand from Henry-Sama that his delegation will be staying in the real world for another week, before they are to travel to Soul Society. While they are in the real world, some of the court guards will be staying with them for protection. They will be answering to Captains Kuchiki and Hitsugaya. 3) Once they are ready to travel to Soul Society, the entire group will travel to Urahara's shop where they will be transported here. 4) I haven't determined which headquarters they will be housed in, I will decided that at a later date, once we know more. 5) We will discuss the alliance and all other pertinent issues when they get here. Are there any questions?' Yamamoto asked.

'Why is the 11th Division not in charge of protecting these people?' the 11th Division captain asked?

Yamamoto looked at Kenpachi Zaraki. The man that lead the combat fighting division of Soul Society. This division was considered the fiercest fighting men in Soul Society, but that was to be expected following their captain's example. Kenpachi was a very dangerous looking individual. Many feared the very large man, his eye patch and hair enforced that image.

'Zaraki have you looked in the mirror my friend? Instead of meeting us as allies, they may run in the other direction. You do tend to encourage fear.' Shunsui said with a slight smile. 'And, the 11th Division will not be left out; I was going to ask for Ayasegawa Yumichika and Ikkaku Madarame to be part of our protection squad.' Shunsui stated.

Captain Kenpachi only has a smirk. Yes, those two would do. They would not embarrass the 11th Division. Though he did cringe a bit at the idea of Ayasegawa's attitude, it was not really in the 11th Division fighting motto, but he was a good fighter.

'Why must so many captains meet them in the real world? I do not see the reason why I must accompanying Ukitake and Kyoraku. Aren't they enough?' Captain Kuchiki questioned with indifference.

'Because their safety is a priority. And with Aizen aware of them, we are not sure what he has planned. We cannot guarantee that he will not send any of his espada to find out more information or even kidnap them. So, we must make sure that they have all the protection necessary until they are brought to Soul Society. Which is the reason there will be 5 court guard captains in the real world?' Yamamoto answered.

'I will leave it up to the various captains to choose from their Divisions the appropriate men to be part of the protection squad. With the exception of the two from 11th Division and one from the 4th Division, I will also be assigning the vice-captains of 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 9th, 10th, and 13th Division to the protection squad. I believe that a group of 15 should be enough until you all return to Soul Society. Now, if there are no other immediate concerns, I will adjourn, so that the new captains and vice-captains can settle in. We will hold a welcoming gathering tomorrow, information will be sent out later today.'

The meeting came to an end and the captains began to mingle together, some offering up their congratulations, others questioning how they got approval. Captain Kuchiki waiting for his adopted sister Rukia to walk up to him.

'Nii-sama.' Rukia acknowledged him with a deep bow. She raised her head to look at the man, who was her adopted older brother. She felt a lot of pride in the fact that he was considered by many as the most handsome, most eligible man in all of Soul Society. There was just something his long black hair, held back by the silver tube, his tall and powerfully built body and his very dignified bearing that loudly spoke of his aristocratic lineage. He radiated without words the fact that he was head of the Kuchiki Clan, one for the 5 noble houses in Soul Society.

'Is there a reason Rukia you did not inform me of this?' Captain Byakuya Kuchiki asked with his usual monotone voice.

'I was instructed not to tell Nii-sama, since it wasn't a guarantee that I would be chosen. Is Nii-sama angry?' she asked worry coloring her voice.

'If the captain-general chose you. That just means that he found you fit to hold the position. I will not say more on the matter. Though, I hope that you will not keep something as important as this from me again.' Captain Kuchiki stated.

'I promise Nii-sama unless I am told otherwise; I will not keep anything from you.' Rukia told Byakuya.

Nodding his acknowledgement, he walked away to join Juushiro and Shunsui, who stood with the new captain of 5th and vice-captain of 2nd, Kurosaki Isshin and his son, Ichigo.

'Will not congratulate Isshin and Ichigo on their new positions?' Shunsui asked Byakuya as he walked up to them.

Byakuya Kuchiki just raised an eyebrow and opened his mouth. 'I was just telling Isshin and Ichigo that they are the first father and son to ever be made captain and vice at the same time.' Juushiro interrupted before Byakuya could react.

'It is good to see you again, Isshin. I have not seen you in a very long time. It is good to have you back in Soul Society.' Byakuya spoke to Isshin.

'Yes, it is good to be back. I was sad to leave so long ago, but I had no choice. I am just glad that Soul Society still believes I am can be of service. I am also happy that my son will be able to protect Soul Society as well.' Isshin answered.

'Yes. So I see. I hope that Yoruichi will train you well in what your new position will require of you, Kurosaki Ichigo.' Byakuya stated quietly to the young man who now held the position of vice-captain of 2nd Division. 'Though, with her as teacher, I do not think that is possible, but we can always hope she has matured.'

The young man would stand out in a crowd, his tall, muscular frame complimented him, but it was his hair that would make people remembers him. It happens to be a very bright orange color. Though it was strange, it seem to suit him well. 'Thank you, Byaku…I mean Kuchiki Taicho.' Ichigo corrected himself.

Byakuya just raised an eyebrow, then turned and walked away.

'Geez, I don't think he will ever approve of me. No matter what I do or accomplish.' Ichigo slumped a bit.

Laughing softly, Juushiro and Shunsui just patted the young man on the back. 'Do not worry too much, Ichigo. He is like that with almost everyone. Just fulfill your responsibility as vice-captain of 2nd Division and everything else will fall into place.'

'So, Isshin. How did Karin and Yuzu take the change?' Juushiro asked, speaking about Isshin's two young daughters.

'Oh, they are very excited. They think of this as an adventure. Already they are taking over the

5th Division headquarters. They are settling easier than Ichigo or me.' Isshin laughed.

'Good, good. I believe they will be quite happy here in Soul Society.' Juushiro said. 'If they ever need a place to hang out or someone to talk too, send them my way.'

'Or mine.' Kyoraku offered as well.

'I will remember that. Thank you, both.' said Isshin.

'Welcome. It is good to have you back. We have missed you, my friend.' Kyoraku patted his shoulder. 'I am looking forward to the party; it has been a longtime since Soul Society had something to celebrate. I really believe we need this.'

'You are just happy that you will have an occasion to drink sake to your heart's content and Nanao will have no way to make a complaint.' Ukitake declared, Isshin and Ichigo laughing.

'Nanao cannot complain if Sensei is the one who approved the drinking of sake.' Shunsui chuckled.

'So you say, my friend. So you say.' Ukitake smiled as they separated to set out for their headquarters. 'See you all later.'

Ichigo walked over to where Rukia stood with the vice-captains of 3rd, 5th, 6th, 9th, 10th. 'Congratulations, Ichigo!' Everyone said loudly.

The vice-captain of 6th shook Ichigo's shoulders. 'You better take your position seriously, Ichigo.' Renji Abarai told him. He was another that could not hide in a crowd. He was a tall as Ichigo, and like him his hair would stand out, it being dark red in color and his eyebrow cut in such a strange pattern, it almost look like tattoos.

'I know, I know.' Ichigo said.

'Oh, Ichigo. I am so proud of you.' the vice-captain of 10th Division hugged Ichigo, who cringe a bit, having his face almost shoved into her very large breasts was embarrassing. Trying to pull away from Rangiku Matsumoto.

Feeling sorry for him, Izuru Kira, 3rd Division vice-captain held out his hand and pulled Ichigo away from Matsumoto. 'Congratulations.' The tall and thin blond man said.

'Thank you. Kira'

'Yes, good job. Ichigo' Hisagi Shuuhei, vice-captain of 9th Division voiced out. 'We were just telling Ootori Fuku-Taicho that if she ever needed help or anything to come and see any of us. We make the same offer to you.' he said gesturing to the young woman who was now vice-captain to Ichigo's father.

Vice-Captain Ootori blushed a bit at being the center of attention. The male vice-captains could not help but look at her. She was quite a beautiful young woman. With her long, straight black hair and her petite body, she look like one those beautiful dolls. It was her eyes that caught their attention. It was a deep bluish-green that reminded many of the deep oceans.

'Congratulations, Ootori Fuku-Taicho. I hope you are prepared to work with my father.' Ichigo said with a smile.

'The same to you, Kurosaki Fuku-Taicho. I am looking forward to supporting Kurosaki Taicho.' Hitomi answered.

He will need lots of support and discipline. You will have to stay on him. He can get overly-excited or distracted, depending on the issue or even the day. And please, call me Ichigo.' Ichigo warned her.

'I will if you will call me Hitomi. Don't worry, Ichigo. I will have no problems with Kurosaki Taicho.' she said with confidence.

'That is what I wanted to hear. Also, please take care of my little sisters. I know that they will be staying with my father at the 5th Division headquarters.' Ichigo bowed to Hitomi.

'Do not worry. They will be well-cared for. It seems that the Division has already adopted them as little sisters. They will be safe in our care.' Hitomi reassured Ichigo.

'Thank you.' Ichigo turned to Rukia. 'I did not have time to say anything earlier. Congratulations, Rukia. You deserve it.'

'The same to you, Ichigo.' Rukia returned.

'So, shall we meet later at my headquarters to celebrate?' Matsumoto said.

'But, there is a party scheduled for tomorrow. Why do we not wait until them?' Hitomi asked.

'Oh, that is for everyone else. But, just for us, we can meet at my headquarters'

'Captain Hitsugaya will find out, Matsumoto. He did not seem happy the last time that you, Hisagi and I got drunk on sake.' Kira reminded her.

'Oh, my captain is cool. He really won't mind us having a small party.' she told them.

Kira and Hisagi just gave her an unbelieving look. She just smiled and patted their backs. 'It will be okay, really. So, everyone it's a small party at the 10th headquarters in one hour.'

Kira turned to her 'Um, Matsumoto it's not even 11:00 in the morning yet. I really don't think that is a good idea.'

Laughing she just started to walk away. 'Don't worry, don't worry. My captain will be fine; in fact maybe we can get him to join us. I have all the sake, so just bring yourselves.'

Sighing Kira just looked at everyone 'I have a bad feeling about this.'