Author's Note: So! For this chapter we'll be taking a short break from the prison scene with a flashback. It should give you guys a better perspective of Ichigo and Grimmjow's… uh… delicate relationship.
Lies Open Prison Doors
Chapter 12: Goodbye
"Tensa! Open the fucking door!"
Ichigo ignored the insistent banging and focused on the lit match between his fingers.
Why was he hesitating…?
It's not like there was any going back NOW. Not after what he just did.
Sure, bootcamp and training with these guys day in and day out had been fun. He enjoyed it for a while… but his time here was over.
Ichigo released the match, letting it fall into the metal wastebasket that was filled with each and every single document he collected during his time in the military. Even the awards and medals he received for being an overachiever were lumped up in the trash. Ichigo frowned when he remembered all of the friendly pats on the back and congratulatory shoulder hugs he got for his accomplishments.
The happy cheers and toasts to his good health.
Fuuuuck.
Ichigo narrowed his eyes as the first piece of paper caught fire and he watched as it burned. The name 'Tensa Reiatsu' was slowly eaten away by the flames and he felt himself sigh.
He needed to get back to his original goal—not play this fantasy anymore. That wasn't his name. Tensa Reiatsu wasn't REAL.
Ichigo glanced down at the clothes he'd stuffed in his duffle bag. They were soaked in blood. Not his own, of course.
The blood belonged to Pantera Jeagerjaques: Highest ranking Commander currently stationed here and the very same man who promoted Ichigo into the squad. Pantera had instantly taken a shining to Ichigo, much to the later's pleasure.
Ichigo couldn't exactly waltz up to the man and start interrogating him about Grand Fisher; he needed to coax him into being alone. When he learned that Pantera was interested in men, Ichigo saw that as his opportunity. He tried a few different approaches, but flaunting his combat skills seemed to be the most effective way to get his attention. Ichigo took every chance to make their daily training his own personal show: He'd challenge other men to fist fights just to show off different takedown techniques, he'd also flourish his weapons before shooting a target with lethal accuracy, and he even did backflips off the climbing walls.
Ichigo wound up catching more than just Pantera's eye.
"I know you're still in there motherfucker! If you don't unlock this door, then I'm gonna kick it down!" Grimmjow's voice growled through the thick wood.
Ichigo snapped out of his reminiscing and quickly reached for the mask still attached to his face. It was custom made, just like his dagger, and it was in the shape of a skull, mostly around the mouth. The color of it varied depending on the lighting, it was iridescent but had a black undertone that made it harder to see at night. The best part about the mask though, was that it was bulletproof. Ginjou made it to go along with his 'Reaper' persona and it was also used to hide his face.
The mask was mandatory because of his fuck up with those damn security cameras. He'll never live it down…
Ichigo started pulling at his mask, but then shrugged and decided to keep it on. He zipped the bag closed once he made up his mind.
"Look… No one else is out here. S'just me." Ichigo heard a soft 'thunk' and assumed Grimmjow had just acquainted his forehead with the door. "Nobody else knows it was you, but… I'm sure you've got a good reason for what you did to him—I just wanna know WHY…"
Ichigo felt his shoulders sag. Grimmjow sounded so… raw.
He should at least give him an explanation. He could—
No.
He had to leave.
NOW.
Ichigo ignored the smoke that wafted in his face from the trash fire and shouldered the bag. He took another quick tour around his room to make sure he left not even a single fingerprint before making his way to the window.
BAM !
Ichigo's body tensed and he spun around to face the door as it rattled on its hinges. Grimmjow wasn't kidding about kicking the door down!
Fuck fuck fuck.
Ichigo slid the windowpane sideways to open it and then made sure the rope was anchored firmly to the floorboards.
BAM !
Ichigo secured the thin rope onto the detachable straps around his belt with haste. He tried not to fumble when another loud blast came from the door and this time it was followed by an ominous creak.
Ichigo swung the bag around so it settled against his back and pulled the single strap over his head so it went diagonally across his chest. He then hopped up onto the windowsill with one gloved hand on the rope and the other on the metal pane to keep him in place.
BAM—CRASH!
Ichigo spared a single glance over his shoulder and locked eyes with enraged cobalt before finally jumping out the 10-story window.
Grimmjow blinked in disbelief and quickly shot towards the window. He nearly toppled over the edge as he jerked half his body through so he could watch Ichigo gradually descended to the ground. The orangette never looked up. Grimmjow was about to use the rope himself to climb down after him, but that's when he noticed the fire to his right. The flames were still contained within the basket, but he noticed that the rope had been lodged into the floorboards and then assembled so it hovered right above the fire. The rope burned away and snapped apart just as Ichigo's feet touched the earth.
"Clever lil' fuck." Grimmjow grudgingly snarled under his breath. He looked back out the window and watched as the small fuzz of orange shot towards the edge of the property and then disappeared into the large parking lot filled with lightweight terrain vehicles.
Ichigo wasn't out of the metaphorical woods yet though.
Grimmjow hissed through his teeth and quickly retreated back into the hall to catch the next elevator down. He paced around the confined space with teeth bared in frustration. Time was ticking and Ichigo was getting further away with each passing second.
"Sergeant?" A small voice squeaked when the elevator doors opened to reveal Grimmjow's seething form.
"Outta the way."
The man spluttered as he was shoved aside, "Wait! Where are you going!? Your brother is in medic right now! Shouldn't you be—"
"He's alive, ain't he?"
"Well… yeah… but,"
Grimmjow didn't give him the chance to say anymore as he broke into a full out sprint through the entrance.
...
Ichigo cursed under his breath when the wires he twisted together suddenly sparked to life, along with the engine. He shook the static zing from his fingers as he sat back up.
He needed to focus, dammit!
He tried to banish Grimmjow from his thoughts as he quickly chucked his bag into the passenger's seat and then slammed the driver's door shut. Without hesitation, Ichigo stepped on the brake and jerked the shift into reverse to pull out of the lot. He then popped it into drive and gunned it, crashing right through the skinny divider next to the guard shack. He glanced in the rearview mirror just to see the armed guard jump to his feet and immediately reach for the phone, but it didn't matter. He should be long gone by the time anyone made a decision on what to do.
Ichigo sped off the base at high speed and merged onto the sandy road that would take him across the desert.
It was dark out and not a cloud was in the sky. The moon and headlights were the only things lighting his path and Ichigo slowly felt himself relax. A quiet calm settled over him and he concentrated on the beat of his own heart as it slowed. The cold desert air whipped around him through the open windows and caressed his hair as he drove.
Eventually, chestnut eyes glanced over at his bag that had 'US Military*' printed along the side. He frowned and huffed through his nose when his stomach twisted into tight knots.
He never wanted to do anything like this again. He didn't realize how heartbreaking a double life could be.
Ginjou would argue that he was a double agent, in a way, but Ichigo was glad he didn't do this kind of thing on a regular basis. It was hard getting to know people and form bonds, only to break them on a moment's notice.
Ichigo returned his attention to the road when he hit a rather nasty bump.
"Shit." He grumbled and slapped a hand over his bag to keep it from jumping out of the window.
He glanced up into the rearview mirror on instinct and his mouth went dry when he saw a beam of light heading straight for him.
"Son of a…" He trailed off as he quickly shifted into a higher gear. Dust flew up behind him once the vehicle picked up speed, but whoever was chasing him was still gaining. Listening closely, he tried to hear what kind of vehicle was pursuing him, but nothing could be heard except the sounds of his own car. It took about five long minutes before Ichigo could finally make out the Zero MMX. No wonder he couldn't hear the damn thing—it had no exhaust and was used primarily for stealth operations.
And he knew only one person who had full access to those bikes.
Ichigo cursed under his breath when he looked to his left to see Grimmjow now riding alongside him. Stubborn bastard didn't even bother to put on a helmet, his light blue hair whipped around his scowling face.
"PULL THE FUCK OVER!" The man bellowed over the roaring wind and revving engine. Ichigo ignored him and pressed down on the gas with his whole foot, only to realize it was smashed down as far as it would go. His attention snapped back to Grimmjow when he saw movement. "I WON'T SAY IT AGAIN!" The man warned while pulling a gun from the holster around his waist. He kept the bike steady between his legs as he aimed the weapon down towards Ichigo's front wheel.
"Dammit." Ichigo quickly swerved off the road just as Grimmjow pulled the trigger. It missed but now Ichigo had to find his way back on the road without wrecking. Good thing this was an all terrain vehicle. He kept a tight grip on the steering wheel as he bounced over small dunes and jagged rocks. He crashed through a few cactus patches, wincing when a chunk flew straight at the windshield, leaving behind a long crack. He wanted to swerve back onto the path, but Grimmjow was there waiting with gun up and ready to fire again.
Ichigo growled in frustration and suddenly spun the wheel to veer off towards the right, deeper into the desert. Grimmjow was forced to go off-roading after him. A motorcycle might be faster, but the rocks and fissures in the sunbeaten earth slowed him down. He was persistent though. Once Grimmjow was on the hunt, there was no shaking him.
Ichigo looked towards the horizon and saw large plateaus in the distance. Desperate to shake off his pursuer, he turned towards the jagged landscape. He headed straight for a large crevice in the canyon, hoping to god it wasn't a dead end. Through the corner of his mask Ichigo noticed a blur of blue and black zip by him. Jaw clenched in frustration, he watched Grimmjow expertly swerve the motorcycle around his front end just before they breached the narrow canyon. Lucky bastard barely managed to squeeze inside without getting side swiped against the huge wall of stone. Ichigo narrowed his eyes suspiciously when the motorcycle continued to accelerate in front of him. A large cloud of rock and sand kicked up into the air behind Grimmjow, making it hard to see.
What was he doing ?
Ichigo was about to let off the gas and even considered reversing straight back the way he came but then the bike was suddenly yanked sideways. It went sliding off to the side with a loud CRUNCH. At first it seemed like he crashed, but Ichigo's fingers tightened around the wheel in shock when the dust parted and his headlights flashed over the man's towering form. Grimmjow was just standing there, straight ahead, boot clad feet shoulder length apart, hair chaotic and wind blown, gun up and aimed directly at Ichigo.
Grimmjow hesitated.
He was giving Ichigo one last chance to stop.
"Get out of the way, dumbass." Ichigo whispered desperately.
He couldn't stop.
He WOULDN'T stop.
Ichigo gritted his teeth and pressed down on the pedal to speed back up, making the engine roar in protest.
BANG!
Time itself slowed to a crawl. The next three seconds seemed to last minutes.
A small hole shattered through the windshield and Ichigo's head whipped back to smack against the headrest as the bullet hit him right between the eyes.
Thank fucking god he was wearing his mask.
Grimmjow didn't even flinch as the car veered off and barely missed him before crashing right into the cliff to his right. Without wasting a single second, he stormed to the driver's door, his boots smacking against the earth. He didn't bother opening the door.
Ichigo was still a little dazed from the hit and only managed a squeak as he was grabbed by the front of his sleeveless black shirt and heaved right through the still open window. He struggled as he was manhandled onto the ground but Grimmjow was not about to let him go. The mask was ripped away from his face. It clattered loudly against stone when it was thrown away like a piece of trash.
Once his vision finally cleared Ichigo found himself staring straight up into bright eyes glowing like a damn bugzapper. Grimmjow was squatting above him, feet planted on either side of his torso and gun held loosely in his grasp. He looked positively furious.
"You gonna talk now?"
Ichigo refused to open his mouth, not even when the warm muzzle of the weapon pressed under his chin.
"For fucksake…" Grimmjow hissed and dug the steel against Ichigo's jawline for emphasis. "Say something, dammit!" Fangs glinted down at him through an enraged snarl and Ichigo scowled right back. He leaned his head forward and reached up to grab Grimmjow's wrist to keep the gun trained on himself. He saw the hesitation in Grimmjow's gaze.
"SHOOT!" Ichigo demanded while squeezing down on the wrist in his grasp.
After a long five seconds of them just glaring at each other, Grimmjow finally relented. He yanked his hand from Ichigo's hold and stood to his full height before reholstering the gun. He crossed his arms as he stared down at the man between his feet.
Despite the stubborn scowl on his face, Ichigo looked so… panicked. His limbs twitched like he wanted to jump up and dart away, but he was keeping himself glued to the earth. Grimmjow huffed through his nose like an irritated bull but then he slowly lowered a hand. He curled his fingers impatiently as he waited for Ichigo to grab hold.
Ichigo's expression morphed into confusion as he reached up to take the offered palm. He was easily hoisted up and both men snatched their hands away from each other once he was back on his feet.
Ichigo opened his mouth to say something, but was instantly silenced with a fist to the mouth. He stumbled back against the side of the car with a small hiss of pain, but he didn't say a word.
He deserved that.
"No. Since you wanna keep all your lil' fuckin' secrets—you don't GET to talk now. So just shut the fuck up and listen." Grimmjow gruffed angrily and all Ichigo could do was lean back against the car and wipe the blood that trickled from his split lip. "Look, I understand ya probably had a good reason for what you did. And don't get me wrong, Pantera's always been a prick—the amount a' people he's killed, tortured, and interrogated, let's just say you were doin' Karma a big favor today." Grimmjow's lips quirked into a small smirk before it dropped and then all emotion left his face as he continued, "But what I'm REALLY pissed about…" He paused and Ichigo blinked in surprise when he was yanked forward by the front of his shirt again. "Is that you were gonna just up and leave without even tellin' me."
Ichigo's face softened instantly at that.
That's it..?
That's why Grimmjow chased him down and shot him in the face?
Because he didn't say goodbye ?!
He couldn't stop himself as he laughed. It started out as a soft chuckle and then burst in volume as the incredulity of the situation sank in.
"Don't fuckin' laugh you lil' shit!" Grimmjow shook the man in irritation as Ichigo threw his head back and laughed even harder.
Grimmjow felt an angry tick form in his brow and he was tempted to grab his gun and shoot the fucker—feelings be damned. His anger grinded to a halt and it was his turn to blink in surprise when Ichigo suddenly slapped both hands on either side of his face and then pulled him in for the most passionate kiss he'd ever experienced. Not too much tongue, but plenty of biting and nipping and sucking.
"Fuck.." Grimmjow pushed forward and pressed Ichigo against the vehicle. He let one hand grip a narrow waist while the other slid up Ichigo's neck to cup his face, thumb carefully tracing his smooth jawline.
Both men pulled apart breathless and gasping for air.
"Ichigo…" He let the name slip from his lips in a soft whisper and said man felt a shiver go up his spine. Grimmjow stared directly into chocolate brown eyes as they swirled into something darker. Even in the moonlight they had a reddish sheen when clouded in lust. Grimmjow swallowed the nervous lump that had found its way to his throat and said the first thing that came to mind, "I'm comin' with you."
"What?" Ichigo recoiled and went to push Grimmjow away, but the man quickly snatched up both wrists and kept himself firmly pressed against the other.
"Wherever you're goin'—whatever you're about to do, I want to be a part of it."
"I…" Ichigo had no idea what to say to that at first. "Grimmjow—you don't even know me! I'm not Tensa! I've been pretending this whole time—you know nothing about me! And besides, if you leave then that's desertion. That's 5 years in prison, MINIMUM!" He tried to make Grimmjow see why this could never work.
"I don't care."
Ichigo's insides clenched and he felt his chest twist with so many different emotions.
Fuck.
"I can't let you do that. Not for me."
This wasn't Grimmjow's fight. This was a war between Ichigo and Grand Fisher. He couldn't handle any other casualties or fallen loved ones because of that monster…
'Wait, did I just think of Grimmjow as a 'loved one'?' Ichigo felt his heart stutter with sudden anxiety.
Grimmjow's only rebuttal to Ichigo's rejection was to grab the back of his neck and pull him in for another kiss. Ichigo resisted at first but then let him do as he pleased. He eventually kissed him back with everything he had—but only to distract him from what was about to happen next.
Grimmjow sucked in a sharp breath in shock when he felt a painful sting in the side of his neck. Azure eyes shot open and he stared into the handsome face in front of him. It was twisted with so much guilt and remorse. Orange brows were pinched and wrinkled in reluctance and auburn eyes swirled with conflicting emotions.
Then Grimmjow's body went limp.
Ichigo pulled the small, portable syringe from the other's jugular as he caught him. Grunting in effort, He hauled the larger male packed with solid muscle into the car. He carefully laid Grimmjow onto the leather seats in the back and made sure he'd be in a comfortable position for the next couple of hours.
"This is fucked… What the hell is in that shit?" The tendons along Grimmjow's neck strained as he tried to pick his own head up, but none of the muscles below his face responded, no matter how much willpower he shoved at it. He could still move his eyes and his lips at least.
"It's…" Ichigo wrung his fingers nervously as he seated himself up along the back of the seats with his legs tucked up underneath himself. He looked down at Grimmjow's prone form with a guilty wince. "It's a special shot that paralyzes you from the neck down."
"Obviously." Grimmjow drawled with a snort.
"It's... the same thing I used on your brother during the interrogation." Ichigo looked away when blue eyes narrowed in anger.
"Oh, you're actually gonna tell me what the hell happened now?"
"Do you want to know or not!?" Ichigo shot right back and Grimmjow's lip curled in defiance.
"Tch." He clicked his tongue but eventually caved. "Fine."
"Look… I wish it turned out differently… I tried to get him to say something without resorting to…" Ichigo trailed off and waved his hand in the air to fill in the blanks, "But Pantera refused to tell me where that bastard was without a fight—He tried to make it seem like they lost contact a long time ago, but I think they're still in close contact."
"Who we talkin' about?" Grimmjow huffed and closed his eyes when the strain from trying to look at Ichigo from the corner of his eye was too much. At the moment, Grimmjow couldn't think of anything more frustrating than losing the ability to turn your own head.
Ichigo gnawed on his lip for a moment and hesitated, but then he shook off the concern. He'd already told Grimmjow his real name so why not just tell him the rest?
"His name's Grant Phishman, but everyone knows him as Grand Fisher. I need to find him and kill him because he murdered my mother. I was eight years old... And I SAW it happen..." He watched Grimmjow's expression closely as he revealed what only his closest friends knew... But deep blue eyes remained closed and expression blank, keeping any opinions and thoughts completely to himself. Ichigo pursed his lips for a moment before pushing on with his sob story, "I told the police everything I could remember but… they never found him. Once I was old enough I started my OWN investigation. Had to overthrow every gang in Karakura before I even learned the bastard's name, but none of them knew his location. I guess my 'accomplishments' got around after all the gang leaders left because I was sniffed out by some organization called 'Xcution'. They said they could help me find him if I joined." Ichigo paused to let the information settle and slowly tilted his head back. He looked up through the sunroof and between the canyon's cliffs to stare into the dark, starry sky above. "Once I was a member they gave me the codename 'Reaper'," Ichigo hopped off the seat and rolled out through the trunk to retrieve his forgotten mask from the sand. He then leaned over the other side of the car so he could look down at Grimmjow. He lifted the mask so the man could see it clearly and then ran a finger over the dent where Grimmjow had shot him. "After a few years of training and a handful of assassination missions… My boss finally told me he found a lead on Grand Fisher. It just so happened to be your brother, Pantera, who had the information I needed. And this was the only way I could get close to him."
Grimmjow blinked slowly and then looked passed the mask to see the far off look on Ichigo's face. The sullen man looked like he was slowly being swallowed up by his own memories. Grimmjow closed both eyes with a sigh but kept his mouth shut. He couldn't think of anything worth saying.
"But I want you to know that I never tried to use you to get close to him or anything like that." Ichigo tilted his head back down to see Grimmjow's brows furrow.
"Keh. Like you even needed my help gettin' to him. He's been talkin' about your tight ass since you joined the squad."
Ichigo snorted in amusement and reached over the front seat to snatch up his cargo bag. He zipped it open and stuffed the mask inside before replying, "Well, it definitely wasn't hard to seduce him."
Grimmjow's eyes popped open at that.
"Wait… did you really fuck'm?!"
Ichigo rezipped his bag very slowly as he tried to prolong the inevitable, but he didn't even need to say anything in the end. Grimmjow's face dropped into an irritated pout.
"God dammit… Was he better?"
Another amused snort. Ichigo looked down through the corner of his eye. "I don't kiss and tell." He smirked at the unamused glare and decided to add, "But if you must know…" Ichigo leaned down and brought his face directly over Grimmjow's, his nose brushing the other's scrunched forehead as they looked each other in the eye. "He was kind of boring. Just a one trick pony. No flare. No excitement~" He shifted upwards and lightly nipped at Grimmjow's nose before hovering his mouth over the other's. Waiting lips parted and he felt an excited breath shudder against his own in a soft puff. "You do realize I'm supposed to kill you, right…? Loose ends and all that…" Ichigo whispered against the other's mouth.
He felt Grimmjow's smirk as it curled to life.
"Then what're you waitin' for?"
Ichigo paused for a long moment but then, as if gravity had suddenly pushed him down, he surged forward to press their lips together. Ichigo smiled wryly through the kiss as he reached out and ran his fingers through soft blue hair one last time. "Goodbye, Grimmjow…" **
…
..
.
..
…
Ichigo slowly peeled his eyes open as the call of reality reeled him back in. First thing he noticed was that the bar doors of the cell were still closed.
Great.. Looks like another restless night with uninvited memories of Grimmjow—speaking of… Ichigo blinked away the slight blur from his sleepy vision before glancing up at the top bunk across the room. The blue haired maniac of his dreams was lying on his stomach with both arms tucked beneath the pillow. His usually scowling face was slack from sleep and Ichigo couldn't help but feel a little jealous.
Here he was, having recurring dreams and occasional nightmares about the man that kept him up most nights, and the very object of his frustration was sleeping like a goddamn baby.
Ichigo's jealous scowl eventually withered as he continued to observe the man as he slept. He knew it was a little creepy, but he couldn't help himself. He soon came to realize that watching Grimmjow's strong back rise and fall with every breath was oddly soothing.
He briefly wondered if Grimmjow would still run away with him if he asked, but Ichigo knew that Time was a fickle bitch: It had a way of twisting and pulling at emotions until they were a gnarled mess. Even the strongest of emotions could eventually decay into apathy.
Grimmjow obviously didn't feel the same way anymore, and Ichigo couldn't blame him. He also wanted to be angry at the man for teaming up with Grand Fisher—of all fucking people, but he just couldn't argue with the irony of it.
Ichigo silently rolled out of his bunk and slid his shoes on. He then tiptoed over towards Grimmjow's bunk and had to fight the urge to touch the man's hair.
Grimmjow liked to act tough, but Ichigo remembered how he would practically purr whenever fingers ran through those soft tresses.
The very tip of his finger lightly caressed a stray bang but then Ichigo nearly jumped out of his skin when the cell doors slid open. Grimmjow stirred and started to blink himself awake, but Ichigo was already out of the room by the time awareness kicked in.
Ichigo put a hand to his erratically beating heart as he shuffled towards the canteen for breakfast. The fuck was going on with him? Ichigo shook off the lingering thoughts of soft blue hair, sharp fangs, and piercing blue eyes before they completely settled into his mind. His emotions were starting to get in the way again.
When he entered the canteen, Ichigo was happy to find that he was one of the first in line. There were only a couple people ahead of him and, luckily, they paid him no mind. Their focus was solely on the food being placed on their plates.
Wait… did he smell bacon?
Ichigo tried not to press against the next guy in line as he stretched to get a better look. He watched as a square cut of omelet with cheese and pieces of bacon slid onto the guy's tray, followed by two pieces of buttered toast, a single link of sausage, and a small cartridge of milk.
This was definitely a lot better than the bland oatmeal he was given in solitary. He didn't even remember breakfast being this good when he first got here… then he recalled Keigo saying the Shinigami had taken back the kitchen.
Maybe that's why Kaien said the food wasn't bad. The Vasto Lordes must have taken over after Kaien left.
"Good morning, Ichigo."
Orange bangs bounced as Ichigo's head snapped up to look into soft grey eyes and a warm smile.
"Oh, morning Ukitake." Ichigo smiled back and his grin widened when he noticed the man's long white hair was rolled up into a hairnet.
"Is this fine, or would you prefer one of the cups of oatmeal? We also have cereal." Ukitake offered politely and chuckled when Ichigo instantly shook his head.
"No! This looks great." Chestnut eyes sparkled in mirth when he was handed his own tray of food. Ukitake even placed an extra sausage link on there for him. "Thanks." Ichigo was almost giddy with excitement.
He settled into the nearest bench and dug in without hesitation. It tasted as good as it smelled.
He hummed softly in satisfaction as he munched, but his good mood soured when he felt another body settle next him. He was already scowling by the time he glanced up and recognized the pink hair and mischievous green eyes.
Ichigo's appetite died instantly.
"What do you want?" He growled.
"Well good morning to you too, Pet." Bazz-B crooned as he reached over and snatched a piece of toast from Ichigo's tray. "Note to self: Reaper is not a morning person."
Ichigo had to fight the overwhelming urge to grab the man by his mohawk and smash his face right into the cheesy eggs.
"Get lost. I really don't have the patience for your bullshit today." Ichigo grumbled and squeezed the plastic spork between his fingers.
Green eyes narrowed at the attitude, but he wasn't at all intimidated. If anything, Ichigo's fire was just boiling that pit of desire in Bazz-B's belly. He wanted nothing more than to smother that hot flame and watch it sizzle into a pile of ash.
"Let's get somethin' straight…" Bazz-B hummed under his breath as he sidled up closer to Ichigo, making the man sneer and lean away, but a large hand reached around to pull him back. "Despite whatchu might think, I'm a reasonable guy. I just don't like bein' bossed around. I'll let it slide this time though, because I came here ta give you these…" Ichigo blinked when folded papers were waved in his face. "I promised ta give 'em back if you sucked me off, and I'm a man of my word. Ya did such a good job too~"
Ichigo's cheeks started to heat but shook it off. He reached up and took the offered fake transfer papers with a small smirk. The guy really had no idea, did he..?
Wait.
Ichigo thumbed through the documents and realized the signed sheet of paper—the most IMPORTANT piece—wasn't even there.
Bazz-B grinned at the annoyed look that zeroed in on him.
"Though I don't remember promisin' to give 'em ALL back. If you want that last one then meet me in cell 136 after lunch—that's my cell in case you were wondering."
"Unbelievable. Get out of my sight, asshole." Ichigo shrugged the man off and then surprised him by crumpling the papers into a tight ball. "You can take that paper you kept and burn it for all I care." Ichigo turned to the right slightly and then shot the wad of papers into the air, straight towards the trashcan all the way on the other side of the canteen. It soared over one of the guards leaning against the wall and went right into the trash with a soft 'fwunk'.
The guard looked up with an eyebrow raised curiously, but he couldn't help but look slightly impressed at the shot. Even Bazz-B was too stunned to speak at first. He honestly thought that Ichigo would be a desperate mess for those transfer papers… good thing he had a backup plan.
"Well, if you're not interested in gettin' that back, I have other ways of persuadin' you." He said confidently as he nibbled on the piece of toast he'd stolen from Ichigo.
"Such as?" He didn't want to encourage the bastard, but curiosity got the better of him, as it always did.
Bazz-B's lips spread into another one of his wicked smirks and Ichigo tried not to look directly at it this time.
"Just so happens that I know all about your little pregnant fiancé—ehem, sorry, EX-fiancé. I heard my cousin, Uryuu, is takin' real good care of her~ Lil' bastard always did like his bitches with big ole' titties." He gestured to his own chest to mime large, bouncing breasts and Bazz-B thoroughly enjoyed the scorching glare he received. "I also happen to have some buddies on the outside keepin' an eye on her. Be a shame if she took a tumble down the stairs r' somethin'." His smirk widened when Ichigo suddenly grasped him by the front of his suit and dragged him forward to growl in his face.
"You leave her alone." When Bazz-B didn't seem discouraged, Ichigo added, "I swear to every god known to mankind, if anything happens to her then your own fucking father won't even recognize your body when I'm finished with it. I'll force you to wear your own insides like a scarf while your heart still beats, and, as you slowly bleed to death, I'll have enough time to surgically invert your dick and fuck your new pussy until the light finally fades from your eyes. I'll even use your severed balls as a gag to smother your screams." Bazz-B's amused expression finally cracked. Ichigo's auburn gaze sizzled with such rage and promise of pain that the man felt an actual shiver of fear crawl up his spine. It's been a long time since anyone has made him sweat like this. "I've tolerated what you put me through since I got here, but if you or any of your fucking friends touch my family then you will truly understand what it means to have a fate worse than death." With that, Ichigo released the man, letting him plop back into the seat, half eaten toast falling from his limp fingers.
Bazz-B didn't have any witty comebacks and his confidence from earlier was all but gone now.
"This dipshit botherin' you, roomie?"
Both eyes snapped to see Renji and a few other Shinigami making themselves comfortable at the table. Ichigo looked to his right as Yumichika settled beside him and then he noticed Kensei was hovering just behind Bazz-B, almost like he was waiting for the man to leave so he could take his spot.
The Quincy leader was out numbered and still a little flustered from Ichigo's threat to properly defend himself. He clicked his tongue in frustration but then slowly got to his feet. He faced off with Kensei for a moment, trying to seem unimpressed as he shoved the man out of his way.
"You Vizards and Shinigami sure got some fuckin' balls. Keep it up and I might havta chop 'em all off." He snarled and he didn't give the others a chance to counter as he turned to growl at Ichigo, "We'll continue our lil' chat in my cell after lunch, Pet." He spat out the nickname with an angry huff, "If you don't show up, thennn..." He shrugged and left the threat empty, but Ichigo knew what he was trying to say. Even on the threat of immeasurable pain, this bastard was still willing to threaten Ichigo's family. Bazz-B roughly bumped shoulders with Kensei as he passed the man and then made his way out of the canteen.
"Tch…" Ichigo's teeth ground together and an angry fire burned in his chest. He needed to punch something. HARD. "I'd like to catch him alone for five minutes—with no guards or fences to protect him."
"Mahh~ He ain't worth it. Without his lil' tricks, he's nothin' but a common thug."
Ichigo glanced up at the man who spoke. It was the same smiley, silver haired man that had put a knife to his throat when Renji did his stupid 'drop the soap' gag in the showers.
"Yeah, a thug whose father runs the whole fuckin' place." Shuuhei grumbled before shoving a rather large piece of omelet into his mouth.
"That may not be the case for much longer. Word is, the Warden is running for Senate this year. Hope the bastard gets in just so Hotshot can't run this place like his personal playhouse anymore." Yumichika piped in as he delicately nibbled on his toast.
"Warden's been talkin' 'bout doin' that for years. What makes you so sure he'll follow through this time?" Kensei challenged.
"Why do you think those reporters were here last week? To film a fucking documentary?" Yumichika leaned forward to glare at Kensei from around Ichigo. The silver haired man raised a brow at the smaller male and frowned.
"Well damn, everyone's got a fuckin' attitude lately. You ain't back on the snow too are ya? Thought Baldy asked you to quit."
Yumichika sat back and pointedly ignored Kensei's query to turn his attention to Ichigo. "Morning cutie. How do you feel? Your face is looking much better by the way." He smiled as he opened his cartridge of milk and began to pour it in the opened cup of what looked like fruit loops.
'How… appropriate.' Ichigo thought in amusement as he eyed the colorful cereal.
"Thanks, and I'm alright. Just hoping today goes by without any more problems." Ichigo spoke honestly and then he tried to steer their conversation back to the previous topic, "If the Warden leaves, who do you guys think will take his place?" He knew Zaraki was most likely to get it, but he wanted to hear what the others had to say. They've been here for longer, so they must have a better understanding of Hueco Mundo's politics.
"Captain Zaraki will take over, of course." Yumichika huffed with a flick of his shiny raven hair.
"Eh, I agree he's been doin' a good job keepin' shit under control with all the tension goin' on, but do ya really think he'd be a good warden?" The silver haired man argued back with that little toothless smile still stuck on his slender face. "'Cuz it takes more than just bein' intimidating to run a prison."
Yumichika swirled his spoon around the cup of cereal before finally taking a bite. While he was busy chewing, Renji decided to speak up for him, "Alright Gin, who do you think should take his spot then?"
"I think Dr. Aizen would be a great fit."
"The counselor?" Kensei scoffed before taking a large chomp out of his sausage. He continued to speak as he chewed, "Not likely. He's more a 'behind the scenes' kinda guy. I don't think he'd be interested in a leadership role—Not that he couldn't handle it, he's a smart guy n'all, but there would be too many eyes watchin' him in a position like that."
Ichigo actually blinked in surprise at the man's observation. It made a lot of sense. If Sousuke was as cautious as Kisuke described, then he definitely wouldn't want reporters questioning him or snooping around his work. If he was smart he might push for someone he really trusted to take the spot. Sousuke must have someone in mind if he's already trying to knock Zaraki out of the running.
"Why are we even assuming it'll be someone here in Hueco Mundo? They could always hire a guy from outside. S'long as Yhwach recommends them, they'd be set." Shuuhei put his two cents in.
"Because Yhwach wouldn't let just anyone take over his prison. It has to be someone he can depend on while he's away—someone he can manipulate."
Ichigo glanced over Yumichika's head to see that it was Shunsui who decided to grace them with his thoughts on the matter. The man's grey eyes were barely open as he stared down at his uneaten breakfast. Poor guy looked exhausted.
"Still doesn't mean he can't get someone from outside. Buttt… Now that I think about it… the warden doesn't necessarily have to be a guy. Ya think maybe Rangiku might apply for it?" Renji wondered and a huge grin devoured his face at the thought. It took Ichigo a moment to remember Yhwach's assistant: the flirtatious woman with wavy, strawberry-blonde hair and gigantic breasts.
Shuuhei nudged Renji with his shoulder playfully as he added, "Oo! If she becomes warden then this place would run like fuckin' clockwork! She's already got most of the guys wrapped around her perfectly manicured finger. All she'd have to do is wear a Vneck with a short skirt and these bastards would be lining up to do her bidding—myself included." He waggled his eyebrows suggestively and sent Ichigo a wink, which was countered with a snort. Ichigo's lip quirked into a small smile despite himself though. He was actually starting to enjoy their company. The bantering, name calling, and aggressive teasing reminded him of his time in training.
"Ey." Ichigo's attention snapped back to Kensei as the man spoke up on his left, "You gonna finish that?" He pointed down at Ichigo's half eaten food and grinned when the tray was pushed towards him.
"It's all yours, but only because I lost my appetite as soon as I saw Renji's face." Ichigo taunted his cellmate unexpectedly and there was a shocked moment of silence. Then the table erupted in laughter, even Renji was shaking his head and chuckling.
"Sticks and stones, Spitfire. But since no one else is gonna speak up for me," He glared pointedly at Kensei and Shuuhei, who were still laughing, before continuing, "I like to think I'm one of the best lookin' fuckers in here—'course that's a matter of taste though. I know you prefer your men with inverted eyes and blue hair." His grin spread victoriously when he noticed the small dust of red blooming along Ichigo's cheeks.
"So if I dyed my hair blue, ya think I got a shot?" Shuuhei joined in on teasing Ichigo.
"Don't start that, then everyone's gonna turn their hair blue," Shunsui joked as he poked at his food with the spork. "Especially if Reaper fancies it." A playful grin creased his scruffy face.
"But could you imagine Grimmjow's face when he walks outta his cell to see everyone with blue hair!" Renji cackled as he imagined the man's reaction and slapped a hand on the table. His grin widened when he heard the others laugh and even Ichigo let out a snort followed by a genuine chuckle.
"Not to put a damper on your little joke, but I definitely don't have enough supplies to bleach and color that much hair." Yumichika huffed with a shrug. "You'll have to find another way into Reaper's pants."
"Wait." Ichigo suddenly spoke up as something just occurred to him: Even with the guard's hat, if he got caught while he was sneaking around Psych Ward, they would instantly recognize him by his bright hair. It was too unique. "You have hair dye?"
Violet eyes narrowed and Yumichika crossed his arms before twisting to fully face the other. "Don't you dare ruin that beautiful orange mane with any more filthy dye."
Ichigo rolled his eyes but then said, "It doesn't have to be permanent. Do you have a way to dye it temporarily? Just for one night?"
Yumichika's stern expression switched to curiosity and he eyed the man with a raised brow. The others also looked to him questioningly, and Ichigo realized he probably should have brought this up in a more private setting.
"Ahhh… You know what? Never mind." Ichigo scratched the back of his head nervously and when Yumichika looked like he wanted to press for answers, he quickly nudged the man's foot with his own. Thankfully, Yumichika got the silent message and held his tongue.
"Hmm…" Kensei looked like he wanted to say something as well so Ichigo stuck his other foot towards the man. He didn't mean to kick him as hard as he did though. Kensei hissed under his breath but didn't flinch away or react much to the assault. "Whatever. I gotta go deliver some messages. You kids behave yourselves." He grumbled before taking both trays that he'd practically licked clean and walked away from the table.
"Yeahhh. M'gonna head too. Got a couple people I promised to meet with." Renji drawled as he also stood. Ichigo gave him a single wave goodbye which was reciprocated. "Later Spitfire. You comin' Tats?"
"Nah. Just came for a quick bite—don't wanna shoot up on an empty stomach. Catch y'all later." Shuuhei admitted honestly and then shrugged as he also left.
Now it was just Shunsui and Yumichika left with Ichigo. He wasn't sure how much he could say around either of them and he still wanted to ask Yumichika about the hair dye. He could always find the man later...
"So what're your plans today, Ichigo?" Shunsui asked as he finally pushed his food away after just poking it for the last ten minutes.
"I have a few things I need to take care of." Ichigo admitted without giving anything away. "But first I need to find someone." That guard, Kisuke, shouldn't be too difficult to find, and hopefully the man had his requested items by now. He knew it would be asking a lot to get this all done tonight, but Ichigo also knew Kisuke had been waiting for a chance like this for a while. His first real step was to steal Sousuke's cardkey, but he couldn't do that until he had the fake one.
"Well… If you need help with anything, you know where to find us." Shunsui dipped his head as Ichigo stood from the table. "We've got your back."
"Thanks." Ichigo gave both men a friendly pat on the shoulder before making his way out of the canteen.
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TBC
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*- OKAY! I know Bleach is set in Japan and that's where it should be, but for the sake of this fiction, everyone lives in the US. "Why?" because that's the only way the rules from prison and the sentence from his trials will really make sense. I don't actually know any of Japan's laws or regulations (I know I should brush up and study…) I also have no clue what their military is up to—so don't fight me on this!
**- Alright! You guys can be honest! This whole flashback was super corny wasn't it? Lmao
But I had fun with this chapter and I hope you guys had fun reading it. Now that you have a better understanding of what went on between them, some of their past interactions in the prison might make sense. For example; when Grimmjow got pissed at Ichigo for 'running away' during their little basketball match-He just hates it when Ichigo tries to leave him behind.
But anyway.
Until next time!