Chapter 6: Fun, Games, and Fear
~A/N~ Thank you to everybody for the support it's keeping me working on this.
Masami stood in a vast empty field a path before her, behind her and to both sides eac
h differed from the others. The path in front of her lead into a massive storm, the path to her right would lead her to a frozen ocean. The path to her left would drop her into a volcano after a field of flames and the final path behind her lead to a massive mountain range. Masami could only remember one time before when she stood on the path of four as she called it.
"Who seeks me?" Masami asked she was answered by a low feral growl from behind. She turned to see a large beast made of stone; it had long sharp front claws and hooved back feet, a whip like tail lashed out behind it. Masami remained motionless before the beast it's snout sniffed the air as its deep red eyes never left her.
"We all do," a deep metallic voice said to her right. Masami looked to see a man in black molten armor standing at the beginning of the path to her realm of fire, as the beast blocked the path to her mountain realm.
"We need to speak," a voice echoed through the wind. Masami turned again this time to see a figure clad in grey robes hovering a few feet off the ground. Before he heard the last one she turned to see a woman clad in icy blues and greens.
"Aisu, Kaen, Yama, Arashi? What do you need of me?" Masami asked the four forms of her Shi-Kai.
"Kaen , Yama and myself demand that you use us more. And until you do we are blocking your use of Aisu," the whispering voice of Arashi No Majo spoke.
"But your abilities are so complex if I mess up a single movement it all recoils back on me. Yama refuses to be used more than half the times I've called him and I've only just started to understand how to use Kaen," Masami explained as she faced the cloaked figure.
"THAT DOESN"T MATTER!" the feral voice of Yama No Kenmono yelled causing Masami to nearly cringe in fear.
"NO!" Masami screamed. "I am the wielder of the Four Elements! I will not be bossed around by a dog with anger issues!" Masami glared down Yama.
"Calm yourself Masami," the soothing voice of Aisuhime spoke.
"No I am tired of Yama treating me like trash," Masami turned to Aisuhime.
"Then maybe you should try and beat his challenge," the metallic voice of Kaen spoke.
"Alright, Yama what is your challenge?" Masami asked.
"Ban-Kai," he spoke.
"What?"
"Achieve Ban-Kai and I will allow you to use my form whenever you want," Yama explained.
"I can't achieve Ban-Kai without all four of you in sync with each other," Masami said.
"Find a way," all four voices spoke at once as they threw Masami out of her Jinzen.
Masami sat up quickly rubbing her eyes slowly after a few moments. She looked down to see Byakuya still asleep next to her. She smiled softly looking at her love. Wait how did Ichigo achieve Ban-Kai so quick? Masami thought. She felt a hand run slowly up her back.
"What woke you?" Byakuya asked his strong grey eyes were locked onto to her.
"My Zanpaktou," Masami said.
"Is there something wrong?" Byakuya asked.
"I won't be able to use Aisuhime until I can get the other three to work in sync with each other and my earthen form won't bow unless I achieve Ban-kai which I can't unless they are in sync," Masami explained.
"What if you were to force it?" Byakuya asked.
"I don't understand I can't force them into their unified state," Masami replied.
"Well Ichigo Kurosaki used a method that allowed him to achieve Ban-kai in just over two days, but the downside is you only get three to master it if you don't you never will," Byakuya explained.
"Oh wow," Masami said biting her lip. "What was the method?"
"I would need to speak with Yamamoto and Yoruichi before I can get your hopes up. Yamamoto will frown upon this," Byakuya said.
"Then maybe I could bring it up to him first. At least needing a way to get Ban-Kai A.S.A.P.," Masami said.
"I guess you could bring it up but I'm not sure what he will say," Byakuya said now sitting up his arm wrapped around Masami's shoulders.
"Well I should at least try," Masami said her eyes trailed down Byakuya's chest.
"I know what you're looking at and I would like to but I have a lot work to do," Byakuya said stopping Masami.
"I know I know we can't get distracted," Masami said as she climbed out of the bed showing off her naked form as she grabbed her cloths that were scattered a crossed the floor.
"Maybe you should move a couple of pairs of cloths here so you don't have to wear dirty ones," Byakuya said his eyes locked on Masami's butt as she bent over to pick up her panties.
"I brought a spare pair," Masami said as she glanced back to see Byakuya's gaze on here rear. Byakuya paused for a moment then got out of his bed and grabbed his underwear and started to dress.
"I was wondering… are captains allowed to customize their haori?" Masami asked.
"Yes just nobody does," Byakuya said. "Why?"
"Oh no reason just a thought," Masami said sliding her Hakama up her legs. Before she could tie on her Obi sash she felt Byakuya's hands on her hips.
"Must you tempt me so?" Byakuya asked.
"Oh whatever do you mean?" Masami asked with a sly grin.
"You know what I mean," Byakuya said spinning Masami in his arms so she faced him.
"Because, I'm horny and I want to feel your touch on me," Masami said biting her lip.
"It will have to wait until tonight," Byakuya said using all his self-restraint.
"I know," Masami replied pulling her Kosode over her shoulders. Byakuya pulled her into a deep kiss, their bodies meshed together for several long moments.
"I must go now," Byakuya said.
"I love you Byakuya," Masami said letting go of him.
"I love you too Masami," Byakuya replied before leaving the room.
Byakuya stepped into his office seeing the five folders on his desk his gaze locked onto Fernando's folder. Once behind his desk he simply grabbed the folder in question and dropped it into his garbage. If Masami can't be my lieutenant I must pick one of these four. I guess I should meet them Byakuya thought to himself as he summoned a hell butterfly. "Summon Seventh Division Member Lilith Duncan, Tenth Division Member Jessica Bloodmoon, Third Division Member Stephanie McTyir, and Thirteenth Division Sixth Seat Ryu Digeren," Byakuya said to the butterfly, a moment later the butterfly left the office carrying the message to the four people.
Roughly an hour of paper work passed and a knock came to his door. "Enter" Byakuya said his icy grey eye looked up to see the four he summoned walk in.
"Third Division Member Stephanie McTyir reporting in," Stephanie said bowing. She had long blonde hair and bright green eyes, she had very pale skin almost like she lived in pure darkness most of her life.
"Seventh Division Member Lilith Duncan Reporting," Lilith said bowing as well. Lilith seemed the polar opposite of Stephanie, she had short unkempt black hair, black lipstick, nail polish, eyeliner, and several piercings.
"Tenth Division Member Jessica Bloodmoon here as requested," Jessica said without a bow. Jessica seemed normal almost to a unique degree. Shoulder length brown hair, brown eyes, no makeup, no customization what so ever on her.
"And I'm Ryu Digeren Sixth Seat in the Thirteenth Division." Ryu said. Ryu stood nearly as tall as Zaraki, with hair nearly as red as Renji's and nearly as long; he was muscularly built but not overly so. He had stormy grey eyes and dark brown skin reminding Byakuya of Ichigo's friend chad, but not as dark as Yoruichi.
"You know why I summoned you four," Byakuya said.
"Yes," the four said in unison.
"You four are up for the spot of my Lieutenant. I will test each of you to decide if you are worthy," Byakuya explained. "First off one at a time why should I pick you?"
Stephanie spoke first. "Out of the four of us I achieved the highest marks in school and showed advanced ability to notice and react to changes," Byakuya's expression remained the same his eyes stayed on the four.
"I may not be a seated member of the seventh squad but I have been working under Lieutenant Iba in the affairs of being a lieutenant. So I have the most experience," Lilith said gaining a slight nod from the noble captain.
Jessica took a deep breathe. "I stayed in the academy a year longer than required so I could properly know how to use my Shi-kai, lead missions, organize squad meetings and gain the ability to help teach new squad members,"
"Now I seem less amazing than these three." Ryu said. "But I have several things they don't have,"
"Such as?" Byakuya asked slightly intrigued.
"I have Ban-Kai, I can use any non-forbidden Kido, and I can use Ikkostu and Sokotsu," Ryu said.
"Impossible the Ikkostu and Sokostu aren't taught," Byakuya said standing up.
"I will demonstrate all three if you wish," Ryu said.
"You will, report to Sokyoku Hill all of you," Byakuya before she shunpo-ed out of the room.
The four nominees for the spot of Lieutenant of the Sixth Division stood on Sokyoku Hill waiting for Byakuya. "What's taking him so-" Jessica started to say before she froze seeing Byakuya, Yamamoto, and Sasakibe appear.
"Now Ryu Digeren show us how you have Ban-Kai, Kido Mastery and The Bone Punches," Yamamoto said.
"Yes sir," Ryu stepped forward and placed his hand on his sword. "Cut, Bureidomasuta," Ryu shouted drawing his sword. The blade was nearly six feet in length and resembled a Scimitar, the blade its self was pitch black while the handle and hilt where blood red.
"Ban-Kai!" Ryu shouted his blade stayed the same but he grew a pair of black angle wings and a set of black armor that held a gold trim. "Ten-Bureidomasuta"
"Interesting," Yamamoto said looking at the armored man.
Ryu opened his free hand and pointed it straight up. "Hiryu Gekizoku Shinten Raiho" Ryu's voice echoed out shooting the massive blue lightning bolt into the sky.
"Danku," Ryu spoke quickly stabbing his sword into the ground as the shield formed, a moment later his fist smashed through the barrier like it was a child's toy bricks.
"So it seems you can do it all," Byakuya said as he felt a spiritual pressure drawing near.
"What is she doing here?" Yamamoto asked.
"I do not know I did not summon her," Byakuya said as Masami appeared.
"Ryu!" Masami shouted as she ran up to Ryu
"Big sister!" Ryu said sealing his Ban-kai and grabbing Masami spinning her in his arms.
"Where have you been?" Masami asked.
"I went to the south," Ryu said.
"Masami Madarame," Yamamoto's voice echoed loudly.
"Captain-Commander, I'm sorry I interfered," Masami said jumping back behind Byakuya.
"Sorry Captain-Commander it's just been a very long time," Ryu said.
"I will excuse it but we are not done save the reunion until after," Yamamoto said.
"Of course sir," Ryu said.
"Now I believe we should properly test your Ikkostu and Sokostu," Yamamoto said.
"Captain-Commander Sir I believe I could do that," Masami spoke.
"Oh and how would you do that?" Yamamoto asked.
"With my Ski-kai I could make something for him to hit that could test him.
"Then do it," Yamamoto said starting to lose his patience with Masami.
"Dominate, Yama No Kenmono," Masami said her sword over took her hands and feet thank you for answering Masami stepped forward and placed her hand on the ground her claws dug into the stone like butter.
Masami pulled a massive chunk of rock out of the ground then sealed her sword. Allow me to use Aisuhime so I can test Ryu I promise I won't use her to fight. "Eclipse the sun, Aisuhime," Masami's sword took its icy form, after a moment she covered the rock in a thick layer of dense ice and sealed her sword once again.
"That should do it," Masami said.
Ryu stepped forward and removed his arms from his kosode showing a scared body that rivaled that of Yamamoto. Ryu clenched his fists then smashed them into the frozen rock completely destroying it.
"How did you learn this technique?" Yamamoto asked.
"I didn't I developed it and when I came into the Seireitei I found out someone had developed it long before me," Ryu explained.
"Very well, you three reveal your Shi-Kais," Yamamoto said looking to Stephanie, Jessica and Lilith.
"Command then Ebb and Flow of the seas, Umi Naito" Jessica said spinning her sword until it formed into a long golden Trident with jagged points and red grips.
"Bloom, Shukkestu Bara," Lilith said as she whipped her sword forward, once it faced one direction it shot out in length and became a barbed whip with a literal bleeding rose at the end. Instead of a pleasant smell a foul order filled the air.
"Howl to the moon, Shinku Urufu," Stephanie said pointing her sword straight upwards, a moment later her sword began to glow lightly then melted over her arms creating gauntlets with clawed gloves.
"Interesting forms," Yamamoto said. "Let's see how you fair. Masami test them," Yamamoto turned his head slightly to see Masami.
"Command the Skies, Arashi No Majo,"Masami called forth her jagged storm sword. As I promised I will use you three. Masami spoke to her sword.
Lilith whipped her rose headed whip at Masami wrapping it around her jagged sword. Masami held the sword her attention went to the other two women who started to surround her. "Three on one is not going to work on us," Lilith said with a grin.
"Your right, unfortunately Arashi No Majo is not the sword for multi target combat," Masami said sealing her sword. Please I need you now, "Erupt and drown the world in flames, Kaen Ryoshu," Masami's sword erupted in flames forcing Lilith to pull away her whip.
"Get her," Stephanie said as the three charged in.
"Erupt!" Masami shouted as the three closed in. as the attackers close in the ground behind them melted away and they found themselves surrounded by flames.
"So you trapped us in?" Stephanie asked.
"Yeah not smart still three on one," Lilith said still grinning.
"Seems a little unfair but Yamamoto seems to think you are strong enough to beat us," Jessica said.
"You know what the Double Edged Sword phrase means?" Masami asked.
"Yeah an attack that is so dangerous it could easily take out the user as well as their target," Jessica said.
"Kaen Ryoshu; is a giant Double Edged Sword. All of his abilities work like that and I just trapped all of us in his strongest attack," Masami said sinking her sword further into the ground.
"You're not that crazy," Lilith said.
"No but I don't need a sword to win, these walls will be what I use to win," Masami said clenching her fists.
"You're either crazy or stupid," Stephanie said watching Masami look from her to Lilith then to Jessica.
"You're last," Masami said pointing to Stephanie. Another moment and she was after Lilith closing the distance.
"Shit!" Jessica said rushing towards Lilith, Masami reached Lilith and began to pummel her chest with punches before she even realized Masami had moved towards her. Jessica reached Masami and thrust her trident forward catching Masami's shoulder. Lilith collapsed to the ground coughing and puking blood.
"Your turn," Masami said grabbing the trident's pole crushing it slowly a small drop of blood dropped off the trident's tip.
"What are you?" Jessica asked terrified as Masami seemed to completely ignore the wound to her shoulder.
"A Hakuda master," Masami said punching forward; her hit had so much force it threw Jessica through the wall of flame. Masami turned to see Stephanie was on her. Shit no time
Stephanie's metal claws raked over Masami's shoulders and arms in her attempt to block. "I shouldn't have been last," Stephanie said looking to the blood on her claws.
"Yeah I see my mistake," Masami said her arms hung at her sides completely useless. Stephanie charged in again her eyes locked on Masami.
Masami used her unskilled shunpo to dodge the attack she could see; her feet narrowly missed the claws. Thanks to the near battle ending hit Masami gained a wicked idea.
"Erupt: Enclose," Masami said moving to her sword as the flame walls closed in.
"You're insane you'll burn yourself to death," Stephanie said her eyes jumped from Masami to the walls.
"Then forfeit," Masami said the walls moved in slowly.
Closer and closer they came, the heat nearly boiled their blood. "Ok, OK I forfeit," Stephanie said.
"You lose this game," Masami said as the walls collapsed back into her sword.
"Command the Skies, Arashi No Majo," Masami said as her sword changed. Her knelt down resting one of her useless arms on the hilt. "Reiastu for healing," Masami said as her wounds began to heal and her spiritual pressure dropped as her reiastu was used to heal her wounds.
"Well done Masami you beat three of the four," Yamamoto said.
"I not sure I could beat Ryu even if I was fully healed," Masami said her eyes went to Byakuya. "But I have a favor to ask of you Captain-Commander," Masami slowly stood up facing Yamamoto.
"I will see after you test Ryu Digeren," Yamamoto said.
Masami turned to see Ryu standing at the ready in his Shi-kai. I'm out of Spirit Energy… Yama I need you now! Masami said in her head.
Of course you do, Fine I will allow it. Yama No Kenmono replied.
"Dominate, Yama No Kenmono," Masami said as her earthen form took over her arms and legs.
"Let us begin big sister," Ryu said as he awaited Masami's attack.
"Let's see how I fair," Masami said as she started to move around Ryu her increased speed allowed her to shunpo easily. Masami continued to shunpo around Ryu making Byakuya remember his battle with Ichigo Kurosaki.
Ryu slashed out his sword cutting a large mark into the ground; over and over he slashed the ground.
"How long can you run?" Ryu asked.
"Fine let's do this," Masami said standing behind Ryu her stone claws lashed out only to be blocked by Ryu's sword.
"You're too tired to fight me," Ryu said spinning around. Masami looked up at Ryu as his sword slashed passed her. Ryu now stood behind Masami, her rock boots and clawed gauntlets shattered her dropped to her side and she hit the ground.
"You are far stronger than you appear," Yamamoto said.
"I'm not to be underestimated," Ryu said.
"Nor am I," Masami said.
"What?" Ryu turned to see Masami standing. Masami threw a punch at Ryu everything she had left clocked Ryu a crossed his chin knocking him out instantly.
"It seems you are one to constantly impress," Yamamoto said looking at Masami.
"As I've been told I hit like a Mac Truck," Masami said. "But I got nothing left," Masami fell backwards into the arms of Byakuya.
"Do you know what she wanted?" Yamamoto asked.
"Yes. She wants to get her Ban-Kai like Ichigo did… so she would need to speak to Yoruichi," Byakuya said lifting Masami's unconscious body into his arms.
"Why would she want to speed up her Ban-Kai?" Yamamoto asked.
"She said her sword is refusing to listen until she gets Ban-Kai," Byakuya explained.
Ryu slowly stood up holding his chin. "Damn she still hits like a bus," Ryu said.
"I'll take her to the Fourth Division," Byakuya said.
Yamamoto sat in his office looking over Masami's profile. "Should I let her go get her Ban-Kai?" Yamamoto asked himself.
"Should she learn Ban-Kai Byakuya might demand her to be his lieutenant," Sasakibe said.
"You have a point," Yamamoto replied.
"Also I think we should test Ryu for the spot of Third Division Captain," Sasakibe said.
"He is still very very young," Yamamoto said.
"We can have Shunsui or Ukitake tutor him," Sasakibe replied.
"You think him ready?" Yamamoto asked.
"He has an undamaged Ban-Kai, Kido Mastery, Hakuda Mastery, and substantial spiritual pressure," Sasakibe explained.
"I will see what Shunsui and Ukitake have to say," Yamamoto said.
"As for Masami learning Ban-Kai I think we should ask her why before you decide," Sasakibe said seeing Yamamoto close her folder
Masami slowly awoke her eyes fluttered open slowly starting to take in her surroundings. "Fourth Division I see," Masami said slowly sitting up.
"Yes I brought you here," Byakuya said.
"Bya-kun," Masami said happily as Byakuya grabbed her hand.
"How are you feeling?"
"Oh much better now. How long was I out?" Masami asked.
"Only a few hours," Byakuya replied.
"Did you wait here the whole time?" Masami asked remembering what Yamamoto had said about not getting distracted.
"Yes but I brought paperwork with me to pass the time," Byakuya said with a slight smile.
Masami was about to speak when a knock came to their door. "May I enter?" Ryu's voice came from behind.
"Sure," Masami said smiling. After another moment Ryu stepped in ducking under the door as he did.
"How are you fairing?" Ryu asked.
"Much better," Masami replied.
"You must be the one that has claimed my big sister's heart," Ryu said looking to Byakuya.
"Yes," Byakuya answered coldly.
"Good that should stop Fernando's advances," Ryu said.
"Where have you been brother?" Masami asked.
"In the south, 90th district training," Ryu said.
"Against what?" Masami asked.
"Well that far south the Seireitei can't answer pleas for help very easily. So I took up Hollow slaying," Ryu replied.
"Interesting and was it against these Hollows you managed to learn those devastating punches?" Masami asked.
"Yes, as for my Sword I got that while battling a Menos Grande that tore through the district," Ryu explained.
"How long have you had your sword?" Masami asked.
"Six years,"
"You learned Ban-Kai in six years? That's impossible," Byakuya interjected.
"It is possible but it is difficult. I am still learning her abilities," Ryu said.
"Wait the Blademaster is a 'her'?" Masami asked.
"Yes and she is very powerful," Ryu replied.
"So wha-" Masami started to say when a Hell Butterfly floated into the window
"I really think it's weird how many of those I have seen in such a short time," Masami said letting the butterfly rest on her finger.
"Wow, Captain-Commander wants to see me when I return?" Masami said slightly confused.
"There is a banquet in the world of living tonight. I was planning on taking you," Byakuya said clarifying the 'when they return' part of the message.
"Oh then I guess I should get a dress," Masami said looking to her lover.
"Already taken care of there is a change of cloths at the Mansion," Byakuya said.
"I shall see you later then," Ryu said leaving.
"Let's get going then. I want to dance with you as much as I can," Masami said smiling.
Ichigo stood in Karakura town his short orange hair was neatly combed and he wore a nice pair of black pants with a white shirt and a vest, he carried a black coat over his shoulder. "I don't like dressing up," Ichigo said. Soul Society was throwing him a banquet to thank him for all his help defeating Aizen.
A sharp whistle caught Ichigo ear. "Hey now that's bringing the sexy back," a few women said as they drove by slowly.
"Sorry ladies I'm spoke for," Ichigo said.
"Aww to bad cutie," the driving woman said driving away.
"Hey Ichigo," another voice caught Ichigo's attention.
"What? Oh hey Uryu," Ichigo said waving to the Quincy Archer.
"Didn't you take Tatsuki to the banquet with you?" Uryu asked.
"I'm on my way to get her the banquet hasn't started yet," Ichigo replied.
"I guess Renji and Rukia just wanted to be early," Uryu said.
"Are you taking someone?" Ichigo asked.
"Yeah I invited Inoue," Uryu said pushing his glasses up.
"Ah I heard Chad had gotten and Invitation was bringing someone as well," Ichigo said.
"Yeah and you won't believe who," Uryu said cracking a smile.
"What are you two talking about," Chad's solid deep voice stopped Uryu from saying a thing.
"Hey Chad… Who's she?" Ichigo asked.
"Apachie, one of Harribel's fractions," Chad introduced the dark skinned woman.
"And how did you two met?" Ichigo asked.
"In Hueco Mundo, when you got the remaining espada to join with the Soul Society," Chad said as Apachie took a hold of his hand.
"We are going to be late Sado," Apachie said as the two turned to leave.
"See you guys there," Chad said as his voice trailed off.
"Well Inoue is with Tatsuki so," Uryu said.
"Then let's go," Ichigo said walking down the road his mind locked on Tatsuki wondering if she was going to wear a dress Now that would be something to see.
Ichigo and Uryu reached Tatsuki's house and knocked. "Door's open come in," the voice of Tatsuki's mother called out. Ichigo and Uryu stepped in to see Tatsuki's father standing in their way.
"You two better behave," he said his eyes locked on Ichigo.
"I am a perfect gentleman," Ichigo said without cracking a grin.
"Since when?" Tatsuki voice asked. Ichigo turned to see his already beloved girlfriend standing at the top of the stairs. She wore a beautiful black dress and reached all the way down to her ankles, she also wore black high heels and had styled her hair to be wavy rather than spiked.
Ichigo couldn't speak his eyes just stayed locked on Tatsuki her form enthralled him so. "Uryu?" Orihime's voice asked gaining the noble archer's attention. After a moment he felt his jaw go slacked. Orihime was dressed in a gorgeous crimson dress with a pair of crimson high heels her hair done up into a beautifully styled pony-tail. Both Tatsuki and Orihime wore make-up to accent their dress choice perfectly.
"My god you are beautiful," Ichigo managed to say through his thoroughly dry mouth.
"Took me a solid week to learn how to walk properly in high heels," Tatuski said walking down the stairs her hips swayed lightly as she walked as did Orihime's.
"Oh I have to have a picture of you two together," Tatsuki's mother said getting Tatsuki to blush lightly.
"Let me put my coat on then," Ichigo said throwing on his black dress jacket. Tatsuki took his side while Orihime took Uryu's. Tatsuki's mother snapped picture after picture of the two couples.
"Ok mom we have to get going," Tatsuki said pushing Ichigo out the door.
"Have fun at the medical banquet," Tatsuki's mom shouted as they left. Ichigo nodded remembering that was the excuse he used to get it so Tatsuki could go.
Once outside the four paused. "Can you shunpo us there?" Tatsuki asked.
"I'd rather avoid anything that could build a sweat," Ichigo said.
"Fair enough let's get going then," Tatsuki said her hand intertwined with Ichigo's as they started to walk. Uryu looked at Orihime seeing her looking him up and down. Uryu wore a white suit and shoes; it almost looked like he wore his Quincy attire.
"Is something wrong?" Uryu asked.
"No I was just thinking you look very handsome," Orihime said smiling lightly.
"Oh well thank you… I may have not said it when Ichigo did but you do look absolutely jaw dropping tonight," Uryu said.
"Thanks," Orihime said taking Uryu's hand as they walked.
The four reached the banquet hall to see several people walked in. "Renji, Rukia!" Ichigo said seeing the two soul reapers. Both were dressed to kill as they say. Rukia was in a beautiful light red kimono while Renji wore a black Hakama and Kosode with a light red sash and a light red over coat to match Rukia.
"Hey Ichigo," Renji said.
"Who else is here already?" Ichigo asked.
"Brother and Masami, Toshiro and Momo, Ikkaku and his girl whom I have yet to meet, Kenpachi and Unohana, Shunsui and Liza, and Urahara and Yoruichi," Rukia said as they walked in to see a lot more people. "That you know," Rukia added.
Ichigo scanned to see Byakuya and Masami on the dance floor doing a slow dance, Ikkaku and a woman with long red hair danced as well. Once they were seen everyone started to clap for Ichigo.
"Oh let's go dance Uryu," Orihime said pulling Uryu's arm leading him to the dance floor.
"This seems more like a basic dance than a banquet," Ichigo said.
"Nah the supper being in a few minute in the other hall," Rukia said pointing to a door way where Shunsui and Liza could be seen entering.
"Everyone Ichigo is here please report to the banquet hall," a voice echoed out.
Once everyone had filed in and taken their seats Ichigo could see it looked more like a wedding than anything else now as Chad, Uryu, Orihime, Renji, Rukia and himself with their dates sat at a master table. A podium sat splitting the table so someone could talk. Ichigo glanced to see Renji walk up and tap the microphone.
"Ok settle down everyone," Renji said. "We have a couple of people who would like to speak so let's get that done so we can eat, drink and dance the night away," the crowd cheered.
Renji backed away as Byakuya of all people took the podium first. "As unlikely as it seems I would like to thank you first," Byakuya started. "You came to the Soul Society as a villain and a foe. You defied the rules and fought to save Rukia. I remember hearing you say that if the pride of the Soul Society would be ok with the execution of Rukia you would gladly trample on our pride. That day you earned my respect and the respect of all the people in the Soul Society, and for that I thank you," Byakuya turned to face Ichigo and bowed lightly before leaving back to his table sitting down next to Masami. Ichigo was in a slight shock after hearing Byakuya and became more shocked when he saw Masami kiss Byakuya and him return the kiss.
"I would like to speak next," Rukia said. "When I first met you I thought you some brat that didn't know his place. But you proved me wrong when I saw how hard you fought to protect what was important to you. You killed hollows, battled the Grand Fischer, other Soul Reapers, Ararrcar, Espada, Aizen, and even your own inner hollow to protect what you love. I am glad I can call you my friend," Rukia finished and walked over to Ichigo giving him a hug which he instantly retuned.
"My turn now," Renji said. "I have to admit I hated you when I first saw you. You were the reason the woman I love was going to be killed. But after you kicked my ass," the crowd laughed lightly. "You showed me if something is worth fighting for you have to fight with everything you have and never give up. So thank you for teaching me and showing me what's worth fighting for," Renji finished bowing to Ichigo.
The banquet hall clapped for the three speakers. "Ok then let's eat," Renji said as tons of trays were brought in passing out food for each person.
The night went on and the banquet's dinner ended and the majority of the people had moved into the dance hall. Masami sat with Byakuya at a table talking quietly. "Hey Masami," Ichigo said walking up with Tatsuki at his side.
"Hey Ichigo," Masami replied.
"Tatsuki wanted to meet the woman I would be walking the aisle with for Rukia and Renji's wedding," Ichigo said as Tatsuki stepped forward.
"So how do you know Rukia?" Tatsuki asked.
"I don't really. I'm just with Byakuya," Masami replied feeling Byakuya's hand cover hers.
"Oh so you're here sister-in-law?" Tatsuki asked making Masami go bright red.
"No I'm his girlfriend not his wife," Masami looked at Byakuya.
"For now," Byakuya said slyly into Masami's ear.
"Well either way it's nice to meet you," Tatsuki said offering her hand.
"Likewise," Masami said returning the handshake. "So you're the one that snagged Ichigo off the market on some girls?"
"Yup that's me," Tatsuki said proudly.
"Ichigo! Dance with me," Matsumoto shouted as she landed on Ichigo's back.
"Gah! Rangiku get off," Ichigo said as he stumbled trying to keep his balance.
"Come one give me a dance," Rangiku said.
"Get off him!" Tatsuki said pulling Rangiku off Ichigo's back.
"Oh what's wrong jealous?" Rangiku asked.
"Not that much but you might ruin his suit," Tatsuki said moving to straighten Ichigo's tie and coat. "Plus I get the first dance he's my boyfriend after all,"
"Touché. How about you Byakuya wanna dance?" Rankgiku asked.
"I owe my dances to Masami," Byakuya said standing taking Masami's hand.
"Now that sounds fun," Masami said going to the dance floor with Byakuya.
Once on the dance floor Byakuya took Masami's hand and place in hand on her lower back. "Just in time," Byakuya said as a slow song started to play. Renji and Rukia quickly joined them along with Ichigo and Tatsuki, Chad and Apachie, Uryu and Orihime, Toshiro and Momo, Kira with Insane, and Ikkaku with Layla.
"You blushed rather heavily when Tatsuki said you were my wife," Byakuya said and he spun Masami.
"Well what was a supposed to do just shrug it off?" Masami asked.
"I just didn't think it was going to knock you that far off guard," Byakuya replied.
"So it didn't even faze you?" Masami asked.
"I didn't say that. It did throw me off guard but I wouldn't see anything wrong with it," Byakuya said as the song came to an end. Masami leaned up slightly seeing Byakuya lean down slightly their lips met in a soft and gentle kiss. Not to be out done all the other couple followed suit and kissed their dance partner.
The music suddenly picked up suddenly. Byakuya and Masami almost seem to be expecting it and started dancing. More people joined in as the dancing continued, Ichigo and Tatsuki left the floor.
"You don't want to dance anymore?" Ichigo asked.
"Not in these heels," Tatsuki said.
The night dwindled down as people slowly started to leave. Ikkaku and Layla left first desire seemed to claim them. Rangiku disappeared with Shuuhei, Toshiro and Momo checked out earlier than most. The music had adjusted to the crowd that was left. Shunsui and Liza danced, Uryu and Inoue were still together, Ichigo and Tatsuki, Kira and Isane, Urahara and Yoruichi and Masami and Byakuya still inhabited the floor.
"Want to go home?" Masami whispered into Byakuya's ear.
"Sounds good to me," Byakuya replied. Once the song finished the two left the floor followed by Shunsui and Liza. Only a few miscellaneous couples remained at this point.
"See you in a few days," Shunsui said as he and Liza Shunpo-ed away.
"Is he taking a vacation?" Masami asked.
"Yamamoto gave the entire Goti 13 time off since the paperwork from the winter war is finally over," Byakuya explained as the two walked together.
"So what do you have planned?" Masami asked.
"With my time off, I would spend it with you," Byakuya said.
"Really, just you and me for four days?" Masami asked.
"Yes," Byakuya replied pulling Masami into his arms.
"Oh god yes!" Masami nearly shouted bringing her lips against Byakuya's.
"OOO am I interrupting?" a voice said causing Masami to freeze.
"Yes now go away," Byakuya said looking at a man whom was partially hidden in the shadows.
"Fernando," Masami said turning to see the man.
"Lil Masi," Fernando said with a grin.
"You will leave or you will cease to exsist," Byakuya said glaring at Fernando.
"Infest, Akumuryuu," Fernando said as blackness overtook all the light.
Byakuya stood in a graveyard a few gravestones stood. He looked for Masami but couldn't see anyone. "Masmi!" Byakuya called out trying to find his love.
"This is the land of your fear and failures," a deep voice said.
"Who's there?" Byakuya asked coldly.
"Witness your worst fears," the voice said again.
Byakuya turned to see Rukia standing a few feet away from him Aizen's hand in her chest blood soaked his hand. "This was inevitable Byakuya," Aizen said as he dropped Rukia's lifeless body to the ground.
"You are imprisoned," Byakuya said.
"Am I?" Aizen said his form shattered to his twisted winged form, the large white wings and the demented skulls that adorned them. Byakuya looked around to see himself on Sokyoku Hill as all of the Soul Society burned around him.
"Bya-kun," Masami's voice came from in front of him he turned to see he held his sword, the blade was embedded in Masami's chest.
"Masami!" Byakuya said in shock dropping his sword to grab her body.
"What did I do wrong?" Masami asked as she choked up blood.
"Nothing," Byakuya said as he fought back tears.
"Then why did you join him?" Masmai asked.
"I don't know what you mean?" Byakuya asked.
"Let me show you," Aizen's voice said as he pointed to the pool of Rukia's blood. Byakuya moved to it, as he looked into it he saw something looking back but it wasn't him. It had long black unkempt hair, white skin, yellow eyes; the majority of the face was replaced by a skull like mask the bore large gore horns and long fangs. The figure had large black wings and sharp claws soaked with Masami's blood.
"You are my right hand," Aizen said. "All to uphold your precious honor and pride,"
"No," Byakuya replied turning away from the image.
"Yes! Look at yourself!" Aizen yelled. Byakuya looked down to see the clawed hands and to see the bloodied Senbonzakura had appeared in his hand.
"I couldn't," Byakuya said.
"You did with a smile on your face," Aizen said.
"No I wouldn't," Byakuya said.
"You cut down Renji, Ichigo, Masami, and many more before they even noticed what happened," Aizen said.
"Never, not Masami," Byakuya said.
"You killed her slowly, intimately and with a grin that rival's Gin's on your face," Aizen chuckled.
"NO!" Byakuya lashed out Senbonzakura shattered at flew at him. Aizen simply dodged and stood within a few feet of Byakuya.
"You took pleasure in killing her," Aizen said. "You-" Aizen froze as the world around them started to shatter and break.
"What no!" the world shattered away as Byakuya's eyes shot open to see Ichigo standing a few feet in front of him Tensa Zangestu in hand the long chain up his arm with his arm cloven in the gauntlet.
"What did you do to Byakuya and Masami?" Ichigo asked.
"I don't know what you are talking about," Fernando said. Byakuya looked to see Masami on the ground crying.
"What did you do!" Ichigo yelled his spiritual pressure suddenly hit, before Byakuya couldn't feel at thing, but now the pressure easily dwarfed Yamamoto's like he was a child.
"I just showed them their nightmares," Fernando said as he sheathed his sword. Masami stopped crying but didn't move.
"How easy it was to break her," Fernando said as he turned to leave.
"Who said you could go," Ichigo said standing in front of Fernando.
"I hear by place you under arrest for using your sword on fellow members of the Goti 13," Ichigo said as his pressure dissipated but Fernando dropped to his knees unable to move.
"How?" he asked.
"Just something Urahara showed me… Targeted Pressurization," Ichigo said looking to Byakuya.
"You want me to arrest him?" Ichigo asked.
"Allow me," a voice said.
"Soi-fen," Ichigo said turning to see the second division captain.
"I saw it all," Soi-Fen said as she slapped reistui restraining cuffs on Fernando and hoisted him to his feet.
"I will make sure he gets his just rewards," Soi-Fen said as she shunpo-ed away.
"That was odd… what was she doing here still," Ichigo said as he looked to Byakuya whom picked up Masami and look at him.
"See ya around," Ichigo said just before Byakuya shunpo-ed away.
Byakuya passed through the senkaimon with Masami still in his arms, he moved to the fourth division to get her checked up before taking her to the mansion. Byakuya could feel Masami gripping his Kosode. "I'm fine just take me home," Masami said softly.
"Very well," Byakuya said turning his movements towards the Kuchiki Mansion.
Once inside Byakuya took Masami straight to his room placing her into his bed. "Thank you Bya-kun. I would like to talk in the morning," Masami said her voice still soft as she started to undress.
"Of course," Byakuya said turning to leave.
"Where are you going?" Masami asked.
"I assumed you wished to sleep alone," Byakuya said looking back at Masami.
"No I want… I need you with me tonight," Masami said.
"Ok," Byakuya said moving to the bed. He undressed and slid into the bed. Masami quickly curled up beside him her head on his shoulder. Byakuya embraced Masami and let sleep claim him for the night.
~A/N~ Well that's Chapter 6, I hope you enjoyed it. As Always rate and let me know what you think. As to Sword releases I'm half guessing half checking whether I have the right or wrong.
Jessica's Shi-Kai - Umi Naito – Sea Knight
Stephanie's Shi-Kai - Shinku Urufu – Crimson Wolf
Lilith's Shi-Kai - Shukkestu Bara – Bleeding Rose
Ryu's Shi-Kai - Bureidomasuta – Blademaster
Ryu's Ban-Kai -Ten- Bureidomasuta – Heavenly Blademaster
Fernando's Shi-Kai – Akumuryu – Nightmare Dragon