Kick About, Destroy, Bind
Chapter 3: On the Trail
La Sala del Rey
Sui-Feng knelt in the sand, searching for any sign of a new trail. The one she followed, thanks to Ggio Vega, had led to the canyon. But when she and Omaeda reached it, there was no one. She searched the entire place from top to bottom just to make sure someone wasn't waiting to ambush them. However, the only living things she saw were the snakes and scorpions. That meant that they had moved on.
She thought about the young man, who was so much like herself, and smiled whenever she thought about his golden eyes. She thought of how they would look like as his life left him. She then noticed the remains of a cigarette nearby. She picked it up and looked at the burnt end and smelled it. She smiled as she noticed the hoof prints. She had a trail.
Las Noches
"Did you believe what he said about Starrk?" Grimmjow asked Nnoitora.
"Who gives a fuck? All I care about is kicking some ass," Nnoitora said, grinning.
Grimmjow had been right. Aizen was saying that they would attack Karakura Town, but he did not give a specific date. However, the news that Starrk betrayed them was a shock. Even Yammy had thought hard on that one. The only one who agreed with Aizen right away was Zommari, no surprise there. However, Grimmjow did not believe it, but he didn't like that the other Espada actually considered it possible.
He knew Starrk. He knew that Starrk would never betray them. Of course, Starrk also didn't like to hurt people unless they truly deserved it. He also would never believe that Harribel and Ulquiorra would also betray them. It was true that they ran, but the other Espada, except for Zommari, also considered running. However, only Starrk, Harribel, and Ulquiorra actually did it. Grimmjow would have run with them, but he was persuaded to stay behind. Aizen thought that it was to get revenge against Ichigo, but that was not the real reason.
The Sabaku Desert, After the Defeat at Karakura Town
"I never thought that you would actually do it," Grimmjow said.
"Do what?" Ulquiorra asked.
"Leave…I mean I always thought that you were Aizen's Bitch. Looks like I was wrong."
"You were wrong the moment you considered me…'Aizen's Bitch'," Ulquiorra said, a tone of disgust came into his voice at that last part.
"Yeah, I was. So, when are you gonna go?" Grimmjow asked Ulquiorra.
"We will be gone before dawn," Ulquiorra said.
Grimmjow saw that he was still hurting from the bullet Aizen put into him. Out of the eleven that rode into Karakura Town, so far only five had made it to the abandoned cabin that was the agreed rallying point. Grimmjow had been the fourth with Starrk, Lilynette, and Harribel already there with Orihime and a woman he didn't recognize. Ulquiorra had been the fifth to arrive, barely holding onto his horse. However, since then, none of the other Espada arrived and Ulquiorra was now on his feet.
"Are you sure you can ride?"
"Yes," Ulquiorra said. "I have already had it dealt with."
"Let me guess…you got the help of that Inoue girl didn't you?"
"That is correct. She is with Harribel even now, helping her recover with the help of Captain Unohana."
"What? She's being helped by a Captain?" Grimmjow asked, suddenly remembering the woman who arrived with Orihime.
"That is correct. Captain Unohana understands that her duty is to heal the wounded, regardless of whether they are friend or foe."
"I see. But, how do we know she won't have the Gotei chase after us?"
"If she did, then she would also have to admit to giving aid to the enemy. She understands that if she does that, then she will not be able to help care for the wounded in the Gotei. She will not compromise her first duty: to help those who need it."
"Fine whatever, but I…I thought about what Starrk said, and…and I want in."
"I see. Do you understand the risk that you will be put in?"
"I understand, but I want to help you guys in any way I can. Other than my Pantera Gang, you're the only real friends I have and I don't want to lose any of you."
"I see. However, you must remain behind. We need to have someone give us any information about Aizen."
"Wait a minute. Why does it have to be me?"
"Because Aizen believes that he has you figured out. He wants to keep those who he believes he can control."
"He believes that he can control me? How the hell did he reach that conclusion?"
"He reached that conclusion because he knows that you want to get back at Ichigo Kurosaki for giving you that scar. He believes that if he can hold that over you, then you will do whatever he asks. Therefore, it will be advantageous for you to remain here. If you truly wish to help us, then you can do so by being our eyes and ears."
Grimmjow could not dispute that. Ulquiorra was good when it came to seeing things that others couldn't. Grimmjow never expected that he could help his friends by feeding them information. However, that left one problem.
"I'll do it," Grimmjow said.
"Thank you, Grimmjow. Your services will not go unnoticed. However, you must keep this a secret from your fraccion as well. This must be kept absolute secret between the two of us, at least for now."
"I understand. How am I gonna get you guys the information?"
"Just go to the cave near the top of the south-western cliff back at Las Noches. I have provided instructions on how I can be informed. Just, make sure that you destroy the note after you have read it . And do not tell anyone. We cannot afford to have your cover blown."
"I understand."
Visored "Warehouse", Karakura Town
"WAKE UP, DUMBASS!" the girl screamed as she struck Shinji across the back of his head with one of her sandals.
"OW, Hiyori, why the hell did you do that?" Shinji asked, rubbing the back of his head.
"Because, Ichigo's coming over to talk with us, remember?"
"Of course, I remember, but that's in only…" he took out his pocket watch and his eyes widened when he saw the time, "…fifteen minutes."
"You lost track of time, again…DUMBASS!" Hiyori screamed and struck Shinji across the face.
"Now, now, there's no need for that," a rather bulky man who was wearing a green suit said as he entered the warehouse that the Visored Squad used as their headquarters.
"Oh, hey Hachi," Hiyori said. "Our 'fearless leader' here lost track of time. I was trying to knock some sense in him."
"Well, you can stop," a young woman wearing glasses said. "I'm sure that Ichigo would like for him to be conscious."
"Way to state the obvious, Lisa," a tall, muscular man with short white hair said.
"Oh shut up, Kensei," Lisa said.
"Come on guys, now's not the time to fight," a young girl who was wearing a white leotard with an orange scarf wrapped around her neck said.
"As much as I hate to say it, I would have to agree with Mashiro," Kensei said with a sigh.
"Wow, I never thought I would live to see the day when you would actually agree with Mashiro about something, "another man said with his thick black hair styled in a spiked afro.
"I know, Love, but it was bound to happen eventually," a thin man with long wavy blonde hair said.
"That's true, Rose," Love said. "However, I don't think Hiyori will ever stop beating Shinji whenever she has the chance."
Rose chuckled while making sure his ascot was smooth. Hiyori, however, was too busy yelling at Shinji to even notice. She was forced to stop slapping him across the face with her sandal when Kensei plucked it from her hand and the look on his face told her not to even make a fuss about it. So, she did what she normally did when she couldn't yell or hit at the person directly, she yelled at Shinji.
"Well, I see that not too much has changed," someone said.
The eight members of the Visored Squad turned and saw Ichigo Kurosaki standing at the entryway, grinning. Hiyori stopped yelling at Shinji and glowered at Ichigo. Shinji took the opportunity to get away from Hiyori and approached Ichigo, holding out his hand.
"I'm glad to see that you made it. Have you talked with the Xcution Squad yet?"
"Not yet, I'm letting Chad do that bit for me. He's had more dealings with them than I have."
"So, it must be worse than we thought if you had to get Chad the Blacksmith involved," Shinji said.
"Yes, and I'm not just talking about the murders in the Central 46 Rotunda. I'm afraid that the Espada are back."
"Are you sure?" Shinji asked.
"I'm sure. That's what I wanted to talk to you guys about."
"I see, so you're sending us to deal with the Espada," Shinji said.
"I'll explain it. Just go take a seat."
Shinji nodded and sat down with the other Visoreds. Ichigo stood before them. He looked at them and knew that he was right in getting them involved. Even though they didn't look like it, the Visored Squad was among the best group of trackers and gunslingers in the Gensei Provinces, with only the Gotei and the Pinkerton Agents considered better. They were known to go into the Hueco Mundo Wastes a couple of years ago when Rudobon and his Exequias Army were poised to attack the northern forts and succeeded in forcing them back at the Calaveras Mountains.
The Visoreds looked at him. Shinji had already informed them of the basics. They knew that "Shadow Lurker" was moving, and that was about it. Now, Ichigo would have to inform them of the latest news. He knew that they remembered facing the Espada. Some of them had almost died and Hachi's right hand was still partially crippled from the shot he took from Baraggan. Love still had a slight limp from the wound he received from Starrk. He knew that some of them would be afraid. However, he also knew that they would do what they had to.
"I'm sorry to have to call you in on this," Ichigo began.
"Don't apologize, dumbass," Hiyori said.
"Hiyori, don't be rude," Hachi said.
"It's alright, Hachi," Ichigo said smiling. "Anyways, I'm sure that you already know about the double murders of two Chief Justices in the Central 46 Rotunda and I'm also sure that Shinji has informed you about Tessai's message."
The Visoreds nodded. Kensei and Lisa leaned forward. Hiyori grinned while Hachi looked slightly nervous. Love, Rose, and Mashiro only looked at Ichigo. Shinji only kept his head down and his eyes closed. Ichigo took a deep breath and continued.
"It is true. I believe that 'Shadow Lurker' is on the move again. However, we have received information earlier about three Espada in the Gensei Provinces."
"We already know about that," Kensei said. "We heard the report about the incident in Kagamino."
"Wait a minute. I thought there were only two Espada in Kagamino," Mashiro said.
"There were, but they met up with a third sometime after that," Ichigo said. "We got information that someone spotted them near the Majime River. That means…"
"That means that they're heading here," Lisa said. "At least, as long as they keep on a south eastern direction and then turn slightly north after they pass through Junrinan."
"That's right," Ichigo said. "However, they're most likely coming here."
"Who are 'they'?" Love asked.
"'Night Bringer', 'Blood Star', the 'Diamond Sisters', and…" Ichigo hesitated before finishing, "...the 'Los Lobos Duo'."
Rose and Love looked at each other. Ichigo was not surprised to see them look worry. They were the best in the Visored Squad, only behind Shinji and Kensei. They had faced Coyote Starrk in battle and had almost been killed. Even when Captains Ukitake and Kyoraku were fighting with them against Starrk, they had a difficult time.
"Does that mean that the rest of the Espada are moving as well?" Shinji asked.
"I think that a better question is: why are they here?" Hachi asked. "It doesn't make sense. They're three of the top four Espada. Why would 'Shadow Lurker' send them here?"
"Then again, we should also ask: why are they letting themselves be seen?" Rose said.
"Rose has the right idea," Ichigo said. "I've been thinking about it as well. None of those three would ever allow anyone to trap them unless they wanted us to know they were here and where they're heading. I thought about that since the incident in Kagamino."
"So, why do you need us?" Hiyori asked.
"I want you to keep a close eye on them. I don't know if they're still together or not, but I need you to keep track of them. As soon as you know for sure which way they're heading, you're to come back. I don't want any of you engaging them in a gunfight."
"That's no fun," Hiyori said.
"I know you're upset, Hiyori," Ichigo said. "But this is important. You are not to engage them. If you are found out, you run. If I'm right, there's a storm coming and they are the harbingers. When the storm hits, I need to have all of you at my side."
Los Desamparados, Hueco Mundo Wastes
The crowds made their way to the central market square. Many carried goods to sell in mule-drawn wagons or on their backs. The town itself was a combination of squalor and splendor blended together. One house would be a small, adobe hut while across from it would stand a large house made from actual bricks and next to it would be a wooden hut falling into ruin. Sometimes shots would ring out somewhere in the crowd, and the only one to react would be the coffin maker, rushing to get measurements for any corpses.
This was Los Desamparados. Here, dogs would run wild and would not be hindered from taking chunks from the dead corpses. Gunshots were a common occurrence and natural death was a vague rumor. Here, the wealthy were the ones who could kill without hesitation or steal the coins from a widow's purse without guilt. Like so many other places, even in the Gensei Provinces, honesty and honor had no place, and those who believed such foolish ideals quickly found themselves begging or dead. Those who lived here understood just how useless living the life of a saint was.
Three people sat in the open-aired saloon watching the crowds pass. There was a time when they had been something, but now, they were just three nobodies. They were among the first who joined the Espada, but had long since lost their position. At first they were allowed to remain in Las Noches, but eventually they were no longer deemed to have any value. They were the Privaron Espada.
"Look at them," one of the men said, fingering his mustache. "These ovejas still continue to try to survive, even though they know they've lost."
"Well," said the other man, drinking from the dirty glass of severely watered-down whiskey before him. "What do you expect for them to do?"
"They should just drop dead," the woman said, bringing another spoonful of rotting pepper and onion to her mouth.
"If that's the case, Cirucci, then why haven't we dropped dead yet?" the main said, now stroking his goatee. "We're no better off than they are."
He reached and took the loaf of dry bread and picked out any moldy spots he saw. He hated himself for having lost what power he once had. He thought that he would remain at the top. Hell, they all thought they would keep their position. Aizen had promised them a place in his new world, but when they proved to be ineffective, they were cast aside.
"Dordoni, what are you trying to say?" the other man said.
"I think your friend is saying that you should commit suicide," someone said.
They looked at the man who had spoken. He was wearing a dark-green serape with yellow patterns. His tan boots were covered in dirt and his dark blue jeans were fraying at the ankle cuffs. A cigarillo jutted from the right side of his mouth and he was rubbing the stubble on his face. His light blue eyes shone out from behind his half-closed eyelids.
"Hey, he wasn't asking ya," Cirucci asked.
"Well…that may be," he said in his soft, laconic voice. "But…I figured it best to answer seeing as how your friend wasn't ready."
"Well, back the fuck off," Cirucci said, scowling.
"Fine," the man said and walked away.
"Who the fuck does he think he is, Clint Eastwood?" Cirucci asked, returning to her bowl.
"The sad thing is…he was right," Dordoni said. "Gantenbainne, what do you think? Why haven't we just punched our own ticket?"
"I don't know," Gantenbainne said, watching a dog carrying something that looked like a human hand in its mouth pass them.
"Another funny thing," Dordoni said. "Didn't that guy kinda remind you of Starrk a bit?"
"I don't know. I wasn't paying attention," Gantenbainne said, draining his glass.
"What does that have to do with anything?" Cirucci asked.
"Probably nothing," Dordoni said.
"Well, here's something," Gantenbainne said.
Dordoni looked up from the piece of bread he was tearing off from the loaf and looked at him. Gantenbainne was looking past him and Dordoni turned his head. Cirucci looked up, confused about what was going on. However, when she looked in the direction that her two companions looked, her mouth gaped open and her eyes widened.
"Hello, it's been a while," Aizen said, smiling at them.
"What do you want?" Cirucci asked in an angry tone.
"I want to offer you a second chance. I realized that I was wrong in pushing you away."
"Why should we believe you?" Gantenbainne asked.
"I can't blame you for hating me," Aizen said. "After all, I took your positions away and I gave them to…less trustworthy hands. As a result, I had to pretend to side with our enemy. However, I feel that now is the right time for the Arrancar to take their rightful place and reclaim the lands taken from them."
The three looked at each other. Cirucci looked eager. Dordoni felt something inside him come alive. Gantenbainne, however, felt that Aizen was leaving something out.
"Are you offering to make us Espada again?" Dordoni asked.
"I am."
The three Privaron Espada looked at each other. They were all thinking the same thing. This was their opportunity to regain the former glory they once enjoyed. However, they were weary. Aizen had made promises to them before, and he broke them. However, they also knew that beggars could not be choosers.
"What do you need form us?" Dordoni asked.
"From what I understand, you ran with El General de los Huesos for a time. I need to know where I can find him."
Naruki Hotel, Karakura Town
Chad made his way down the lush red carpeting to where the Xcution squad met. The wooden panels shone in the light and reflected his large, muscular form. He remembered how Ichigo asked him to talk with the Xcution Squad and he could not say "no" to a request he made. They made an oath years earlier that they would have each other's backs. Now, Ichigo needed as much help as he could. He neared the double oaken doors near the end of the hall. The thick, smoked glass windows made it difficult to see in. The word: PRIVATE was painted on both glass windows in a clean script. Chad reached for the brass knocker and knocked twice, paused, then three more times, paused and then twice again.
The door opened and he saw a tall, muscular man with a thick mustache standing before him. He was dressed in a pair of jodhpurs and a white shirt with a black, double-breasted vest with gold buttons. His shoes shone like a pair of mirrors. He wore a green satin eye patch that covered his right eye.
"Ah, Chad, we were expecting you. The others are waiting," he said and gestured for Chad to enter.
When Chad entered, he saw Kugo leaning against the bar. Next to him sat a young woman with her purple hair tied into two pigtails who was finishing stitching up a stuffed pig. Leaning against one of the carved oak pillars, a young man, little more than a boy, was leaning, his hands were stuffed into the pockets of his navy blue pea coat and his black cap was pulled down so low that Chad could not see his eyes. The last member was a woman in her mid-twenties who was sitting in one of the arm chairs next to the fire. Chad knew that she was sulking, but he didn't know over what.
"Thank you, Giriko," Kugo said as he straightened.
"Hey, I thought that cutie Ichigo would be here," the girl next to him said when she turned around. She was leaning forward and was squinting to see who had entered.
"You really need to get glasses, Riruka," Kugo said. "Maybe you should also get your hearing checked as well. I told everyone that Chad would be coming today to talk on Ichigo's behalf."
"For the last time, I'm not getting glasses. Second, I thought you said that Ichigo was coming."
"Well," the boy who was leaning against the pillar said. "You were probably too busy playing with your doll 'Doll' to pay any attention."
"For your information, I had to fix Mr. Pork. He had a small hole under his arm. Also, don't call me 'Doll', Yukio."
"Would you two, please stop fighting. It's getting annoying," the other woman said, getting up from her arm chair.
"What put you in a foul mood, Jackie?" Riruka asked.
"She's annoyed that she's not allowed to wear her boots in the hotel," Giriko said.
"Damn right," Jackie said. "I never go anywhere without my boots…except here."
"Perhaps if they weren't so dirty…" Kugo said.
"Shut up about that. They're my trademark. They don't call me Jackie 'Dirty Boots' Tristan for nothing!"
"Uh…guys," Chad said. "I think we have more important things to talk about."
They turned to Chad. They were surprised to hear more than three words come out of his mouth in the same sentence. Chad looked at each of them in turn.
"Is it about those Espada who are in the Gensei Provinces?" Riruka asked.
"Partially," Chad said. "Ichigo is talking with the Visored Squad about them. However, he needs you to keep an eye on the Garganta Pass. If the Espada are heading towards Karakura Town, they'll have to go through the Garganta Pass. Your job is to apprehend them."
"So that's why he got us involved," Kugo said.
"Yes," Chad said.
Ichigo knew that just as the Visored Squad was among the best group of trackers, the Xcution Squad was one of the best groups of bounty hunters. Unlike the Visored Squad, who were trained to just track or engage in combat if the need arose, the Xcution Squad was also trained in apprehending the most dangerous outlaws.
"Has he approached the Pinkerton Agency about this?" Yukio asked.
They all thought about their former comrade, Tsukishima, who was now in charge of the Karakura Town offices for the Agency.
"No, Ichigo doesn't trust them for some reason," Chad said. "However, he trusts you."
"Will he pay us?" Tristan asked.
"Yes, he will pay you $50,000 in gold for each day on top of the reward money."
Riruka whistled while the others began to mutter with each other. They knew that Ichigo wanted them to be apprehended as soon as possible, but the payment was more than they originally thought. Kugo got up and walked to Chad.
"Alright, we'll take the job," Kugo said.
Hogyoku United Bank Headquarters
Yoruichi hated wearing dresses.
She felt the corset crushing her ribs and just wanted to get out of it. She hoped that whoever invented the damn thing was burning in Hell. She understood that part of her mission was to go undercover and pose as a potential client for the bank, but she wanted to do it without wearing a dress. When she got back to Urahara's Shop, she would make sure that Kisuke paid for making her do this. Maybe she would force him into the corset. She smiled at the idea.
She walked across the expansive, marble-floored lobby to one of the tellers. The teller looked at her and smiled.
"How may I be of service, ma'am?" he asked.
Yeah, you can get me out of this damn thing, she thought.
"I would like to open an account," Yoruichi said.
"Ah, very good ma'am, I'll get one of the bankers to help you with that. May I have your name?"
"Yes, my name's Yoruichi Shihoin."
"Very good, I'll just let them know that you're here, Miss Shihoin," he said, his grin even wider. "If you would like, you can wait in one of the chairs over there," he said and pointed to a group of leather, reading chairs.
"Thank you very much," Yoruichi said, doing her best to keep her smile.
She was making her way to the chairs when she saw a door open. A man wearing a cream-color suit came out. Yoruichi took one look at the grin on his face and knew that this had to be Gin Ichimaru. Her family name certainly had its benefits. The Shihoin family along with the Kuchiki family was practically royalty in the Gensei Provinces. Her family founded, owned, and operated Senkaimon Rail and Transport Co.
"Ah, Miss Shihoin," Gin said, holding out his hand. "I'm so glad that you wish to do business with us. I am Gin Ichimaru, President of Hogyoku United Bank. It is a pleasure."
"Well thank you, Mr. Ichimaru," Yoruichi said, putting her hand in his.
"Oh please, call me Gin," Gin said and brought her hand to his lips and gently kissed it.
"Very well, Gin, and you may call me Miss Shihoin."
Gin chuckled a little at that. His smile became even wider. Yoruichi felt slightly disturbed. She felt as though Gin knew something and knew that Kisuke would have to know as soon as possible. However, she would have to make sure that Gin did not suspect anything was wrong.
"Alright, Miss Shihoin," Gin said. "Please, follow me and we'll see how we can help you."
She followed him to one of the small offices and he opened the door. She nodded her head slightly and walked in. Gin closed the door and walked to the other side of the cherry-wood desk. He sat down and opened the ledger and brought out the proper forms from his desk.
"Alright, Miss Shihoin," he said. "I just need you to fill out these forms as well as your initial deposit and I'll get your bank card ready. Just show it to the teller and they'll give you a check book along with an account receipt that will show how much you have in your account."
"You don't need me to do anything else?"
"Oh no, we want to make it easy for our clients to set up an account and to access their money. The only things we really need are the forms and the initial deposit. Now, we do charge a one dollar fee for every time you overdraw your account. However, if you overdraw your account and make a deposit that day that brings your account back into the black, then we waive the fee."
"That sounds fair, but what if I make the deposit at another location?"
"That's no problem at all. Each of our banks has a telegraph, which are connected to our central offices. If you make a deposit in one of our branches in the Borderlands, then we get news of it in our offices here that day. Likewise, our major branches, such as the ones here and at Fort Seireitei are serviced by the Jigokucho Phone Company."
"I know, my family also owns the Jigokucho Phone Company," Yoruichi said.
"Of course, forgive me."
"There's really no need. Sometimes, I forget as well. After all, we did establish it with the Kuchiki family and we're joint-owners."
"Plus, I'm sure the Senkaimon Rail and Transport Company keeps your family pretty busy."
"You have no idea," Yoruichi said as she signed the last form.
Gin chuckled. She pushed the documents towards him and Gin picked them up. He looked at the documents while keeping an eye on her. He wrote some of the information from the forms into the ledger and then copied the six-digit number on the bank card in the space next to where he wrote Yoruichi's name.
"Well, that should take care of it. Just show the card and give your initial deposit to one of the tellers and that will be it."
"Alright, thank you Mr. Ichimaru," Yoruichi said, smiling at him.
"No, thank you Miss Shihoin," Gin said, smiling.
When Yoruichi left, Gin's smiled faded. He went to the silver candlestick telephone on the desk and picked it up. He used the rotary dial to enter the number. He put the receiver to his ear. When he heard Tsukishima's voice on the other end, Gin smiled.
"Guess who came to my bank today."
Las Llanuras Infernales
The area between La Sala del Rey and Las Noches wasn't called "The Infernal Plains" for nothing. Sui-Feng did her best to ignore the heat radiating around them as if they were in an oven. However, she could only do so much. She looked at Omaeda, who had taken off his coat and unbuttoned most of his shirt. However, he was still suffering.
Maybe this will help him lose some of that weight, she thought.
However, the heat was getting to her as well. She found herself nearly nodding off every once in a while. Under normal circumstances, Sui-Feng was able to observe everything around her. However, the heat of Las Llanuras Infernales was getting to her. She found her vision begin to waver every now-and-again and her concentration was severely affected.
She then spotted something a few yards ahead. She rode over to it and saw the charred remains of a campfire. She knelt and put her hand close to the remains. She looked in every direction and saw what she was looking for. The track in the loose dirt would have been swept away with a slight breeze, but no wind came into Las Llanuras Infernales. She saw that the prints were heading in a slight north-western direction towards… Her eyes widened in surprise.
"Hey, can we stop for the day? I'm tired," Omaeda said.
"No, you idiot, we can't stop."
"But, why not?"
"We need to report this. I think I know where those Arrancars were heading."
"But, shouldn't we make sure first?"
"No, I'm under strict orders. If I even suspect any Arrancars of going towards…I'm supposed to report it immediately."
"Huh, where are they heading?"
"They're heading to Las Noches, you idiot. We're not supposed to follow them there. Instead, we need to head back and make our report."
"Well…that ain't gonna happen," someone said.
Sui-Feng's eyes widened in surprise and she looked at Omaeda who had his hands up. She saw that they were surrounded by a group of six men…well she thought one of them was a man…either that or a very ugly woman. She recognized the voice of the man who spoke as being Ggio Vega. She looked into his golden eyes, which glittered with maniacal glee. His revolver was aimed at her and to her surprise and horror, she saw the he held her own revolver in his other hand.
"Nice to see ya again," Ggio said, smirking.
Damn heat, Sui-Feng thought.
Outside El Atormentado
Ulquiorra saw the southern border town of El Atormentado ahead. He turned his black horse, Murciélago, to the left and rode through the tall grass. He saw that the sun was beginning its descent. His hand went to the silver brooch he wore.
"La Noche trae la Deseperación," he muttered as he traced the small letters engraved on the bat's wings. "The Night brings Despair."
He continued riding through the tall grass until he saw the path that he sought. He turned on the dirt path and made his way to the foothills. The mountains rose tall in the distance and he could make out the grey peaks of the Desatoya Mountains. He heard rumors about those mountains and the haunted town of Eluria that was supposed to be on the other side. However, such things held little interest for him.
The only thing that interested him was the cabin ahead of him. He could see a light burning in the window and saw the twin fat horses grazing in the field. Ulquiorra stopped and got off Murciélago. He tied the horse to the fence and walked the rest of the way to the door. Even though the road was covered in gravel, his footsteps made no sound at all. Even when he walked up the three steps, he made no sound. He stopped at the door and could hear the sounds of someone moving around. He raised his hand and knocked on the door. The sounds stopped and then moved towards the door.
"Who is it?" a voice called out.
Ulquiorra remained silent. The footsteps continued towards the door and he heard someone unlatching the door. When the door opened, a thin man with pink hair and glasses stood gaping at Ulquiorra. He was wearing a pair of plum-colored pants and a lavender shirt under a black vest with silver buttons. His amber eyes were wide with terror.
"Hello, Szayel Aporro Granz," Ulquiorra said.
"Look…I…I can explain…I…I got scared…I ran…I…"
"That is enough, Szayel Aporro. I am not here on Aizen's behalf."
Szayel Aporro's eyes narrowed. Ulquiorra knew that he was suspicious. Szayel Aporro's eyes darted to the left and to the right, searching for anyone who might be hiding. However, when he saw no one else there, he sighed. However, he did not lower his guard.
"What do you want, Ulquiorra?"
"I am here to talk to you."
"Look, if it's about what happened four months ago, I can explain."
"No, it concerns what is happening now."
"Are…are you saying that Aizen's moving again?"
"Yes, Aizen is moving and the Gensei Provinces are unaware."
"Well, then, that's something. So, if you're not on Aizen's side then whose side are you on?"
"I am on my friends' side."
"Wait a minute…you have friends?" Szayel Aporro asked, shocked.
"That is correct. You know them: Tia Harribel and Coyote Starrk and their partners."
"Of…of course I remember them. What do they want?"
"They require your assistance."
"Ha! Do you think I'm a fool? I learned from the last time not to get involved and so I'm just gonna stay out of the way."
"I see, and what would you say when Aizen decides that you are worth his time? Would you be willing to say the same thing?"
"Well…I…I don't know…maybe."
"I do not think that Aizen would appreciate such a response. He might decide it best to kill you."
Szayel Aporro looked at Ulquiorra, thinking. After a few seconds of silence, Szayel Aporro moved away from the entryway and held the door open.
"You might as well come in and tell me what they want," Szayel Aporro said.
Ulquiorra nodded and walked inside. Szayel Aporro took another quick glance outside before closing the door.
Urahara Shop, Karakura Town
"He suspected," Yoruichi said. "He was very cautious."
"That is disturbing," Kisuke said and poured another cup full of sake for her.
Yoruichi grabbed the cup from his hand and drank it in one swallow. She felt relieved to finally be back in her usual pair of jeans and lose button-down shirt and out of the corset.
"However, I found out that the main offices have operational telephones and they're connected with the rest of their branches by telegraph."
"That means that they can send a message simultaneously if they have to," Kisuke whispered to himself. "However, what you said about Gin disturbs me."
"But why would they suspect me of trying to pry into their business?"
"I don't know."
They sat in silence. Yoruichi grabbed the sake bottle and began to drink from that. Kisuke, however, was deep in thought. He thought that Gin must have known that Yoruichi was trying to gather information on him and his precious bank. After all, his now-deceased client told him… That was when it hit him.
"Damn it, I should have known," Kisuke said.
"What is it? Did you think of something?"
"Damn it, of course they would want to keep everything together," Kisuke said.
"What are you talking about?"
"Even though they may not read every bill that comes before them, they're still politicians. He would want to keep a record of anything they dealt with and they would most certainly want to keep any information they received on Tosen."
Suddenly Yoruichi realized what Kisuke was saying.
"He…he kept a file on us?" she asked.
"Of course, and I told him not to when we made the deal. However, if you try to persuade a politician in not doing something stupid…"
"…they always do something stupid," Yoruichi finished. "Of course, he was a target for assassination, and the assassin must have overhead him mentioning his deal with us in investigating Tosen and Ichimaru. He wasn't targeted because of our investigation. He was targeted because he was against Tosen's bill. Shit, Kisuke, what the hell did we get ourselves into?"
"I don't know. But, I think it might be best if we stay low."
"Yeah, but, if that idiot kept a file on us, and if whoever else is involved sees that file…"
"I know. I'm afraid that we're already too late. However, we can only hope that they think that we won't investigate… Shit, if I had thought of this before I never would have sent you to…"
"Kisuke, don't panic. There might still be a way to salvage this."
"What do you mean?"
"It's easy, just hear me out. Right now, I don't think that Gin knows what to make of me being at the bank. On the one hand, he might think that we're still investigating. However, on the other hand…"
"…he might think that you merely wanted to open an account so that way your family's fortunes could be spread out throughout the Gensei Provinces."
"That's right. If he thinks the latter, then we can still continue our investigation. However, that means that I'll have to continue banking with them."
"I know, but it's better than the alternative."
"No kidding. I don't think either of us wants to have a dagger planted in our backs."
Bosque de Cráneos
The four rode through the day. Dordoni remembered the way and so he was in the lead. Aizen was just behind him with Cirucci and Gantenbainne in the rear. Ahead, they could see a forest of gnarled, bone white trees. Aizen smiled when he saw the number of human skulls that hung on the trees. The rattling noise that the skulls made when they touched each other reminded him of gentle rain.
"This is the Bosque de Cráneos," Dordoni said. "It marks the territory of El General de los Huesos and the Exequias Army. It's best if we take out our weapons and drop them to the ground."
Aizen raised one eyebrow in surprise. However, the three Privaron Espada were taking out their weapons and dropping them to the ground. Aizen eyed the trees and took out his own revolvers and dropped them to the ground. All was silent, except for the sound of the skulls touching each other in the gentle breeze. That was when they came.
At first Aizen thought that the forest was starting to move. However, it only took a second glance for him to see that he had been mistaken. He was surprised to see how many men were coming at them and now he understood why some called the Exequias Army "The Ghosts of the Desert". They were dressed in a dusty white uniform, the same shade as the trees. Hollowed out bone decorated their hair or were worn like bracelets. Some wore animal skulls like helmets or masks.
One of them stepped forward. Aizen saw that he had more pieces of bone than any of the others and he had a dried bit of fur wrapped around his shoulders. His face was hidden behind a mask made from the skull of a horse and a necklace made from two bird skulls hung around his neck.
"I am called Presagio de la Muerte," he said in a raspy voice. "I am second-in-command of the Exequias Army and aid to El General de los Huesos, Rudobon Árbol Graves. I know these three tontos, but I don't know you."
"I am Souske Aizen. I have come looking for El General."
"There are only three kinds of people who come seeking El General: fools who want to join the Exequias Army; fools who want our aid; and fools who want to kill El General."
"What about fools who wish to die?" Aizen asked.
"Those are the only ones who seek El General," Presagio de la Muerte said with a chuckle. "So, which of the three are you?"
"I have an offer for El General."
"Ah, then you're a fool who wants our aid. What do you have to offer?"
"Oh…I don't know…how does the Northern Gensei Provinces sound?"
The Exequias stood silent at that. Aizen wasn't sure how to read them. Presagio de la Muerte turned to one of the nearby men and whispered something. The man saluted, his bone jewelry rattled when he made the motion and he marched off.
"This is indeed a pleasant surprise," the second-in-command said. "You might actually come out of this alive."
"I intend to," Aizen said.
"In that case…you probably will. Rudobon might find you…amusing enough to let you live."
Las Noches
Grimmjow sat on the rock outcropping on the west side of the ring of mountains that formed a natural wall around Las Noches. He and his gang were on patrol tonight while the others sat around the bonfire in the middle of the basin. The combination of tents and huts and caves provided shelter for the Arrancars who dwelt in the confines of Las Noches.
He used the time the best he could and first went to the cave that Ulquiorra told him about. When he first entered it, he was surprised to find so many bats in one place. The only other thing he found was the note that Ulquiorra mentioned. The note was straight forward and to the point: "Just tell one of the bats your message and let it loose after nightfall. They will know where to find me." At first he thought it was some kind of joke, but then he realized that it would be like Ulquiorra to learn Batish or whatever they spoke.
Grimmjow found it funny that the only other two male Espada he felt comfortable with had a thing, almost like a bond, for a particular animal. For Starrk it was wolves and for Ulquiorra it was bats. If Grimmjow felt a kinship for any animal, he would have said the mountain lion or any other desert felines. Thinking about it made him miss them. Even though he gave Ulquiorra a hard time, he appreciated his company and Starrk was always willing to listen to his complaints.
He also found himself missing Harribel and the arguments her three companions always had with each other. The "Diamond Sisters" always made things lively around here and Harribel always knew how to make a place brighter. Also, he enjoyed seeing her beat the shit out of Nnoitora whenever he tried to give her a hard time. In those ways she was like Nel.
Grimmjow's heart ached at the mere thought of Nel. He missed the sight of her flowing green hair and her dazzling hazel eyes. He never really found out what happened to her. One day she was there, laughing with Starrk and Harribel, and then the next day she was gone. The official explanation that Aizen gave was that he sent her on a mission, but she had failed to return. Rumors began circulating that she ran away. However, Nnoitora always had a knowing-look on his face whenever Nel's name came up. He was always tempted to try to get Nnoitora to confess, but something always held him back.
Grimmjow fingered his medallion, a gift that Nel gave him for his birthday. He always wore it, hoping that one day they would be reunited. However, it had been over seven months since he last saw her. He sighed and looked over the edge. His eyes widened in surprise. He thought he saw something move in the rock outcroppings below him.
Grimmjow thought that he should call out, but thought better of it. He didn't think that it was anyone from Starrk, Harribel, or Ulquiorra, but he thought it best not to risk it. Also, he wasn't even sure he saw anything. It could have been a trick of the light or it could have just been his eyes playing tricks. However, he thought it best to investigate.
As Grimmjow made his way down towards the rock outcropping, Ggio Vega and the other Crimson Dragons were making their way through the canyon entrance to the basin. Sui-Feng and Omaeda were tied to their horses and surrounded by their captors.
"Well…this is just great," Sui-Feng growled.
"It could be worse," Omaeda said. "We could be dying in the desert."
"Omaeda…shut up."
"Now, now, your friend's right," Ggio said.
"Exacta!" Findor cried out.
"It's too bad that you have such an ugly attitude towards one who has such a beautiful outlook on life," Cuuhlhourne said as he stroked the tiara he wore that was shaped like a dragon made from rubies and diamonds and gold.
"Oh God," Sui-Feng said. "How can I take anything that someone as ugly as you says seriously?"
"How dare you call someone you just met, 'ugly'? Judging people by how they look is proof that you are truly as ugly as your filthy heart. Oh, that line was too perfect. Of course, I, the lovely dynamic graceful divine romantic dramatic artistic perfectly radiant princess Charlotte Cuuhlhourne, and my pure heart are the true embodiment of beauty."
"Oh God, please kill me now," Sui-Feng said.
As they entered, the Arrancars looked towards them. Some saluted, and made the others get out of their way. They were, after all, the fraccion of the Primera Espada, Baraggan Luisenbarn. The Crimson Dragons with their prisoners in tow approached the dais that Baraggan had built for him. He sat on his "throne" and looked down at them.
"My Lord," Ggio said, getting off and kneeling before the dais.
"What is it, Ggio? You are early from your patrol."
"I know my Lord, but I have brought two prisoners for your inspection."
"Is that a fact?" Baraggan asked.
"Yes my Lord," Ggio said. "Poww, Avirama, please bring our prisoners forward."
Poww, a rather tall and muscular man with crimson dragon tattoos on his cheeks, just below his eyes, took hold of Omaeda's horse while Avirama took hold of Sui-Feng's horse. The only reason they did as Ggio asked was because they knew that the prisoners would please Baraggan. Baraggan's left eye widened when he saw the prisoners.
"Well now, this is indeed a great thing you have done," Baraggan said smiling. He turned his attention to Sui-Feng and said, "So, we meet again, you bitch."
As Baraggan was greeting the woman who nearly killed him four months before, Grimmjow reached the rock outcropping. However, he didn't see anyone. He looked around and he couldn't see anyone. He was about to head up the path when he felt someone grab his shoulder. He whirled and brought out the knife he carried with him. However, the person who grabbed him was quick and strong. They grabbed Grimmjow's wrist and flipped him over and onto his back.
"Damn it," he growled.
He looked up and saw the figure wrapped in a green cloak standing over him. The blade of a rapier was pointed at him. His eyes widened when he heard the figure chuckling at him.
"Well, look at you," the figure said and reached up and lowered the hood.
Grimmjow's eyes widened when he saw the long, flowing green hair spill out like a waterfall. Hazel eyes looked into his own blue eyes and he saw the familiar smile.
"Nel?" he whispered.
"Hey Grimm, long time no see," Nelliel Tu Odelschwank said.
Bosque de Cráneos
Aizen sat at the table, waiting. The sky was beginning to take on the soft tones of sunset. He wasn't sure how long he had been waiting, but he hoped that he hadn't wasted his time. That was when he saw the man approach him. The man was dressed in the same dusty white clothes as the others, but he also wore a long, duster with bones dangling from chords near the shoulders. He wore the skull of a bull on his head while the skull of a horse served as his mask. As he moved, he rattled with the sound of the bones braided into his long black hair. His gloves were decorated with the exoskeletons from the backs of scorpions at the knuckles and the lower part of each finger.
Aizen noticed that aside from carrying two revolvers, the man also had a sword whose grip was made from a femur bone with bands of gold and steel and straps of leather decorating it. The man stopped and began to untie the leather straps that held his mask in place. When he removed his mask, Aizen saw that the man was middle-aged. His black eyes made Aizen feel as though he was gazing into an abyss.
"I am Rudobon," the man said in a voice that sounded like the rumblings of a thunderstorm as he sat at the table across from Aizen. "My lieutenant informed me about you. What is your name?"
"I am Souske Aizen."
"Why did you bring those three tontos with you?" he asked, gesturing to the tree where Dordoni, Cirucci, and Gantenbainne sat.
"I needed them to help me find you. Likewise, I still need them to help me fight against the Gotei."
"Aren't you Gotei?" Rudobon asked, arching one eyebrow.
"That's what they believe. May I ask how you came by that information?"
"You're wearing the ring of a Gotei Captain, and based on the symbol, I would say that you're Fifth Squad."
"You're the first one to notice that here."
"Not surprising, most people don't think that anyone from the Gotei would come out here. I understand that you came to ask for my services."
"That's correct."
"Why should I accept?"
"I can give you the Northern Gensei Provinces."
"You can only give them to me if you succeed, though," Rudobon said. "Right now, they're not yours to give. I will ask you one more time. Why should I accept?"
"It is true that I don't have those territories to give right now," Aizen said, thinking fast. "However, I my plans involve eliminating a certain group of people. I'm sure that you would like to destroy them yourself."
"You're talking about the Visored Squad," Rudobon said.
"Yes," Aizen said. "I know that revenge is not enough for you, so I brought an advanced payment with me."
"That would be the bags by your feet."
"You're very observant."
"I have to be. Out here, your wits are usually the only thing separating you from the grave. Anyways, how much of advancement are we talking about?" Rudobon asked.
"Those bags contain about $200,000 in gold. That gold is yours either way. However, if you accept my offer then I will give you another $1,800,000 in gold upon completion."
"What's keeping me from taking the $200,000 and refuse to help you?"
"Nothing at all," Aizen said.
"I see," Rudobon said.
The two sat in silence. Aizen knew that Rudobon was seriously considering it. Then Rudobon threw back his head and laughed.
"You're the first one to actually speak the truth about that part at least. I've been itching at having another go at the Gensei Provinces for a while. Alright, I accept your offer. However, I have a few conditions."
"And what's that?"
"I order the Exequias Army, not you or anyone else. I report to you and you give me instructions on what you want done, but I don't have to obey them. If I think that my strategy is better than yours, then I will not follow your instructions. Likewise, you will not order me about and I will leave whenever I choose to."
"That sounds fair, but I must ask: how far are you willing to go?"
"You have a particular target in mind?"
"I was thinking that you could stay with me at least as far as Karakura Town."
Rudobon stared at him in silence. He thought about the glory that he and the Exequias could achieve if they were to help bring down the capital of the Gensei Provinces. He grinned.
"Yes, I will help you bring Karakura Town down."
"Then I have no problems with your conditions," Aizen said, smiling.
Karakura Town
Kaname Tosen made his way from the Central 46 Rotunda. The two replacements he hand-picked would be sworn in the morning. Then, that afternoon, his bill would be put to the vote. His grip tightened on the gold head cane as a mixture of excitement and worry came over him. He hoped that Aizen had succeeded in what he set out to do.
As he made his way to his destination, he thought about the call he received from Gin. Yoruichi had gone to Gin's bank to open an account. Gin had already contacted Tsukishima about it and he in turn contacted Hanza Nukui to keep an eye on her. However, things were already being set in motion. Soon, anyone who dared to stand in the path of Justice would be crushed.
But, is it really Justice?
Kaname stopped, it had been a long time since he last heard that voice; her voice. He shook his head and continued his path. Now was not the time to doubt the path that Aizen showed him. It was the time to stand firm and not compromise.
Kaname, is it really Justice if you cause the innocent to suffer?
"This is how it must be," he whispered. "A world without Justice is a dark place. A world where the Good are pushed aside and the Evil prosper is an evil world."
But, is it worth it? If you fight evil, are you so willing to become a monster just to make the evil suffer?
He shook his head. The last time he heard her voice speaking out like this was when Aizen approached him with his plan. When Aizen explained it, Kaname saw it as the pathway to true Justice. In his plan, the Good would prosper and the Evil would perish. That was the road that he walked, regardless of where it led.
"Those who go down the path of Justice must never waver, even in the face of destruction," he said. "The Good must prosper and the Evil must perish."
But, by whose standards are you judging who's "Good" and "Evil"? Don't you believe in redemption?
"Why should I answer? You're nothing more than a mere memory."
He waited, but her voice did not question him further. He continued walking until he reached his destination. He knelt on the ground and ran his hand over smooth marble. He could not believe that only a few minutes ago, he was arguing with her.
"I'm sorry," he whispered. "I have to do whatever it takes to make sure that Justice is served."
He traced his finger along the name carved into the tombstone of the only woman he ever truly loved. The first one who showed him the path of Justice, only to be killed by a soldier whom she called "husband" and to be betrayed by the so-called "Justice" she fought for. However, he, Kaname Tosen, would become her Sword of Justice. And he would make sure that the leaders of the Gensei Provinces paid for their crime.
Szayel Aporro's Ranch
Ulquiorra stood on the porch. Night was covering the land and he knew he would have to get moving soon. The only horse outside was his own. Szayel Aporro's two horses, Lumina and Verona, were now eating hay in the barn. He needed to tell the others about Szayel Aporro's decision as soon as possible. He made his way down the wooden steps to the ground when he saw something approaching from the west. He cocked his head slightly to the left and began making a clicking noise in the back of his throat.
The bat changed its direction and came towards him. Ulquiorra held out his hand and the bat landed on it. An exchange of clicking and chirping noises ensued and Ulquiorra closed his eyes. He didn't like the news he was hearing. Starrk and Harribel would have to know as soon as possible.
He whispered his own message to the bat. The bat made a series of chirping noises and Ulquiorra only nodded his head.
"Now then," he said. "Go to the wolves and deliver my message to them. Tell them to find Starrk and inform him of what has taken place."
The bat made another series of clicking noises and flew away. Ulquiorra watched the bat and then mounted Murciélago and rode off. When Ulquiorra was gone, Szayel Aporro stepped onto the porch. He wondered if he made the right decision.
The Sabaku Desert
Coyote Starrk looked at the sleeping form of Lilynette. She was clutching a box made out of rosewood with the letters LG engraved on the lid. He took off his duster and put it over her. He looked to where Apacci, Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun were busy cleaning the cooking pans and plates in the pond they were camped next to. Harribel was sitting at the fire, feeding bits of wood to the flame. She looked at him and smiled and gestured for him to sit next to her. Starrk went over to her and sat on the log next to her.
"How is she?" Harribel asked, gesturing towards Lilynette.
"She's just tired," Starrk said.
"Yeah, aren't we all?"
"So, how did you reconnect with those three? I thought that they had to stay behind at Las Noches."
"They did, but after we left, they decided to follow. After you left, they found me. It's odd, but they told me that a little wolf told them where to find me."
"Lilynette," Starrk said and chuckled. "She probably did it while I was asleep."
"Don't give me that. You told them where to find me. Hell, you knew those three were following."
"I…may have stumbled across them once and accidently let it slip where you were."
"Yeah, they pretty much said the same thing. Wait a minute. If you already knew then why did you bother asking?"
"Oh…just cause," Starrk said, grinning.
"You really are a bastard," Harribel said, also grinning. "I miss the good ol' days. Do you remember when it was just the three of us?"
"Yeah," Starrk said as he looked at the darkening night sky.
"I noticed that Lilynette still has her 'Treasure Box'. Has she collected any more treasures since the last time I saw her?"
"Oh yeah," Starrk said. "She even has the cap from the first bottle of Chappy's Old Fashion Sarsaparilla she ever had."
"Oh God, I remember that. She took one sip and then she just drained the whole bottle," Harribel said, laughing.
"Yeah, and then she asked for another. It's been her favorite drink ever since."
"Those were good times, weren't they?"
"Yeah, but they never really ended."
"What do you mean?"
"Well…since then our family's gotten bigger," Starrk said smiling. "It's the only thing about following Aizen that I don't regret."
"I…I would have to agree," Harribel said and put her head against his shoulder.
They sat like that until Harribel finally fell asleep. When she did, Starrk carried her to her bed roll and laid her down. He then covered her with one of the blankets before returning to his seat next to the fire. He stared into the fire and listened to the night. However, everything felt uneasy. It was as though the desert itself knew that a storm was coming.
End of Chapter 3
A.N.: I really enjoyed writing this chapter, especially the scene at Las Desamparados. I figured that it was the right place to give the Man with No Name (from the Sergio Leone films) a cameo appearance. When I was writing that scene, I was watching "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly" and I couldn't help but think that Starrk was a bit like Clint Eastwood's character. As for the dog carrying the hand, that's from "Yojimbo" by Akira Kurosawa (I just loved that shot for some reason). The image of Rudobon and the Exequias Army was partially inspired by how they look in the manga and a scene in the novel "Blood Meridian" by Cormac McCarthy, along with the idea that it would be rather cool if they used bones the way that some warrior tribes use feathers or paint.