Kick About, Destroy, Bind
Chapter 4: Wolves Ain't Howl Alone
The Hueco Mundo Wastes, Seven Years Before
Lilynette ran across the sands of the Hueco Mundo Wastes. She clutched the loaf of bread that she stole from the bandits who had camped near the cave she called home. However, as she was getting ready to steal a small bag of beans, they woke up. Now, they were chasing her and all she had for her pains was this loaf of bread.
Her bare feet were bleeding, leaving a track that the bandits could follow. However, they had no need for the trail of blood.
"COME BACK HERE," one of them shouted.
She did not stop. She did not slow down. She ran until she saw a cluster of rocks ahead of her. She knew that if she was fast enough, she could hide in the rock outcroppings. Unfortunately, she did not see a rather large stone sticking out of the sand and her foot tripped on it. She stumbled, and before she could regain her balance, she fell.
"We gotcha now," another bandit snarled.
"Yeah, now you're gonna learn what happens to those who steal from us," another said, laughing.
One of them took out a knife from the bundle of rags he used as clothes. He grinned down at Lilynette. Lilynette backed away, but the bandit lashed out with his foot and pinned her to the ground. He leaned over her, his drool dripped onto her face. That was when they heard someone approaching. The four bandits looked up and saw another man standing before them.
Lilynette looked at him, her eyes filled with hope.
"Who are you?" the bandit with the knife asked.
The man did not say anything. He only walked closer to them, his long brown duster flew behind him and the grey fur lining the collar fluttered slightly. His shoulder-length brown hair waved around him. He stopped before Lilynette who was looking up at him.
"Please…help me," she moaned.
The man took off his duster, revealing a dazzling white shirt that shone like silver and a brown vest. Two gun belts were strapped across his hips and she could see the grips sticking out with a howling wolf engraved in pure silver. She looked at his eyes and saw that they glowed like gold, or like a wolf's eyes. He wrapped his duster around her and lifted her off the ground. She felt safe being in held in his arms.
"Hey, what are you doing?" one of the bandits asked.
The man looked at him with those glowing eyes and the man backed away, frightened. He looked at each bandit in turn, snarling at them like a wolf. The bandits stood still, unable to move. Then, the man lifted his head to the full moon and howled and he was answered. The bandits became afraid at the melody coming from the wolves' rallying cry. Then they were surrounded. The man turned and two of the wolves moved to allow him through.
"Please, spare us," the bandit with the knife cried out, falling to his knees.
The man only looked back at them, and narrowed his golden eyes at them.
"You hurt this Lobato," he said. "Those who dare attack any Lobato don't deserve to live."
With that, he turned and walked away. He made sure that Lilynette did not see the wolves attack the bandits. He made sure that his duster covered her ears so that she could not hear their cries as the wolves killed and devoured them. However, Lilynette was too focused on his eyes to notice the sounds of carnage. His eyes were now a gentle blue-grey and not golden.
"What's your name?" he asked.
"I'm Lilynette Gingerback. What's your name?"
"My name's Coyote Starrk. Do you have a home?"
"I lived in a cave, but I…oh…my Treasures!"
"It's alright, we can get them now. I have some food. Would you like some?"
"Yeah…I…I was hungry and…"
"Hush, precious Lobato. There's no need for you to remember sad things. Do you remember where your cave is?"
Lilynette nodded and pointed in the direction he needed to go. When they reached the cave, Lilynette rushed, or at least hobbled to where she kept her Treasures. She pulled aside a few rags that made her bed and brought out a small hand-carved box made out of rosewood engraved with LG on the lid. She saw Starrk starting a fire out of some kindling and she sat next to him.
"Does your ankle hurt?" he asked.
"No, it just feels sore."
"May I take a look?"
"Okay," Lilynette said and put her foot on his lap.
Starrk examined it, and felt the ankle itself. He looked at her feet and reached into his pack and brought out strips of leather and chord and made her a little pair of shoes from them. Lilynette looked at him, tears filling her eyes. For a brief moment, she thought she saw her dad in front of her, but then she only saw Starrk.
"Would you like to see my Treasures?" she asked holding out the box to him.
"They're yours to share with whomever you wish," Starrk said.
She thought about it for a moment and then she opened the lid. She brought out the kind of things that only a child would treasure, such as a wilted rose and a smooth white stone. However, the last two items were particularly special to her. The first item she brought out was a lock of light blonde hair that matched her own that was tied with a blue ribbon.
"This was my mother's hair," she said, holding it out for Starrk to take.
He reached out to take it, but hesitated. He did not want to destroy one of this girl's most precious Treasures. However, Lilynette gestured for him to take it. He did and felt how soft it felt and he breathed in the scent of lavender mixed with the usual decay. He knew that in time, the hair would lose its softness. He handed it back to Lilynette, who placed it gently on the blanket next to her with the rest of her Treasures. She then brought out the last item.
It was a heart-shaped locket on a golden chain. Its design was simple, and to most it would have only been a mere trinket, made valuable only by the gold. However, the way Starrk observed Lilynette he could tell that it was the most precious object on Earth for her. She pressed the side button and the locket sprang open. She looked at what was inside, tears filling her eyes. She held it out for him to take and get a better look.
On one side, it had a small picture of a man with light-brown hair and a goatee, much like Starrk's, and a woman with blonde hair tied back with a blue ribbon. They were holding a little girl and they were all smiling. The other side looked as though it could contain another picture, but it was blank. On the outside cover, carved in fine script were the words: LOVE & FAMILY. Starrk returned the locket to Lilynette.
"Thank you, for showing me these," Starrk whispered.
"Does this mean we're family?" Lilynette asked.
"I guess it does. Now, get to sleep, Lobato."
Lilynette fell asleep and Starrk laid his duster over her. He picked up the rosewood box and laid it gently next to Lilynette. He went outside and looked up at the night sky. For so long he had wondered the Hueco Mundo Wastes with only the wolves for company. However, this little girl he encountered had eased his loneliness. He decided that even though he could not be a father to her, he would be like a brother for her.
The next morning, Lilynette woke and saw Starrk cooking some beans and salted meat. She saw the rosewood box next to her and she took it as she walked towards Starrk who was putting the food onto two plates. She put the box down and sat next to him.
"I hope you're hungry," Starrk said giving her a plate that was heaped high with beans and two good-sized pieces of cooked meat.
"Yeah, but…aren't you gonna have more than that?" she asked gesturing to Starrk's plate, which had one small piece of meat and less than half of the amount of beans on her plate.
"This is fine with me," he said. "The main thing is for you to regain your strength. Now, eat up."
At first, Lilynette was hesitant about eating. However, it only took one bite for her to find her appetite and she ate the food with great relish. Starrk gave her cup after cup of water while he ate his meal in silence. He smiled as he watched Lilynette devour her meal.
When they were finished, Lilynette sighed and dropped onto the blankets. Starrk stood up and took their plates and cooking plates and utensils to a nearby stream. After cleaning them, he went further up stream and refilled his water bags. When he returned to the cave, he saw Lilynette sleeping. He decided to take a little nap himself. He placed his blankets close the cave's entrance and was far enough from the entrance that he would not be seen, but close enough to where he could defend the cave if the need should come. He lowered his hat over his eyes and fell asleep.
When Lilynette woke, she saw Starrk still sleeping. She made her way closer to him. Then, a bright gleam of metal caught her eye. Strapped to the outside of his right thigh was a sheathed dagger. The dagger's grip was shaped like a running wolf and it looked as though the brilliant blade was protruding from the wolf's gaping mouth. She thought she saw some writing on the blade and reached out to touch it.
"I wouldn't touch it if I were you. It's pretty sharp," Starrk said, lifting the hat from his eyes and smiled at her.
"I was curious about that knife you have," Lilynette said.
"I see," he said.
He took hold of the wolf hilt and slowly, unsheathed the dagger. The blade shone like white lightning in the sunlight. The golden wolf seemed to be alive. Lilynette couldn't read the engraving that ran down the blade.
"What does it say?" Lilynette asked, gesturing to the engraved writing.
"It says, 'Dejar que Los Lobos están libres y aullar'," he said.
"What does it mean?"
"It means, 'Let the Wolves run free and howl,'" Starrk said, sheathing the dagger, and paused. "Lilynette, would you like to come with me?"
"Sure, but where will we go?"
"We can go anywhere we want. But, let's stick together, like…like family."
Lilynette looked up at Starrk and smiled. She nodded her head. At that moment, both realized that they were indeed a family. As they packed their supplies, Lilynette looked at the Rosewood box she used to store her Treasures. She took out the golden locket and asked Starrk to help her put it on. Starrk did as asked and Lilynette tucked the locket under her tattered dress.
She placed the rest of her Treasures on the ground.
"Are you sure you want to leave them behind?" he asked.
"Yeah, we can get new Treasures," Lilynette said, smiling.
"At least keep the box," Starrk said.
"Oh, I will. This is a very special box, Daddy…" she stopped, looking down to the ground. "Daddy made it for me and Mommy did the lining."
"Then, you shouldn't leave it behind. They would want you to keep it."
She then took out the locket of her mother's hair and went to where she used to sleep. She dug a small hole in the soft ground and laid the hair, still tied together with the blue ribbon, and covered it.
"Bye Mommy," Lilynette said and she began to cry.
Starrk knelt beside her and hugged her. For the first time since her parents were murdered, Lilynette truly wept.
The Hueco Mundo Wastes, Outside Los Desamparados, Six Years Before
Harribel felt herself knocked down again. The sand burned the bare skin of her palms, but she paid it no mind. She looked at the man standing before her. He leaned down and she could smell the stench rising from the rotting animal furs he wore. He only had a few patches of colorless hair left, but his face was almost covered in sores.
"Shrieker, that's enough," a rather handsome man said, "I think she's learned her lesson."
"Sir, you promised me…"
"Later, Shrieker, you can have her later. Right now…just hold her. I want to make sure that she understands that refusal to comply will not be tolerated with me, the 'Stallion of Hueco Mundo', Dorian Semental," he said as he approached.
Shrieker wrapped his arms around Harribel and he fondled her large breasts with his left hand. Harribel was disgusted with the lecherous touch of his hand and his heavy panting. She felt him harden and swore that when she got the chance, she would make him pay dearly.
"Now, then," Dorian Semental said. "I want to make something clear to you. When I give you a command, you obey. Now, you might not have realized that when I asked you to take off your clothes, I was commanding you to take off your clothes. So, I'm letting you off easy this time. Now then, my men want some entertainment. Isn't that right men?"
The other ten men cheered at that and moved in closer to where Shrieker was holding Harribel. Their eyes filled with the fires of lust. The closest ones reached out and began pawing her. Harribel gritted her teeth, her rage was building and then Semental noticed the ring on her right hand. He grinned as he reached to remove the golden ring with the single glittering Blood-Star gem. Harribel wanted to attack him, for even daring to touch her mother's ring when a shot rang out.
Harribel felt Shrieker's grip tighten and then loosen as his arms fell away from her. She heard the sound of a body crashing behind her and she turned. Shrieker's corpse was sprawled on the ground and she saw the bullet hole in his left temple. She turned that direction and saw a man who was holstering a gun and a girl standing there.
"Now, that's not a way to treat a lady," the man said.
"Who are you?" Semental asked, his voice was a combination of fear and rage even though his face remained calm.
"I'm Coyote Starrk and who are you?"
"I'm Dorian Semental, the 'Stallion of…'"
"Hey Starrk, do they call him a 'Stallion'? Is it because he's a pretty boy?" the girl asked.
"Keep quiet, Lilynette," Starrk said. "It's impolite to interrupt."
"Hmm, well, I can't blame her for her curiosity. They call me the 'Stallion of Hueco Mundo' because, not only because I am the best looking man around, but I'm also the best lover. Perhaps that little girl of yours would like to find out what true pleasure is. I don't mind demonstrating for her right now."
Starrk only looked at Semental. His face became hard, and his eyes narrowed. Harribel knew that this man was dangerous and that Semental had just sealed his doom.
"Are you saying that you would hurt a child in such a way?" Starrk snarled.
"Oh…I have," Semental said, smiling.
"I see," Starrk said.
"Hey boss, who is this bastard?" one of Semental's men asked.
"He's nobody," Semental said, grinning. "However, he killed Shrieker. I'll let you men handle it, but…bring me the girl."
"Yes sir," the others said and brought out their own knives and guns.
Just as they were about ready to attack, Starrk drew his guns and shot each of them point-blank in the head. Those with guns did not have enough time to aim at him before they were shot down. Harribel was amazed by this show of skill while Semental stared in horror as his men were cut down before his very eyes. He reached for his own revolver. However, as soon as he tried, two more shots rang out and his hands were ruined.
"My…MY HANDS," he shrieked.
Starrk walked towards Semental, holstering his revolvers. Semental dropped to his knees holding out his ruined hands. His eyes widened in terror as Starrk stood over him.
"You don't deserve to live. However, you also don't deserve a quick death," Starrk said as he reached to the dagger that was strapped to his thigh.
Harribel felt the rage radiating from him. She felt her knees weaken and she felt her legs give way. However, that was nothing to what Semental was experiencing. When he saw Starrk standing over him, fear replaced his pain and rage. When he saw the knife, his fear became even greater. His body began to tremble and become covered with sweat. His once handsome features contorted with fear and pain.
"What…what are you gonna do to me?"
"I'm not going to kill you. You're not worth the effort. Instead, I'm going to make sure that you don't hurt anyone else."
"Please…please don't…"
Starrk ignored Semental's pleas and slashed his face. With each slash, Semental felt as though his face was on fire. He shrieked in pain and then he felt the dagger's cold steel touching his crotch. He tried to open his eyes, only to have blood blur his vision.
"There are some things that are worse than death," Starrk whispered and then castrated him.
Semental could not speak or even cry. His eyes widened and curled over into the fetal position. Starrk wiped his blade clean on one of Semental's rags before re-sheathing it. He turned towards Harribel and she felt that he was now releasing an aura of concern for her. He approached her and extended her his hand.
"Are you alright?" Starrk asked.
"I…I'm fine," Harribel said, taking his hand.
Lilynette rushed to them. She stopped next to the curled and extremely hurting Dorian Semental and kicked him. Semental howled in pain and made himself even smaller. She ran to them, giggling.
"Lilynette, there was no need for you to do that," Starrk said.
"Aw, but you got to hurt him. Besides you said that he deserves as much pain as possible. I didn't think he got enough."
"Still, it's not right to hurt them more when they're down. However…I did say that…and he looked like he was getting up…" Starrk said, smiling.
Lilynette smiled back at him and nodded. Harribel smiled a little bit. He put his left hand on the top of her head and rubbed her hair. Harribel couldn't help but think that the two looked like family. She felt a longing for that kind of closeness.
"Are you sure you're alright?" Starrk asked, returning his attention to Harribel.
"Must you continually ask me that? I'm more than capable of handling a few scrapes and bruises. I can take care of myself."
"I know," Starrk said, sighing. "It's just that…it's only natural for me to be concerned when I see…"
"When you see what? I'm not some 'Damsel in Distress' who needs to be watched after like some baby. God, that's just like a man. You must think that you're God's gift to women and you have a responsibility to protect all of the pretty li'l damsels in distress."
"Not really," Starrk said. "I'm sorry if I offended you. It's just that I get concerned and a little heated whenever I see someone get hurt for no justifiable reason."
"Oh really, well…thank you for your concern, and I guess I accept your apology. However, I must make one thing very clear to you: I can take care of myself."
"I have no doubt," Starrk said, meaning what he said. "You look like someone who is more than capable of defending themselves from low-lives like him," he said, gesturing to Semental who was trying to crawl away.
"Well…I have to. The Hueco Mundo Wastes aren't kind to women, especially those who are on their own. Those fuckers knew what they were doing, though. They ganged up on me while I was still asleep."
"You don't have anyone with you?" Starrk asked.
Harribel noticed that when Starrk said it, he sounded curious and a bit sorry. She looked at him, expecting to see the look of eagerness that usually came into men's faces when she said she was alone. However, his face showed concern and sorrow. If anyone looked eager, it was Lilynette who was looking at her and then up to him.
"Starrk, maybe she can come with us," Lilynette said. "That way we can really be a family."
"Lilynette, that's enough. Ma'am, don't you have a family who'll miss you?"
"They're dead," Harribel said. "My mother, my father, my little sisters, they're all dead."
"What happened?"
"They…they caught the Bloody Cough," she said.
Starrk looked at her and lowered his head. He was not sure how to respond to that bit of information. Lilynette, however, did not hesitate. She raced to her and hugged her. Harribel was taken aback by the girl's sudden actions. However, Lilynette's hug felt right to her.
"There's no need to remember sad things," Lilynette said.
She looked up and saw Starrk holding a clean handkerchief to her. It was just an ordinary, white handkerchief, but Harribel felt as though it was something to treasure. She took it and wiped the tears from her face. She held back to Starrk, but Starrk gestured for her to keep it. He looked at Lilynette and then back at Harribel.
"Lilynette was also alone when we found each other," Starrk said.
"Lilynette, is that her name?"
"Yes, she's Lilynette Gingerback and I'm Coyote Starrk. What's your name?"
"I'm Tia Harribel," she said, stroking Lilynette's hair.
"Miss Harribel, would you like to join us? I mean…I understand if you don't want to. It's just that…well…Lilynette's taken a liking to you and well…I thought it would be best to ask."
Harribel smiled a little at seeing Starrk get flustered like that. A lot of men had asked her to join them, but when they asked she could tell that they had other things on their minds. Plus, they had a way of making their "requests" seem like the orders they really were. Starrk was different. She could tell that he had no ulterior motives other than giving her someone to travel with. He just didn't want her to be lonely anymore.
She looked down and saw Lilynette looking up at her. Her eyes were wide, as though pleading with her to accept. Harribel smiled down at her and nodded. Lilynette's smile widened, tears glittering in her eyes. Harribel looked at Starrk who was also smiling. She couldn't help but notice that it wasn't the lecherous smile she usually got from men. This smile expressed joy and was sincere.
"Alright, I will, but only on the condition that I do my share of the work."
"Deal," Starrk said and held out his hand.
Harribel took it and they shook hands. She then looked towards Dorian Semental, who was just getting to his feet and kicked him. Semental screamed in pain and he collapsed to his knees. He looked at Harribel with a mixture of fear and hatred.
"You better get out while you still can, worm. However, if I ever see you again, I swear I'll kill you."
Semental got up and hobbled away from them. His pain and humiliation gave way to rage. He knew who they were now. He vowed that one day he would get his revenge on them, especially on the bitch. However, he had to recover first. But when he did, he would do whatever it took to regain the use of his hands. That way he could shoot those two in the back.
Starrk and Harribel watched him go. Harribel looked at Starrk and then at Lilynette. She saw Lilynette was fingering a locket that she wore around her neck and was thinking about something. Starrk saw the expression on Lilynette's face and smiled.
"It's alright," Starrk said. "They're yours to share with whomever you want. Besides, she's family now."
Lilynette brightened at that. She grabbed Harribel's hand and began to lead her away. Harribel looked at Starrk and saw him following, smiling. For the first time in years, Harribel felt as though she was with family.
Senkaimon Express Rail, Two Years Before
The Jigokucho trains from raced through the empty stretch of the Gurinbare. Even though the Gurinbare was in the Borderlands of the Gensei Provinces, it was still close to the Hueco Mundo Wastes that Arrancars would sometimes invade to raid the towns or the trains. However, the further south one went in the Borderlands, the fewer Arrancar raids there were, and the Gurinbare was below the so-called 'Hazard Zone'. As a result, security was a bit more lax.
Starrk watched the train pulling into the station. Harribel elbowed him and gestured with a slight tilt of her head to how some of those on board were more attentive to what was going on than others. Starrk gave a slight nod to show that he understood that there were Gotei soldiers. Lilynette was looking at their horses, which were waiting to be loaded onto one of the box cars.
"They're really tightening up security," Harribel whispered.
"Probably after the hold-up that the new gang…what were they called? Oh, that's right. The 'Pantera Gang' did outside Inuzuri," Starrk said.
"Maybe we should call it off," Harribel whispered.
"Let's wait and see. If they don't lower the number of Gotei soldiers on board, then we'll just enjoy the ride."
They watched. When the train came to a complete stop the conductors got off with the platforms to help passengers disembark. Starrk and Harribel watched as passengers came off and some went to the box cars to get their horses. The noticed that some of the passengers, who had the look of Gotei soldiers, get off and none of the official Gotei soldiers got on.
"How many?" Starrk asked.
"There's about four official Gotei soldiers left that I can see," Harribel whispered.
"No surprise there," Starrk said, smiling. "Lilynette, do you have what you need?"
"I sure do," Lilynette said, smiling.
"Did you take care of your part of the plan?"
"Oh yeah, they're ready to go."
Lilynette's part was to set the explosives at the connection between the coal car and the first passenger car. Starrk wondered how that part of the plan would work until Lilynette demonstrated the timing device: a pocket watch attached to a small hammer and flint with the explosives. This demonstration was further evidence of her talent with explosives.
Lilynette's "talent" was first noticed when they were planning a robbery of the First Gensei Provincial Bank in one of the border towns. However, they were unsure of how much explosives use to blow the wall behind the bank's vault. That was when Lilynette, who was looking at the layout of the bank they made, told them exactly how much explosives to use and how they should be bundled for maximum impact. The explosives worked and they were able to rob the bank with the only casualties being a few sticks of dynamite and a section of the rear wall.
Likewise, Lilynette showed an ability at improvising trip wires and other devices to set off explosions when needed. One case was when they hijacked a gold shipment outside a Gotei outpost in the northern Borderlands. As they were being chased, the Gotei cavalry tripped the wires that Lilynette set up and caused a cluster of barrels to explode. The explosion caused the Gotei horses to panic and throw their riders to the ground. However, their own mounts were so used to the explosions that Lilynette made when she experimented that they just ignored the sound.
At first, Starrk was rather nervous whenever Lilynette worked with explosives, and he still felt nervous. However, he also knew that she would be careful with handling the explosives. When he asked her how she learned how to make explosive devices, she just shrugged. However, Starrk suspected that at least one member of her original family knew how to deal with explosives and even showed her some tricks. Regardless, Lilynette showed that she was a force to be reckoned with when it came to explosives, and Starrk had no intention of telling anyone about that.
"All aboard," the head conductor shouted, standing near the train's engine and walking down the platform.
"Alright, let's do this," Harribel said.
The three boarded the train with the other passengers. They entered their compartment and placed their bags on the racks above the seats. They felt the train begin to move.
"How long did you set the timer?" Harribel asked.
"It will take another 50 minutes or so," Lilynette said.
"Well then, you better sit back and enjoy the ride," Starrk said. "I'm gonna take a look around."
Starrk got up and exited the passenger compartment. He went towards the dining car, making sure to look like another passenger off to get himself a drink. He paid attention to the men around him and saw some of them give him a brief glance and then look away. However, those brief glances told him much. Some were mere passengers who only took a brief look at him to make sure they wouldn't bump into each other. However, some of them seemed to study him and he felt that they were from one of the Privatized Squads, but none of the really major ones like the Pinkerton Agency.
When he reached the dining car, he made his way to the small bar where a crowd of men dressed in suits were standing, drinking. Starrk smiled, recognizing them as some of the larger bankers in the Gensei Provinces. They had hit pay dirt. If the bankers were here, then it only made sense that they also brought a shipment of cash and gold for their respective banks with them.
"What can I get for ya sir?" the man behind the counter asked.
"Just some ginger beer," Starrk said.
"Alright sir," the barkeep said and brought out a bottle of Chappy's Crisp Ginger Beer and popped the cap.
"Thanks," Starrk said and took a swig.
He noticed a man and his daughter sitting in one of the booths. The child was eating a plate of spaghetti, but the father looked nervous. Starrk noticed him searching his wallet and pockets and knew that the man didn't have enough money to pay for their meal. He had seen enough people to know that look: the look of a man who spent what little they had on a piece of land to call his own and the ticket to get there. He saw that some of the bankers were looking at the two, most with disgusted looks on their faces.
"Who let them in here?" one of them asked.
"Who even let them on?" another said.
"They obviously bought a ticket," another said. "However, maybe we can get the conductor to get them to leave. They're ruining my drink."
Starrk saw the man's lowered face and knew the look of surrender. He was reaching for his daughter's hand when one of the bankers, a thin, sheepish looking man, walked towards them.
"Excuse me…sir," he said, sounding nervous.
"Please, we were…we were just leaving."
"Oh…no…no I didn't mean that. I just…I think you dropped this," the banker said and held out some folded bills.
"I…I don't think I…" the man said, but the banker put them on the table.
"So…where are ya headin'?" the banker asked.
"We're on our way to Hokutan," the man said. "I bought some land and…"
"You felt that now is the right time to move since it's near planting season," the banker said, smiling at them.
"Yeah..."
"Daddy, can I have some more ginger beer?"
"Uh…sure, Sweetie."
"She can have the rest of mine," Starrk said.
"Oh…that's alright," the man said.
"It's no problem," Starrk said and took one of the glasses on the table.
He wiped the mouth of the bottle with a napkin and filled the glass with the amber, sparkling drink. He waited for it to fizz down before pouring more in, filling the glass. He placed the glass before the girl.
"A young lady should have her ginger beer served in a glass," Starrk said, smiling.
The girl looked up at him and smiled back. Her father, however, only looked worried. He had never known anyone to show him such kindness since his wife died of the Bloody Cough. He was as much a stranger to them as they were to him.
"Why are you doing this?" he asked.
"Well…I don't know about this gentleman," the banker said, gesturing to Starrk. "But, I…I just like helping people…I guess. Anyways, here's my card. I have a small bank in Hokutan and I'm more than willing to help you with any expenses you have."
The man took the card and looked at the name on it. His eyes widened in surprise and his mouth gaped open. He looked at the banker.
"You're…you're the Davis Murphy of Murphy Bankers Association?"
"Yeah…" Davis said, rubbing his head.
Starrk looked at Davis, appraising him. Even though Davis looked timid and rather weak, there was something in how he held himself that spoke of confidence. Starrk then looked at the other bankers and saw the expressions of greed and loathing in them.
"But…but you don't know us…"
"Oh, I'm sorry. I completely forgot to ask you for your names," Davis said, slapping his forehead.
"I'm…I'm James Vale and this is my daughter, Helen."
"Well, Mr. Vale, Miss Vale, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance," Davis said, holding out his hand.
James Vale took his hand and shook it. Davis took Helen's hand and gently kissed the knuckles. Starrk noticed that Davis's laid-back mannerism helped put the Vales at ease. He knew that he liked this man. It was a pity that he would have to rob him.
"What's your name sir," Davis asked, turning towards Starrk.
"Oh…I'm…Wolfgang Lowell," he said, shaking his hand.
"Well, Mr. Lowell, it's nice to meet you. Are you traveling alone?"
"No, my wife and daughter are with me," Starrk said, remembering their cover stories.
"Well, where are you heading?"
"We're going to Fort Seireitei."
"I see, do you have family in the Gotei, or are you planning on enlisting?"
"We're going to see my wife's brother. He's in the Gotei, Squad 8."
"Oh, I met someone on board who's from Squad 7. Maybe they know each other," Davis said, smiling.
"Really, I would like to meet him," Starrk said. "Do you know if anyone else from the Gotei is on board?"
"Well, like I said, so far I've only met a pair of brothers from Squad 7. Their names are Jidanbo and Jirobo Ikkanzaka. Jirobo's a bit boastful, but Jidanbo's a very nice young man. Anyways, I'm sorry if I'm keeping you from your family. You better get back to them."
"Are you sure?"
"Of course I'm sure."
"Alright, it was nice to meet you Mr. Murphy. Mr. Vale, Miss Vale, have a good day."
"Uh…have a good day," James Vale said, still a little unsure.
"Bye Mister," Helen said and waved to him.
Starrk waved back and made his way back to his compartment. He saw that Harribel and Lilynette had gotten their bags down and were taking out the guns they brought with them. Starrk got his own bag down and took out his guns and his dagger.
"Lilynette," he said. "When the train stops I want you to go to the stable car and get the horses."
"Okay," Lilynette said.
"Well, did you find out anything?"
"Oh yeah, there are definitely at least two Gotei soldiers on board and I counted about four individuals from one of the smaller Privatized Squads. Oh…there are about six bankers in the dining car, and one of them is Davis Murphy."
"Really, Davis Murphy is on board?"
"Yeah, but I kinda want to go easy on him. He's a good guy, but the other bankers…we can rough 'em up a bit."
"That's good to…"
At that moment, there came a loud explosion from somewhere. The train's wheels began to screech as the engineers had to make an emergency stop. Lilynette fell back into the seat while Starrk grabbed hold of Harribel and hung onto the baggage rack. When the train stopped, the three stood up and looked at each other.
"Lily," Starrk whispered. "Was that yours?"
Lilynette shook her head.
"Starrk, what…" Harribel began.
"Oh boy," Starrk sighed. "Well…we're stopped now. Let's get this done before our company arrives."
They grabbed their guns and Starrk and when they reached the outside platform that connected the cars, Lilynette jumped off and ran for the stable car. That was when they saw the three figures galloping towards the train. Starrk rolled his eyes.
"Starrk, they'll be here soon."
"I know."
The two rushed into the dining car.
"Alright folks, this is a robbery," Starrk said. "Put your hands up and don't make any trouble. I would hate to have to shoot anyone."
"Reach slowly for your wallets and hold 'em out," Harribel said.
"Wolfgang, what's…what's going on?" Davis asked.
"Sorry, Davis, but…my name's not Wolfgang Lowell. It's Coyote Starrk and my lovely assistant is Tia Harribel. You…may have heard of us."
Davis walked slowly towards them. He kept his hands up and he reached slowly into his pocket. Harribel looked at him and then at Starrk who only looked at the banker. Starrk saw the hurt look on his face and felt sorry for him. However, business was business.
"Please, don't hurt any of them, Los Lobos," Davis said and held his wallet out.
"I don't want to. However, if they force me, then I won't hesitate to shoot. Don't worry though, I always try to shoot to maim, but never kill."
"So, the rumors were true about that. You're not like most Arrancar gangs."
"I'm only being myself. Thank you for cooperating, Mr. Murphy."
Davis looked to where the Vales were sitting. Starrk saw that Mr. Vale taking out the money that Davis gave him. His daughter looked at Starrk and smiled waving towards him. He couldn't help but smile back at her.
"Mr. Vale," Starrk said. "Please, put your money back. You need it to help start a new life for you and your daughter."
"But…aren't you Arrancars, and aren't Arrancars supposed to be cruel?" James Vale asked.
"Not all Arrancars are like how you picture us. It is true that most Arrancars are cruel and ruthless, but we're not them," Harribel said.
"Alright, then…let's move along," Starrk said. "I want those who can afford to," he said looking at the bankers, "to hold out their wallets."
"THEY WON'T DO ANY SUCH THING, ARRANCAR," someone shouted.
Starrk and Harribel turned and saw a rather large man, almost a giant, standing behind them. He was dressed in the standard Gotei uniform, but instead of a revolver, he held two large tomahawks. His face was wide and strong, but it was also gentle. His long black hair was tied back.
"So, which of the brothers are you?" Starrk asked.
"I am Jidanbo Ikkanzaka, member of Squad 7 of the Gotei 13. I cannot allow you to harm these people in any way and I must put you under arrest."
"Jidanbo, I admire your courage," Harribel said. "However, if you continue this course, then I'm afraid I'll have to shoot you."
Harribel raised her revolver and aimed it at him. However, Jidanbo did not blink an eye. Instead, his grip on his tomahawks only tightened. He was about to rush her when another voice came from the other side of the dining car.
"DROP YOUR GUNS, ARRANCARS."
They turned and saw another large man, though not as large as Jidanbo, aiming his revolver at them. Starrk saw the resemblance and thought that this must be the other brother, Jirobo. However, when he saw Jirobo holding Lilynette, his eyes widened.
"LILYNETTE!" Harribel cried out.
"Jirobo, let the girl go," Jidanbo said, afraid that his brother might do something foolish.
"Sorry, Starrk," Lilynette said. "I got the horses out, but he just grabbed me from behind."
"It's alright, Lilynette. Everything's going to be fine."
"Drop your gun, Arrancars, or I will make her pay."
"Jirobo, we are Gotei soldiers. We don't take hostages to force outlaws to surrender," Jidanbo said, shocked at his brother's cowardice.
"Listen to your brother, Jirobo," Starrk said. "Let the girl go, or I will make sure that you pay."
Jirobo looked at Starrk and at his brother. Starrk saw the fear in his eyes and the shame. Harribel was about to aim her revolver at Jirobo, but Starrk stopped her. Jidanbo looked at the two Arrancars and lowered his tomahawks. He looked at his brother as though pleading him not to do anything foolish.
"Drop your guns and surrender, and then I'll let the girl go," Jirobo said and put his revolver to Lilynette's head.
Jidanbo's mouth gaped open and then another explosion came. Jirobo's hands flinched upwards and Starrk took advantage of the opening. With a quick motion, he unsheathed his dagger and slashed Jirobo's gun hand, dismembering his fingers. Jirobo shrieked in pain and he released Lilynette, who rushed away from him.
"BROTHER!" Jidanbo screamed as Starrk slashed the back of Jirobo's legs.
"You don't deserve to be in the Gotei," Starrk said, looking down on Jirobo's huddled form on the floor. "If your comrades could see you now, they would weep with shame."
"Please, don't hurt him anymore," Jidanbo said, rushing to his brother.
"Don't worry. I won't hurt him, but I suggest that he takes off that uniform. He disgraced his honor, but that is not worthy of death," Starrk said, sheathing his dagger.
Jidanbo looked at him, tears in his eyes. Starrk put a hand on his shoulder.
"You…you're a good man," Jidanbo cried and embraced Starrk.
"Uh…sure…whatever," Starrk said and patted Jidanbo's massive shoulders. "Hey, Lilynette, was that your bomb that distracted Jirobo or was that…"
"It wasn't mine," Lilynette said.
"Starrk, I think we have…" Harribel began, but before she could finish, the wall for the dining car exploded.
The bankers took cover, but it didn't stop the debris and dust from covering their once flawless coats. Davis stepped in front of the Vales, and a bit of debris cut his face. Jidanbo covered the three Arrancars. As the dust settled, they saw the three figures climb into the car.
"God damn it, Sung-Sun, I think you used too much," one of them, a slender woman with black hair and mismatching eyes, said.
"No shit," another, a curvy dark-skinned woman, said.
"Would you two please stop complaining? I got the train to stop and we're in," Sung-Sun said.
"Yeah, and you almost blew our fucking heads off," the woman with black hair said.
"Hey, stop stealing my lines, Apacci," the dark-skinned woman said.
"Oh…shut up, Mila Rose," Apacci snarled.
"WHAT DID YOU SAY?" Mila Rose shouted.
"Stop bickering, we may have a problem," Sung-Sun said.
The other two women stopped and looked at Starrk and Harribel who had just gotten from under Jidanbo's unconscious body. They had their revolvers drawn and aimed at the three new-comers. The three looked at each other and brought out their own revolvers. The passengers in the dining car looked at the two bands of outlaws. Some of the bankers thought of running, but were dissuaded when each outlaw aimed a gun at them while keeping the other trained on each other.
"Well…this is a nice situation," Starrk said.
"Who…the fuck…are you?" Apacci asked.
"We should ask you the same question," Lilynette growled as she struggled to get out from under Jidanbo.
"Be quiet, Lilynette," Starrk said.
"Why are you here?" Harribel asked.
"Oh…we just came by to say 'Hi'. What does it look like? We're here to rob ya," Apacci said.
"Don't you mean you came to rob them?" Starrk asked, jerking his head at the passengers.
"Well…yeah…and you're passengers," Apacci said.
"Actually…we're also here to rob them," Harribel said.
The two groups looked at each other. They waited for the other to make some kind of move. Then Sung-Sun noticed the dagger on Starrk's thigh. Her eyes widened in amazement and she whispered something to her two companions. Their eyes went wide as well and they noticed the dagger.
"Holy…" Mila Rose began.
"…shit," Apacci finished.
"You're…you're Los Lobos," the two said together.
"Uh…yeah…I am," Starrk said, looking slightly confused.
"That means that she must be the 'Blood Star'," Sung-Sun said, gesturing to Harribel.
"You heard of us?" Harribel asked.
"Of course, who hasn't heard of Los Lobos and Blood Star?" someone asked and the sounds of guns being cocked followed.
The five looked around and saw that they were completely surrounded. They saw two men wearing Gotei uniforms standing at the gap behind the three women. The entryways to the dining car were covered by men that Starrk noticed as belonging to the Privatized Squads. Starrk looked at the others and shrugged.
"I guess I forgot about them," he said.
"Lucky for us, you did," one of the Gotei soldiers said.
"Holy shit, we're gonna get a promotion from this," the other Gotei soldier said.
"Indeed, and I'm sure that Captain Kurotsuchi would like to get his hands on them," the other soldier said, grinning.
"You Gotei ain't gonna get yer hands on 'em," one of the other men said.
"Yeah, we're gonna take 'em and collect the money," another said.
"Stop being a bunch of morons. If you help us apprehend them, then you'll get your money. Hell, you'll be paid extra. The Seireitei can pay more than some Borderland sheriff can."
"Hmm, he does have a point."
"Ah…to Hell with arguin', let's just get 'em."
The others agreed and were moving forward when another explosion came. The men looked around, and it gave the five Arrancars enough time to take them out. The men went down in a series of screams of pain and blood flowing from wounds in their arms and legs.
"That was mine," Lilynette said as she was getting to her feet, beaming with pride.
"You caused that explosion, but…but how?" Sung-Sun asked, surprised.
"I used a timer to control when the explosives would detonate," Lilynette said, beaming even more.
"Hmm, most impressive," Sung-Sun said.
"Fuck that, let's just get the money and run," Apacci said.
"Fine, but…not them," Starrk said and gestured to the Vales. "Alright…let's get this over with."
The overall robbery went rather well with the Gotei soldiers and the men from the Privatized Squads unable to do anything. Davis watched as the passengers were being robbed, and was surprised that Starrk would take time to talk with some of them. Sometimes, Starrk would reach into his bag and take out a few bills and give them to a passenger. Whenever he saw a child, Starrk would take out a bag of Chappy's Fruity Chews or Chappy's Fruit Crystals and give them to the child.
The three women were busy bickering among themselves that they didn't get much done. Lilynette was looking into the various passenger compartments, drinking a bottle of Chappy's Old Fashioned Sarsaparilla. Harribel kept an eye on the passengers she was leading.
"So, you must be Davis Murphy," she said.
"Uh…yes ma'am," Davis said, a bit nervously.
"Starrk was right about you," she said. "You may seem like a frightened, lost little lamb, but you have the heart of a lion."
"I…I don't really think so."
"Oh come on, don't be so modest. I saw you when you gave us your wallet. You weren't afraid for yourself, but rather for the safety of the others."
"Well…I…I was scared…but I thought about that little girl and what would happen to her."
"Mr. Murphy, I've been with Starrk for about a year, and I've come to know him. If there's one thing I know about Starrk it's this: he would never hurt a child or anyone who didn't deserve to be hurt. He's the most courageous and gentle man I've ever met. He…knows how to treat people. That's the type of man he is and I see some of that in you as well and also in Jidanbo. It's a good trait to have."
"I…I don't know what to say."
"Just don't say anything," Harribel said, smiling at him.
"Alright, we're done here," Starrk said.
"What about the money in the safe?" Apacci asked. "I mean…there are all of these bankers. They must have money with them."
"Not really," Starrk said, rubbing his head. "I assumed that as well, but it turns out they were on their way to a conference. They…didn't bring any large amounts of gold and cash with them. Isn't that right, Mr. Murphy?"
"Well…for one of the few times…they were actually telling the truth," Davis said.
"Don't worry about it. Anyways…I'm sorry, but…I'm gonna have to lock you in one of the compartments."
"It's alright. I understand," Davis said.
Davis allowed himself to be led to one of the passenger compartments and walked in. Starrk closed the door and locked it with the skeleton key he got from the conductor. He looked at Harribel and Lilynette and nodded. They made their way to the end of the car to leave.
"Hey, where are you going?" Mila Rose asked.
"We don't really know," Starrk said.
"Wait a minute," Apacci said. "Can't we come with you?"
"Uh…why?" Harribel asked, uncertain of what to make of their requests.
"Well…it's just that…" Mila Rose said.
"We admire you both," Sung-Sun said. "The Hueco Mundo Wastes are talking about the exploits of Los Lobos and the Blood Star. In fact, you were our inspirations of getting started in raiding the Gensei Provinces."
"Not to mention, many of the newly formed gangs were inspired by your exploits or the exploits of Rudobon and the Exequias Army," Apacci said.
"Also, you're the most wanted outlaws in all of the Gensei Provinces," Mila Rose said.
"Actually, we're second and third most wanted," Starrk said. "The outlaw called 'Shadow Lurker' is currently the most wanted outlaw in the Gensei."
"Who gives a fuck about him?" Apacci asked. "He's a coward who just hides in the shadows. You actually show your faces and tell your names. That's more badass than hiding in shadows and backstabbing nobles and officials."
"You're really serious about hanging with us?" Harribel asked.
"Damn right," Mila Rose said, grinning.
"Well…what do you think Starrk?" Harribel asked.
"Hmm, well…Lilynette, what do you think?"
"Well, someone needs to teach whoever made those explosive devices the proper way to make 'em. Sure, they were effective, but they were a bit off."
"Hey, what was wrong with my bombs?" Sung-Sun asked.
"There was no control to them," Lilynette said. "Explosives are more than just nitroglycerine in a clay shell. Explosives require you to be able to control them. Otherwise, they might turn on you."
"What are you talking about? Explosives are nitroglycerine in a clay shell."
"Trust me, Lilynette knows what she's talking about," Starrk said. "You may be familiar with using mining explosives, but Lilynette knows how to turn them into an effective weapon."
"Ha, you got burned, Sung-Sun," Mila Rose said, laughing.
"No shit and you got lectured by a little girl about EXPLOSIVES," Apacci howled in laughter.
"Oh, please," Sung-Sun said, covering her mouth to hide her grimace. "While I may not know much about explosives, I do know more about that telegraph machine we saw in that small office. Apparently, someone needs to telegraph in every few minutes."
"It's one of those wireless models?" Starrk asked, suddenly alarmed.
"Ah, I see that you know about that new invention. Yes, it is a wireless model that uses some kind of signal to transmit and receive messages."
"That's not good," Starrk said.
"What are you talking about?" Harribel asked.
"Don't you remember? We heard rumors about a new wireless telegraph being installed on trains in the Gensei Provinces and all Gotei outposts and forts. That means that the Gotei knows that something's happened with this train. We need to get out of here."
They began to run to the horses with the three women behind them. In the distance they could see a dirt cloud heading their way. Starrk helped Lilynette get on her pony, Strawberry, while Harribel got on her own horse, Tiburón.
"Hey! What about us?" Apacci shouted.
Starrk, already mounted on Okami, looked at Harribel and Lilynette. The two looked at him as though telling him it was up to him. Starrk only thought about it for a moment and then smiled. Even though those three were amateurs, they had potential. Plus, it seemed that Harribel really took a shine to them. He noticed that Harribel missed having other women around to talk to. He looked at them and sighed.
"You can come with us, if you want. But, you better hurry."
With that, Starrk, Harribel, and Lilynette began to ride off. Apacci, Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun rushed to their horses and followed after them. By the time the Gotei patrol arrived, they were long gone. The patrol boarded the train and helped the passengers and conductors and engineers free from their prisons.
"What happened here?" a woman dressed in a Gotei officer's uniform, a regular uniform with a long white coat, asked.
"Well, we just had a run in with Los Lobos," Davis said, smiling.
"Is anybody hurt?"
"You know how train robberies can be," Davis said. "We have a few cuts and bruises and a few broken egos. However, other than that, everyone is fine."
"Private Saido, get on the wireless and inform Fort Seireitei we have a situation. Arrancars have entered Gurinbare."
"Yes, Captain Sui-Feng," the man said and he made his way to the secondary wireless room that was at the very back.
"So, the 'Los Lobos Duo' was here?" Sui-Feng asked.
"Yeah, and so was 'Blood Star'," one of the bankers said.
"Anyone else?"
"Just three women," James Vale said, holding his daughter. "I was able to get their names: Apacci, Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun."
"Hmm, one of the new gangs," Sui-Feng said. "Ah yes, the 'Diamond Sisters'. You folks were very fortunate. You faced some of the most dangerous outlaws from the Wastes and lived to tell the tale."
Murphy Davis only rolled his eyes. He thought that the reports of them being extremely violent outlaws were rather…exaggerated.
The Hueco Mundo Wastes, One Year Before
The six sat around the campfire, eating their evening meal of cornbread and salted pork. Lilynette got up and picked up the packages she got from their visit to Las Desamparados. She had kept them as a surprise for Starrk and Harribel and made sure that Apacci, Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun could keep them secret. She put the packages before Starrk and Harribel who only looked at them in surprise.
"What's this for, Lily?" Harribel asked.
"Don't you remember?" Lilynette asked. "Today marks the fifth year anniversary that you joined me and Starrk and it also marks the sixth year anniversary that Starrk found me."
"Huh, I never realized that," Starrk muttered.
"Realized what?" Harribel asked.
"I never realized that the day you joined us was exactly one year after I found Lilynette."
"Well, I decided that this year, I should give you a present. Something to reflect our time together," Lilynette said. "I had Apacci, Mila Rose, and Sung-Sun help."
"We wanted to tell you, but…" Apacci said.
"She swore us to secrecy," Mila Rose said.
"It's alright, Ladies," Harribel said, smiling.
"I told you she would not mind us not telling her," Sung-Sun said.
"SHUT UP, SUNG-SUN!" Mila Rose and Apacci shouted.
"Ladies, please, don't fight," Harribel said.
"Anyways, can we open these now?" Starrk asked.
"Sure," Lilynette said and gave the packages to Starrk and Harribel.
Harribel opened her gift first and held up a long-sleeved white jacket. The jacket itself was rather short and would only reach mid-torso, but she thought that it would go great with the bright crimson sleeveless turtleneck sweater she bought in town. She looked at the back and saw a crimson star sewn onto the back. She immediately put it on and it felt right to her. She smiled at Lilynette and looked at Starrk.
Starrk held the sandalwood box in his hand. He looked at the engraving on the front: a heart with the initials C.S., L.G., & T.H. carved in it. The words: LOVE & FAMILY were engraved to surround the heart. Starrk remembered Lilynette's own box of treasures and knew that she had got one for him. He looked at Harribel who was smiling at him.
"Didn't you get one for Harribel?" he asked.
Lilynette nodded and brought out another box, this one made from cherry wood, with the same engravings. Harribel took it and opened the lid. There was nothing inside. She looked into Starrk's box and also saw nothing inside his.
"You're supposed to fill it yourself," Lilynette said, smiling.
"Thanks, Lily," Starrk said and smiled.
He dug into his pocket and brought out two wood carvings. Harribel looked at them and her eyes widened. She had seen him working on the pieces of wood, but whenever she tried to see it, he always hid it. She suddenly realized that he did not forget today's importance. Both carvings were the same thing: a wolf, cub, and a doe walking together.
The image was that of a dream she shared with him long before. She had that dream occasionally, but it seemed to become even more symbolic of something as time progressed. She never really understood what it meant and doubted she ever would. However, the image remained potent and beautiful for her.
Starrk put one of the carved bits of wood into her hand and then passed the other to Lilynette. Lilynette looked at it, smiling and brought out her Treasure Box from her bag. She wrapped the carving in a light pink handkerchief she found and put it in the box. Harribel brought out the handkerchief that Starrk gave her when she first met him and wrapped it in that. She opened her box and put it inside.
"Thank you, Lily," Starrk said. "Although, I think that perhaps our guest should join us."
"What guest?" Mila Rose asked.
Harribel, Sung-Sun, Apacci, and Mila Rose looked around them. Lilynette only looked up at Starrk who was smiling. He rubbed her head and stood up.
"You can come out now. There's no need for you to continue lurking in the shadows," Starrk said.
"My…this is…rather interesting," the monotone voice said. "No one has ever known that I was following them without me wanting them to know."
They looked at the shadows, but Starrk only looked at the fire.
"Are you the one they call 'Night Bringer'?" he asked, although his tone said that he already knew.
"This is rather interesting. You even know who I am. I do not remember telling you who I was."
"You didn't, but your reputation precedes you, Ulquiorra Schiffer," Starrk said.
That was when the women saw the figure stepping from the shadows. He was medium-height and dressed completely in black except for the silver bat brooch he wore on his left lapel. His pale face was framed by his messy black hair. His emerald eyes examined them and then stayed on Starrk's back.
"So, you are Los Lobos, Coyote Starrk," he said. "You are the only one to ever find me without my desire to be found."
"Perhaps you shouldn't have been tracking me."
"I see. However, I was hired to find you."
"I guess those three men on the other side of the ridge sent you."
"Yes, and they would very much like to meet you."
"Well, you can tell them to come down here if they want to talk," Apacci said.
"You are rather rude," Ulquiorra said. "However, I do not see why they should not come here to speak with you. Very well, I shall go and speak with them."
Ulquiorra then slipped back into the shadows. Harribel was amazed that they actually saw the "Night Bringer" himself and was even more surprised that Starrk actually caught him tracking them. From what they heard, no one had ever seen "Night Bringer" when he was tracking them, at least until they died.
They sat in silence until they heard footsteps approaching them. They looked up and saw a man with brown hair standing before them. His hair was combed back, except for a curl of hair that hung over his left eye.
"Good evening," he said. "I am Souske Aizen, also known as 'Shadow Lurker'."
"I see," Starrk said. "What do you want with us?"
"I am looking for comrades to join me in fighting against the Gensei Provinces. I heard rumors about a band of outlaws led by the notorious 'Los Lobos' and 'Blood Star'. I sent Ulquiorra to find you, and he has apparently found you. I was rather astonished to hear that you knew he was there. How did you know?"
"I just knew," Starrk said, getting to his feet. "Why should we join you?"
"Because, I don't think you have anything else to do right now."
"I suppose," Starrk said, thinking. "However, if we were to join, it must be a unanimous decision. If any of them don't wish to join, then we won't."
"I understand," Aizen said.
"There's no need to vote, Starrk," Apacci said. "We'll go wherever Mistress Harribel goes."
"That's right," Mila Rose said. "The only two who need to make the decisions are you and Harribel."
"We will trust whatever decision you make," Sung-Sun said.
"Starrk, maybe we should go," Lilynette said, although she was a bit apprehensive.
"Starrk, you know my choice," Harribel said. "I'll go wherever you go, like we promised."
Starrk looked at the five members of his pack…his family. He thought about it. He didn't trust Aizen, but he also knew that Aizen would not stop until he agreed. He knew that if he refused, then the odds were likely that Aizen might send someone to kill them. He didn't want to put them in that kind of danger. However, he also didn't know what kind of danger he would put them in if he agreed. However, the odds were likely that if they joined they might find other Arrancars who would be willing to help them if the need arose.
"Alright, we'll join," Starrk said.
"I'm glad to hear it," Aizen said, smiling. "I'll bring my two companions and Ulquiorra over and we'll leave in the morning."
Starrk watched Aizen leave. He began to wonder if he made the right decision.
Las Noches, Four Months Before
"As you know, my dear Espada," Aizen said to the ten Arrancars sitting around the wooden table. "Two nights ago, we were invaded. The invaders took our prisoner and are returning to Karakura Town. I have decided that the time has come to attack."
"Alright," Yammy cried out, laughing.
"When do we leave?" Aaroniero asked in his raspy voice.
"We leave at dawn," Aizen said.
"Shit, why wait? I say we leave now and kill the fuckers," Nnoitora said.
"Who's going to be in charge?" Baraggan asked.
"I am…at least until we reach the Garganta Pass. After that, I'm going to put Starrk in charge."
"What? You're going to put this…this NOBODY in charge?" Baraggan roared.
"My decision on that matter is final," Aizen said.
"Well, I hope I can at least bring my Crimson Dragons with me."
"I've decided that no fraccion should come."
"WHAT?" Baraggan and Harribel yelled.
"Aizen, why would you decide not to let the fraccion follow their Espadas?" Szayel Aporro asked.
"Well…" Gin answered, smiling at them. "Lord Aizen has decided that the fraccion should remain behind so that way there's no chance of…friendly fire."
"That's correct," Aizen said. "Also, there should be no need for them to come. The Gotei will not expect an attack on Karakura Town so soon. So…the fraccion and lesser Arrancars are to remain here."
"This is bullshit," Grimmjow said. "I'm not gonna leave my Panteras behind."
"Then you won't be able to get back at Ichigo Kurosaki for giving you that," Aizen said and gestured to the scar running down Grimmjow's chest.
"There's no way I'm going to leave my Crimson Dragons behind."
"Baraggan, do not doubt Lord Aizen's wisdom," Zommari said. "If Lord Aizen says not to bring our fraccion, then he must have faith in our abilities as Espadas to crush Karakura Town on our own."
"We'll see," Baraggan muttered.
"That is all. You are dismissed," Aizen said.
With that, the other Espada left. However, Starrk did not leave. He did not like the idea of leaving Lilynette behind with the other fraccion and lesser Arrancars. Aizen saw Starrk still at his seat and frowned.
"What's the matter, Starrk?"
"I won't go."
"Oh…and why not?"
"I won't leave Lilynette behind. I made a promise with her that we would go anywhere together, and that includes into the storm."
"Starrk, I understand your concern. However, my decision is final. No fraccion are to accompany us to Karakura Town."
"Then, I will not ride with you."
"What about Harribel? Aren't you worried that she might get hurt?"
"Harribel can take care of herself. I have faith in her abilities."
"I see. So…if I don't allow you to take Lilynette with you, then you will not ride with your comrades?"
"That's right."
"I need you, Starrk. I need your abilities to help crush the Gensei Provinces."
"Then let me take Lilynette with me. I will be responsible for her. If anything happens to her, then I will take care of her."
"I see…hmm…very well, the girl may come. Would you like me to throw in Harribel's fraccion into the bargain?"
"That is for Harribel to decide."
"I see. If that is all, then you may leave."
"Yes sir," Starrk said and walked out.
Harribel stood, waiting for him. He saw Ulquiorra sitting at one of the fires cleaning his guns. Grimmjow was arguing with his fraccion. Starrk shook his head. He didn't really understand why he felt that Lilynette should come with him. He hoped that he wasn't putting her in too much danger.
"Well, what did you speak with him about?"
"I don't know, but…I feel that Lilynette should come along."
"But, she's just a child."
"I know. It's just that…I made a promise to her that we would go anywhere together."
"And you think that includes a battlefield?"
"I know. Maybe I shouldn't have asked him, but…"
"I understand. You think that Lilynette will be safer with you than here."
"That's right. He also asked me if he wanted me to include your fraccion."
"What did you say?"
"I said that it was your decision on whether or not you wanted them to come."
"Good, I don't think they would appreciate you speaking on my behalf. I know that I wouldn't."
"So, do you want them to come?"
"No, but…I don't think they should stay here."
"I think that some of the others are thinking along the same ground. I wouldn't be a bit surprised if Baraggan and Grimmjow are giving their fraccions details on where to meet them should things go sour. I think that you should do the same thing."
"Why?"
"'Cause I don't trust Aizen. He's up to something."
"Did you tell Ulquiorra and Grimmjow this?"
"Yeah, I made sure to tell them. They're both thinking the same thing, but Grimmjow seems to be too focused on getting revenge to even notice it. Ulquiorra…well…he's Ulquiorra. It's hard to read him, but he has some of the same feelings about Aizen."
"Starrk, if something happens, I want you to keep this," Harribel said and took her ring off and handed it to Starrk.
"But, Harribel, this is your mother's. Why…why would you give it to me?"
"Let's just say that I trust you to keep it safe. You can keep it in your Treasure Box."
"Alright, I understand," Starrk said and took the ring.
He looked at Harribel. If something was to happen, he would have to make sure that he got her out. He would make sure that she and Lilynette would survive at any cost. In the distance, he could hear the wolves begin to howl. He looked at the ring and saw engraving on the inside in a flowing script.
"The engraving," Starrk said. "What is it?"
"'Sacrificio hace al Mundo'," she said. "It's my family's motto. It means: Sacrifice makes the World."
End of Chapter 4
A.N.: Sorry it took me this long to write this chapter. This is the first "Flashback Chapter" out of three, possibly four. The next chapter will get back to the regular story. Thanks for reading.