Greetings everybody and welcome to a new chapter of Soul of Fire! It sure feels great to be back, especially with all of the support you guys give me. It may take me some time to actually upload new chapters every once in a while, but in my opinion is definitely worth it.
Knowing that, I would like to address a couple of reviews I received from the last chapter, so here I go.
ShadeFireDragon:
No, the 'man covered in fire' is by no means Yamamoto, but a nickname that was given to the entity that Natsu encountered, but I'm sure you must be already aware of this by the time you reach this chapter. But anyways, I thank you for your support! And as for your last review, I have many different thoughts and ideas as to what Natsu's Bankai will be like. And god, while its still a long way to go, I'm very excited to reach that point in the story.
Omni warrior:
Soi Fon got her arm back under different circumstances, as it was Orihime who healed her afterwards. Anyway, that doesn't mean that the possibility of Natsu recovering through any other means doesn't exist, just as you may see in this chapter.
Mclenbryce7:
Do not fear my friend. The future has a lot of potential and anything can happen so long as I live. A lot of surprises awaits Natsu, that I can tell you. ;)
Guest Isa:
Wow, seems like Natsu losing an arm sure affected a lot of people. Not sure if I should feel guilty or pat myself on the back. Anyway, I have plans for how Natsu will overcome this issue. Won't explain much, but I can tell you that this chapter will give you a much clearer image of what his future holds. Aizen sure is taking his precaution with Acnologia, of that I can tell you. I have no intention of bashing any character, so that confrontation will surely be an interesting one. And like I said in the previous chapter, Acnologia's presence will most definitely affect the storyline of Bleach from its very roots, including some of the mayor characters. When we get into the Acnologia-solo chapters, you will see what I mean, but with that said, I will confirm it once and for all that this story will have an 'Acnologia Arc.' Its true ladies and gentlemen, the big bad guy will at one point become the main focus of every character in this story.
KorevainsoLightshire:
I can understand your discomfort about Natsu losing his arm. And apparently you aren't the only one. People sure never saw that one coming, LOL. But everything is happening for a reason. I rather avoid giving clear answers due to the risk of giving spoilers, but I assure you that I have no intention of nerfing Natsu. If anything, he will become more powerful than his cannon version or any other fanfic for a longshot. And yes, he has pretty much a long time to mature, but that would involve doing it off-screen via time-skip. A good friend once told me, 'show, not tell.' I have taken those words very personally and I plan on making this story different to others. Unlike other fanfiction stories, Soul of Fire has actual stakes where the risk of life-threatening situations exists for the characters. I'm not against Natsu recovering his arm, but doing it just cause right now would take that feeling away. After all, Soul of Fire will be a little different to the main Bleach story-line due to the interference of both Natsu and Acnologia. By the way, regenerating limbs in Bleach has always been under very specific circumstances, which methods are not available at this current point in time. Hope that clears your doubts and I hope you continue reading just so you can see what I mean. With that said, I sincerely thank you for your support!
kuro yaksha:
Well, good thing my updating schedule has changed quite a bit. I'll be trying to write chapters that range about 3k to 4k words. With that I'm sure I'll be able to update at a much faster rate.
Having said that, don't forget to share what in your opinion would be the best pairing-choice, but most importantly, please enjoy this chapter!
Chapter 15: Overcoming Your Weakness
"Ready," called Ukitake, taking a stance with his Zanpakuto at hand. "Again!"
Natsu panted heavily as he griped Shōkyaku tightly. "Hyaaaahhh–!"
The white-haired Captain raised his sword in time to deflect the approaching strike and pushed his body to the side to avoid the incoming pinkette, letting him stumble into the ground. The boy crashed hard against the surface of dirt, but quickly stood up and prepared for another assault.
Ukitake smiled at the Dragon Slayer's enthusiasm. "That's the spirit! Now come!"
The two continue to exchange blows, but Ukitake had yet to attack. The Captain has been staying on the defensive ever since they began sparring in the courtyard of Squad 13, and he has effortlessly blocked every single of his attacks. Natsu of course was beginning to feel frustrated by the lack of progress and has started to attack more relentlessly. However, his raw style of swordsmanship was simply no match against Ukitake's more refined and superior technique.
The difference in their level of skill was obvious, but that did not prevent Natsu from trying.
It has been barely four weeks since the 'Hollow extermination' mission took place and a lot of things have happened since then. First of was his assignment into Squad 13, where he will be staying from now on under Captain Ukitake Jūshirō, who was also his newly appointed teacher in the art of swordsmanship. It become clear that the Head-Captain has become aware of his serious lack of skill when using a sword, so he was set on fixing that.
Another thing was Yoruichi's daily visits. The Head of the Shihōin Clan has recently been of great help, helping him improve his overall performance of Shunpo to the point where he could now use the technique more continuously without needing a break. He could tell that the Captain was mostly helping him out of guilt, as she was still feeling responsible for the loss of his arm. He already told her in more than one occasion that it was by no means her fault, but she was a very stubborn individual.
Fortunately, his relationship with Soi Fon has improved quite a bit as well. The assassin has been much less hostile towards him, even though she still acts cold and generally avoids him most of the time, but it was still serious progress when compared to how their initial interactions used to be. And even though she continues to refers to him as an idiot, he can tell that at the very least she has come to tolerate his presence a bit more.
He still had to yet to adapt into fighting with only one arm. It is sort of annoying, as his instincts have refined through the years to the point where his body would react on its own during a fight, so it always ends up being kind of off-putting when he accidently attempts to block an attack with an arm that wasn't there anymore.
He was confident that with enough practice, soon enough he'll be able to overcome this problem. After all, if that oversized-lizard of Acnologia could do it, then so can he. His recent encounter with the Dragon of the Apocalypse made him realize how outclassed he is compared to him. Both as a wizard and a Shinigami. I'll be some time before he is allowed to go back to activate duty, so until then he will have to dedicate all of his time and efforts into his training.
Natsu grunted as he was smacked on the head by the flat side of Ukitake's sword. "You aren't moving fast enough, Dragneel-san. You need to balance the weight of your blade with the rest of your body, or else you'll never be able to land a successful hit on me."
The Dragon Slayer was forced to take a deep breath. His shihakushō shook as he felt desperate to fill the insufficient lack of air that his lungs needed. "Well, it's kind of hard to do that when, you know, have only one arm."
Ukitake blinked in realization. "Oh, yeah. I see your point."
A Nodachi is a weapon meant to be hold by two hands, so it hardly came as a surprise to see the Dragon Slayer struggling to keep it steady. The young wizard had enough strength to hold it without much effort, but the problem was that he could not fight as effectively without the proper balance. This may actually prove to be a problem.
The white-haired Captain rested a hand under his chin. "Hmm, I believe I know someone who may be able to help you with that."
"Help me how exactly?" Questioned Natsu with some skepticism.
"Well, for starters he…"
"Hey, Captain! Me and the boys are back from patrol!" Someone loudly interrupted as he walked into the barracks, gaining the attention of both Natsu and Ukitake. "And I have to tell you, you won't believe how hard it was to…uh, why is everyone looking at me like that."
"Oh, Kaien, you arrived just in time." Ukitake smiled at the sight of his Lieutenant before addressing Natsu. "Dragneel-san, he's the one who I was telling you about. His name is Shiba Kaien, my Lieutenant here in Squad 13."
"I don't remember ever accepting the position, Captain." Seeing that they were talking about him, Kaien decided to direct himself to the youngster in question with a cheerful tone. "I take it you are new here. What's your name, kid?"
The Dragon Slayer was authentically caught by surprise by the man's joyful attitude, but he was quick to dismiss it with a wide grin. It was refreshing to finally be able to talk to somebody who was more easy-going compared to the other Shinigami that he has met so far.
"Name's Natsu. Natsu Dragneel." He introduced himself, standing in a manner that showed pride worthy of the son of Igneel.
Kaien smiled as they shook hands "Nice to meet, Natsu. I hope we can get to know each other better in the future."
The pink-haired Shinigami returned the gesture with one of his own. "Same here.
A few hours later. Seireitei. Barracks of Squad 8. Captain's Office…
"So nice of you two to come and join me." Said Kyoraku with a cheery grin.
The Captain of Squad 8 opened his arms in a welcoming manner, signaling them to take a seat at the other side of the small table. They much obliged and sat on the soft tatami floor.
Ukitake smiled comfortably at Shunsui. "It would be rude of me to refuse the invitation of a friend. Besides, I thought it would be nice to let Natsu relax after today's training session." He gazed at the pinkette beside him, who was busy looking at his new prosthetic wooden arm with mild curiosity.
Filling a couple of cups with some fine sake, Kyoraku offered the drinks to his guest. "Everything is going well, I hope."
"We are making good progress, if that's what you mean." Ukitake responded as he took a quiet sip.
"I see. I sure am glad to hear that." Said the Captain, seemingly content with the answer he got. He then turned his attention to the Dragon Slayer in question. "So, Natsu-kun. How is the new arm so far?"
Taking his eyes away from the prosthesis, Natsu slid the sleeve over the arm before addressing the question. "It's okay, I guess. I mean, it's not like the real deal, but I guess It'll do for now."
Apparently Kaien was quite experienced in dealing with people with disabilities. More specifically, those who were missing an arm or a leg. It was very easy to get his assistance thanks to Captain Ukitake. They only needed to take some measures from his body's size and the length of his other arm. Once that was done, it was only a matter of hours until the new arm was ready.
It was surprising to find out that the new arm could move along with his thoughts as if it was the real one. Kaien mentioned something about his sister being quite adept at making prosthetics that were connected to a one's soul or something, but he couldn't remember all the details, as he wasn't paying any real attention at the moment. The arm was of course only temporal, at least until he can find a more permanent solution.
"Just make sure that the arm last long enough. It will probably be quite a bother if you have to replace it every time you decide to use your flames during a fight." Said Kyoraku with a short laugh.
"Not really." Responded Natsu nonchalantly, dismissing his claim as he drank from his sake. He wasn't much into alcohol, but he still enjoyed a good drink every now and then. "I'll just control my own fire the same way I always do to avoid burning my own clothes."
To say that both Captains were surprised by this revelation was putting it lightly. "You can actually do that?" Questioned Kyoraku with a small hint of disbelief. All of his previous humor now gone.
The Dragon Slayer nodded with a shrug. "It isn't that hard once you get the hang of it." He admitted, taking it as if it wasn't that much of a bid deal.
"T-That's very impressive, Dragneel-san!" Complimented Jūshirō with great excitement. One would normally be shocked to learn this sort of information, but Ukitake took it in a completely different way. "To perform such a deed, you must possess remarkable levels of self-control to be able to accomplish a feat like that!"
Natsu could barely hold a smug look from reaching his face. "Yes, well, I'm just that awesome." It sure felt good to be praised like this every once in a while.
"Ah, here you are. I thought I would find you here."
Having their conversation suddenly interrupted, the three Shinigami saw the silhouette of someone standing at the office's entrance. Shunsui's eyes widened in recognition before another smile formed on his lips. "Ah, Captain Kuchiki! What a pleasant surprise to have you here. Did you come to have some sake with us? There's more than enough for everybody."
"I'm afraid that will have to wait for another time, Captain Kyoraku." The elderly man politely declined the Captain's invitation before turning his attention at the youngest in the room. "I actually came here to see young Dragneel here."
Natsu's eyes blinked in surprise. "Me?" He couldn't help but ask.
"Yes." The elder man known as Kuchiki Ginrei confirmed with a short nod. "I would like to make a request."
A few moments later. Seireitei. Kuchiki Family Manor…
"Let me get this straight," Natsu said with crossed arms. Skepticism clear in his voice. "You want me to help with your grandson's training?"
The Head of the Kuchiki Clan nodded. "That would be correct."
Now that was an odd request for someone to ask him out of the blue. Especially someone who he has barely interacted with ever since he arrived in the Soul Society, and that has been more than a month ago. "But why me?" The pink-haired Shinigami asked, curious as to why the elder man would approach him of all people for such a task.
"Because I want him to test himself against someone who already posses plenty of experience in battle." Ginrei explained with a serene tone. "Those who have it that are competent enough are mostly Captains and Lieutenants, thus they have duties to uphold, so cannot be bothered."
The Dragon Slayer tilted his head to the side, still feeling somewhat reluctant. "Well, you seem to have a lot of free time yourself, so why don't you do it?"
"I believe that it would be far more beneficial for my grandson if he were to test his strength with someone other than myself. Training with me all the time would only end up hindering his progress. You are a warrior yourself, so I'm sure you understand what I'm trying to say." Natsu gave him a slow nod, seeing the man's point. "And since you both seem to be pretty close in age, I thought that it would be easier for you two to get along."
Natsu still didn't feel like doing this at all, but he could understand the reasoning behind the Captain's words. Well, might as well make use of the exercise. He knew that those who wished to get stronger needed to fight all sorts of powerful opponents to gain as much experience as they could. Only like that can someone truly achieve a new level of strength.
"Alright, I'll do it." Accepted the Dragon Slayer. "Where is he anyway?"
Ginrei, seemingly pleased by the pinkette's answer, gestured him to follow. "This way please." The Captain instructed with a wave of his hand before the two ventured into the manor.
Walking through multiple hallways, Natsu could see a lot of expensive looking furniture and decorations located at almost every corner. Nothing too overly exaggerated, but the aspect of the place itself was still enough to tell him that they must have a lot of currency at their disposal. Going pass another hallway and turning to the left, they reached what appeared to be a garden just outside the manor.
It was plain and simple. The grass had a lively shade of green, which was a clear sign of the care that it was given. A few trees were located here and there, but the garden was mostly composed of a large open space with tall walls surrounding it from every side. However, what draw his attention the most was the young boy with the long black hair, holding a wooden sword while working on his own technique.
"Looks like you are progressing quite well, Byakuya." Observed Ginrei, giving the young heir a look of approval.
"Grandfather?" Spoke Byakuya with a hint of surprise as he turned around. However, the emotion disappeared as soon as his eyes landed on the pink-haired boy standing next to his grandfather. "Who is this person?"
"He's a guest." Responded the Captain with a slight frown. "He's name is Natsu Dragneel, and I invited him so he can be your practice partner for the rest of the day, so treat him well."
"Practice partner?" Byakuya repeated in confusion, taken back by his decision. It was unusual for people outside the clan to be allowed passage inside the compound. He gave the pinkette a quick analytical look and frowned. "With all due respect grandfather, but isn't he a bit too young?"
"I assure you Byakuya, he is more than capable of standing up for himself." Ginrei stated before directing himself to Natsu. "I'll leave you to it."
"Guess there's no turning back then." The Dragon Slayer mumbled to nobody in particular before addressing the younger Kuchiki. "So, ready to go?"
Byakuya looked far from pleased with this decision, but resigned himself to do as he was told with a defeated sigh. "May as well get this over with."
CHAPTER END
A rather short chapter if I dare to say so myself, but I believe it is the best way to keep the story moving forward without taking too much time for updates to come. I also feel it is much easier for me to write less but update sooner. In the end, I believe it is a much more productive way to do things.
Anyway, I hope you guys enjoyed this chapter as much as I did writing it. I'm trying to put focus on Natsu's training and how he plans to progress in his own abilities as the story goes on. This includes the lost of his arm and potential replacement for it. I already have a plan for it, so I hope people doesn't take it in a bad way.
I have received a lot of criticism regarding his lack of arm and even mentioning that it would only end up making Natsu weaker, but I disagree on that aspect. Not because I don't believe that losing a limp doesn't affect him, but because I know where I'm taking this story and I already have a plan to make sure he overcomes his situation.
It sure will be interesting to see how a training session between Natsu and a much younger Byakuya will turn out in the next chapter. It will probably the last one before a mayor time-skip occurs. I also hope you guys like how I'm taking care of Natsu's relationship with Ukitake and Kyoraku, putting the in some very friendly terms where they even share a few drinks. Writing Shunsui has always been fun to do.
Any ideas and constructive criticism is more then welcomed, so please do and let me know your opinion of the overall story and how you feel. It sure helps a lot when thinking about what to do next.
Having said that, I wish you all a wonderful day!