In a matter of minutes, Ichigo and Nelliel had arrived at the jail in Squad 3.
"Rose! Kira!" Ichigo called desperately. "Are you here?"
"Ichigo!" Both replied a bit startled.
"Where's my old man?"
"We were questioning him just now... Not in a violent way! But... It doesn't look good" Roujuurou sighed painfully.
"What do you mean?" Kurosaki insisted.
"He doesn't remember anything" Izuru Kira spoke. "We tried to help him and all, but the last thing he remembers is following Captain Kurotsuchi somewhere"
"Captain Kurotsuchi? Wait, wasn't him the one that-"
"Has been declared dead? Yes" Rose completed the thought. "I know it's a bit quick, especially considering it's Mayuri but... We had no choice"
"What do you mean? Is there any evidence even?!" Ichigo became more and more enraged.
"Well... A single arm belonging to the Captain was found at the scene, showing clear burnt marks in both the arm and the clothes. It seems to have been a devastating attack" Kira had no choice but to inform him. "Since your dad was found passed out in front of the arm and the burn marks, in addition to the fact that it's a Captain we're talking about... *sigh* Everything points to him being the culprit. I'm sorry, Ichigo, really"
"Guys, c'mon! You can't be serious!" Kurosaki was yelling by now. "You know my Dad would never do such a thing! And remember, Aizen faked his own death before! You know this can't be all that simple!"
"We know, and that's why I sent my whole investigation squad to try to find any clues" Outoribashi said as he placed an arm in Ichigo's shoulder, trying to calm him down. "We're doing everything in our power, please understand"
"He's right, Ichigo" Nelliel joined as support. "I know you're upset, I am too... But you can't take it out on your friends who are doing all they can to try to clean up this mess"
"*sigh* You're right. Sorry, guys" He apologized. "It's just... This is just... Unbelievable..."
"Believe me, so it is to us. We know Mayuri can be painfully irritating as well as insufferably condescending but, that doesn't mean anyone would just snap and kill him, you know? Especially since it's Isshin we're talking about" Rose agreed.
"Is it possible for us to see him?" Nel inquired.
"Of course, no issue with that" Izuru smiled a bit, just before putting his hands in a prayer position. "But, please don't break him out. I beg of you"
"Don't worry, Kira, as much as I'd love to, that would bring far more problems than it would solve" Kurosaki admitted, though still saw the possibility as a last resort.
They didn't waste any more time and went straight to his cell.
Sitting on a mat as he reflexed over what had gone so terribly wrong, Isshin finally lit up a bit as he saw his son coming over.
"Ichigo! Nel-chan! I was hoping to see you today! Though definitely not like this... But that's just a detail at the end of the day"
"Dad, just... What the heck happened?" His son could only ask.
"*sigh* I wish I knew. All I remember is following Mayuri, you know, to see what he was up to or something of sorts... But everything after that seems hazy, to the point I can't remember anything at all"
"Could this be the effect of some Zanpakutou?" Nel theorized.
"It could, just as it couldn't" Isshin chuckled bitterly. "Someone could've hit me in the head hard enough and it'd have the same effect"
"But how can you not have at least a hint? An idea! A lead to who could've set you up?!" His firstborn lost his cool.
"I'm more than glad to hear your words of blind faith in me, Ichigo. However, without a single trail, I can't start pointing fingers at anyone" The Ex-Captain accepted with a stoic attitude. "For now, I can only hope that the trial doesn't sentence me to death or something"
"Trust me. While I'd really hate to ruin the relationship we've built so far with the Seireitei, if it's about you then-"
"Please don't, Ichigo" Isshin stopped him right away.
"What? Why not? You know I can handle it"
"It's not just about you anymore" He insisted.
"I wouldn't mind either!" Nelliel crossed her arms.
"I didn't mean that, my dear, though I really appreciate the gesture" He laughed. "What I meant is that you two have to take care of so much more than you two or your family now. The peace between the Hollow and Soul Societies is something worth incalculably more than this geezer's life"
"Then... I'll ask Urahara to do something! I know he will, Yoruichi too! They wouldn't just let you die!" Ichigo tried to convince him.
"At this point, I guess I just don't feel comfortable with others putting their lives at stake for me. Really, I know it won't be anything terrible, so try to understand" He smiled at them.
"You stubborn idiot!" Ichigo almost felt like crying when he saw his father accepting such fate with that ease. "Why won't you even try to stay alive? Have you forgotten that Karin and Yuzu are still kids?"
"Not for an instant, but I know they have a more than capable King brother in another dimension" He beamed at him. "So just promise me you'll be there for them, and it'll be more than enough for me to accept whatever the verdict may be..."
"Dammit...!" Ichigo cursed the inexplicable turn of events. "Is there nothing we can do to at least influence the Central?"
"Hm... We could try to talk to Kuchiki-san, right? And maybe get help from Yoruichi-san to get the Shihouin to support us" Nel came up with a couple ideas.
"Maybe, but it won't be enough if they can just cling onto a 'lack of evidence' sort of solution" Ichigo replied, immersed in thought. "Maybe if we somehow got full support of all Noble houses, that'd be enough"
"But that... That would mean talking to that unpleasant man" She remembered Tokinada.
"I know... Just by his aura I can tell that he'll probably try to take advantage of the situation, but I have no choice. I'll just have to meet his demands if that means the old man's life will be spared"
"I'm telling you I ain't worth whatever trouble you're already thinking of jumping into" His dad shook his head. "But I know you ain't the kind to give up at all, so all I can do is wish you the best of luck"
"Heh, that's more like it. Then, Nel, you go talk to Byakuya and Yoruichi. I'll go look for that shady guy and try to convince him"
"Leave it to me!" She accepted energically. "See you soon, Otousan!"
"These kids don't ever change, do they?" Isshin sighed.
A couple minutes afterwards...
"So... Where might the Tsunayashiro State be...?" Ichigo was already looking for directions.
"Ichigooo!" A familiar voice he didn't expect reached out to him.
"G-Ganju? What's wrong? You look like you just ran a marathon"
"Cause I did! *pant* *pant* I was looking for anyone who could help me, *pant* but everyone seems so busy for some reason..."
"That would be my dad's fault, most likely" He thought. "I see... So, what's wrong?"
"It's my sister! A sketchy guy just came out of nowhere and proposed to her!"
"Sketchy guy?! No... It must be a coincidence... It can't possibly be-"
Arriving at the Shiba Estate!
"So... What do you say?" Tokinada said after explaining a detailed offer to Kuukaku. "Of course, I wouldn't mind lending my support during the trial if you decline, but the only possible way we can get a full acquittal under these circumstances would be if Shiba Isshin was a noble of the highest status himself"
"There he is! Say something, Ichigo!" Ganju begged.
"Tsunayashiro Tokinada" The most dreadful possibility was actually a reality. "What are you doing here?"
"My, I didn't expect to reunite so soon with the King of Hueco Mundo, but I guess it isn't all that rare considering you're also part of the Shiba House" The nobleman commented. "Anyways, to answer your question, I've decided to formally ask Kuukaku-san to marry me"
"You've got some nerve saying that without a hint of shame on your face" Ganju pointed a finger at him.
"Please, it's simply political. Basically, I would be able to restore the status once taken away from the Shiba, while increasing the Tsunayashiro's influence" He shrugged condescendingly. "Though I would lie if I said I'm not interested in Shiba Kuukaku as a partner. As I said earlier, you rarely find such a formidable woman, so I think it's a golden opportunity"
"YOU-"
"Enough, Ganju. It's okay" Kuukaku shut him up.
"But Sis!"
"I said ENOUGH!" She yelled. "We already discussed it plenty, and while I wasn't uncomfortable like this, it has come to light that our family can't stay this way any longer. If we do so, Isshin will pay the price in the short run and well, who knows if another Shiba ends up in trouble in the future?" She shrugged. "Like he stated, this would be all political in the end, so don't make such a big deal out of it"
She sounded so accepting of such madness Ichigo just had to interfere.
"Hey, Kuukaku... I get that you're trying to save my dad above all else, but is this the only way? I mean, if it's about status, there might be something you can do to-"
"There is none. This is the only way the Shiba can even TRY to be recognized as one of the main Noble Houses once again" She quickly cut him short. "Besides... It was only a matter of time before this day came. As current head of the Shiba, it's my responsibility to do what's better for the House as a whole, and although I'll be married, that doesn't mean the fun ends. Tsunayashiro-san seems rather carefree himself"
"Hahah, that's a funny way of saying it, but you're correct. I ask nothing more aside from your cooperation with this union. You're more than free to do your bidding afterwards, for as long as it doesn't deteriorate our public image of course, but a woman of your class would never fall so low anyways..."
"You heard him. So please... No need to worry" She smiled sadly at them. "Just... Don't tell Yoruichi, please. She'd rather kill me than see me go through with this"
"Sis..." Ganju clenched his fist.
"Don't worry, my future brother-in-law, I'll take good care of her. You can count on that" Tokinada said in a distasteful tone.
"If you dare do anything to my sister...! I'll make sure you wish you were in Hell" Ganju declared with a death glare.
"You can count on that" Ichigo added. "And if needed, I'll drag you down there myself. I know a guy who can take care of giving you a full course of Eternal Soul Torture down there" He remembered Arikado.
"No need for threats, gentlemen. I am a man of my word. If I said I'll take care of her, you can take that for granted" Tokinada reassured, but his twisted thoughts went somewhere else. "I'll take care... Of staining Shiba Kuukaku until her heart is dyed pitch black just like mine"
~~~~X~~~~
At the Wandenreich, Throne Room...
"Arctopus, right on time" Haschwalt spoke.
Atticus and Daxx entered, ready to show the fruits of their work.
"But of course. After all, here I bring you Sternritter candidate J - 'The Judgement', ready to show you what he's made of"
"There's no issue with Haschwalt testing him, is there?" Yhwach inquired.
"Of course not, your Majesty!" Dârstor exclaimed as he knelt. "It'd be an honor to face your right-hand man"
"Very well then. Without any more delay, stand up and show me" The monarch ordered.
"Yes!" Daxx accepted, getting back up and taking a battle stance.
Jugram took a short breath, only to parry right away with his sword at the other Quincy.
It took all of Dârstor's concentration to block his quick attacks, but still felt assured knowing he was able to withstand the first assault.
With that done, he was ready to fight back, using his long lance of the Jagdarmee in a extremely skill manner, not only attempting to land a deadly blow on Haschwalt, but also targetting the Freund Shield the Sternritter had.
At first, Jugram was able to see through the barrage of stabs, but at some point his mind felt somewhat slow in contrast to his movements, not coordinating completely.
"What is this weird feeling?" He thought, worried about the strange dissociation between his brain and his body.
But before he could continue wondering, one of the stabs came at an angle, throwing the Shield away.
"It's over!" Daxx exclaimed, ready to deal the final blow.
Haschwalt however, had way more combat experience than Dârstor, so he was far from defeated yet.
The decisive stab that the Jagdarmee Lieutenant directed was deflected in the last second by Jugram's Broadsword, followed by a full-fledged counterattack from the blonde.
"You're delusional if you think that's enough to defeat me" The Grandmaster spoke as he clashed his sword against Daxx's lance.
"Well, I wouldn't be so thrilled to fight you if that was the case" Dârstor admitted.
In an instant, both took a step back to change the aim of their respective attacks, but only Daxx was able to move as intended.
Somehow, Jugram found his mind in blank as soon as he had moved backwards.
"What... Was I doing?" He inquired to himself, only to be met with a full frontal assault.
Dârstor's lance seemed to have multiplied due to the speed at which he attacked, making an ordeal out of the task to evade such an offensive.
Haschwalt's reflexes were good enough to save him from fatal wounds, but for a long time he had never received as much as a scratch, until now.
As a single blow landed on his stomach, Yhwach halted the encounter.
"Stop!" He raised his hand. "I've seen enough"
Atticus picked Jugo's shield and tossed it to Daxx as he said:
"Don't worry, just give him this and he'll recover"
"I know, but thanks" Dârstor retorted as he received it. "Here you go, Grandmaster Haschwalt"
Jugram chuckled bitterly.
"Thank you, but no need to treat me with such formality" He replied as he used the Freund Shield to restore his health with his Schrift. "I can tell by his Majesty's look... You're a Sternritter now"
"Before rushing into the verdict, I will state my opinion" The Father of all Quincies dictated. "I am indeed impressed by how well you designed such a skill, Arctopus, and I must congratulate Mr. Dârstor for making the most out of it with his combat skills"
"I'm not deserving of such praise, your Majesty" Daxx bowed.
"Thank you, Majesty!" Atticus just smiled broadly at him.
"The word 'Judgement' is quite heavy, and I'm glad to see you used the most convenient meaning for the Schrift in its basic state" Yhwach continued. "When facing outstanding opponents, tampering with their judgement is one of the keys to victory. As much as an experienced warrior may have certain involuntary reactions, they're still bound by thought and the strategy required for battle, so they're meant to suffer when facing this ability"
"It is a fearsome power indeed" Haschwalt commented. "Enemies that don't expect such kind of mental assault will most likely be defeated before they even rationalize what's going on"
"So, without any more delay, I bestow upon you the position of Sternritter J - 'The Judgement', as well as the promotion to Captain of the Jagdarmee" The King declared. "You will be given your new uniform by tomorrow noon"
"Thank you so much, your Majesty. I will not fail you" Dârstor vowed.
"And that only leaves... Mr. Arctopus" Yhwach gave him a penetrating look. "You're a man to be feared"
"What an odd choice of words, Majesty" Atticus chuckled nervously.
"Don't take me wrong however" He quickly added. "I don't feel threatened by you. I'm just wary of you"
"Would you mind elaborating on that?"
"We are not so different. You give power, I give power... And we both benefit from that exchange" Yhwach gave him a sly expression.
"Not gonna deny that"
"But I think the crucial part, is our intellect" He trimmed his mustache for a moment. "You see, you don't see someone with such insight often. You're brilliant, Arctopus. Every objective proposed, every task we give you, everything is always carried out impeccably, no matter how complex"
"I'm flattered, Majesty, but I don't think so highly of myself, haha..."
"Well, I do, which is why I can't help but recognize the danger in you. You're WAY too capable" He concluded. "So I'm glad to know that we're on the same side, and I hope it remains that way"
"Heh, so is this some sort of threat?" Atticus chuckled.
"You can take it any way you prefer, but all things considered, I think you ultimately know what's best for you and your dear Thunderbolt"
"Of course, I've got no doubts about that" He simply accepted. "So... What will my pay be?"
"All things considered, I don't think you're looking forward to a residence of your own, at least at the moment"
"That's pretty much correct"
"So... I was thinking of just transferring you a large sum of money that was equivalent to that" Yhwach decided. "And, since your partner got a special gift in addition, I thought you'd be up for something like... I don't know... Maybe a handcrafted guitar with your desired specifications?"
"Nothing would make me happier!" His eyes were shining like stars.
"I'll make the proper arrangements in that case. Gentlemen, you are dismissed" The regent finally concluded. "But before you leave let me tell you: I don't want you slacking off with your training. Soon, we will start moving..."
"Understood, your Majesty!" Dârstor made a military salute.
"Got it" Atticus nodded his head at him and left right away.
Once outside, Daxx couldn't help but ask his acquaintance:
"Arctopus... Have you really considered-"
"Not in a million years" He quickly interrupted him so that he couldn't finish the question in the open. "For that man is way beyond what you and I comprehend"
"Phew... That puts me somewhat at ease" Dârstor said relieved.
"Anyways, it's been a while since I've experienced a common man's day, so while my girl's at the spa, I'll enjoy this time of recreation to have some fun in the world of the living. Be seeing ya!"
"Wait! You're a Sternritter, they can't possibly let you leave at this moment just like that!"
"And that's why I'm not asking anyone" He grinned as his hand slipped into a dark void. "I'll just... Be back soon"
Daxx gulped as he saw the shining purple eyes of the End disappear into the darkness.
"But that's a...! It can't be...!"
Meanwhile, at the Kaiser Spa...
After a day at the pool with Bambietta, Candice had decided to finally open up about her past with her best friend.
The two were relaxing in some lounge chairs by said pool, the first wearing a bikini of lime stripes, with a white and green squares pattern, while the latter was wearing a similar piece but with purple stripes and spots.
"So... I feel somewhat uneasy about yesterday" Catnipp started.
"About what?" Basterbine looked puzzled.
"Well... 'bout you being the only one opening up"
"Hah, so you finally trust me that much?" She chuckled. "Was about time"
"Can we not start this 'I always knew' shit you always pull, please? I'm being serious here"
"Ok, sorry. I'm all ears" She finally apologized.
After the long confession, some tears and hugs here and there, the two friends finally got over the most difficult part.
"I... I'm sorry I never told you before" Candice sobbed.
"It's okay. I can imagine why you didn't feel all that safe doing so, and that's on me" Bambi accepted. "More importantly, does Atticus...?"
"Yeah. I told him first, actually. Probably that was what brought us so close in the first place" She blushed a bit.
"He sounds a lot more caring than he seems, to tell the truth"
"You don't even imagine. He's wayyy more sensitive than he normally looks, but I like that about him" The Thunderbolt confessed. "In some way... It makes me feel like I'm the only one meant to see that side of him. To support him when no one else can... It really strengthens this deep bond that formed between us, which is why I also feel really damn bothered when you oversimplify it as a transient thing"
"I'm sorry about that... But I just want to be realistic, and for you to be prepared if someday, somehow, it just ends" The Explode explained. "But in all honesty, I'm rooting for you two, and I hope that won't ever be the case"
"Thank you, Bambi. It's moments like this when I... When I can surely say you're my best friend through and through" She said in a corny yet honest manner as they hugged each other.
"No need to say it twice. I feel the same, Candi" Basterbine retorted as they let go. "But, going back to your mommy issues... Is she alive? Like, sorry for making such a question, but that doubt rose in me when I heard your story"
"*sigh* For better or worse... She is" Catnipp confessed. "She's at the Sanitarium, beyond any recovery through conventional means though"
"I can imagine why... And I don't mean you! I mean that silly head of hers!" Bambietta quickly added just to make sure.
"Yeah, I got what you meant" The green-haired chuckled bitterly.
"So, you ever visit her or something?"
"For my own mental health, I should say no..." She sighed with a heavy weight on her chest. "But one way or another, she's my mum so... That's that"
"I see... Well, I guess it's not that often anyway"
"Yeah, it's not. Probably twice or thrice a year at most. And now that you mention it, I should probably pay her a visit soon"
"You feel like taking Atticus with you?"
"Not really, although it'd be a fascinating experiment" She said with a strange mixture of scorn and pain. "Like, how would she react? Probably, she'd be so stubborn to see me as Austin she'd yell some stupid incoherence like I'm gay or somethin', rite?"
"Sorry, I wouldn't know..." Basterbine shrugged.
"Right... But anyways, I just wanted to be fair and, you know, make sure we're even with our childhood traumas and stuff" She finally concluded while crossing her arms.
"Sure, and I'm really glad you were, Candi. Now I feel like I understand you a lot better"
"If you do, then please be more careful with your teases from now on, cause you have no excuse"
"Sure, sure... Although I can't promise anything!" Bambietta quickly retorted.
"Then I can't promise not to harm you in response" Candice grinned aggressively as she produced green electricity on her left hand. "You get that, right?"
"Of course I do. Where would be the fun otherwise?" Bambietta threw a tiny speck of Reishi at the large pool, splashing a ton of water that almost fell where they were seating.
"You'll be regretting it when it finally happens, trust me" She ignored the threat and just picked up her glasses to read a magazine.
~~~~X~~~~
"Ungh... W-What the-" A certain Captain opened his eyes.
"So you're finally up, Kurotsuchi Mayuri" A man said uninterested.
"Inaba!" The mad scientist spouted with rage. "You little shit..."
"Insult me all you want, I couldn't care less" Kagerouza resumed his activities. "As you can see, I made a special tank for the sole purpose of imprisoning you, thus it's meant to counter any sort of trick you might have up your sleeve"
"Is that so?"
"Surely. If I learned anything from you, it was to be ready for any sort of development, from the A to the Z"
"We shall see about that" Kurotsuchi threatened. "The instant you take your eyes off me, I'll escape this puny tank of yours and smash you into pieces only to reassemble you back at the lab for a sempiternal cycle of torture. You'll be nothing but a lab rat for only the most painful and agonizing experiments, for the rest of your life!"
"Oh, I'm ecstatic" Inaba mocked. "But anyways, I hope you're done with your little threats and whining, cause I have work to do"
"Tch..." Mayuri clicked his tongue, but afterwards decided to take a careful look at the lab surrounding him. "I see you're still working on those candies of yours. So what are you planning to do this time? Try another round of Reigai Shinigami officers? Or maybe make an army of Reigai copies from me?"
"I'm afraid those ideas do not only lack creativity, but also fail to satiate my thirst for knowledge" Kagerouza replied scornfully. "As a scientist myself, I believe one can only grow by constantly challenging himself"
"Ho? So are you saying you're capable of something more sophisticated?"
"You have no idea" He smiled evilly.
~~~~X~~~~
Hueco Mundo, Laboratory.
"Cien, we're back" Ulquiorra spoke as he and the other two Espada entered the scientist's facility.
"Magnificent. What did you find?" He stopped his work to make time for them.
"Not much to tell the truth. Quincy caps, a couple lances, and typical camping residue" Lilynette sighed disappointed.
"What was truly interesting though, was the sight of what seems to have been a fierce battle in plain Blackwater Park" Ulquiorra revealed.
"Aum. That was surely unexpected. It didn't look like they fought another Arrancar but... One of their own instead" Satya added.
"A coup d'état? Could it be?" Granz wondered. "Hm... Or maybe some people amongst those Quincy have their own shady agendas. There are many possibilities"
"Whatever it is, there's no use thinking about it now. I need to talk to Grimmjow and Harribel soon though. In addition to beating these two with ease, the destruction level was dangerously high, so I'm forced to assume that the enemy is incredibly powerful" Cifer concluded.
"H-He only beat me!" Satya quickly corrected. "Aum... If it wasn't for me, Lily-nee could've-"
"It's ok, Satya" She interrupted him softly. "We don't know what would've happened, but I can say for sure that I couldn't have made it on my own, so don't push yourself down any longer, ok?"
"Aum..." He slowly nodded.
"So anyways... Leave whatever you found here. I'll make sure to run all possible tests in hopes of finding something new that may be of use" Cien finally said, not caring the least about the others' dilemma. "I'm really busy so, if you could leave right away it'd be fantastic... Unless one of you is up for a fight, heh"
"No. There's nothing more for us to do here" Ulquiorra denied and then looked at the expeditioners. "I'll go find the others, you two can go and rest. You've done enough"
"Thanks, Ulquiorra" Gingerbuck said as she took Satya by the hand. "Let's go, Satya!"
"A-Aum..." He blushed a bit, still feeling awkward by how touchy she could be.
"*sigh* A pity..." Cien said with a sad tone.
~~~~X~~~~
Dangai loop, time unknown...
Aura had been heavily training with Tatsuki ever since the other day, making use of the Precipice World (courtesy of shady allies) in order to develop her powers faster.
"Shikai: Shugoken-dou!" Tatsuki exclaimed as she released her blade, turning the generic Asauchi into a wooden Japanese sword.
A small group of Precipice monsters surrounded her and Aura.
"Arisawa-san, you know what to do" The young woman softly spoke.
"Yes!" She said as she readied the blade.
Quickly, she hit one of the monsters 3 times.
On the tip of the blade, a 三 Kanji appeared, indicating the number of hits. Quickly, she attacked another monster, who received a deadly four strike combo.
The 三 was replaced by a 四 kanji.
Aura on her part, used her Fullbringer powers to distort the "soul" of the air around her, creating dark waves of Reishi that destroyed the monsters.
With those abilities, the creatures were soon decimated, leaving the two girls to rest.
"I see you now handle your Shikai perfectly" Michibane commented.
"Yeah. I was a bit disappointed when I first saw it was a simple wooden Katana, but now I'm amazed by how powerful its ability is" Arisawa replied. "Literally, all I have to do is get a combo of as many hits as possible, and afterwards each hit deals as many times of damage as the number achieved in said combo... Like, how cool is that?"
"I'm glad you developed a skill that contents your heart, but then again, it's only natural"
"What do you mean?"
"A Shinigami's release is a reflection of their self. Your passions, your motivations to fight, your personality... All of that is embodied in the appearance and skill of your Shikai and, eventually, Bankai"
"I see. In that case, it isn't all that different from Fullbring, is it? I mean, you guys get your abilities from attachment to a certain object, right?"
"You could say that" Aura vaguely retorted.
"Which reminds me... What is your special object? Like, what can possibly make you intangible?" Tatsuki wondered.
"And what if I told you I don't have any sort of attachment?" The woman smiled in a sly manner.
"I wouldn't believe you" Arisawa countered rashly. "Everyone feels attached to, well, something! I guess...?"
"Fufufu... You're right, right" Aura laughed. "Most people are like that, are they not? I just turned out to be a freak"
"Wait. You weren't lying?"
"What good would that do? Believe it or not I was being honest" She shrugged. "Maybe... It's my lack of attachment what make all my feats possible in the first place"
"But... I don't get it" Tatsuki became worried. "What kind of life did you have to end up this way?"
"Nothing special I'd say" Michibane was unappeased. "Just a life so empty and uneventful nothing ever really caught my interest. That's all there is to it"
"I... I'm sorry. I didn't mean to ask something so personal" Arisawa apologized.
"It's alright. I don't mind talking about it" The Fullbringer simply retorted. "After all, it's not like I experienced anything harsh or traumatizing. I literally experienced nothing, think nothing of it and feel nothing when remember it"
Anyone else saying such words would've seemed like a terrible liar in Tatsuki's eyes, but Aura was so calm and composed as she did, she couldn't help but believe the unbelievable.
"Aura-san..." Tatsuki almost broke in tears as she realized the seriousness of that statement. "Please... Don't ever say something so bleak again. While you might be an odd person, you're still wonderful in your own way! Your life isn't meaningless!"
"I... Really don't know how I could be considered 'wonderful' in your eyes, or anyone's"
"For starters... You showed me I could do more than just watch from the sidelines. You showed me that, if I worked hard enough, I could be a hero too! That alone means so much to me... It hurts hearing you say something so lonely and hollow"
"Really? I'm sorry if that is case" She shrugged helplessly. "I'm not the best at understanding others, let alone myself. For me, the world has more or less been the same ever since I can remember"
"You really have nothing you can cherish? No object? No memory? Not even someone?"
"My mother died after giving birth to me and my father was a bit overprotective, so I didn't really know anything aside from the basement where I lived" She said with the same unchanging expression. "But I do cherish these powers a lot. Even if I might not have an actual attachment, the Fullbring abilities I was born with are definitely a source of pride I have"
"At least you see a silver lining" Tatsuki seemed a bit relieved. "But maybe... Maybe I can help you"
"Huh?"
"You know, since you went so far as to make me a Soul Reaper without anything in exchange... I thought I could help you find something you can love especially, like the other Fullbringers"
"You really think that is possible? After all these years?" Aura looked at her with a hint of pity.
"We don't lose anything by trying"
"Foolish girl... Can she really not see I'm just using her? Or is it that her heart's so pure she's unable to even doubt when extending her hand to a stranger? Whatever it is, it's not something the likes of me can comprehend, but I'm interested to see how far she's willing to go nevertheless" Aura thought maliciously, and yet quite intrigued by Tatsuki's attitude. "If you insist... Then I won't stop you. But I warned you, it's futile"
"I'll show you it's not, and when you find that passion, you won't be able to find words to thank me"
"We shall see... Now, let's get back to training"
"Sure! I can still fight!"
Later that day, in Kagerouza's Lab...
Aura entered through a special Senkaimon her faction had designed.
"Michibane-san. How have things been going on your end?"
"Rather smoothly to tell the truth. In fact, I was going to report to Tokinada-sama. Have you seen him?"
"Only this morning. He's been busy the rest of the day"
"I see. When you see him just say everything's going according to plan"
"Surely"
"Although..." Aura stopped for a moment.
"Is something the matter?"
"Hm... I think something occurred to me" She seemed thoughtful. "But I don't know if you could pull it off"
"The mere sense of doubt insults me" Inaba chuckled. "What do you have in mind?"
"Arisawa Tatsuki is not a Fullbringer. I could tell at a first glance" She smiled maliciously. "So I thought... Would it be possible to make her into one... Artificially?"
"Hoho... That's an interesting hypothesis" Kagerouza couldn't help but feel excited. "Maybe, just maybe... If we inserted a Hollow element inside her human soul... Then it might just be possible"
"You know I can do it easily" Aura reminded. "You just give me one of those candies with pure Hollow Reiatsu... And I'll do the rest"
"You know though... There's pretty much a 95% chance something else happens" The Scientist retorted. "We literally don't know what would happen to a healthy Human soul if it came in contact with a Hollow element. Hollowfication? Death? Illness? Corruption of some sorts? There's a myriad of possibilities"
"I know" Aura clarified. "But that's what makes it so fun. It's unpredictable"
~~~~X~~~~
Shiba Estate, Dusk...
Karin had just arrived from her practice with Yoruichi, having seen some agitation in the streets of the Gotei, but not knowing the root cause.
As she walked through the door, she crossed paths with a man who reeked of evil.
"Hello, there. Judging from your appearance you must be the daughter of Shiba Isshin" Tokinada told her. "I didn't know you had come here"
"Um... Excuse me, but who are you? And why do you know about my dad?"
"Sorry, you're right. I'm Tsunayashiro Tokinada, head of one of the 4 founder Noble Clans. As to why I know your father? Well, he's one of the strongest Soul Reapers of his era, so that makes him quite the celebrity here in the Seireitei"
"I see... And what are you doing here?" She couldn't help but question the presence of such a shady individual.
"It's alright, Karin" Kuukaku interrupted. "He's leaving now"
"Have a good night, you two" The nobleman simply bid them farewell as he made his exit.
After that, Kuukaku did her best to pretend everything was alright:
"So, how did your training go? Learned anything new?"
"Well, I've managed to polish the basic Soul Reaper skills more or less... But it still seems like a long way to be nearly as tough as Nii-san was when he became Substitute Shinigami" Karin admitted.
"Heheh, you gotta be dreamin' if you think you can just get that strong in a couple of days" She lit up her pipe and had a smoke. "Ichigo is one of the strongest Soul Reapers to have existed. Calling him a living legend wouldn't be an exaggeration, but don't tell him I said that. He might be king, but he's still a thousand years too young to hear such level of praise from me"
"Ha, got it" She smiled.
"By the way, where's Yoruichi? I figured she'd be returning along with you"
"Oh, she told me there was some stuff she had to do"
"Did she? I see" Kuukaku just smiled innocently, but couldn't push aside the thought of Yoruichi looking into the mysterious circumstances of Shiba Isshin's crime. "By now it's impossible for her not to know about that... But at least that will keep her away from knowing of my engagement with that dangerous nobleman"
"Well, I'll be going to my room. Call me when dad arrives"
"S-Sure..." She helplessly stuttered at such a mention.
Almost on cue, an unexpected visitor was at her doorstep.
"Shiba-san home?" It was a certain flirty Captain.
"Kyouraku Shunsui. What might bring you here at this time?" She exhaled the smoke.
"While I could come just to show my sincere worries over an old friend like Isshin... This is a more worrying matter in my opinion" He looked frighteningly serious.
"Lemme guess... It's about Tsunayashiro Tokinada"
"Always the sharp woman, Kuukaku" He paid the compliment. "Thing is, I saw him talking to you at the arena, so... I couldn't help but wonder if he played a part in all this mess. He's the kind of guy to obsess over the most casual encounters"
"Well, to be honest, he does seem to be plotting shady schemes constantly, but over that single encounter I couldn't really find a hint of him acting, and believe me, I considered it" She knew that kind all to well to be so naïve. "Through and through, he just seems like the worst kind of opportunist there can be, but how could he possibly pull one on Isshin? It simply doesn't add up"
"You're half right about that" He digressed. "While it's true that his Reiatsu is hardly on par with that of Isshin, he still could amount to be a Captain, if he actually tried"
"You appear to know him very well"
"We were at the Soul Reaper Academy during the same period"
"Really? Wow, he seems to have aged way better than you" She teased him. "But seriously, what do you know about him?"
"That... is a difficult question to answer" He admitted bitterly. "What is known about Tokinada is hazy and inconsistent. At the academy, he hardly ever excelled in anything, but to the point that it was even suspicious. As if... He was constantly trying to hide his true ability, especially as a strategist.
I mean that cause, there were some... Incidents, during our time in the Academy, but he never appeared as the culprit, or even a related perpetrator, but he was always there. He just, seemed to be in the center of most chaos and misfit during that time.
But... There was this one exception"
"Hm?" She became interested.
"Long after we graduated, word has it he had gotten married to a woman outside of nobility and from the Rukongai nonetheless. Suspicious much, right? But apparently there wasn't anything wrong, at least on plain sight.
Supposedly so, this woman ended up committing adultery with a Shinigami, and after a heated discussion with Tokinada, who discovered them, things got violent between them. As a result, Tsunayashiro killed the man and, by 'accident', fatally wounded his own wife"
"So you say it's highly likely this is a complete lie fabricated by him and supported by his family to avoid being dishonored, or worse, demoted" Kuukaku easily deduced it.
"Bingo. And while there was not enough proof to prove him guilty, his Zanpakutou was sealed away as a preventive measure" He looked her straight in the eye to conclude: "But not even that could prevent the death of the whole main branch of the Tsunayashiro, excluding him. With or without Zanpakutou, mark my words when I tell you Kuukaku-san: he is probably the most dangerous person to walk freely along the streets of the Gotei, now that Aizen is imprisoned that is"
"Oof... Coming from you, that means a lot" She couldn't avoid getting worried if someone as carefree as Shunsui went out of his way because of it, but with the whole family crisis, she didn't see another way out. "Thanks for the info. I'll... Be careful, I guess"
"Good. And, if by some chance, you see or hear something about him, anything that might prove he's got his hands on this mess, please inform me as soon as possible"
"Got it" She nodded. "In return, whatever you find that could help Isshin, please do. The last thing I'd like to see is that guy being the debut execution of the new Soukyoku"
"You can count on me" He accepted. "Take care, and be seeing ya"
"Same to you"
Without a moment to waste, Kyouraku left the Shiba Estate, leaving Kuukaku alone to evaluate her options.
"*sigh* I knew Yoruichi was right, but I'm at a stalemate right now. If anything... I can try and be useful while assuring that idiot cousin won't be killed"
~~~~X~~~~
Meninas's house, night...
"I'm here, Meni!" Liltotto said as she entered.
"Lili! I was worried you would not come" McAllon was gladly surprised.
"I just... Took a bit longer on an errand I had before" She instinctively cleaned her mouth of a couple crumbs remaining from a previous feast. "I hope you didn't wait too long"
"I think it was half an hour, but I became a bit anxious since Gigi called to cancel"
"Ah, I see... Welp, more food for us, right?" She chuckled. "And besides, I can do without the insidious remarks"
"Yeah... Sometimes it can be rather bothersome" Meninas agreed. "Have a seat then, I'll bring the food right away"
"Yes, ma'am"
In no time, the pink-haired Sternritter brought the food she had prepared for the evening.
"Oooh! A homemade meal of Scottish delicacies!" Lamperd instantly drooled.
"Y-Yes... I've been doing my best to improve my cooking lately, and I figured some family recipes would be the best way to start"
"*munch* *munch* Trgly gwnderfl" She said with her mouth full. "*swallow* You know, if I was a guy, I'd totally fall in love with you the instant I tasted this"
"F-For real? You really mean it?" She blushed.
"Well, I might not be the most objective one, since I AM a glutton, but most capable men have a great appetite" She said in a convincing manner. "When they're fully corporeal at least..."
"Huh?"
"Nothing. Just talking nonsense ahaha..." She quickly retorted. "So... Let's not lie to ourselves here. I know just by taste when a meal is made with love"
"Ah, well... I just, you know... I wanted to prepare delicious dishes for my dear friends!"
"Hm... No. I've tasted that before, but this time it's different, Meni" Lili could read her like a book. "Who's in your mind?"
"What...? I only..." She kept smiling, fork in hand, but at some point all she could do was sigh while putting it aside: "Is it that obvious?"
"To me, at least" She remarked. "Maybe not so for the rest of the group, but who knows?"
"Shucks... I was really hoping cooking this would help me leave that feeling behind. You know, like imprinting it into the food, and cast it away..." She looked quite troubled. "Guess it doesn't work that way"
"Of course it doesn't, but what's the deal? If you like a guy just come forward and ask him out. Girls these days need to take the initiative, you know? And you don't only have the best proportions of our group, but also... I think you're the cutest, Meni, in appearance and heart"
"That can't be true... Not when I feel something so wrong"
"What's wrong about it? Wait, don't tell me you like girls... In which case I wouldn't judge you, but-"
"It's not that" McAllon quickly denied. "It's just... I like a guy I'm not supposed to like"
"I see" She replied in an understanding tone. "In that case... Would talking about my own situation make you feel better?"
"You... Like someone, Lili?"
"Oi, no need to be so surprised *munch*" She frowned. "It's kinda rude"
"Sorry, I didn't expect it"
"But anyways, yeah. He's... Something of an oddball. But he's really smart, creative and kind when you get on his good side"
"I see... Then what's the problem with that?"
"As it turns out, he... He isn't precisely, or well, entirely... Physical"
"D-Don't tell me you fell in love with a fictional character!" Meninas became flustered.
"No! It's not like that! Geez..." Liltotto shook her head. "He... He's a very particular Sternritter, let's leave it at that"
"Oh, so he must be real then"
"If he wasn't I wouldn't be so serious about this" She sighed. "But whatever, I haven't described the problem yet"
"No?"
"The issue is that, I don't care that his self I know isn't real in all the sense of the word. I like him because of who he is, but he still has trouble accepting that... So he's always scared to go any further with me, but I know that what we have is something special"
"Oh... That sounds really sad, Lili. I hope he changes his mind soon, that way you two will be a lot happier, right?"
"I firmly believe so" She smiled in a sad manner. "But enough about me, now it's your turn"
"Ah... Well... It isn't all that complicated, to tell the truth" She avoided eye contact with her friend. "Basically... I think I like someone that one of my friends likes, or at least I'm really sure she does, cause she's really adamant on showing she doesn't, but in the end-"
"*sigh* So you like Atticus"
"H-H-H-HOW???" She got beet red as she was found out.
"Please, Meni. We both know who's the only one that fits that description. You should've been less specific if you didn't want to state the obvious"
"You won't be telling Candi, right? She would kill me!"
"Of course not. This is a secret conversation, just the two of us. Nothing gets out of here, trust me" Lamperd assured.
"Okay"
"But I'm curious about that. Since when?"
"I'm... Not sure. But I think it was something that grew in time" She was fidgeting. "Back when he had just arrived, Candi was unwilling to even speak with him for some reason, which is why I tried to accompany him from time to time so that he wouldn't feel lonely.
We did things like, go to the supermarket, or have an after-work dessert, and that way I got to know him better. He was really polite, strange but funny, and really determined on his goals, so I thought he was a cool person.
Then, as time passed, I also got to discover his many talents, like cooking and playing the guitar, which made him more appealing, at least for me"
"He is undoubtedly talented... But he's also rather troublesome in my eyes"
"He... Definitely isn't a normal person" McAllon agreed. "Sometimes, I feel like he's even out of reach, emotionally speaking. As if he was an alien even"
"He's a foreigner, that's for sure. A stranger that comes from nowhere, which reminds me... To this day we don't know exactly what he is or where he came from"
"Yeah... It's all quite... Mysterious"
"But even knowing all that... You like him" Liltotto confirmed.
"At the very least I've got a crush on him, yes... And I wish I didn't" Meninas pouted.
"Well... I guess all you can do is wait and see" Lamperd drank a full mug of beer in one shot. "Hah... If even after seeing Candi with him, all lovey dovey doing their stuff (which we will soon see, cause we both know where that's heading) you STILL feel something... Then I guess you have to worry"
"Oh, I am worried as of now, no need to wait"
"But honestly, Meni, I think you need to understand what you're dealing with first of all" Lili insisted. "As someone who likes a strange character myself... Take it from me"
Back in the world of the living...
"Ha... Just like I thought. These regenerative powers made this a piece of cake" Atticus played with a tongue piercing on his teeth. "Can't wait to see Candi's reaction though..."
He opened a Garganta.
"Welp, guess all I can do is wait for her at home, right?"
As he left, a pair of Fullbringers got the shivers.
"Tsukishima... That wasn't an Arrancar... Was he?" Ginjou asked.
"Certainly not. But that ability is unique to them, I know it is"
"Heh, I guess there are still some dangerous fellas out there" Kuugo admitted bitterly. "Maybe... We should accept that woman's proposal after all"
"That Michibane girl?"
"She seems to have an interesting party backing her up"
"Interesting... And shady as heck"
"True. But this world is slowly moving towards an all-out war. I can feel it" The leader's eyes shined brightly. "It might be the chance I've been looking for"
"Will that be enough to make the Gotei fall?" Shuukurou wondered.
"Nothing is carved in stone... But I saw his badge. And with people like that guy working towards the end of the Seireitei, I don't need any more proof to move forward"
Welp, once again, I took an eternity writing, but honestly there was no choice.
I'm currently coursing my last Uni years, and while the courses aren't all difficult, they are all REALLY time-consuming. In addition to that, I'm an assistant for the Marketing courses, so I get to teach younger students as well as receive a nice pay for a student.
Worry not, that this time of hiatus isn't merely inverted in other activities, but also serves as a source of inspiration and new ideas for this story, so no matter how long I take, I'm not dropping this and I'm still trying my best to deliver a top notch fic.
In other EPIC news, Kubo confirmed that the Anime of TYBW will fix mistakes from the Manga (due to the SHOUNEN JUMP always rushing him), so we're likely in for a lot of new stuff.
Without any further ado, much regards and...
Evhron out.
Atticus plugs in his guitar and shreds the Hell out of it until a drop of sweat falls to the ground.
"So! Here we are again for some Sternritter ABC, now with a little something in my tongue to mess with while I play crazy solos (don't tell Candi tho, it's a surprise).
But anyways, the list continues, so here come the letters for today:
F - The Fear: "All These Feelings" by Vildhjarta
"Cause nothing is a better example of scary guitar riffs than Thall. Good thing I got a seven string"
E - The Explode: "Bombgnasher" by Frontierer
"Not only explosive, but really fitting a certain Femritter's character... Heavy shit right there"
D - The Deathdealing: "Gift Of Death" by iwrestledabearonce
"GIFT OF DEATH!!!" He growls as he inevitably fails to hide his thrill to finally play this one.
C - The Compulsory: "The Art Of Shapeshifting" by Amogh Symphony
"Wooo... Now this is pure chaos turned into a song. Really befitting of a creature such as Pernida, needless to say its Schrift"
He plays the final solo and yawns.
"Welp, it's been a long day. I hope to see you guys soon, although that depends on a certain someone doing his job right, y'know what I mean? Good luck to all though. Stay awesome!"
