Chapter 6
Several Years Earlier, Chaldea
Not too long before he left his daughter to succeed him and continue his plans in his stead. Marisbury Animusphere worked tirelessly to build up Chaldea with the desire to ensure the safety of human order. For a man like Marisbury, the price of achieving his aspirations and goals never had a price that was too high.
Marisbury literally considered his own life to have much less value than CHALDEAS itself. The real issue is the fact that while his project was built, it wasn't ready and there weren't a whole lot of investors. As already mentioned, no price was too high for the Lord of the Animusphere magus family.
"And all you need is power and funding. How quaint." Said Marisbury's potential investor.
"I am more concerned about finally powering the mystic code itself." Marisbury said.
"How interesting, however you do realize the potential damage you could cause, correct? Right now, I cannot entirely see the specific effects but I do know the consequences of your little world inside of another world." The investor said.
Marisbury sighed, he predicted another investor likely being scared off by his ambition or lacking any faith in it. However, this man just looked at Marisbury with critical eyes. Not in the case that he expected an answer or that he would try to criticize him. Marisbury could not entirely read the man but this investor didn't look like he wanted to say anything directly negative.
"I am not trying to denote your plans. In fact, I would only feel disappointed if you felt cold feet at the last minute." The investor said.
"What do you mean?" Marisbury asked.
"It's simple, anyone can understand and consider the consequences of their actions. Yet, many of them would stop or run once it becomes too difficult or the consequences return to harm them." The investor explained.
Marisbury chuckled, "I see, that is your concern." He said. "Well no matter, I am fully aware of what may happen. Even if my life were to end, my worst fear is that my life's work ends." He explained.
The investor adjusted his glasses, "Your confidence is genuine, how interesting." He said. "But now then, what would ask of me in order to help continue your work, Lord Animusphere?" He asked.
"Before I share that, tell me this. Unlike my previous investors, what caught your interest Mr…" Marisbury stopped and read the investor's name.
"Sosuke Aizen." The investor said with a smile that others would call smug.
The Modern Day, Seireitei
Ichigo's group was still running across the streets of the Seireitei. All the while Ikaros was still in the sky and giving Ichigo a second pair of eyes. With the hope of finding Uryu and the others along the way to where Rukia is imprisoned.
Along with the hope of finding Fou along the way.
"How do you lose that thing anyways?" Mordred asked.
"I don't know, Fou has been a lot more curious lately." Mash answered.
Mordred groaned, "Fine, if he can get lost then he can find a way back on his own." She said.
Asterios let out a grunt in response to Mordred's statement.
"Calm down, that thing isn't a normal cute fluffy creature." Mordred said.
"Mordred has a point, Fou can take care of himself. When he feels like it, he can just teleport back here." Ichigo said.
The group continued to run a straight path until Ikaros let out a screech before turning another direction. Ichigo took that sign as a warning and made his group take a quick turn.
"We got another wave of them coming from the front." Ichigo said.
"We could have taken them!" Mordred said.
"There's no point in wasting energy." Ana pointed out.
Ikaros then screeched again before leading the group down another path. Ichigo took that as a sign of another wave of shinigami incoming. So far they have been lucky that the previous wave were just a bunch of disorganized idiots, but there's no telling if there are more powerful and competent fighters heading their way.
While Ichigo wasn't a fan of running away and some of his servants would prefer standing their ground. There was no time to waste on fighting until they are overwhelmed.
Unfortunately that would be difficult as there was just a single shinigami entering the same path they were running through. Luckily he appeared wimpy and very surprised to see the group. Mordred jumped ahead of the group and swung at the lone shinigami.
"Wait, please! I don't want to fight!" The lone shinigami pleaded.
The shinigami barely dodged Mordred's strike without her sword cutting off a few hairs and a part of his shihakusho. Before the Saber could finish the job, the shinigami fell onto his back and raised his arms to guard himself.
"I surrender!" He cried out.
Before anyone said anything, a wave of shinigami that Ikaros saw had arrived behind them. Ganju then had the idea of dragging up the lone shinigami and held him in a headlock.
"Hold it right there! We got one of your guys! So you better back up!" Ganju shouted.
The two waves stopped in place and stared at Ganju. Not even looking the slightest bit intimidated. Not even as Ana held her scythe close to the neck of Ganju's hostage.
"That's right, back up!" Ganju commanded.
"Men, get ready!" One of them said.
"Are you idiots really going to risk the life of one of your comrades?" Mordred asked.
Mordred may have been a traitor in her time and earned the title of Knight of Rebellion, but she appeared to be disgusted. Perhaps this was because she expected these shinigami to make up some dumb excuse. Of which her mind expected the reason to involve sacrifices being necessary or something along those lines.
"We don't care, we're with the 11th division!" A shinigami from one side exclaimed.
Ichigo just facepalmed, "Please don't tell me this isn't class warfare." He said.
"That kid is from the 4th division, they are just medics. They don't fight and they aren't any good for anything else." Someone from the 11th division said.
"Well I guess that explains why he looks clean. Half of you guys look like deadbeats from a dirty bar." Ichigo commented.
The 11th division looked at each other before getting annoyed. They were all offended by the fact that Ichigo called them deadbeats. Sure they weren't clean, but they were Kenpachi Zaraki's squad and the man wasn't concerned with everyone looking clean, organized and presentable.
"They are just fighters, of course they don't have time to clean up. I would be surprised if they used laundry detergent." Someone from the 4th division said.
"What the hell did you just say!?" One of them angrily asked.
"I think we're about to start a riot." Mordred said.
"Let them, they are just morons who only fight and don't have the decency to bathe either." Ana said coldly.
Asterios made a concerned grunt when he heard that statement. Even some of the 11th division members looked offended. While most were just angry at the insults, some could not help but lose their self esteem from hearing a little girl demean them.
"It's really weird if you think about it. That guy I fought with the armored chick and the pink haired chick actually looked pretty." Ganju said, earning odd looks from everyone. "I know it's weird, but come on. That guy at least looks nice while these scruffy guys are too scared to pick up a razor." He said.
"I doubt they know how to cut anything that isn't an animal or another person." Ana added.
"That's it! You're all dead!" A shinigami shouted.
"That's enough flyby insults!" Ichigo said as his zanpakuto transformed into a spear.
Everyone took cover as Ichigo spinned his zanpakuto with enough force to make the first few incoming shinigami go flying. Once Ichigo stopped, Mash jumped in the way as several small streaks of lightning and magical orbs started firing their way.
"Senpai, I think some of them are able to use Rukia's abilities!" Mash said as she blocked most of the attacks.
"Just keep up our defense." Ichigo said as his zanpakuto turned into a bow.
"Well I'm not standing around!" Mordred said as she jumped on top of the wall.
Mordred ran along the wall while Ichigo fired his arrows at the shinigami. It also helped that Asterios just brushed off some of the attacks as he charged head first into the crowd of shinigami. That is until a stronger looking shinigami raised his hands at him.
"Bakudo #9: Geki!" He shouted.
Asterios tried to bring down his axes when he suddenly found himself surrounded in a red aura. Asterios was barely able to move his muscles as he was contained.
"I got one! Get him before he breaks out! It's like trying to hold down a rhino!" the shinigami yelled.
Mordred took that as her chance to jump in and started swinging her sword around. Her sword slashed the kido user's arms, making him lose control of his spell. Once free, Asterios growled and grabbed the specific shinigami by the shoulder and tossed him into his fellow squadmates.
By this point, the 11th division started to realize they were outmatched. Before they could consider retreating or come up with a new strategy. One of the walls exploded and the resulting explosion knocked them out.
"What was that?" Mash asked, now lowering her shield.
Mordred looked through the hole and back at Ichigo.
"Do you know this guy?" Mordred asked.
That's when Chad suddenly came walking through the hole in the wall and looked at the group surrounding Ichigo. Chad's lack of facial expression made it difficult to show how confused he was.
"You have an interesting entourage." Chad told Ichigo.
"I'll explain later. Hopefully after Ganju lets go of the hostage we didn't ask for." Ichigo said.
"Ganju-san, that poor boy is just a medic. You should let him go." Mash said.
"I won't, I'm sure we can still get something out of this guy. Besides, maybe he can help me update this map I drew." Ganju said, showing a crude map.
"I doubt he knows where Rukia is." Ichigo said.
Then the boy looked confused, "Rukia? You know Rukia Kuchiki?" He asked, sounding confused.
A while later, the sewers
Ganju was forced to let go of the shinigami but the boy seemed okay with helping the ryoka to some extent. At the very least, he led them down an accessway for the sewers. Which only made Ichigo question spirits still needing basic human necessities despite being in the afterlife.
Regardless, the shinigami decided to introduce himself in a friendly manner and explain himself.
"I am Hanataro Yamada of the second division." Hanataro said.
"That's a lame name." Ganju said bluntly.
"Is it?" Mordred asked.
"The first part of his name means flower. So his name sort of means "flower boy" or something like that." Ichigo said, also sounding less than impressed.
"Anyways, what's the plan?" Ganju asked.
"The plan is this guy tells us what he knows about Rukia. Preferably in a civil manner because he looks like he thinks with his head." Ichigo answered as he pointed at Hanataro.
Hanataro nodded, "That's right, Rukia Kuchiki is being held in the Senzaikyu." He said.
"Senzaikyu, that's the white tower right?" Ichigo asked.
"Right, may I ask why you are looking for her?" Hanataro asked.
Then Mordred stabbed her sword into the ground next to Hanataro. The fourth division shinigami panicked and scooted slightly away in fear.
"Actually, we should be asking why you are sharing anything at all." Mordred said suspiciously.
"He's weak and afraid, he doesn't need intimidation to tell us everything." Ana pointed out.
"Sure, but how do we know he won't lie and make us walk into a trap?" Mordred asked.
"The armored lady has a point." Ganju said.
Hanataro looked nervous, "Hey, I'm not a bad guy! I swear! I even feel sympathy for Rukia-san! I know she did something bad, but she has a good heart!" He said, hoping no one would hurt him.
Mash gently tugged on Mordred's shoulder, "Sir Mordred, please go easy on him. He seems genuine and sympathetic." She said, making Mordred scoff.
"I am, I work as Rukia-san's retainer during her sentence. I would always bring her extra tea and she would tell me all about her adventures in the world of the living." Hanataro explained.
"He seems truthful." Chad said.
"Then that's enough to work with." Ichigo spoke up. "Now then, seeing as you visit her often. Do you think you can help us?" He asked Hanataro.
Hanataro nodded, "I can, there's actually a way to make it to the Senzaikyu more quickly. You see, my squad also has to maintain sanitation and other small duties in the sewers." He explained.
"Then you can help Ganju map this place out." Ichigo said.
"I can, I guess my work can finally be useful for something. Like you just saw, my squadron isn't really respected." Hanataro said, sounding depressed.
"Your job may not seem glamorous, but it's important nonetheless. Therefore you are as important as any other fighter." Mash said, making him feel slightly better.
Mordred sighed, "Well we kept Bedivere for more than serving tea and kissing up to Arthur, so everyone everywhere gets to do their part." She said.
Hanataro started feeling a lot better with the confidence Mash gave him. Before long, he would lead everyone to the fastest path to the Sainzaikyu.
"Before we do anything else, we should catch up on everything." Ichigo said before turning to Chad. "Chad, have you seen Ishida or Inoue?" He asked.
"No, I have been hiding around until I found you." Chad answered. He then looked at the servants, "Where did these people come from?" He asked.
"Chad, it would be too long to explain. Although I should have probably given more details earlier." Ichigo said with a sigh.
"They are the spirits of important figures from ancient history." Mash said, trying to explain what a heroic spirit is.
Chad still didn't understand what she meant.
"Look, I'll go into more detail once Rukia is safe. For now, this is Ana, this Sir Mordred and this is Asterios. He's a half bull, half man." Ichigo said, earning a grunt from Asterios.
"Is that a mino-"
"He doesn't like being called that." Ichigo interrupted, earning an annoyed grunt from Asterios.
Chad nodded, he didn't want to start off on the wrong foot with anyone. Although that did not do anything to help him understand. Then again, Chad hasn't exactly had time to explain his power which involved his arm changing shape.
"Anyways, I see you got your own power. Which I'll ask about later. For now, we might have to adjust our plan." Ichigo said.
"Why? We got this grunt to lead us to your friend, we break her out and then we escape." Mordred said.
"Except we came with two other people as well." Mash spoke up.
And there's the fact that Fou is still missing. Mash is still hopeful that he will just teleport back to her or Ichigo before they find an exit.
A few minutes later
Chad climbed out of an access hatch to the sewer. With him was a copy of Ganju's map along with a small yet detailed map leading to the white tower and a few other hatches that lead to the sewers. Right now Chad's mission was to go look for Uryu and Orihime but he wasn't going alone.
"Stay close, we should avoid fighting as many people as possible." Chad said, receiving a grunt in response.
In order to support Chad, Ichigo managed to get a command seal on his hand. Now Asterios was contracted to Chad in the meantime. At the same time, Chad did feel some weight on his hand as Asterios took up a lot of energy due to his class. Ichigo also handed him a green that could summon a familiar.
"I hope this helps." Chad said, gripping the stone.
The two then started running between small spaces between the buildings. All the while managing to avoid large patrols that were on the lookout for them. Asterios let out a small snarl as he saw the patrols. Chad gently tapped him on the shoulder which only made Asterios feel annoyed.
Chad opened his mouth before closing it. He then reached for the mane around his head. Asterios started to calm down as he felt Chad gently rubbing his hairs.
"Don't get mad now, just wait a few more minutes." Chad said.
At the same time, with Ana
With a command seal, Ana's strength was amplified before being told to look for Uryu and Orihime on her own. Unlike Chad and Asterios, Ana was a lot more nimble due to her smaller frame. Her agility also made it easier for the girl to avoid confrontation with the shinigami patrols.
Luckily for Ana, she managed to find Ichigo's friends but not a good situation. Ana managed to identify them due to the descriptions that Ichigo gave them. As well as the fact that they stood out and were fighting a shinigami officer who looked really ugly.
"An impressive skill that you both display. However, you will both regret running into me. You would have lived longer had you not faced me, Jirobo Ikkanzaka!" The shinigami said arrogantly.
Ana then jumped in as she saw Jirobo releasing his shikai. Which were in the form of a dozen or so spinning flowers that moved like shurikens. At the last minute, Jirobo noticed Ana and sent his flowers to attack her.
"A sneak attack? How disgraceful and pathetic!" Jirobo exclaimed as he sent his projectiles flying at her.
Ana swung her scythe and destroyed the projectiles before throwing her chain at Jirobo. Jirobo avoided the chain and pushed down the blade of his zanpakuto, creating even more flower projectiles. As Jirobo prepared to attack again, his projectiles were destroyed by Uryu who fired an arrow at him.
"This is not an honorable fight. How dare you!?" Jirobo angrily asked.
"You were the one sounding rude and arrogant! How dare you!?" Orihime angrily asked.
"The rules are as I dictate! Because I am the victor!" Jirobo said, preparing to use his shikai again.
Only to find himself wrapped around with a chain. Jirobo struggled to break free before finding himself thrown onto the ground. Before he questioned his situation, he saw Ana preparing to slash at him.
"You have a face that only a mother would disown." Ana said before slashing at Jirobo.
Jirobo raised his guard up, but felt his hand being stabbed by the scythe. Soon enough, Jirobo found himself in an impossible situation as he could barely utilize his zanpakuto's abilities.
'Just one more time but if necessary, I can take the ginger haired girl as a hostage. That's right! I'll use her as a shield and retreat!' Jirobo thought.
Jirobo avoided Ana's next few attacks as well as another arrow from Uryu. He then tried to grab Orihime but the girl moved away too quickly.
"Come here!" Jirobo commanded.
As he tried to grab Orihime again, Jirobo felt a chain wrapped around the hand holding his zanpakuto hilt. Jirobo tried to pry it off but it was no use as Ana proved to have great strength.
"What is this? What power courses through these chains? You must be a really dirty fighter!" Jirobo shouted, throwing random accusations.
Which annoyed the Quincy who had enough of Jirobo's nonstop rants and arrogance.
"It's you who doesn't fight honorably. The only power you have is the power to give me a headache." Uryu said before drawing his arrow. "Heilig Pfeil!' He shouted.
Jirobo saw the incoming arrow and tried to move out of the way but Ana made it worse. She moved around Jirobo and tied him with the chain to keep him from running. Resulting in Uryu landing a direct hit and subsequently destroying Jirobo's zanpakuto hilt.
After the destruction, Jirobo skidded across the ground and left behind a small but wide trench. The officer struggled to stay conscious, but was then met by Ana who looked deep into his eyes.
"Your face is a crime against mother nature." Ana said.
Before Jirobo could try to retort, he suddenly found it harder to move. Not because of the pain that was inflicted onto him, but rather his body felt stiff. Had Jirobo been in a better position, he would have realized that his body was turned into stone.
Once that was over, Uryu and Orihime went to approach Ana.
"Little girl, where are your parents? Do they know you are running off on your own?" Orihime asked, sounding like a protective older sister.
"Inoue,that clearly isn't a normal child." Uryu said, but Orihime ignored him.
"Kurosaki has sent me to seek the two of you out." Ana said.
"Kurosaki-kun sent you? But how?" Orihime asked.
Uryu adjusted his glasses and started thinking about what Ana meant. His mind flashed back to when Ichigo had summoned Ushiwakamaru and how she had disappeared once he lost consciousness. To him, it was a wild theory but it was the only thing that made sense.
"Did Kurosaki summon you? Like he did with the woman he claimed to be Ushiwakamaru?" Uryu asked.
Ana nodded, "Yes, I see you are up to speed. Now we can regroup with him." She said.
"Wait, I still don't understand what's going on." Orihime said.
"You can ask Kurosaki when you see him. For now, we need to go before more shinigami arrive." Uryu said as he looked at the petrified man. "That man was a buffoon but he was stronger than most of the patrols." He added.
"Okay, just one more thing." Orihime said before suddenly hugging Ana. "I can't help it, she's so strong but she's so adorable!" She exclaimed.
Ana suddenly found herself blushing as Orihime started patting her head. The Lancer could only wonder how Orihime would react if she knew her identity or met her adult self. Uryu on the other hand, already looked suspicious and concerned.
"Did you kill that man?" Uryu asked while pointing at Jirobo.
"He's alive, so long as no one smashes him." Ana answered.
"But he can still be reverted back to normal right?" Orihime asked.
She understands that Jirobo is not a good man and wants her and the others dead. However, Orihime isn't the type who would want to see people die. She would prefer an alternative method, at the very least just knocking out everyone who gets in their way of rescuing Rukia.
Ana looked unsure of what to tell Orihime.
"With the right tools, it's possible." Ana replied.
"I'm glad to hear it." Orihime said leaving the area with Ana.
Ana wasn't entirely wrong, her curse was powerful but it wasn't entirely impossible to counteract. Some servants have skills and noble phantasms that could likely negate petrification. That or maybe an intelligent mage could try and figure something out.
Fortunately or unfortunately, for Jirobo, the Seireitei has Mayuri Kurotsuchi. Which means that Jirobo will likely become a test subject for Mayuri in order to see if he can gain anything from Jirobo's dilemma.
In The Infirmary
Ikkaku lied in bed and stared up at the ceiling. There wasn't much else he could do since Ichigo injured him pretty badly. Unlike the rest of his squad, the bald shinigami really felt appreciation for the Fourth Division.
Not out of respect for their work or as fellow comrades. Ikkaku is just happy to have proper medical care to numb the pain. However it didn't help to have a mad scientist who looked like a creepy clown for a visitor. Ikkaku tried to look away but he could see Mayuri Kurotsuchi standing over him.
'Why the hell is Captain Kurotsuchi here? He's looking at me like he's going window shopping for a science experiment.' Ikkaku thought as sweat appeared on his forehead.
It didn't help that the Captain of the 12th division didn't exactly have a friendly appearance. Ikkaku would have rather had a serial killer standing over to look at him. Some part of his mind considered the idea of staying silent and hoped Mayuri would just wander away like some kind of animal who lost its prey.
"May I help you, Captain Kurotsuchi?" Ikkaku asked, trying to hide his fear.
"You are nervous and I can see that." Mayuri said, making Ikkaku gulp. "Is this an after effect of the attack from the Ryoka or did someone just do a botched job?" he asked.
Ikkaku had no idea what to say and things only became more intense when his own captain arrived.
"Back off Kurotsuchi, Madarame is trying to rest up." Zaraki said as he arrived.
'I didn't know Captain Zaraki cared.' Ikkaku thought.
"He also needs to tell me about the Ryoka. So I know what I'm going to face when I finally find them." Zaraki said, sounding eager to fight.
Ikkaku mentally sighed, he knew Zaraki just wanted a fight. There was nothing stopping his captain from finding Ichigo and his friends, but it wasn't to avenge him. Now Ikkaku had a bloodthirsty warrior and a mad scientist arguing in his room along with a curious little girl.
"Hey Baldy, I heard you got up. Where does it hurt?" Yachiru asked before pressing her hand somewhere.
Ikkaku gritted his teeth in pain, "Right where you're touching, Lieutenant Kusajishi." He answered.
"And here?" Yachiru asked, carelessly pressing somewhere else.
"That too!" Ikkaku said as Yachiru kept hurting him.
"Will you knock that off? If he loses consciousness, he won't be able to explain anything!" Mayuri exclaimed.
"For once, I agree with the clown. Go easy on him Yachiru." Zaraki said.
"Ok." Yachiru said, removing her hands.
"Now then, tell me about these ryoka. What makes them so special?" Zaraki asked.
Ikkaku shivered in fear before finally explaining his fight with Ichigo. Going into detail about the substitute shinigami being supported by Asterios and Ana. Although he couldn't talk about the servants for too long as he had very few details about their abilities. Ikkaku did explain Ichigo's unique ability where he switched the forms of his zanpakuto.
For the two captains, it was one thing for a zanpakuto to change shape when unlocking its shikai. Even the next stage, bankai, would make it change again along with a new ability. However, the thing that stood out was Ichigo choosing whatever form he wanted and being able to adapt with the required skill needed for it. It made Mayuri curious about Ichigo's abilities and it got Zaraki excited because he would fight someone with a variety of techniques.
"Is there any more we should know? What about the others? You said Ayasegawa fought a few others right?" Zaraki eagerly asked.
Ikkaku sighed, "I don't know. They came back for the orange haired guy, Ichigo as he calls himself, they didn't look injured so they are either really tough or teamed up on Yumichika." He explained.
"And one of them was a pink haired girl with a shield, correct?" Mayuri asked, referring to Mash.
"That's right, but I don't know anything much about her." Ikkaku repeated.
Mayuri nodded, "That is fine, I remember she was mentioned." He said.
Before the alert, a captain's meeting was held after the incident with Jidanbo trying to open the gate. At the time, the defenses were heightened but the Gotei 13 weren't aware of what they would face. During this, Ichimaru brought up the fact that Mash was able to block Ichimaru's shikai.
"An exotic group I say, they will make fine research subjects." Mayuri said.
Zaraki scoffed, "Forget that, I'm fighting them. So you can take your test tubes and other crap elsewhere." He said.
"That's right, Ken-chan gets them first because they hurt Baldy!" Yachiru said in agreement, consequently slapping Ikkaku's head in the process.
As they argued, the 4th division captain arrived and she looked displeased by the noise.
"Can you two please take your squabbles outside?" Captain Retsu Unohana asked.
The two captains just stared at her.
"Please?" Unohana asked with a smile that terrified Ikkaku.
The two captains frowned before leaving. Leaving Unohana to sigh at the mess they left. After Yachiru also left, she saw Ikkaku was covered in hand marks from Yachiru pressing her hand too hard as well as slapping her patient.
Back with Ichigo
The remaining portion of the group was following Hanataro through the shortcut that he mentioned.
"Once again, I just want to remind you that this won't directly lead to the base of the senzaikyo. Just the closest access space without running out in the open." Hanataro explained.
"That sucks, remind me to send a letter to complain." Mordred said.
"With the luck this kid has, they will probably force his group to construct a new path." Ganju commented.
Hanataro laughed a bit, "If the seireitei was that desperate than maybe." he said.
For a division specializing in medical and relief duties, the other squads seem to lack any respect for the 4th division. Seeing as how Hanataro is meant to understand the layout of the sewers for the sake of keeping it clean.
"You know, it sounds unlikely that they would do this but I'm at least glad there aren't any patrols in the sewers." Mordred said.
"Well there isn't any maintenance or cleanings meant to be scheduled for another few weeks. If you wanted, you could go anywhere around the seireitei without any trouble down here." Hanataro said.
With that information, Ichigo only became a bit more curious about Hanataro and why he was telling them all this. He could feel the boy wasn't trying to get them to drop their guard or lead them to a trap. Yet, it didn't make sense for even a low ranking shinigami to help trespassers run as they wish.
"Hanataro, why are you helping us?" Ichigo asked.
"Pardon?" Hanataro asked.
"Hey don't question it, we don't need him thinking twice." Ganju said.
"He's right senpai, Hanataro-san is doing this out of his good will." Mash said.
"No, I agree with Ichigo. This kid has to have some motivation." Mordred said, still feeling suspicious.
Hanataro stopped and looked at Ichigo, "If I had to be honest, I know I'm technically doing something bad but I want you to save Rukia-san." he said.
Everyone was surprised by the honest answer. A few seconds later, Hanataro took a seat by the canal and explained himself.
"Despite the infamy Rukia-san acquired because of her crime, I could tell she was not a bad person. In fact, I am the only person who showed her any kindness." Hanataro explained.
Mash smiled, feeling happy that Rukia was not treated as an outcast by everyone.
Hanataro then began to explain the details of his relationship with Rukia. How he would clean her cell, bring her food and tea as well as listen to her stories about the world of the living. Where Rukia mentioned small things like having a hard time opening a juice box to her experiences eating food. Rukia regaled Hanataro with her stories like an elder reading a story to a child.
Hanataro then went on to explain how Rukia brought up Ichigo and the type of person he was. Ichigo expected to hear some complaints regarding criticism towards her "artwork" and how rude and brash he seems to others. Instead, Hanataro revealed the soft side that Rukia saw in Ichigo. Despite his personality, he was a young man with a sense of justice and wouldn't let anything stop him from saving anyone. Even if it was just a single person in a world surrounded by chaos.
Mordred snorted at the praise Ichigo received from Rukia before hearing the last part. Where Hanataro mentioned Rukia's regret in creating chaos in Ichigo's life. Saying that her presence and involvement only made it worse.
"Bullshit!" Ichigo exclaimed. "She didn't do anything wrong! Rukia tried to save my family and did what she could!" He exclaimed.
"Where did this come from?" Mordred asked, sensing the frustration in Ichigo.
"Rukia was doing her job and she just had to resort to desperate measures in order to get it done! There's nothing wrong with doing your job at any cost! So that's why we're breaking her free!" Ichigo exclaimed as he hit the wall.
Hanataro smiled, "You really are a good man like she said." He said.
By this point, it was clear that Hanataro recognized Ichigo by the stories Rukia told along with the description. For some reason Rukia and a few others referred to Ichigo as a carrot head because of his hair color. So that helped identify him more easily.
"Then let's find the exit so we can save her." Mash said.
With The Lieutenants
The Lieutenants of each division were brought together in a room by Yasochika Iemura who gave a report and update of the latest events. It looked bad so far as he just stated the defeat of Ikkaku and Yumichika who were high ranking members of the 11th division with many of their members being defeated in the span of a day.
"These ryoka have caused a whole lot of damage and the sun has not even set yet." Shuhei Hisagi said.
"Furthermore, the exact number of ryoka is unknown. With about nearly a dozen or so having been spotted. With a group of about five or six having taken a member of the fourth division hostage. Their locations are unknown at this moment. " Iemura continued to announce.
Isane Kotetsu looked shocked by the news as that was her squad. She would have to tell her fellow members and captain about this in order to locate Hanataro. However the next part is what disturbed many of them.
"And finally, one Jirobo Ikkanzaka has been found turned into stone." Ieumura said, shocking them.
Nemu Kurotsuchi looked unnerved, 'There is no doubt that my captain will want that man as a test subject. Assuming Captain Unohana doesn't bar him away from treatment.' She thought.
"I knew something was wrong when I didn't hear from him." Tetsuzaemon Iba as he looked down at the floor.
"Kamaitachi Jirobo lost?" Rangiku asked.
"This just proves how dangerous they are and that we need to increase patrols and keep our guard up." Hisagi said while curling his hands into fists.
By that moment, Hisagi left just after Renji did. A couple more left and while the remaining lieutenants were about to leave, Momo Hinamori noticed an odd fact about the room. Namely Rangiku and it wasn't the fact that her cleavage is exposed as usual but rather the odd object on her head.
"Matsumoto, what is that creature on your head?" Hinamori asked.
"Creature? What creature?" Rangiku asked as she reached for her head.
"Fou!"
Rangiku felt startled by the voice as she recognized it. She reached for the origin of the voice and found herself grabbing a fluffy creature.
"Did you follow me here?" Rangiku asked.
"Fou!" Fou answered.
"I told you to wait at home. Did you eat all of the snacks I left you?" Rangiku asked.
"Fou, Fou." Fou answered.
"Look, it's not Bring Your Pet To Work Day. How can I take care of you if you don't listen?" Rangiku asked.
"Fou Fou!" Fou responded.
The remaining females in the room were confused by the odd conversation.
"Matsumoto, what exactly is that?" Isane Kotetsu asked.
"I do believe it is a rare breed of dog. I was hoping to ask around and see what breed he is." Rangiku answered.
Nanao Ise adjusted her glasses to inspect Fou. She couldn't help but feel somewhat closer to the exotic animal. Nanao assumed it was just that small part of her that admitted there was beauty to certain animals.
"I'm afraid I don't recognize this breed. Kurotsuchi-san, do you have a comment?" Nanao asked.
Nemu studied Fou who sniffed her face. Nemu stepped back in surprise by how close Fou wanted to get to her.
"I do not believe this is a natural animal from around here nor is it a canine." Nemu said as she watched Fou hop closer towards her.
"Perhaps it's some kind of marsupial?" Isane suggested.
Rangiku scoffed, "Fou isn't a wombat." She said.
"I believe it's closer to a rodent, like a squirrel perhaps." Nanao said.
"Whatever he is, he's adorable." Hinamori said as she bent down to stroke Fou's fur.
Unknown to the women, they were being drawn in by Fou's charm. Only to be interrupted by Izuru Kira returning to the room.
"I forgot something." Kira said only to notice Fou. "Did someone bring their pet?" He asked.
Fou suddenly jumped on Kira's shoulder and began sniffing on him. Kira was startled by the sudden action and fell onto his butt. He was unsure if Fou was dangerous but found himself in discomfort as Fou started digging into his Shihakusho.
"Hey get out of there! What are you looking for!?" Kira asked frantically.
Fou took his head and looked disappointed, "Fou." He said.
"Aw, are you hungry again?" Rangiku asked.
Kira looked confused and sighed before digging into his clothes. He pulled out a small granola bar and offered it to Fou.
"Here, you can have it if you want it. It's not my favorite." Kira said.
Fou bit down on the bar but was then picked up by Nanao.
"That is not real food. A creature as delicate as this requires a proper meal." Nanao said sternly.
"One with nutrition." Nemu added.
"Maybe we should check on his health first. To provide the best diet I mean." Isane suggested.
"I can provide all of that!" Rangiku suggested
"No you can't, I have an old recipe for a situation like this!" Hinamori said.
Kira was so confused, 'Did they get a new pet?' He wondered.
The girls left the room, now focusing on Fou's treatment rather than all the details that Iemura mentioned. Then again, it wouldn't do much to change the current patrols outside of receiving different instructions for how to handle the Ryoka.
With Ichigo
Shortly after exiting the accessway that Hanataro mentioned. The group looked around and felt fortunate enough that there were no shinigami patrols.
"We better keep our guards up. There's probably a lot of security at the white tower." Ichigo said.
"I bet those losers with the bald head and stupid hair probably told them all about us by now." Mordred said.
"There isn't that many guards at the Senzaikyu, but they aren't weak. Even so, if they know why you are here. There is no doubt that security has increased." Hanataro explained.
"But you think you can lead us there?" Mash asked.
Hanataro nodded, "Yes, it's around the corner. You will know when you see the massive stairway leading to Rukia's prison." He answered.
"That's good to hear, hopefully Ana and Asterios find everyone else in time." Mash said, feeling optimistic.
"I'm just glad to smell fresh air." Ganju said as he took a long whif.
As the group quickly made their way towards the Senzaikyu. They noticed a large mist that distorted their path. Ichigo started digging through his clothes for a magic stone to help blow away the mist. Ganju started asking Hanataro a few more questions.
"So are there any specific locks or security crap we should worry about? I don't wanna end up stepping on a trap door." Ganju said.
"Actually as part of the precautions I…" Hanataro trailed off as he saw a familiar face.
Everyone stopped as the mist cleared up a bit to reveal a familiar red haired shinigami standing in the way of the stairs.
"Who's this guy? His Reiatsu levels feel more intense compared to the other chumps." Ganju said.
"Renji Abarai, he's the lieutenant of the 6th division." Hanataro said fearfully.
Renji raised his head and glared at the group, mostly focusing his anger on Ichigo.
"I know this guy, I would rather have forgotten his horse face." Ichigo said, making Renji scowl.
"I'm surprised you survived." Renji said.
"Yeah, maybe your captain isn't so great if he only relies on sneak attacks." Ichigo said, taunting him. Mordred stepped forward but Ichigo raised his hand to stop her, "No, this fight is mine." He said.
"You are not getting past me. After all, this is your fault." Renji said.
"Last time I checked, I'm not the one who sentenced Rukia to death. Is that how it works? You do your job and you die for it just because you bent a rule slightly?" Ichigo asked.
Renji snarled, "You stole her powers! For that I'm going to avenge her! Howl Zabimaru!" He shouted.
Zabimaru extended and went flying towards Ichigo who quickly dodged it. Everyone else dodged the attack and took cover as Ichigo turned his zanpakuto into a pair of chained sickles. Ichigo threw his sickles around Renji while he was distracted by his own anger and tossed him into the air.
"If you care so much! Why didn't you fight for her!" Ichigo yelled.
Renji broke free of the chains and landed safely.
"It's the rules, they damned Rukia and there was no use fighting it. All because of you." Renji said.
Ichigo scoffed, "It just sounds like whoever is in charge is just making an excuse. She saved my family and I helped her as best I could when she couldn't retrieve her powers. Your government is just angry and is punishing her because they're afraid of losing their power." He said, further angering Renji.
Rukia's crime was high and very forbidden. However, some parts of it did make sense as the Central 46 makes these laws to keep a balance, but at the same time. There's nothing stopping them from changing laws just to exert their will and not even Captain Yamamoto is willing to disregard their orders.
Yet, it's not like Renji had the right to decide or any authority to say otherwise. This was far from a democracy and there was no way some lieutenant from a squad would be heard if not even the captains had a say. The shinigami have their laws and only have the power to uphold them, not change them.
"It doesn't matter, you still have a part in this!" Renji said as he rushed at Ichigo.
"Maybe I do, maybe I did cause Rukia some heartache but at least I have the balls to do something about it." Ichigo said as he recalled his sickles.
"You think you're hot shit!?" Renji angrily asked before swinging Zabimaru at him.
Ichigo managed to avoid the zanpakuto's heavy strikes, thanks to his increased agility. Only Renji wasn't making it easy to land a blow on him. It took Ichigo a while before trying to land a clear hit on him.
Only for Renji to block the sickle strikes before they could reach him. Ichigo then swung a sickle and wrapped its chain around Zabimaru in an attempt to hold it down. Unfortunately, Renji used the momentum against Ichigo and managed to swing Ichigo across the ground.
'Not good!' Ichigo thought as he hit the ground.
"Senpai!" Mash cried out.
"Uh Mash, while I would consider helping out our master. I think we got trouble incoming." Mordred said.
Mash turned to see several shinigami from a new division running towards them. All being led by Kira from the 3rd division.
"It's the Ryoka! They must be after the prisoner!" One of them said.
"Those that know Kido, stand with me." Kira ordered.
Kira then proceeded to chant as a small red orb appeared in his hand. All the while more shinigami from behind him had drawn their zanpakuto and rushed at them. Mash raised her shield while Mordred charged at them directly.
"You're going to have to cast some heavy magic spells if you want to get past Junior and I." Mordred said.
"Hey watch out for the blond guy! His strength is just a tad weaker than the red head!" Ganju warned.
"Thanks for the warning!" Mordred said before parrying several strikes.
Mordred then felt a sword strike from her back, prompting her to kick the enemies behind her. She then delivered a heavy blow that sent a couple of shinigami flying back into their comrades. As she distracted the central group, more shinigami moved past her and ran towards Mash.
"Byakurai!" A random shinigami shouted.
Mash raised her shield and stood her ground as she managed to tank the massive blast of lightning. She then continued to block the incoming wave of sword strikes hitting her shield.
"In my honor, as Sir Galahad's successor, I will not let you break my defense!" Mash said before shoving them all back.
Just as the shinigami recovered, they didn't notice Ganju throwing several high grade fireworks under their feet. The resulting explosion made them crash into the nearby walls.
"I got tricks too, you shinigami trash!" Ganju yelled. "Also, we got one of your own!" He said, hoping they were more sympathetic compared to the 11th divison.
"That's the hostage! Don't let him get hurt!" Kira shouted.
Having been in Unohana's division in the past, Kira had respect for all shinigami including his previous division's members. He wasn't going to be an arrogant jock like the 11th division members and ignore the fact that he was a comrade. Only now he had to be careful with where he aimed his kido spell.
"Some of us can try to restrain them." One of the shinigami suggested.
Kira nodded as a pair of shinigami followed after the next group attacked Mordred. Mordred mowed down the many waves of shinigami without looking winded. Rather, she felt kind of excited as not all of them were being reckless as the previous groups.
"So you losers want more?" Mordred asked.
Mordred watched as four more shinigami jumped into the air and tried to attack her. The Knight of Rebellion grinned under her helmet as she threw Clarent into the air. Before the shinigami could react, Mordred grabbed her sword and spinned wildly into the air.
The shinigami were caught in Mordred's attack, causing them to hit the ground. When Mordred landed, she looked straight at Kira and went to attack him. Only for the two kido users to catch her.
"Disintegrate, you black dog of Rondanini! Look upon yourself with horror and tear out your own throat!" The two chanted.
Mordred soon found herself being restrained by golden tendrils that wrapped tightly around her body. Mordred snarled as she used a little bit of her strength to drop Clarent and use a strong enough kick to directly at Kira. The amount of force she used made Clarent move faster than a marksman's bullet.
However, Kira was still exposed due to his chanting of his next technique. Another shinigami dived in the way and took the sword to the gut. The shinigami cried out in pain as Kira and his assistants finished the spell.
"Hado #31: Shakahho!" Kira cried out as a crimson orb of energy came out of his palm.
Mordred watched as several waves of crimson energy moved directly towards her. Mash tried to move past the shinigami who were blocking her but was not able to move quickly enough. However, that's when a massive wall of ice bursted from the ground and blocked out most of the attack.
"Ice? Is Captain Hitsugaya here?" Someone asked.
"That's not his technique!" Kira said.
When the blast calmed down, they saw Mordred was about to collapse as about a third of her armor was shattered. With the helmet revealing half of her face with several burn marks. Mordred didn't appear to be too happy by the fact that she took several blasts of flame magic at point blank range.
But that's when everyone was shocked to see Mordred's armor regenerating as she was being filled with mana. Mordred laughed underneath her helmet as she raised her sword into the air. Where the shinigami watched as the sword started to generate a greater amount of crimson energy.
"You're all dead now! My master watches my back even when he's not here!" Mordred said, having gained enough mana to use her noble phantasm.
"Bind her again!" Kira ordered.
Only to find several smoke bombs and small explosives rolled over to them. All courtesy of Ganju which he happily takes credit for. It didn't help that the resulting explosion's smoke was filled with some kind of chemical that made it hard to breathe.
"You chumps enjoy fighting a girl while she's down?" Ganju asked as the shinigami struggled to breath and see.
"Don't let up! Everyone regroup and get into defensive positions!" Kira ordered.
Kira then tried to form a barrier to defend against Mordred's attacks. He initially wanted everyone to run and take cover to avoid the incoming blast. Instead, Ganju disoriented most of them with the toxic chemicals coming out of his smoke bombs and he didn't stop throwing more.
Unluckily for them, Mordred gathered enough energy and prepared to unleash her attack.
"This is the evil sword that killed my father… Clarent Blood Arthur!" Mordred shouted as she swung down her blade.
There were a few who were lucky enough to move far away enough to avoid the attack. With some ensuring a small amount of safety by forming small barriers to protect themselves. However, the remaining crowd of shinigami that were unable to move far away enough were hit directly and were nearly killed by the massive blast from Clarent.
When the blast dissipated, Mordred looked a tad disappointed.
"Seriously? I don't think Ichigo gave me enough power to do a good job." Mordred said as she sighed.
"Not enough!? Sir Mordred you destroyed several kilometers worth of walls, roads and I think I saw a temple or some very large building being hit!" Mash exclaimed.
"Oh yeah." Mordred said.
True to Mash's word, Mordred's noble phantasm did seem powered down a bit however the Seireitei did take a massive hit. At least a few kilometers stretching down a straight path was completely annihilated and there was no doubt that many more shinigami were likely harmed during the attack.
"Still, it's not like I was able to finish these guys off. What are they made of? Some kind of extradimensional ore?" Mordred said as she couldn't see any casualties.
At least not in the sense that some could recover at some point with the proper healthcare. Then again there were too many to count and take note of. By the end, there were only a dozen or so shinigami left who looked capable of fighting. With only a handful left that could stand and not do much else.
Kira looked horrified by the sight of the destruction.
'That woman. She only held back?' Kira thought fearfully.
"Lieutenant Kira, this may be our last stand!" A random shinigami yelled.
"Are you idiots serious?" Mordred asked. "Raise that shield, Junior. We still have more losers to beat." She said.
Back with Ichigo
Ichigo began to pant as he put in a lot of energy to use a command spell on Mordred to heal her and grant her the power to use Clarent. As Ichigo rested for a moment, Renji took notice of the immense destruction that Mordred caused.
"What kind of monsters did you bring?" Renji asked.
Ichigo snickered, "You think she is a monster? Then you haven't seen worse enough." He said. "Like I said, Renji, we're saving Rukia. I don't care about your bullshit laws, so if I need to. I'll have Mordred or someone else tear down that whole prison just to save her." He explained.
"Why do you care so much?" Renji asked before lunging at Ichigo.
"I already told you! I owe her for what she did and because people like her deserve better!" Ichigo answered as he blocked Renji's attack.
Ichigo then transformed his zanpakuto into a heavy broadsword. He then blocked Renji's rapid strikes and moved quickly as he tried putting himself in a better situation for a counterattack. All the while, no one noticed a certain blue haired woman watching the fight from afar.
Feeling disappointed that she wasn't down there herself to fight Ichigo. Only feeling displeasure and boredom from the highpoint where she stood.
'Fight, Master of Chaldea, defeat this man. Your honor and stature demands it. Then we will reunite once more!' The woman thought as she grinned.
The woman looked back and saw the servants finishing off the remaining shinigami. There was no point in continuing to interfere from her position. The woman then escaped before anyone else could spot her.
Returning to Ichigo, the young man was having a fair amount of trouble with Renji. Whether it was because Renji was more motivated than ever to defeat him out of spite for Rukia's fate or sudden exhaustion, is up to speculation. However, Ichigo could not deny that his body felt light and his movements were a bit sluggish.
'Is my stamina that bad?' Ichigo thought before blocking Renji's rapid attacks.
Ichigo wasn't in pain, but he felt like his limbs and zanpakuto were getting more heavy. At one point, Ichigo felt his body feel too heavy to move as Renji extended Zabimaru towards him. Resulting in Ichigo crashing into a wall, with the 6th division's lieutenant thinking he was victorious.
"It's finally over." Renji said only to see bright lights behind the hole.
Renji raised up Zabimaru to slash at the incoming lights. When he realized they were arrows made of Reishi. Renji destroyed the arrows and assumed that Uryu had arrived and was supporting Ichigo. Instead, he found more arrows flying directly towards him.
Renji dodged the attacks before landing on top of a nearby building and saw Ichigo coming out of the hole with his zanpakuto in bow form.
"I admit you're tough, but if every shinigami lieutenant is at your level. Then I don't think I have much to worry about." Ichigo said.
Renji gritted his teeth in frustration, "You are a fool!" He yelled.
Renji threw Zabimaru towards Ichigo who blocked the massive sword with his bow. Using the remaining strength he had in his limbs, Ichigo managed to push away the zanpakuto. Where he used his brief chance to fire several more arrows at Renji who dodged them again.
Ichigo then threw an emerald stone at the shinigami lieutenant with great force. Renji quickly retracted his zanpakuto and slashed at the gem stone. Only to realize his mistake as he was sent flying by a massive gust of wind. Renji groaned as he hit the brick road pretty hard before finding Ichigo firing several more arrows with one piercing him in the shoulder.
Renji snarled as he stood up, "Are you so arrogant that you think you can take on the entire Gotei 13!?" He angrily asked.
"I don't want to fight your club! But I will fight anyone who wants to stop me!" Ichigo yelled as his zanpakuto transformed again.
Renji raised Zabimaru again and struck at Ichigo again who blocked it with a spear. Renji put a lot of pressure into his attack, resulting in the spear seemingly shattering in half. Where he slashed at Ichigo's chest.
"I did not become a lieutenant for no reason! I am strong and I fight for…" Renji didn't finish what he said as he felt himself being impaled.
He looked down and saw the two fragments of the spear didn't break. They had only disconnected into a pair of two smaller weapons. Renji didn't understand what happened but all he could comprehend was that Ichigo was still standing.
"I get what you mean, you aren't some pompous bastard. You worked for your rank, but you weren't strong enough." Ichigo said, ignoring the injury Renji gave him.
Renji suddenly lost the strength in his arms to hold Zabimaru and dropped it. Then he lost the strength in his legs and pain coursing through his torso. Ichigo's two smaller weapons pierced different sides of his body and dropped Renji once he removed his weapons.
As Renji collapsed to the ground, his childhood to adult years flashed through his eyes. From the memories of meeting Rukia as a child when he was some thief on the street to the day he and Rukia graduated from the academy and the latter was adopted by Captain Byakuya Kuchiki. His mind also thought back to Ichigo's words and desire to save Rukia despite what the laws said about her.
Leaving the lieutenant with one thing to say before losing consciousness.
"If you are truthful then please… save Rukia." Is all Renji could say.
Ichigo was confused at first, but thought that Renji did have a heart. It's not easy even for someone of his rank to argue against the laws he's been disciplined to follow. Still, Ichigo acknowledged and respected the desire Renji had and turned his attention to the prison.
"So that must be it. Just another few steps." Ichigo said before falling onto one of his knees. "Not now!" He said, gritting his teeth.
Ichigo could not find the strength to keep moving as he exhausted himself with today's battles. It didn't help that his connection to his servants wasn't as good as his early days in Chaldea.
"Senpai!" Mash cried out.
"Mash, help me up. We gotta get Rukia." Ichigo said as he pointed at the prison.
Mash looked intimidated by the large prison, "I think we should retreat for now. There is no doubt that more shinigami forces are on their way as well." She said.
"Yeah, I think I may have definitely got too much attention on us. Even if my Noble Phantasm wasn't at full blast." Mordred said.
"That thing could have been bigger?" Ganju asked with wide eyes.
"Yeah, but as much as I want to disagree with junior here. If we don't retreat right now, Ichigo is going to run out of energy and I'm going to turn into pixie dust." Mordred said.
Considering the state Ichigo is in, Mordred has to rely on more strategy and keeping an eye out for Ichigo as he can finally fight by the side of the servants. Other than just throwing magic jewels and shooting small lasers out of his hand of course.
"Let's go senpai." Mash said as she lifted up Ichigo. "Hanataro-san, do you mind leading us back to the sewers?" She asked.
Hanataro nodded, "Sure, maybe I can take a look at Ichigo-san's wounds too. I'm sure Lieutenant Renji dealt some bad blows to his body." He said.
As the group retreated, Ganju had something on his mind.
"Hey since you gave that guy with the frizzy hair a sidekick. Why can't you give me one?" Ganju asked.
"Because you might use them as a human shield like a coward." Ichigo muttered.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Ganju asked.
"It means I don't trust you with a servant." Ichigo said.
"Senpai, you did take a risk with Sado. I know he is your friend, but I feel as if his power might be more limited in comparison to a regular magus." Mash said.
"I'm sure Chad is fine. Besides, he and Asterios will get along." Ichigo said optimistically.
That would likely be the most optimism Ichigo could garner for himself at this very moment. Because the next day will not be any easier than today's exploits. As the shinigami would treat the ryoka as more than intruders and pests and see this as an act of war.
Later That Evening, With The 5th Division
Captain Sosuke Aizen was finishing up his talk with Hinamori, "I see, such an interesting creature. I just hope you do not neglect your duties." He said.
"I won't sir, I promise to avoid further distractions now that we have increased our security alert." Hinamori said.
Aizen smiled, "That is good to hear. Now then, run along now, get some rest while there is still time. I'm afraid we won't counter the incoming threats if we exhaust ourselves." He said.
Hinamori bowed her head, "Yes Captain Aizen, I will take my leave now. Good evening." She said before leaving his office.
Aizen smiled as the young shinigami lieutenant left. Leaving Aizen almost alone had it not been for the guest that only he could detect.
"I predicted you would appear, but I am still curious about your motivation." Aizen said, looking over his shoulder.
Esdeath appeared with her bangs covering her eye and only a big smile being visible to the shinigami captain. Esdeath slowly drew her blade as she took a step closer. Only to watch as Aizen shook his head as he removed his glasses.
"Correction, I somehow mixed up your motivation with your desire. Although I am still wondering what brought you out here." Aizen said.
Esdeath suddenly appeared in front of Aizen before the man could even blink. By the time he did blink, Esdeath heard a loud cracking noise when she saw Aizen raise a finger.
"Please skip the theatrics." Aizen said, not once breaking his smile.
TO BE CONTINUED…
Omake #1: 4th Division on Strike
The group was making their way across the paths of the sewers that Hanataro knew like the back of his hand. The progress they made was substantial and they had Hanataro to thank.
"I can, I guess my work can finally be useful for something. Like you just saw, my squadron isn't really respected." Hanataro said, sounding depressed.
"Your job may not seem glamorous, but it's important nonetheless. Therefore you are as important as any other fighter." Mash said, making him feel slightly better.
"That much is true, the job sucks hard but imagine what if all the people with the bad jobs decided to go on strike." Ganju said.
Suddenly the entire sewer started shaking violently.
"Did they find us?" Mordred asked.
"No, it's coming from down here and in the direction of the treatment plant. It's where we…"
"We know where your crap goes." Mordred interrupted.
"But why is it shaking? Did something break? Surely someone would have sent another maintenance request. My division should have finished their work a couple of days ago." Hanataro said, sounding very confused.
That's when they felt the shaking grow more intense. Then a massive wave of water that was likely containing urine, feces and other unmentionables made their way to the group.
"With a command seal! I order you to use Lord Chaldeas!" Ichigo shouted as he used a command seal.
"I'm on it!" Mash said as she worked to protect everyone.
On the surface
The 4th division were currently standing outside of the sewage treatment building and were protesting with signs and everything.
"We won't organize your poop without some pay and respect!" A random shinigami from the 4th division shouted.
Isane and Unohana watched the protest unfold as shinigami from other divisions were angrily yelling about their plumbing issues. Mostly regarding the toilets and faucets lacking any clean water with the showers literally spitting out poo water.
"Captain Unohana, should we do something?" Isane asked.
"Just let your fellow squadmates get the energy out of their system. Or hope that they are given something to satisfy their frustrations." Unohana answered.
Suddenly, several manhole covers exploded like geisers as filthy sewer water sprang to the sky. Some buildings being destroyed as several shinigami were sent flying out of their toilets.
"Perhaps we should negotiate with the other captains and properly divide up the work hours." Unohana said, not wanting to go near the geysers.
And thus, most of the seiretei became a nightmare for plumbers everywhere.
Omake #2: Portal To Amazonia
Utilizing a contingency of shinigami, Captain Toshiro Hitsugaya made their way through the harsh jungles of the world of the Amazons. Although he had some great fighters, himself included, among this contingency. Hitsugaya would prefer to avoid violence and talk things out as some of the amazons seem capable of rational thinking.
Which is why he brought the Shinigami Women's Association incase of the amazons refusing to speak to men. When they found the civilization, Hitsugaya approached two massive guards.
"Greetings, I am Captain Hitsugaya of the 10th division. On behalf of the Seireitei, I request an audience with your leader so we may retrieve our captive comrades." Hitsugaya said loudly and professionally.
One of the guards bent down and looked at him, "Little man, where is your mama? Did she leave you alone by accident?" She asked.
"Ma'am I am not a child." HItsugaya said.
The guard chuckled, "Of course, you are a big man. A big strong man." She said while patting his head with her finger.
Hitsugaya sighed and nodded to Hinamori to speak up.
"As my superior said, we are shinigami of the Seireitei and request an audience before your leader." Hinamori said.
"Oh you want Femputer. We will have tour guide take you." One guard said.
Later
The guide led them across the civilization before walking past a basketball court.
"And here we train the ladies basketball league. We can't dunk, but basketball is about fundamentals." The guide said.
"Translation: Boring." A random male shinigami said.
Prompting them to take a club to the head. However, the sport did seem to interest Yachiru.
"Ms. Glasses, can we form our own basketball team?" Yachiru asked.
"I will add it to the notes for discussion." Nanao said.
After that, they arrived at the so called Femputer where the abducted men were chained to the wall.
"Femputer, we bring guests from the world of the beautiful men." The guide said.
"Guests, I see several men, a child and some ladies of high stature." Femputer said. "What is it that they are requesting?" She asked.
Hitsugaya stepped forward again, "Ma'am, we request the release of the…"
"Child, please allow the adults to do the talking." Femputer interrupted.
Hitsugaya sighed in response before Rangiku stepped forward.
"Basically, we were wondering if you could give us back those men. Most of them are idiots but we need them to fill in the spots of our ranks and to do our laundry." Rangiku said.
Byakuya looked the most offended, "I am not a slave." He said before being hit by a club.
"Be quiet, you only here because you have nice skin and hair. Unlike the beautiful man." An amazon said while pointing at Komamura.
"Can we be released? We are unjustly imprisoned!" Komamura said.
"You men are now in the domain of the amazons now. I will decide your fate with my advanced algorithm." Femputer said.
"You guys are screwed. Oh well." Rangiku said with a shrug.
"What do you mean screwed!?" Hisagi asked.
Everyone ignored his outburst as Femputer made a dinging noise.
"I have made my decision. The captured men will be tortured for three nights and three days." Femputer said.
"We wish to appeal." Hitsugaya said.
"Tortured with Snu Snu!" Femputer added.
"This was a waste of time." HItsugaya said as he slapped his forehead.
"You're too young to understand the joy of Snu Snu, Hitsugaya." Kyoraku said with a grin.
Nanao sighed, "Of course, only my uncle and captain would be excited by the idea of being pleasured by a massive muscular woman." She said.
"Let's go practice basketball while they get their pelvis destroyed!" Yachiru said while spinning a ball on her fingertip.
"Yes, let us study these fundamentals." Nemu said in agreement.
"I will begin taking notes then." Isane said.
HItsugaya just sighed as he then heard the sounds of bones being crushed followed by the men screaming in pain, pleasure then pain again.
"Now rotate!" Femputer ordered, causing the same screams to repeat on a loop.
"This was a waste of time." Hitsugaya muttered.
"Hey boy, come back when you grow chest hair." A random amazon said.
Now Hitsugaya was further annoyed about his appearance.
END OF OMAKE
