Renji's POV.
14 days before Rukia's scheduled execution, I'm escorting her along with a group onmitsukido guards to transfer her to the senzaikyu. The four guards covered from head to toe in white robes, each holding a pole with a red line connecting to a collar around Rukia's throat. With her wrists bound and with her head covered with a white veil the transfer began and the transfer went smoothly and silently. No words were spoken really, I had no reason to talk myself, thoughts swirling around in my head and as hard as I tried to keep a neutral face throughout it, I'm sure my displeasure for all of this shone through. After a while, we got to the bridge leading to the senzaikyu, seeing the tall building with just the little window up close made me more uneasy and frustrated with it all. Rukia had done nothing to cause concern through the whole walk and whilst feeling slightly agitated by the fact she had to wear a veil, right now, being in front of this building, I was quite relieved she was wearing one. The buildings look provided no comfort after all, so it was for the best for her to not see it.
We all entered the building and brought her to the cell she would be in. I remained by the doorway, watching as the guards placed her close to the window and removed the lines connected to her collar and the veil before bowing down behind her on the floor as was the custom for this sort of event.
- Can you see it, Rukia? From that window over there? The two tools that will be used for your execution. That is the Sokyoku.
No response came from her, her back still facing me, as she looked out the window.
- A prisoner who is held in this tower can look out the window that has been placed in the tower and gaze out at the Sokyoku to repent. That is why this is called the Repentance Cell.
The guard who just spoke, stood up and walked up behind Rukia.
- Your hands… release!
He spoke and undid the binding on her wrists. He backed up, picked his pole up and along with the other guards they started making their way out of the cell, thanking me for the help with transferring the prisoner along the way.
- We should leave.
- Yeah.
The guards started to walk out but I remained standing, feeling utterly unable to move. Do I tell her about the recent irregularities or is it cruel to give the girl hope?
- Lieutenant Abarai...
The guard spoke with an unsure tone.
Still not moving, umming and ahing about what to do, quickly made me annoyed. Fuck it, at least she could die knowing that the idiot from the living world at least attempted to help her. Some joy she deserves, I guess. With a purpose in me now, I took some confident steps to Rukia, the guards clearly confused by my actions. I grabbed her shoulder and leaned down next to her head to relay the information I had learnt about, whilst keeping the volume of my voice low.
- Let me give you a bit of unconfirmed information: You've heard that there were irregularities within soul society yesterday? Five of them… and one of them wielded a sword as long as his body. A soul reaper with orange coloured hair.
- Huh?! Rukia finally turned towards me and uttered that sound with a look of shock on her face.
With that, the guards and I left the cell and parted ways after we crossed the bridge. I took another glance to the tower before making my way back to continue my work for the day, still unable to fully hide my displeasure on my face. I can't remember how long it's been since I've seen her look so alive. Ichimaru confronted them, so that kid probably isn't alive anymore. It was probably good that I didn't tell her that.
- Hey!
- Huh?
- Hey, it's been a while, Abarai.
- Mr. Aizen!
In front of me stood Captain Aizen as casual and as approachable looking as ever. Seeing him immediately set some alarm bells in my head going. A conversation I had with Mejii where she told me what she had recently told Shuuhei, that she becomes weary and has a bad gut feeling whenever Aizen is nearby. That conversation now played in my head, and I instantly decided to not get too friendly with him. Prior to Mejii's words, I had no problem with him, but I trust Mejii with my whole being and take her concerns very seriously.
- Can we talk? He asked me and as to not appear out of the ordinary, I nodded and followed him to another location.
- Well… It's been quite some time since we talked like this.
- Yes.
- Ever since you were sent to Kenpachi's… how many years has it been? You're with squad 6 now?
Mejii's words once again rang in my head, I guess this made me decide on not answering him and instead urge the conversation to his point for approaching me.
- Err… what did you want to talk to me about?
Without words, Aizen walked past me and shut the curtain that was hung by the entrance. Mostly to keep this conversation between us, though we both knew the curtain wouldn't do much for keeping this conversation secret.
- Abarai, you and her… you were close to Rukia Kuchiki, right? Don't deny it. I heard you were friends from your days in the Rukon District.
Surprise hit me hard. How had he acquired this information and why?
- Yes…
- I won't waste any time then. In your eyes, should she die?
Surprise once again hit me. What kind of question is this? If he knows my history with her the answer should be simple! Is he trying to get me into trouble? To not lean one way or another without fully knowing his reasonings for asking, I'd rather look dumb than get myself in sudden trouble.
- Well… I don't understand your question.
- Don't you think this is strange? Aizen quickly added. Her crime was the unauthorized transfer, and loss, of her spiritual energy, and staying longer than allowed outside. Certainly, heavy crimes but the problem is how to deal with them. The order for the immediate return and disposal of her gigai. The lessening of the grace period before execution from 35 days to 25 days, the authorization and use of the Sokyoku on someone who ranks below a captain. They're all outside the norm. I have a feeling this is the will of one person.
- Hold it, captain Aizen. What do you mean?!
- I have a bad feeling. Abarai, I may…
The sounds of a wooden banging interrupted us, and a voice spoke.
Attention all captains! Attention all captains! An urgent meeting will now be held! I repeat, an urgent meeting will now be held!
Aizen remained silent for a second before sighing and turning around.
- I suppose we can't continue right now; I must be off. Mejii is your partners name, right?
I froze as her name came out of his mouth.
- Give her my regards, will you? A pleasant smile was plastered on his face as he shot me a quick wave before he headed out.
Still alone in the room, I felt like my body had turned to stone. The conversation with him just now was confusing, enlightening and dangerous. I was wary of him from Mejii's words, but he also expressed some opinion regarding Rukia's trial that I had to agree, didn't make sense! Was he an ally? If so, why?
I don't know if I should trust him or not, this could easily be a ploy to get a possible traitor turned in. If I had simply said yes, he would be in the right to detain me. However, what if he is not against me and wishes to do something about this? If that's the case… no matter what his reasons are, I would be putting myself in a line that could kill me, one that I don't want to bring Mejii into. Clearly, this is something I can't share with anyone. Whether I investigate it or not, I should not act rashly nor out of the ordinary. I looked around the shoddy room, sighed and stepped out. No point lingering in there, I still have work to do, a Lieutenant meeting later and what not.
Mejii's pov.
I was walking around the 11th divisions headquarters. A stack of paperwork being held in one hand and an empty tray in the other. I had just gotten back from delivering some sweets to Yachiru and was now attempting to find a location to finish the paperwork. The office was a no go as captain Zaraki was currently napping in there and I had no desire to wake a sleeping bear, it would only be a hassle. No, a more casual location would be more suited for this work due to it not only being just a stack and therefore wouldn't take too long to complete, but also since the people with the most insane personalities in this division are currently napping, it only left the people with a saner temper, for the most part. As such, the decision to work whilst also hanging out with Yumichika came to mind. A quick walk to his usual spot was fruitful as he indeed sat there, drinking tea. With a smile, I greeted my friend, and he happily waved me over to sit with him. His smile faded rather quickly upon seeing the stack of paper in my hand as I sat down though.
- Are you bringing work to this beautiful spot of mine? I'd say that truly diminishes its beauty. Flamboyant as ever. Though this comment did not remove my own smile.
- Oh, dear me Yumichika, surely the beauty of the scenery as well as the two of us along with some nice tea is beauty enough as to not be flawed by papers. He chuckled, humoured by my compliment.
- I suppose my beauty is more than enough, yours is obviously not as strong as mine though. Narcissistic as always, but I have learnt to like this side of him, for the most part. Either way, a comment like that is a compliment from him so my smile only grew.
- Oh dear, such praise, I'm not sure I'm worthy. Yumichika being clearly satisfied with this greeting allowed me to work next to him, though not showing much interest in the actual work, no surprise there. The silence was something we both enjoyed, and each other's presence was comforting. The small talk came now and then when I stopped to have some more tea. Yumuchika is very loyal to Ikkaku, and I'm aware that he will forever rank him above me, but Yumichika has grown to enjoy time alone with me too.
- I was wondering something Mejii. Yumichika suddenly spoke, his smile fading a little and his gaze was unwavering.
- A few days ago, Ikkaku and I had thought about showing you something when you were meant to teach a class for some of the new trainees, but we were met by the captain instead. When asking him of your whereabouts, he strongly advised us to leave you alone for a bit. I convinced Ikkaku to not ask you about it when we saw you next, but I am curious. What had happened?
- Ah, well...
I trailed off. The news had already broken at this point about Rukia's sentence, as well as Renji's task in all of it. It's not like it was a secret anymore so I honestly felt a little silly about sharing it now. I started picking at my nails, a bad habit I picked up many years ago now. Yumichikas gaze never leaving me, taking in all my body language, as he always does, always the perceptive one.
- No judgement, I should add.
- Right, I guess I just feel silly about sharing it now.
- Why?
- It was due to the news about Rukia's upcoming execution and Renji's role and his feelings about it.
- Go on.
- Well, I just know this isn't easy for Renji and I was worried about him. He and Rukia share a long history of friendship after all.
- Hmm… Yumichika trailed off. But you're not picking at your fingers currently due to worry for him or for Rukia though, are you?
I stopped and looked at him. He was now leaning his head on his hand and was gently tapping the table with his other hand.
- What are your thoughts and feelings around it?
This subject could be dangerous.
- Yumichika, you should know that uttering personal thoughts about this could be dangerous. If you wish, I would be prepared to do so next time you come over to my home. I suppose that I can say that I feel sorry for Rukia.
Yumichika remained quiet for a bit. He is a very insightful person who's able to pick up on people's nature and methods quickly, so for him to understand the meaning behind my words and my choice to be cautious should not be a problem. He gave me a friendly smile and I was glad to see that he got the message.
- I see. Well, I'm glad to see that you're doing fine, you're more beautiful that way.
- Oh, is she fine now?
A voice suddenly spoke and Ikkaku rounded the corner, yawning as he was walking towards us.
- Had a nice nap? I asked and a pleased sound came from Ikkaku.
- I had a dream where I fought a hollow so I'm rearing to spar, you guys in?
- I suppose. Yumichika answered.
- Mejii, you in?
- Just allow me to finish this and I'll be right with you.
Day turned to evening and I was just about ready to go home when the sound of an alarm started pounding in the evening air and an urgent message was being sent out all throughout the seireitei.
Urgent alert! Urgent alert! Intruders in the Seireitei! All squads get into position!
A structured chaos broke out in the Seireitei, even more so since all the captains had been called into a meeting earlier. Hearing the alarm, I Knew Zaraki would surely be moving at a fast pace, possibly here but most likely to where the intruders are. I quickly took the reins of our headquarters and started to shout out orders to the members of our squad. Soul reapers everywhere running in all different locations and most of our members had luckily remembered where they had to go. Amongst the chaos, Yumichika and Ikkaku ran up to me, Ikkaku was displaying excitement in every sense of the world in every way possible on him. His voice, body language, hell even the aura coming off him.
- Hey, should we see if we can locate the intruders! He asked me, stars practically forming in his eyes.
- We have our orders Ikkaku, lets head to our locations.
Not the answer he hoped for, but he wasn't defeated by it either, he quickly grabbed my arm to get me to start running with them, although my position isn't with theirs, he was too excited to listen right now. I decided to let it go, my location isn't far from theirs after all. In Ikkakus mind, I'm sure he was at least just excited about them appearing. My mind was more confused about the fact that they had survived the encounter with captain Ichimaru. No matter how I feel about that captain, to come out of that alive does deserve some praise, and some awareness of their strengths. No time to think too long about it, as a blue sphere suddenly crashed into the shield protecting Seireitei, attempting to break through it. The three of us quickly got to the position and jumped up on the roof off one of the buildings by it and looked up to observe what was happening. Up there the clash of the spere and the shield were creating some flashes of lightning as one was attempting to beat the other. My sword hummed in excitement with the sparks coming from it as well as the possibility of a proper fight. Ikkaku was shaking with excitement at the show happening above us and was shaking mine and Yumichikas shoulders uncontrollably. The impact was starting to create shockwaves and as they turned up in frequency and the lightning sparks were growing in size and amount, we all waited to see which one would win.
Suddenly the sphere passed through, and the irregularities had officially passed through the barrier. The sphere broke and high up in the air, a handful of shapes were discernible. Impossible to count how many they were from where we were standing, though the unconfirmed report had said that there were five of them. It felt as time stood still as we watched the irregularities in the sky with a vortex appearing around them. I was unsure of what was to happen and instinctively placed a hand on my zanpakuto. The vortex suddenly flung the irregularities out in different locations, and they were flung away fast. 4. They split into 4.
- The irregularities have split into 4, so if we encounter some it will most likely be one or two of them at a time.
- Please, please, please make them land here! Ikkaku was shouting next to me, making it hard to take in what was happening. According to Renji, he encountered a kid with orange hair and a big sword whilst fetching Rukia. He is most likely one of the irregularities but that doesn't mean he is the strongest. I took a quick peek at Yumichika and noticed that he too held a hand on his blade but not showing any expression on his face.
!BANG!
On the ground in front of the building we were on, one of the groups landed. Instead of the concrete ground, a hole of sand had instead been created. Most likely not due to the actual impact of the irregularities but rather an ability. I quickly put a hand on Ikkakus shoulder to keep him still and quiet, wanting to see the being/s first. Though I didn't need to be psychic to tell how pleased and over the moon Ikkaku and Yumichika were over the fact that they had landed here.
An arm burst out from the sand pit, followed by two people emerging and immediately spitting out sand. One of them was a man wearing a green bandana and matching vest and the other was the kid Renji had told me about, the one who had managed to land a slice to his shoulder. I wasn't worried about fighting them. Rather, whilst being slightly annoyed that he managed to hurt Renji, the fighter in me was applauding the kid for his prowess. Being in the 11th vision, the interest in fighting him was very much there.
- Thanks to your weird skill, we were saved…
- Sand went down a weird spot.
- Your skill did this! How long are you gonna keep coughing!
The orange haired kid spoke with an angry tone and kicked the other guy. So, the green man has an ability like that? The green guy quickly spun around ang grabbed the others collar.
- Hey! You got a lot of nerve, punching the guy who saved your life!
- Who said that?! I only said we were saved-!
These guys are either on good terms enough that they are comfortable with arguing like this, not close at all or just plain idiots for being this loud when just having entered our territory. There were more pressing matters though, Yumichika and Ikkaku were too eager to hold back now, with a slight sigh I released them and walked up with them to the edge of the roof.
- Yahoo! What luck!
The guys in the pit turned their attention to us, their arguments died as soon as Ikkaku spoke. Ikkaku and Yumichika jumped down on the ground a few meters away from the pit, I remained on the roof. Though, the men had noticed my presence to. I was aware of Ikkakus greed and lust to fight; he would rather face me to see who would go first than to just allow me to start. Therefore, I decided to give him what he wants, and I would remain up here to observe and to also get the upper hand in case I got dragged in.
- You fell right into our hands. Lucky, I'm lucky! Today, I'm lucky! You on the other hand, are unlucky.
And so Ikkakus lucky dance began. Always so stupid to watch. As he finished, the two opponents looked at him dumbfounded and I can't blame them one bit. Even Yumichika sighed at the display!
- What are you doing your fools?! I was doing my ''Lucky dance'' for you while waiting for you to crawl out! Why are you staring like idiots?! Don't you understand human kindness?!
Ikkakus rant was going on non-stop. Me being used to it, I was able to drown it out and solely listen to what they were whispering about. The man in green was speaking off running at the first chance he got, which got him a more annoyed orange haired guy, questioning him for running away, but only receiving the response that we have greater spiritual power. I started to smile, a level-headed and a blockheaded person arguing. What I can tell is that the green guy is more cautious, wanting to engage in battles where he believes he can win, by simple deductions, he probably does as well, but he won't grow much or has grown much from only doing those kinds of battles. On the other hand, the orange guy seems to refuse the concept of running, either he is stupid to not acknowledge the worth in that, he believes himself as strong or perhaps it could be a combination? He would probably do well in our squad to be honest. Though I don't need to listen to his conversation to learn that. His zanpakuto tells me that enough, that big sword most likely requires a lot of strength to wield and that is something to be aware of when battling, captain Zaraki has said before that what he requires from new recruits is that they should be strong.
- What's this arguing about?! Ikkaku spoke, as he squatted down.
- Hmph… maybe they're scared out of their wits to fight us. Yumichika added. Though that wasn't it and it honestly made me question his insight if he thought that.
- Well, let them take their time and argue.
- But if they take too long, other guys will come and steal our glory.
- Yeah, that's true. Fine. I'll set a time limit! I'm so nice! I'll do another dance. So, you two can do what you want.
And with that the green guy jumped out of the pit and took off. A big sigh came out of my mouth catching the attention of all the men below me.
- Honestly you guys can be such a pain. Oi Yumichika, go after that guy, don't give us any trouble and by that, I mean don't make me come down there and knock you out!
- Right. He simply spoke and went after the green man, leaving Ikkaku, me and the orange haired male behind. The orange haired male watched me for a moment, he has striking eyes, I'm curious to know what's going on behind them. The man jumped out of the pit and brushed his robes off.
- Tell me… why didn't you run? Ikkaku asked, a good question for once. The other guy ran because he saw that our strength was greater than his, right? I think he made the right decision.
- If your strength is greater than mine, it's useless to run. You'd catch me for sure. But… if my strength is greater…I'll just defeat you and be on my way. That's all.
This caused a chuckle from me. I suppose he is not as stupid as I thought, still stupid but he has a mentality that I like. It's one that many of my comrades share after all.
- I guess you're not stupid. The words came out more pleased sounding than I first intended. Ikkakus head quickly turned my way, eyes narrowing.
- Oi, this fight is mine, you better not come down here or I'll make it into a three-way.
- Honestly Ikkaku, you know I like to observe, and a three way wouldn't be fair. If you are defeated than I'll know he Is stronger than you but so am I to be fair.
- What?!
- Don't let me stop you, have fun! I have some questions and thoughts I'd like answered. If your battle doesn't prove fruitful, I'll just come down and ask them myself.
Narrowed eyes at me but with a hand on his zanpakuto, he started to analyse me,' good luck' I thought to the kid. For most that is probably difficult to do, I was portraying a pleased smile and relaxed body language which in combination with my words portray a different view than that of my stature. I suppose the first thought amongst most would be how I can speak the way I do, since it doesn't match my looks at all.
Both men were holding on to their swords, waiting for the other to strike first, I covered my mouth to hide the excited smile on my face. I am overly curious and excited right now.
The first move came from Ikkaku, and he seemed surprised by the other guy's movement speed as he dodged it. There they went from switching back and forth from attacking to defending, both showing off nice moves to dodge. With one plunge down from the orange haired male, blood had finally been spilt, however, it was dripping from both of them.
- At least… tell me your name.
- Ichigo Kurosaki.
- Ichigo…. Huh? That's a good name.
- Really? No one's ever praised it before.
- Yeah. Guys with ''ichi{one}'' in their names are full of talent and good looks.
- I'm assistant lieutenant, squad 11. Ikkaku Madarame! My fellow Ichi{one}, let's be friends! I remember saying that to Ikkaku myself once. Seems he enjoyed that comment a lot since he managed to remember it for this long.
- No thanks!
A stifled laughter came from my mouth. Ichigo is his name huh. A name to the image. It is a name that fits him though. Ikkakus most likely genuine question about friendship was most likely taken as a joke by Ichigo, but the immediate and directness of his response was fun and refreshing to hear.
Blood was dripping from their foreheads, both had landed a similar hit to the other, making it hard to see. Ichigo was wiping his forehead and Ikkaku immediately responded with what I was thinking from what I had been taught.
- I don't get it. Sure, we got a distance between us, but only a novice would let one hand leave his sword during a match!
- S-shut up! I can't see with the blood in my eyes! I only wiped it!
- On the forehead, even a shallow wound bleeds profusely... Ikkaku started taking of the end bit of his zanpakutos handle. In there, he has a cream that he can apply to stop the bleeding and started to apply it to his cut. Unless you stop the bleeding, it's useless to wipe it.
- Hey! That's dirty! You had a styptic to stop the bleeding! Ichigo retorted.
- It's not dirty! It's called wisdom! Wisdom! You should admire me for being experienced!
- Whatever.
- Hah. You're strange. You behave like a novice. And you don't look much like a fighter. But...
Ikkaku dashed forward quickly as Ichigo was wiping his forehead. Taking him slightly off guard.
- You have excellent reflexes.
Ichigo quickly went on the defence as Ikkaku was unloading quick attacks now that he had an advantage. Managing to block his attacks, Ichigo quickly threw one back at Ikkaku who also managed to block.
- And a fierce attack! You could even say your movements are coming to close to mine!
Attacks were now thrown both ways, Ikkaku enjoying every second of it, always a smile on his face. Which Ichigo did not reciprocate.
- Don't look so angry. I'm praising you. You're too good to be dismissed as a mere novice with natural abilities… who was your master, Ichigo?
Now Ikkaku was displaying a side of him that made me curious, he would occasionally attend classes I held and it seems like he has picked up on similar language I use. I would use similar lines to guys who were showing some promise, though perhaps not fully in the way he said it now. Though, he was right, Ichigo was displaying abilities that precede someone who just recently gained these abilities. It truly is as if he has been trained, harshly and thoroughly. Ikkakus question did intrigue me, it's as if he gains more levels of intelligence whilst fighting, for the most part.
- It was only for 10 days, so I don't know if I can call him master, but there is a man who taught me how to fight.
- Who?
- Kisuke Urahara.
Shock hit both me and Ikkaku, our knowledge about this man was now being challenged by this… kid. He was trained by that man?! That answers the question of why he is this strong after only 10 days of training. This is information I must share to my captain. A smile spread on my face, I'm sure Zaraki would be very happy to challenge this kid who was trained by that man.
- I see. He was your teacher. In that case, it would be rude of me to kill you without giving my all.
Oh yes, perhaps Zaraki won't get to fight this kid. Ikkaku changed his stance to one I had seen plenty of times and then shouted the words I had also heard plenty of times.
- Extend! Hozukimaru! No time to look surprised, Ichigo! I'm coming at ya! Don't make a mistake!
- Who would?!
Ikkaku started laughing maniacally as he was attacking Ichigo who now had to re learn how Ikkaku battled with the change of his zanpakuto.
- Heh! A spear's reach is long. I know that much! I won't make a mistake.
- Wrong. Both me and Ikkaku casually spoke. As Ichigo moved forward, seeing at opening.
- Chance.
- Split apart! Hozukimaru!
The weapon split in three parts, closing in around Ichigo, he managed to block the sudden change of attack with his arm. Preferable choice since the other option was his head. This now meant that his arm was badly cut though.
- I warned you not to misread it. Hozukimaru isn't a spear. It's a sansetsukon. Does it hurt? That hand probably can't hold a sword anymore. I'm a nice guy. Ordinarily, I would've taken you in alive. Sorry, though I get no recognition unless I kill you.
Ichigo started wrapping his arms with the bandage that was making up his zanpakutos handle. Tying himself to it.
- Fine.
- Huh? What're you doing?
- Let's go!
Ichigo suddenly attacked and a surprised Ikkaku moved out of the way just in time as Ichigo's attack destroyed the wall behind where Ikkaku just stood. Surprising us both the strength he showcased. To be fair, we've seen several crazy strong soul reapers, but for a kid with just 10 days of training, this was indeed impressive. Seems like he can grow so much more.
- Don't talk like it's over. I still haven't shown you, my skill. It starts now, Ikkaku. This time, you'll be the one who can't hold your sword.
- Fine words. Brat! Where does that confidence come from?
The attacks started to become quicker and deadlier from both sides as their battle continues.
- I won't be able to hold my sword?! Don't make me laugh! You're the one who won't hold your sword again!
Ikkakus weapon wrapped around Ichigos and as Ikkaku dragged the weapons down he delivered a nice kick in the face to Ichigo. Staggering back, he managed to counter an attack from behind that Ikkaku threw.
- Wasn't I supposed to be slow?
- Humph! You are. That was a fluke.
- I'll show you it's not a fluke.
As Ikkaku jumped away from Ichigos attempt at attacking him, once again calling him slow, Ichigo did something equally interesting as funny. He didn't even attempt to follow after Ikkaku, he sliced the bloody wall down so that the roof Ikkaku stood upon collapsed. Ikkaku landed back on the ground and as Ichigo ran up to him to hit, Ikkaku threw the not bladed end of his weapon towards Ichigos face, making him fall backwards. Ikkaku seemed sure that Ichigo had gotten hit, but Ichigo then stood up and spoke in a more confident but slightly mocking tone.
- I've finally gotten used to your attack. Ichigo opened his hand and out of it, threads of red rained down. Ikkaku looked shocked and immediately knew where that red fabric came from, from his Hozukimaru. Ikkaku looked angry now, even more so as Ichigo muckily stepped on the red threads he had just released from his grasp.
- What's wrong Ikkaku? Don't look so surprised. I hope you haven't lost your nerve. If you won't attack, I will! Ichigo leaped up high into the air, close to where I was sat. His eyes never left Ikkakus so I was sure he wouldn't do a sudden attack towards me; he didn't strike me to fight like that though either.
- I'll say it again, Ikkaku! The guy who won't be able to hold his swords… is you!
Ichigo spoke as he came crashing down towards Ikkaku, the impact created a flash of blue, forcing me to shield my eyes. When I could open them again, there they both stood. However, Ikkakus weapon had been cut in half and a large cut going from his shoulder down to his arbs was spewing blood. The shock on Ikkakus face was apparent. I too was shaken by the sight, Whilst I felt a sense of hurt too see him like that, I knew that Ikkakus mindset was not about to turn into utter rage of being hurt, so whilst I don't enjoy to see my comrades hurt, I would lie if I said it didn't want to make me fight this kid. Ichigo was standing firm, blade in hand, watching Ikkakus reaction to all of it.
- D-damn it. Ikkaku managed to mutter out. Still holding his weapon in defence despite it being cut in two. Ikkaku then threw the smaller bit behind him, holding on to the other half that hade the blade attached to it.
- Heh! What's wrong? It's over already? Too bad! I can still hold my sword! If you want to make me stop, you'll have to cut off my arm! Ikkaku spoke with absolut bloolust and adrenaine filling his eyes.
- Put down your sword. Ichigo calmly responded.
- I refuse.
- Don't! the fight's over! You know it! You lost!
- That's garbage. This is a fight. It's over only when one is left alive!
With blood still poring from his wound, Ikkaku charged forward. Very much like Ikkaku, what would Ichigo do? Judging by his response, it seemed like he didn't wish to kill Ikkaku, but who's to say he won't do it?
With weapon in hand, Ichigo shouted at Ikkaku.
- Slow! And struck him again. This time cutting his other shoulder, causing Ikkaku to fall on his knees.
- Damn it… I wasn't lucky…
And with that Ikkaku passed out on the ground, a smile still on his face.
- Neither of us were lucky… bastard… Ichigo said. Not looking pleased with his victory.
- Hah, I suppose you have an instinct for battle after all. I spoke, Ichigos reaction looked more like surprise, did he forget I was here? I jumped down next to Ikkaku and Ichigo quickly stepped back rearing for round two, as much as I would love to, Ikkakus life was worth more than a fight with his kid.
- Calm down kid, I'd rather save this idiots life right now, would you mind holding off until I have at least stopped his bleeding? You can have some too, for your forehead and arm. Ichigo looked at me and seemed surprised at my words, just a nod was all I received from him, and he sat down a few meters away from me as I started applying the cream to Ikkakus wounds, it won't fully save him, but it'll stabilize him until I get him to the 4th division.
- You're not going to fight me?
- I believe I just said I'd rather save this one's life first.
- Are you as strong as him? I chuckled.
- On a technical term, He is ranked higher than me in our division, though that is mainly due to our captain being similar in temperament and love for fighting wise, when it comes to battles, I am stronger. I gave Ichigo a clear look and he remained silent.
- It doesn't matter to me if we fight or not. All I want are some answers. Ichigo said, standing up and slowly walking closer to me as I finished applying the cream to Ikkakus chest. I looked up at him, curiosity peaking in my head.
- I thought something like this was coming. I said and stood up, crossing my arms over my chest. What do you want to know? When my birthday is? Ichigo did not answer back to my obviously jokey question.
- Where's Rukia Kuchiki? Now this is an interesting question. I made sure to keep my face neutral, more could be gained here, information wise.
- Kuchiki?
- Yeah.
- That capital offender? What do you guys want with somebody like her?
- We came to rescue her. Clearly, but having the information confirmed by the irregularities themselves is very good, I walked over to Ikkakus zanpakuto and placed it next to him.
- Hmm. How many of you came?
- Five humans and one animal.
- Huh? What? One animal? You seriously intend to rescue her with that few?
- That's right! His look was so serious for such an answer. Either he is delusional or extraordinary. No comment was provided by me by his statement though. I looked down at Ikkaku, I've never seen him this still. Ichigo was able to beat him, but Ikkaku is nowhere near the strongest and Ichigo has taken hits from this battle to after all. He will have to show some serious skills and an increase in power to accomplish what he wants. I looked around for a moment, can't see anybody else and I can't sense anyone either. Hmm.
- Directly south from here are the stations for each of the thirteen court guard squads...
- You're going to tell me?
- Shut up! Just listen for now. At the west end of the stations is a white tower. She should be there…
- I-is that true?
- Whether you believe it or not is up to you. Save her, if that's what you want.
- Why are you helping me? Ichigo asked, fair one at that. I didn't respond to him though. Despite the injuries he has given both Ikkaku and Renji, I don't dislike him. Secretly, I wish for Rukias escape too after all, why not have this kid do the dirty work that he already wants to do.
- Can I ask you something?
- Hm?
- Who's the strongest in your group?
- It's me, probably… I sighed.
- Is that so? Then watch out for my captain. My captain has no interest in weak men. It took me quite a while to get him to acknowledge me. If what you say is true, you're the one he'll be after!
- Is he strong?
I- f you meet him, you'll find out how strong he is, that is, if you stay alive long enough when you meet.
- What's his name?
- Captain of squad 11, Zaraki Kenpachi. Now, I don't think I can help you anymore than this. Go, if you're gonna go.
- But why are you helping?
- Let's just say I'm not against your actions but, I won't go out of my way to fight on your side either. Now go.
- Oh… okay, so long. I owe you; I hope Ikkaku recovers quickly.
- Get going before other soul reapers find you.
- Right, thank you.
And with that, Ichigo took off, leaving me behind with my partner Ikkaku. I sat down next to his unconscious body, hoping that I did something worth while just now. When somebody finds us, I already have an easy excuse to keep me out of blame for why he is still on free foot, rather, it's my partners I'll have to cover for and help now. The fact that Ikkaku was defeated will spread around, a lot of lieutenants think they can beat him so we will just have to wait and see their reactions. Yumichika hasn't returned yet either. Hope he is doing well. Now, how much should I tell Renji about this? We haven't even expressed our thoughts on if we can do something about Rukia, would he be angry with me for helping the kid? Ugh, so annoying to think about. Anyways, when Ikkaku wakes up I'll inform him of what to do next, the next step is to also find our captain and to tell him and only him what transpired. Thankfully, my captain doesn't care about anything else than fighting, he won't disapprove of what transpired.
- Why am I still alive?
- You're awake?
- Mejii, why are you still here? Where is Ichigo.
- I got your zanpakuto. I also used the cream to stop the bleeding, I gave some to Ichigo as well, but I used it all on the two of you.
- That's dirty.
- Why?! Sure, I used it up but that's no reason to get so mad.
- That's not it!
- Hu?
- Damn, I knew something was wrong! I didn't die, even after losing so much blood. I can't live on like this… in shame. Damn! If only I could move, I'd beat him to a pulp!
- What's up with that? I shouldn't have saved you. Well, appreciate it or not, it doesn't matter to me. I did this selfishly; you can go and off yourself selfishly too if you want. Ikkaku sighed.
- That would be even more shameful, thanks Mejii.
- Don't mention it, I enjoy you too much, so don't go dying on me.
- So, what happened after I passed out?
- A conversation, one I wish to keep quiet about until we're alone with the captain.
- Hah? Why?
- Trust me Ikkaku. He said nothing. For now, we need a story. We are going to be questioned about what transpired here.
- I assume you have thought about something already.
- I have, you might not like it, but you need to stay humble and unaware.
- Elaborate.
- You didn't see or hear the person, it happened so fast, the attack. I found you whilst walking nearby since my post is nearby. That's what we will say should anybody ask and we can go off from that. Only captain will be told the truth, when we're alone with him, I'll let you know what was said. For now, it's safer if you don't know.
- Alright, I trust you.
- Don't worry, this is the best way as to not put you in danger, I'm standing by you Ikkaku and Yumichika as well.
- Thanks, Mejii.
- Alright, we need to get you to the 4th division.
- Have you seen Yumichika yet?
- Nope. I started to head out to another path, in the distance I saw some soul reapers and shouted for them to come over. 5 guys game all looking strong enough for the job I was about to ask them to do. I lead them to Ikkaku and instructed them all to co-operate with carrying him to the 4th division. The men all looked uncertain, probably due to it being Ikkaku who laid on the ground, defeated. Though after some choice words from me, the men finally carried him, led by me to the 4th division.
Once we arrived, I refused to let Ikkaku out of my sight, it was crucial for me to be around in case someone started to question him, if he said anything slightly out of line or from what we discussed, it would land on me to support and get creative with the story as to not get him punished. After a while the nurses had finished cleaning his wound, stitching it shut and wrapped him in bandages and we were now alone in there. I felt a bit protective of him not, almost like a guard dog, eyeing anyone that tried to make a move in the wrong manner.
- You alright?
- Yeah, just gotta lay here now, fucking waste of space.
- At least you're alive and therefore can win battles and duel some more yeah?
- Yeah!
- Well well, this is where you were. Walking into the room was none other than captain Kurotsuchi and Nemu. Why these two arrived is very unclear. Information would be the biggest reason but it's still odd that they arrived here, was it subordinates of his that helped carry Ikkaku here? Either way, there he stands, his black and white face always felt creepy to look at and his personality didn't help with it.
- Captain Kurotsuchi, Lieutenant Nemo. I greeted them both, Nemu greeted me back, but the captain wouldn't even look at me, his focus solely on Ikkaku.
- I heard you had battles one of the irregularities Ikkaku. I wish to know everything.
To my surprise Ikkaku remained silent, unfaced. Not even greeting him.
- Perhaps you didn't hear me. The captain leaned closer to Ikkaku. I wish to know what happened, in detail.
Ikkaku still remained silent. The captain than turned his attention to me who was stood on the other side of the bed Ikkaku laid in.
- Ah Mejii, in detail, what happened.
- I wasn't there, sir. I have no info to give you. A strong gust of wind blew past me, creating a perfect circle in the wall behind me. I remained still, the captain is notorious for using intimidation tactics to get what he wants. Mentally I was telling myself and Ikkaku to be strong. The captain started to laugh.
- So, you're not going to say anything no matter what? Ikkaku Madarame… Why don't you say something?
- Please sir! Captain of squad 12! Such interrogation is prohibited on these premises. A nurse shouted from the doorway.
- Shut up! The captain shouted back, sending another gust at her, scaring her away.
- Lord Mayuri…
- You to Nemu, be quiet! Just shut up, okay? Do you want to be pulled to pieces again?
- No, sir. Forgive me. Ikkaku and I both glanced at Nemu for a second. Ikkaku then started to talk, and I looked at him and made sure to listen carefully to his words.
- It's not that I don't want to say… I really don't know. I don't know the irregularities' objective, destination or anything, for that matter.
- Then, what? So you're saying that although you've met and fought the irregularities, you were just defeated in battle and retreated simply… without gaining any information? Is that it?
- Exactly. Furthermore… I have not seen the enemy's face, nor heard his voice. So, I don't have any information to give you. The captain was looking extremely frustrated and unsatisfied by Ikkakus response.
- Fine… Then you shall receive punishment… befitting your failure. Right? The captain lifted his hand readying a strike, I quickly leaned over Ikkaku, shielding him with my body, though there was no need as captain Kurotsuchi's wrist was grabbed by none other than our captain Zaraki.
- I'm surprised. Since when did you get so powerful that you can punish people from other squads? Kurotsuchi?
- Zaraki! Captain Kurotsuchi gritted out angrily.
- Humph, well, if his captain is here, then there's no need for me to interrogate him. I'll withdraw for now. Let's go, Nemu! Stop stalling, you dullard.
- Yes, sir.
With Captain Kurotsuchi and Nemu gone, I stood back up and was looking up at our captain. He seemed unbothered by the nuisance who just left the room and turned his attention towards me and Ikkaku.
- Captain… Ikkaku started.
- You got yourself pretty beat up there, huh?
- Are you just here to visit?
- Nope, we got lost on our way! Yachiru squeaked and poke her head up, laying on Zaraki's shoulder, as she often does.
- Oh, the lieutenant is here too?
- It's just a coincidence that we wound up here, but we were worried about you. Are you okay, baldy, blondie?
- I told you not to call me that, you brat. Ikkaku mumbled angrily.
- Then, Shiny Baldy?
- You heard me, didn't you?
- Shiny, shiny, shiny, Baldy!
- I heard… that you lost.
- My deepest apologies. I've come back despite the shame of my defeat.
- Is he strong?
- Yes, indeed. He appears to be a soul reaper. He wears a Shihakusho, short orange hair, with a body-length sword without a guard or grip. Ikkaku finished and turned his eyes towards me to provide with more information.
- He is headed towards Senzaikyu Shishinro. Zaraki turned his attention towards both me now.
- That maximum-security prison.
- I gave him your description and told him to be on the lookout for you. If he heeded my words… you will surely enjoy an excellent battle, regardless of where you meet him. He's strong and I believe that strength is still growing. By the time he meets up with you, he will probably be stronger… Zaraki started laughing at my words. Ikkaku was simply observing me, there was more to this story but for the captain, this is the important part for now.
- I see…. And what's his name?
- Ichigo Kurosaki. Ikkaku spoke. The captain simply smiled, said good work and left us again. We both breathed an uneasy sigh, allowing the tension to leave our bodies.
- Good job. Ikkaku looked at after I uttered those words to him. He smiled.
- You too, shame you didn't get to fight him yourself, right?
- Yeah, that guy was also prepared for it. I told him that as much as I'd love to, I'd rather make sure you didn't first. So, you're to blame, you idiot.
Ikkaku laughed, as did I. I'm glad he survived; I would make the same choice if I had the option to. For now, though, the rest of the information that Ichigo gave me is something I'm willing to share, with trusted people in trusted locations. I know Ikkaku wants to know, but the ward here is far to open. It'll have to wait. Rather, I should probably even attempt a plan for what to do if things start going in the favour of Ichigo and his gang. So, what to do next…
