Bleach is owned by Tito Kubo, however my OC's are my own.
Apricot Parfait ch.15
Bastilles and Basiliks
"Captain Hitsugaya"! A woman with strawberry blonde hair ran up to the youngest captain in the Gotei Thirteen.
"We've secured this section. There are no signs of the ryoka here either". Lieutenant Matsumoto reported.
"Alright. Tell our squad members to move on to the next section but have some stay behind in case any ryoka decide to come by while we continue our search".
"Yes, sir". Rangiku made her way back to where the rest of the Squad Ten members were awaiting orders.
"The ryoka have been here for a couple of hours, but there still hasn't been any sign of them. I wonder where they could be". Toshiro glanced at the sky where the yellow ball of reishi had broken through the Shakonmaku. The protective barrier started repairing itself immediately after the foreign body forced its way through. One wouldn't have even known that more ryoka had entered the Seireitei if it wasn't for the alarm going off or thousands of eyewitness accounts.
"I wonder how the other captains are faring. Not much better I'm assuming since no jigokucho or messenger have come by to announce anything".
"Captain, we're ready".
"Good. Let's go, Rangiku".
"This is so embarrassing. These clothes are beyond tasteless, and I feel like I'm drowning in the fabric".
Uryuu pulled at the black hakama pants he now wore. If it were up to him, he would've tailored the set to be more fitted, and white like his quincy uniform, but that was a project for another day. Stepping out of the open area, he stood along the wall with the others while they waited for Chad to finish changing with some help from Renji.
"What's wrong with you"? Ichigo nodded his head at Uryuu who came to stand by him.
"Nothing. Don't worry about it".
"Aren't these outfits so cool, Uryuu"? Orihime beamed.
"Y-yeah…cool".
"What's wrong with you"? Ichigo quirked a brow at the quincy. "The smell isn't that bad down here".
"Nothing. You wouldn't understand".
On the opposite wall, Anju and Ganju were chatting away.
"Sorry, I didn't get a uniform for you. I didn't know you were coming".
"Neither did I. My sister insisted that I escort these riff-raffs at the last minute, so no big deal".
"I'm excited to meet her. Kisuke told me she's a good friend of his and she has some powerful kido under her belt. I wonder if she'll teach me a bit".
"Believe me. You don't want her as a teacher. She's su~per strict". Ganju groaned.
"Ha, ha. I don't mind".
"I'm done changing". Chad called from the open area.
"Ok"! Anju called back. "Time to get into the nitty gritty".
Before she handed them shihakusho to change into, Anju gave them a quick rundown of what she'd managed to learn these past two days including where Rukia was being imprisoned and what to do once she was successfully out of the tower.
While Ichigo normally wasn't one to listen to directions. Hearing Anju describe what she'd been up to was kind of interesting. He didn't realize just how much went into pulling off an operation like this. Her idea to use carved stones to let Rukia know they were coming for her was pretty cool too. Now she was explaining how these silver card things with something called gps worked.
"These green lines represent streets and alleyways. The green dots are buildings, and the red dots are hiding spots. To change any of the dot's colors just tap them three times. For example, if a hiding spot gets compromised tap the red dot three times and it'll turn green for everyone. On the flip side if you find a new hiding spot tap the green dot representing the building you're in three times and it'll turn red. This big yellow dot over here is the Repentance Tower. When you've taken Rukia out of the tower just tap it three times and it'll turn blue. Once Rukia has been brought to the sewer tap it three more times, so it'll turn green. If something happens and Rukia is recaptured just tap it three times so it will turn yellow again. Got it? Keep in mind this device only shows the basics. You'll have to rely on your own skill and wit when it comes to interacting with soul reapers and navigating other obstacles not shown on the device. Any questions"?
"No, It's pretty straight forward". Uryuu zoomed in and out of the small screen.
"Did you and Hat n' Clogs really make this"? Ichigo flipped the credit card sized device front and back in his hand.
"We sure did. The hardest part was figuring out how to create a long lasting battery pack, but we eventually did it. We then loaded the most up to date map of the Seireitei he had on file, and I marked coordinates every time I had down time in the shed. Though I wish we had more time to make trackers for everyone so we'd could see where we all are in real time. But, we would've had to implant chips under everyone's skin to do that, and I felt like that was a breach of ethics". The sigh she let out after saying this made them think she had struggled a bit with her conscience and scientific curiosity before scrapping the idea, and if Kisuke was the one who helped make the chips, he likely would've implanted them with something that was more than just a simple tracker. A horrifying thought indeed.
"Well, thank goodness you didn't". Ichigo and Uryuu both sweat dropped.
"I think I broke it". Ganju looked frazzled swiping and pinching his fingers over the device. Since Anju already had a fairly good idea of where to go, she had given him hers in case he got separated from his assigned squad. It was the least she could do since she didn't have a shihakusho prepared for him.
"Let me see. You just zoomed in too much. Pinch your fingers inward to make the screen smaller".
"Like that"?
"Yeah, you got it". Going back to stand in front of the group, she announced the last portion they needed to go over before heading out. "If there are no more questions, we should split off into teams now. Uryuu and Orihime, Ichigo, Hanataro, and Ganju, and Chad and me. I'll let you decide what you want to do Yoruichi".
"I think it's for the best that I move on my own. I'll try to keep an eye on everyone when I can and provide aid when necessary".
"Hey, how come Renji didn't get assigned to a group. Isn't he supposed to be helping us too"? Ichigo pointed at the red-haired lieutenant who fumed at having been addressed so informally.
"It's Lieutenant Abarai, and I already told you that I can't get too involved because it'll look suspicious since I'm a lieutenant. Besides, you're the one who stole Rukia's powers, so you better get her out of here or else". Renji glared at Ichigo.
"I didn't steal anything. She gave them to me so I could save my family, you jerk"!
Both Ichigo and Renji began shoving each other with their faces. Looking like a pair of street dogs that were engaged in a turf war.
"Settle down you two". Anju clapped once to get their attention. "Before we go, I have one last thing I want to say".
"What"? Ichigo and Renji stopped pulling at each other's cheeks.
"Remember why we are here and never lack in resolve. Good luck, everyone".
"I can't believe I'm stuck with you again". Ganju crossed his arms over his head while he waited to be let out of the sewer.
"Back at you, Red Mullet". Ichigo quipped back.
"Tch. It's Red Bullet".
"Whatever".
"Um, guys. We can go now. Anju signaled that it's all clear". Hanataro said peeking through the slightly lifted manhole cover.
"Fine. Let's go then". Ganju pushed past Ichigo exiting after Hanataro.
"Rgh. I should ask for a new partner". Ichigo thought jumping out of the manhole.
"Let me out of here, Hachi"! Hiyori pounded on the barrier.
"I'm sorry, Miss Hiyori. I truly am, but if I let you out, you'll go to Kisuke and demand that he open a senkaimon for you, and I'm under strict orders to not let you do that. Just be patient, you have approximately~… one hundred and ninety-two hours left until Anju gets back". Hachi stated looking at his wristwatch. A bead of sweat dripped down his forehead. For nearly forty-eight hours, Hiyori had been relentless even donning her hollow mask for a power up while she tried to break his barrier with brute force alone since her zanpakuto had been confiscated by Shinji.
"Forgive me, Hiyori, but this is for your own good".
"Let me out now! Or when I get out of here, I'm-"!
"You're still going at it? Where was that persistent attitude when you were a lieutenant"? A blond lanky man holding a plate of food with one hand walked down the steps to the underground training area.
"Shinji! Let me out now. We have to talk to Kisuke and see what was going on in that braindead head of his"! Hiyori yelled huffing to catch her breath. Shinji just looked at her with his usual bored expression. Sighing, he tried to explain to her why that wasn't possible.
"Sorry, no can do, Hiyori. Anju showed me she was ready to go, so I agree with Kisuke this time. Here, I brought you some breakfast. I'm going to give it to you, but do back up from the barrier would you? I don't want to get my fingers bit off when I hand it to you this time. Hachi, open the slot".
"Yes, sir". Hachi focused his reiatsu on opening a space big enough to fit the plate through. Seeing that Hiyori hadn't rushed to it like she had during yesterday's dinner trying to claw her way out of the tiny space, Shinji walked up to the barrier and slid the plate through. Quickly he retracted his hand and ran to stand next to Hachi, who had closed the slot back up. The look Hiyori gave him during the whole ordeal could've melted his skin off if he wasn't used to it by now.
"Oh, don't give me that look. You'll be fine. Just eat your food and wait patiently for Anju to come back, and you better not give her a hard time for going. Do you remember what I said about doves are meant to fly? Have more faith in her".
"Ok, ok. I get it. Can you let me out of this barrier now"?
"Nope! Enjoy your meal, Hiyori". Shinji gave her a fake smile while walking towards the stairs.
"Tch. That dumb ass". She muttered under her breath.
"He's right you know. We all need to have a little more faith".
"Yeah, well the last time I had that, we lost two of our friends. I just don't want anyone else to get hurt".
"You're not the only one who feels that way, Miss Hiyori. That I can assure you. Now eat your breakfast. You don't want to make everyone worry more than they already are do you? And look, Mashiro even make you a smiley face on your rolled omelet. How cute". Hachi smiled hoping it would encourage Hiyori to hang in there just a bit longer.
Picking up the plate of food, Hiyori sweat dropped at the crudely drawn ketchup smiley face that stared back at her. Picking up a slice with the fork she was given, she took a bite.
"A little too sweet, but not bad".
"I thought so too, Miss Hiyori, but in a way "too sweet" describes Mashiro's brand of care does it not"? Hachi gave her a gentle smile.
Snorting, Hiyori took another bite. "Yeah, unlike me. With my personality. I would've made the omelet too salty".
"I don't think so, Miss Hiyori. You're a pretty good cook, you know".
"Thanks, Hachi".
"Anytime".
"Next, Team D will search the western most area, and Team E will check streets 79- 118".
"Why am I so worried about them? They all have that dgs or whatever, so I'm sure they're fine, but if I could just figure out a way to go off on my own, I could make sure that they don't come over here. If Captain Kuchiki sees them, he'll know something's up for sure. He's so perceptive".
"Is something on your mind, Renji"? Captain Kuchiki kept his eyes ahead watching as the last of the teams departed to complete their tasks.
"Forgive me, sir. I didn't think we'd get invaded like this. I feel like I should be doing more to help with the search instead of just standing here".
"Our orders are to oversee the direction of our squad members. If we deviate from this, our efforts will become disorganized, and our squad could pay for our failure to uphold our duties. We are doing what we are supposed to".
"Yes, Captain". "Well that settles that. Guess I'll just have to wait till Captain Kuchiki clears everyone's report. I wonder what everyone's up to now".
"Crap, I got separated from Chad".
Anju fast walked down some steps to a lower street. One minute she and Chad were walking, the next, a crew of Squad Four members came marching through chatting amongst themselves about gathering as many members as they could for a temporary relief station that Squad Leader Iemura had set up for any soul reapers that had been injured during the ryoka invasion. Thinking Chad was one of them due to the green medical pack he wore, they dragged him away before Anju could stop them.
"Dang, for a squad that mostly does the chores that no one else wants to do, they sure moved fast. I can't even sense where Chad is right now. Guess when duty calls, they really know how to put it into gear, huh".
"And strong too. Chad's practically solid muscle, but they picked him up like he was nothing. What do we do now"?
"Let's just keep going and see if we run into him. I'm sure he'll be fine on his own for a bit".
"State your name and squad number". Lieutenant Hinamori had come across three soul reapers from her squad who looked like they had someone cornered. On closer inspection, she could see they cornered a girl with auburn hair and a boy with glasses against a wall.
"I uh… uhm"…
"Why are you hesitating"? Momo raised her brow at the girl's inability to answer her.
"Run"! Uryuu grabbed Orihime's arm and tried to put as much distance as he could between them and the soul reapers.
"Hey"! The lieutenant shouted in surprise watching as the two ryoka ran away. "Get back here"!
Chasing after them, she threw a look over her shoulder to her squad mates.
"After them, hurry. Captain Aizen is counting on us to catch them".
"Yes, ma'am". They followed behind her.
Several streets away, Uryuu led Orihime down a side street.
"I'm sorry, Uryuu. I panicked and forgot what squad number I was supposed to say I was from".
"It's ok, let's just focus on running. I think we can lose them up ahead".
"Ok".
"We have to hurry. The injured need immediate medical attention".
"I heard the one who did it had a big blade".
"Isn't he the one who defeated Third Seat Madarame"?
"I think so, the description matches".
"They're talking about Ichigo".
Despite making his way towards the end of the cluster of fast walking soul reapers, Chad had gotten stuck at the tail end of the line. He wasn't even walking with them, he was literally jammed between several soul reapers, and no matter how hard he tried to free himself. He couldn't. Looking around he tried to come up with a solution before they reached the relief center.
"There". Seeing they were going to pass under some trees. Chad grabbed onto one of the sturdier branches with all his strength till he felt himself get unstuck from the group. Lifting himself up he climbed till he was hidden in the tree's cover.
"Well, that worked out somehow. I should get rid of this pack, so I don't get mistaken for one of them again. I don't think I'll need it anyway". Hanging it on a branch, he jumped down running in the direction he thought he came from so he could meet up with Anju again.
"Captain, this section is clear too". Rangiku reported.
"Alright, on to the next sec…tion"… Seeing something out of the corner of his eye, Toshiro turned his head to see a soul reaper with glasses with a woman wearing a squad four medical pack following closely behind him. When they ran past him, he stared at their retreating forms in confusion, not sure what was going on. "What was that about"? Hearing footsteps and the sound of heavy breathing coming towards him, he looked back to see Momo slowing down to stop in front of him.
"Momo? What happened"?
"Hah, hah, whew. Captain Hitsugaya, those two. They're. Hah. Ryoka". She pointed in the direction he saw the man and woman run towards.
"Ryoka? Go report what happened to your Captain. Rangiku and I will handle this" ordered Toshiro
"Ok". Momo went back in the direction she had come from. Hopefully her captain was where she last saw him, so they could hurry back and provide Captain Hitsugaya with backup.
"Rangiku". Toshiro started running down the street.
"I'm on it".
(Ding dong)
"Coming"!
Mr. Akiyama jogged whimsically to his front door.
"It's been a while since I've last seen my Anju-poo. I hope she likes the tickets to the game I got her". Clutching the tickets in his hand, he put on a friendly smile and opened the door.
"Hello, Anju~. W-who are you"? Mr. Akiyama's eyes widened. His good mood turning anxious as the shadow of a man over a foot taller than him drowned him in darkness. The tickets in his hands fell limply to the floor.
"Hello, there dear customer. I'm here to deliver your package". A sheen flashed across the towering man's glasses.
"Uhm"... Mr. Akiyama tried to peek behind the muscular man in case Anju was hiding somehow behind him, "Where's the regular delivery girl"?
"She's out right now, but I assure you that I will deliver your package with the utmost care while she's gone. Stamp her please". Tessai handed the pot-bellied man an invoice.
Stamping it, Mr. Akiyama didn't take his eyes off of the man. "Chiseled jawline… sculpted neck… biceps and pecks… and a tight core. My God, this man must've been sculpted by the gods". No wonder Anju turned him down all those times. Because this man was her boyfriend. Internally fuming, he was stopped from making further assumptions when the new delivery man handed him a piece of the invoice.
"Here's your receipt. Have a good day". Tessai put the rest of the invoice under his arm and started walking away from the apartment.
"Wait! I mean... How did you get so muscular"? Mr. Akiyama looked up to the man squinting his eyes to see if he could see what his eyes looked like behind his glasses.
"Oh, well, I work out and watch my diet. I also take several supplements to keep myself in tip top shape. See"? Tessai flexed his arms followed by modeling various poses to show off the rest of his muscles.
"There's no way I can compete with this. Anju probably snuggles up to those muscles and touches them every day".
(Inside Mr. Akiyama's mind)
"Oh, Tessai. You're such a Sigma Chad unlike like that Beta Male Akiyama. Oh ho ho ho". Anju hugged a flexing Tessai while Mr. Akiyama wept on the floor clutching his baseball tickets in defeat.
Looking down, Mr. Akiyama grit his teeth in embarrassment at seeing a downward view of his own physique, or what he could see since his beer belly was in the way.
Shaking his head to dispel his jealousy. Mr. Akiyama stepped out of his apartment pointing a finger at the mustached man . "I demand we have a competition for the right to Anju's love".
"Anju? She's not here right now. Would you like me to take a message"? Tessai took out a notepad and pen from his apron.
"No, I don't want to leave a message! I want to duel you. For her honor".
"Honor? Why yes, she was on the honor roll. We were all so proud of her".
"You're not understanding me, delivery man. I want to fight you for Anju". Mr. Akiyama jabbed a finger at Tessai's abs. "If I win you have to stay away from her".
"I'm sorry dear customer, but we don't allow fighting at the shoten. If you want to see a fight I'm sure you could watch sumo wrestling on cha- W-what are you doing"?
Before Tessai could react, Mr. Akiyama had dragged him by his apron and shoved him into the apartment.
"I'm not allowed to make personal visits with customers, sir. I have more deliveries to make, and the boss is expecting me back soon". Tessai tried to explain.
"Shh! I don't want to hear it". Mr. Akiyama put a finger to Tessai's lips. "I'm not letting you leave till one of us dies". The sound of the door locking was the last thing Tessai heard before he saw the customer grab something out of the entry closet and shoved into his hands.
Walking down another street, Anju stopped when she felt two familiar presences some ways behind her.
"Uryuu and Orihime. It looks like they're being chased by a… captain and lieutenant? I need to hurry".
Running back down the street, she jumped over the steps and headed in the direction she had sensed Uryuu and Orihime's reiryoku. She still had no idea where Chad was, and she wasn't going to lose Uryuu or Orihime either.
"Proceed with caution, Anju. We have no idea what this captain is capable of".
"I will".
"Hah, hah. Did. Did we lose them, Uryuu? Orihime had her hands on her knees as she tried to catch her breath.
Not quite. I can sense them in the area. They just haven't found us yet". Peeking from the cover of the corner they hid behind, Uryuu jumped when he felt a hand on his shoulder.
"Uryuu".
"Agh-"! Uryuu screamed having been startled.
"Shh". Anju put a finger to her lips. "It's me. I'll help you lose them. Follow me".
Taking a side street, Anju had them make a sharp left turn, continue straight, then make a right. She could feel that the captain and lieutenant were still pursuing them but were lagging behind indicating they had an idea of where they were, but were beginning to lose them. They just needed to keep funning till they threw them off their tail.
Having led them back to where she had been earlier, Anju jumped down the stone steps but stopped with a rough halt when she heard a thud. Uryuu had tripped on the last couple of steps landing several feet away.
"Uryuu! Are you ok? Orihime stopped to help him up.
"Yeah. I'm fine. Ow~ ah". Lifting the pan leg of his hakama, he saw a red bruise began to discolor his ankle. Touching it lightly, he hissed in pain.
"That looks twisted. Let me heal you".
Uryuu bit his lip nodding trying to stifle the pain.
Orihime sat down next to him summoning her Saten Kesshun. A small yellow shield formed over the swollen ankle making a whirring sound as it imbued the wound with healing reiatsu.
As the seconds ticked by, Anju knew they were out of time, and with the captain and lieutenant closing in they'd never be able to outrun them now.
"There. How does that feel"?
"Better, thank you". Uryuu took Orihime's offered hand and got up. "Those soul reapers are almost here, but we can still-". Seeing Anju walk past him, he stared at her back wondering what she was doing.
"Listen to me you two. If you continue straight, then make a series of turns you'll find a hiding spot. Use the gps to make sure you've got the right building".
"But, what about you? You're not thinking of-" Orihime didn't finish her sentence. "Oh, Anju. Please don't do this".
"This is madness! Orihime and I can help you. You don't need to sacrifice your life like this. I'm the one who slowed us down. I'll-". Uryuu shouted not liking that Anju was seriously going to do this.
"Listen to me, you two. The reason we were pursued so easily is because captains are more sensitive to sensing reiryoku due to having large amounts themselves. In other words, they can sense you and Orihime more easily which is why we were chased for so long, so while you guys escape, I'll hold these two off. You can count on me. She turned her head giving them a reassuring smile.
Still apprehensive about leaving her, Uryuu knew Anju was right. Yoruichi had told them in the reishikaku that they weren't ready to face captain-level soul reapers. It still didn't feel right to leave a comrade though.
"C'mon, Uryuu. We need to trust in each other. Remember"? Orihime grabbed his arm urging him to go, but her eyes told a different story.
"Orihime… you're trying to be brave despite not wanting to leave her behind either".
"Alright. It's a promise. Come back to us, Anju". Uryuu took out his gps looking for the nearest red dot and taking Orihime with him.
"He's right, you know. You're wild as hell to take on a captain on your own. Good call on not telling them about the second one that's in the area. Then they really would've insisted on staying".
"It's for the best, and if I have to use my shikai, I don't want them getting caught in the crossfire".
"Such a liar, your reiatsu control is top tier, you just don't want them to see what you really look like".
"That too. Anyway, he's less than one street away, so lets prepare ourselves".
"Alright, I've got your back".
"Dammit. I lost them". Looking around the street he was on, Toshiro saw the top of a staircase leading down to another street up ahead. "They must've gone down there".
Starting to run down the steps, he stopped when he saw there was a person standing in the street ahead of him. "What the? I didn't even sense them".
"Who are you"? he demanded, putting a hand on his sheath. "Are you one of the ryoka"? He studied the woman looking for any clue that could tell him who she was.
"I am". Anju nodded her head giving the green-eyed captain an amused smile at his reaction to noticing her.
"She admits it?! Wait, this isn't a trap, is it? I don't sense anyone else here, so I don't think she's planning on ambushing me. In any case, I need to take her into custody and interrogate her to find out where the others are".
"There's no need to think too hard about it. I've decided to turn myself in".
"You're turning yourself in"? Toshiro asked skeptically. If this woman was indeed a ryoka shouldn't she be running away like the two Momo pointed out to him earlier did? It seemed nonsensical that she would do this.
"That's right". Anju nodded her head once.
But before Toshiro could say anything, his lieutenant stopped at the top of the steps behind him.
"Hah. You're too fast Captain~. I could barely keep up! Boy, I'm out of breath. Whew". Rangiku heaved.
"Rangiku, can't you see that I'm in the middle of something here". Toshiro grit one side of his jaw in annoyance at being interrupted at such a crucial moment.
"Huh? Oh! Is that one of the ryoka"? Rangiku looked over her captain's head.
"Yes, and she said that she wants to turn herself in. Get the handcuffs and follow behind me. Don't let your guard down".
Walking down the rest of the stairway, Hitsugaya stood with Rangiku in front of the ryoka.
"My lieutenant will be putting hand cuffs on you, and you will be taken to Squad Ten for interrogation. If you resist. I will be forced to take whatever measure is necessary to ensure your capture".
"Of, course". Anju held her hands out.
"Give me your right hand first". Rangiku put a cuff on Anju's wrist.
"Is everything alright, Captain Hitsugaya? My lieutenant informed me of the situation and I ran as quickly as I could to aid you". Captain Aizen stopped at the top of the steps with his sword drawn. "Oh, you managed to capture one of the ryoka". He looked past Toshiro seeing his lieutenant putting the second cuff on the young woman's left wrist. His own lieutenant now by his side.
"Yes, she said she was turning herself in. I'll detain her in Squad Ten till the Head Captain decides what to do with her. Is everything alright, Captain Aizen"? Toshiro noticed the curious look he was giving the ryoka.
"Yes. It's just rather odd that this ryoka doesn't seem to have a reiryoku signature. They must be really weak or really strong. I wonder which one it is. Aizen kept staring at the woman seeing Lieutenant Matsumoto confiscate her zanpakuto.
"So that's what felt off about her. It explains why I didn't sense that she was on the run with the other two".
"No reiryoku signature? Is that even possible, Captain Aizen"? Lieutenant Hinamori asked watching Rangiku lead the ryoka to where her captain stood.
"I'm not sure. Even those who are good at hiding their reiryoku can't do it completely. What an interesting ability".
"Captain Hitsugaya, I've finished detaining the ryoka".
"Good work, Rangiku. Let's escort her to the barracks".
"Just a moment, Captain Hitusgaya. May I? What is your name if I may ask"? He directed his last question to the cuffed woman.
"If you get caught by the head captain. Tell him your last name is "Yugetsu". Shinji's voice rang in Anju's head.
"It's Anju Yugetsu".
Aizen's eyes lit up at hearing this. "You wouldn't happen to be a descendant of a soul reaper would you"?
"I'm afraid not. As far as I know I'm just a human who was born with below average spiritual powers". Anju lowered her head trying to make herself seem small and uninteresting. Attracting a captain's attention would not be in her best interests.
"Oh, that's too bad. It's just we had a great captain with that family name, so I was curious". Aizen watched her face for any reactions. Finding none, he returned his gaze to Toshiro. "I apologize for interrupting, Captain Hitsugaya. I won't impede your duties any further".
"Very well. Come along, ryoka". Toshiro walked back up the steps.
Following behind Captain Hitsugaya, Anju stopped when she was two-thrids of the way up.
Next to Captain Aizen was a beautiful woman. She wore a flowing hanfu style dress with a sheer floating scarf around her shoulders. On her ears were intricately carved white jade earrings. Her hair was jet black and long parted down the middle with half and styled in an in an intricate updo and the rest freely flowing down her back. Placed before the bun was a large silver head piece made of carved white jade lotus flowers. A red huadian symbol was placed in the center of her forehead. She looked every bit like a heavenly maiden descended from a celestial kingdom. But when she noticed Anju looking at her, her regal expression turned into a malicious grin. Finding Anju's slightly confused expression amusing, she put a hand to her mouth to hide her chuckle. It gave Anju the impression that she knew something she didn't, which unnerved her a bit.
Looking around, Anju saw everyone seemed to be staring at her wondering why she had stopped. "No one's reacting to her. Is she that captain's zanpakuto"? Anju glanced from the woman that now looked at her as if she were watching something so utterly ludicrous that she could hardly believe it to the captain who gave her a kind smile when there eyes met. Looking back to the woman, she saw her put her hand over the captain's confirming what Anju suspected. Lowering her gaze to the sword in his hand, Anju looked up to the zanpakuto spirit, but she disappeared.
"What the heck was that all about"?
"Why'd you stop"? Rangiku asked not sure what the hold up was.
"N-nothing. Sorry".
Anju continued up the steps walking past the bespectacled captain to where Captain Hitsugaya waited for her. Rangiku moved from behind her to close to her side in case she tried to escape.
Watching the three leave. Aizen let his gaze linger on the back of the woman's head a bit longer before turning to his lieutenant.
"Come, Momo. Let us return to our squad. I'm sure the others are wondering where we are".
"Yes, Captain Aizen".
"Nice going, doofus. If it wasn't for my quick thinking, we would've gotten caught"! Ganju crossed his arms highly irritated.
"You're the one who set a bomb off in their face"! Ichigo shot back
"Because you didn't listen and went on ahead by yourself. I had to create a distraction"!
The friction between the two was so heated that lighting sparks flew off their skin every time they butted heads.
"Um, guys. Don't fight. We need to be like cuttlefish otherwise we'll get eaten". Hantaro made the sign Anju had shown him in the shed and wiggled his three fingers at the fighting men.
Stopping what they were doing, Ichigo and Ganju were confused by what they were seeing.
"What the hell is that supposed to be"? Ganju squinted his eyes.
"A cuttlefish. Anju told me we need to blend in and escape when necessary. Though I don't think we did a very good job with that first part just now. A heh". Hantaro let out a nervous chuckle.
Ichigo and Ganju just stared blankly at him before each rubbed a knuckle on either side of his head.
"Ow, ow, ow. Please stop. I was just thinking of the mission. There's no use rushing if it stops us from reaching Rukia".
"Fine. I get it. I'll be more careful, but we need to hurry. Who knows how long it'll take us to get to that tower. It's so far away". Ichigo looked to the white tower that was now visible in the distance. Despite making progress, they still weren't as close as Ichigo had hoped they'd be by now. Somehow it seemed like no matter how much closer they got; they still had a long way to go before they reached the tower.
"About that. Rukia's execution is in twenty-five days, but it takes about five days to get to the tower from where we started. At the rate we're going now, we should be able to get there in about three days. I only say this because rushing has gotten us almost killed twice now, so it wouldn't hurt to slow down a bit since we've got plenty of time".
"What are you talking about"?
"I'm just saying that we can afford to slow down. We don't have to-".
"Before that. You said Rukia's due to be executed in twenty-five days. Aren't prisoners supposed to get a thirty-day waiting period"? Ichigo quirked a brow.
"Under normal circumstances, yes, but Central Forty-Six changed it about a day ago. I only heard it this morning myself".
"Well, why didn't you tell us that then"?! Ichigo rubbed his knuckle harder into the young soul reapers head.
"Ow, ow, ow. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I didn't think it was relevant because we'd get to the tower long before that even if we just walked there from here". Hanataro gently massaged his head trying to sooth the spot Ichigo had rubbed.
Thinking to himself, Ichigo took out his gps. "Still yellow". Putting the card back inside his shihakusho, he took a deep breath. "I hate to admit it, but you're right. If Rukia's execution is in twenty-five days, and it's going to take us three days to get to the tower. Then there's no need to rush. I'm just making it harder for everyone involved".
"Um, if you're really that upset by it. I can try to find another way to get us to the tower quicker". Hanataro offered looking carefully at the taller boy who still seemed upset.
"It's alright. I'm the one who needs to adjust my pace. Let's take a break. I need to cool off for a bit".
"Ok". Hanataro smiled nodding.
"Yeah, I could use a break myself". Ganju twisted his side swinging his arm across his chest and holding it to give it a good stretch.
"I wasn't talking to you"! Ichigo yelled feeling irritated all over again.
"Don't care". Ganju swung his other arm over his chest to give it a stretch as well.
"C'mon guys we're out in the open. Wait until we get back to the sewers at least". Hanataro waved his hands trying to stop another fight from breaking out.
"You expect me to believe… that you and the other ryoka infiltrated the Seireitei so you could all come sight-seeing of all things"? Toshiro asked incredulously.
"That's right". Anju nodded her head giving him a bright smile that reached her cheeks. The cuffs on her wrists clanked against the cell bars she was holding on to.
Unamused, Toshiro pinched the bridge of his nose and crossed his arms. "Let's try this again. Why are you here and give me the real answer this time".
"I'm telling the truth. The human world doesn't interest me, so I came here to see something I couldn't find there. I must say, so far this has been quite the experience. I'm sure I'll never forget it". She beamed.
Controlling his temper at this woman's ridiculousness, Toshiro decided that since he wasn't getting anywhere, he'd let the Head Captain question her instead. His no-nonsense attitude would surely get her talking.
"Captain, the jigokucho came back".
"I'll be right there". Toshiro stepped out of the room to speak to his lieutenant.
"Head Captain Yamamoto is requesting a captain's meeting for an update on how the ryoka hunting is coming along".
"Does he want me to bring the one we've detained with me"?
"He said that won't be necessary, and that he'll give you orders on what to do with them at the meeting. For now, he wants a report on what you've been able to find out so far".
"Thank you, Rangiku". Toshiro went back into the holding cell room. "I'm going to a captain's meeting right now. When I get back. I expect you to tell me the truth". He left Anju with a stern look.
"My, so serious. I guess kids have to grow up fast here. How sad... Enma! status report".
"I'm in the Captain's office behind his desk. From what I've heard it sounds like no one else has been caught yet".
"That's just what I wanted to hear".
"I'm leaving for the meeting now. Check up on the ryoka periodically while I'm gone, Rangiku".
"Yes, Captain. Have a good meeting", she smiled sweetly as he exited the room.
Once her captain was gone, her face fell and she slumped into the couch.
"What am I a babysitter? Fine. I'll do it only because Captain will throw a fit if I don't". Picking up one of the magazines on the coffee table, she skimmed through it. "Oh, this is cute. I wish I could wear stuff like this here. I wonder if the ryoka knows of any cute shops in the human world. I should tell her it's part of her interrogation before Captain Hitsugaya comes back, but if she mentions it to him I'll get yelled at for mixing personal matters with work. Hah. What to do. What to do".
"Trust me, you don't want fashion advice from Anju. That's more up Mimi's alley".
"Who's Mimi"?
"Well, what do you know. You are able to speak normally".
"That's because I'm bored now, and you're the only one here who can hear me".
"I dunno. You were pretty mean to me earlier when all I said was "hi". I don't see how that warranted an "ew" in response. You don't even know what I look like.
"Fine. I'm sorry. Just tell me something so I don't have to listen to my master gaslighting herself into thinking she's a size two when she's really a size eight. My name's Haineko by the way".
"Enma. I don't really know much about fashion, so I'm afraid I won't be of much help, but I've been told that I'm a good listener".
"Well in that case"…
"Looks like I've still got some time before the meeting starts". Captain Ukitake stood by the rail along the corridor that led to both the captain's and lieutenant's meeting rooms.
"Captain Ukitake. Do you have a moment"?
"It's Lieutenant Hisagi". Yes, I have some time before the captain's meeting starts. Did you need something, Shuhei".
"I know this isn't the time, but with the ryoka now here. I wanted to ask you if a boy named Yuiji Miyagawa decided to stay in the Thirteenth Squad or transfer over to the Eleventh. I ran into his sister a few days ago when I was on night patrol looking for the ryoka, and I promised her that I'd check up on him, so I wanted to ask you personally if he decided to transfer or stay"?
"Miyagawa, you said?... I'm sorry, but I don't believe that I have any squad members with that last name, and no one's given me a petition to switch squads recently either".
"What's going on? Did that girl lie to me? But her tears were real, and she knew both my and Izuru's names… No way".
"My mistake. I must've remembered their squad number wrong. My apologies, Captain Ukitake. I hope your meeting goes well".
"No worries. Have a good meeting yourself Lieutenant". Jushiro waved the lieutenant off as he went down the corridor to the lieutenant's meeting room.
"Even Lieutenant Hisagi is looking for someone. He's been through so much, I hope whoever this person is he's able to find them".
"Jushiro, what're you still standing outside for? The meeting's about to start". Shunsui called out to him having entered Squad One from the opposite end of the corridor.
"Coming".
"Oh, sorry. I didn't know you were in here".
"It's ok". Orihime and Uryuu watched as Chad entered the room.
"Do any of you know where Anju is? We got separated because some soul reapers thought I was a part of their squad and dragged me away".
"She scarified herself so we could escape".
"When you say it like that it sounds worse than it really is". Uryuu sweat dropped at Orihime's choice of words. What Orihime means is, we got spotted by a captain and lieutenant, so she stayed behind to give us a chance to escape. We felt bad, but she insisted that we go".
"Sounds about right".
"What do you mean? Aren't you worried for her"? Uryuu asked surprised by how calm Chad was considering that they possibly lost a teammate.
"I don't know much about her personally, but one thing I do know is that Anju is strong and can handle herself".
"Oh, are you able to read her aura of something, Chad"? Orihime asked curiously. Wanting to ask him if he could read hers and Uryuu's.
"No, Mr. Urahara and I crossed paths when he was walking home from the grocery store one morning, and he asked me how my training was coming along. When I'd asked about Ichigo's, he made it sound like Anju was training with him much harder than when she was with us".
"Oh".
"Yeah".
"Sorry, I'm late. I thought I saw a ryoka on my way here, but they got away". Renji scratched the back of his head. In reality, he was searching for Anju and the rest of the ryoka to get an update on their progress, but he hadn't spotted anyone.
"Oh, my. Shouldn't we tell the captains about this"? Momo asked worriedly.
"Let's not bother them while they're in a meeting right now. I plan to write a formal report later". "Drop the subject, Momo". Renji internally hissed.
"Can you tell us what they looked like at least, so the rest of us can be on the lookout"? Izuru spoke up.
"Uh, well". "Oh, no. I didn't think that far ahead. What should I say? I can't describe the actual ryoka. Think Renji. Think".
"Yes, yes, I can talk. Now let's go before soul reapers come".
"Of course, Yoruichi".
"He was short and had black f-hair and yellow eyes. He also had a mouth on him, and when I tried to stop him he flashed some claws at me. It was really strange. Then he ran away before I could catch him".
"The ryoka had claws? What, like a cat? Are you sure you're not making this up because you were late"? Leiutenant Omaeda stuffed a handful of chips in his mouth.
"This asshole". "It's what I really saw. Ryoka entering the Seireitei is a serious matter. There would be no reason for me to lie about it".
"Whatever you say, Renji". Omaeda gave his fellow lieutenant a knowing grin with chips stuck in his teeth.
"I believe Renji". Momo interjected.
"You do you"?
"Of course. We were in the advanced classes together, so I know you wouldn't lie about something so serious. Right, Izuru"? She gave Lieutenant Kira a small smile encouraging him to help back up their friend.
"Yes, I can say with complete certainty that Renji takes his role as a lieutenant very seriously and wouldn't lie about something that's so dangerous to the welfare of the Seireitei". He put a hand on Renji's shoulder smiling up at him.
"You guys" Renji gave Izuru a heartfelt smile. "You guys have no idea what's really going on. Don't defend me. I'm scum who almost let his friend get killed and now I'm lying to two more~".
"Alright everyone. To your seats". Lieutenant Sasakibe entered the lieutenant's meeting room. "We have much to discuss. Lieutenant Masamoto won't be joining us today because she is currently watching over a ryoka that she and Captain Hitsugaya caught earlier. Moving on. On our agenda for today we will be discussing-"
"One of them was captured? But who"?
"Is everything alright, Renji"? Izuru whispered to him.
"Oh, yeah. I'm just a bit winded from chasing after that ryoka".
"And then I told Tobiume to say that to again me after she grows four cup sizes. She's so flat-chested I don't get how she thinks she's better than me. You're a guy. Do you think large or small breasts are better".
"Well, I guess it depends on-"
"Ha~ah". Yawned Rangiku. "I drank tea, but I'm still tired. I guess I can only fix this level of sleepiness with a power nap. Captain shouldn't be back for another hour, so I'll check on the ryoka when I wake up".
Laying her body out on the sofa, Rangiku propped a pillow under her head and closed her eyes. When her breathing had slowed, and her body went limp. Enma sprung into action.
"Sorry, Haineko. I need to alert my master to come get me".
"I'll turn a blind eye since you were such a good listener".
"Didn't you say your master couldn't hear you anyway"?
"I could always try again and see if she does if that's going to be your response".
"When you put it like that, I appreciate you turning a blind-eye, Miss Haineko".
"That's more like it".
"This is Abbot calling to Costello. The ball is in the hole. I repeat, the ball is in the hole. Over".
"What"?
"The lieutenant is asleep"!
"Why didn't you just say that in the first place"?
Extending her pinky nail to a fine point, Anju unlocked both handcuffs. Putting her finger in the keyhole to the cell door, she twisted and turned it in different ways till she heard a click.
"Looks like my ride's here. It was nice talking to you, Haineko".
As soon as the office door cracked open. Enma was back on Anju's hip, and they were exiting the Squad Ten Barracks at breakneck speeds as she flash stepped away.
"Missed you, boo".
"Same. Now, enough of the detours. Let's get back on track with this mission. Oh~, this sweet bun is pretty tasty. I should've grabbed some more before leaving".
"Careful. You might choke if you eat while you're running".
"I'm not eating it. I'm holding it in my mouth. I'll eat it properly when we stop somewhere. I need to get rid of this cloth too. I don't need to hide my hair anymore since I no longer need to be totally incognito".
"Makes sense since you're a gorilla now and not a cuttlefish".
"Ha ha, something like that".
"I rolled a twelve. It looks like I've acquired the… uh… Cliffs of Da…" Tessai squinted at the name of his newly bestowed territory.
"It's pronounced Cliffs of Daegmire". Mr. Akiyama bit out. Frustrated at High Sorcerer Tessai's continued habit of not being able to correctly pronounce any name on the gameboard.
"Is that good"? Tessai scratched his face. The long beard from the wizard costume he was given to wear sure was scratchy, and the hat and robe were a little too small for him. He was sure it would rip if he wasn't helped out of it when they finished playing their game.
Shaking, one of Mr. Akiyama's elf ears fell off onto his dining room table.
"Yes, Sorcerer Tessai. It means you now command the army of undead that live in the deep caves of the cliffs, combining your card for plus damage your attacks are now worth three hundred instead of one-fifty, and because you saved the mining town of Aerah, you can call in a favor and they will help you mine the gold". Elven King Khirael aka Mr. Akiyama threw his cards on the table resting his cheek in his hand with a pout, angered that this noob who knew nothing about Bastilles and Basilisks had won. And the prize? His sweet fair Anju.
"Does that mean I can go home now"?
"No! The game hasn't finished yet. We still have two more rolls. Once I kill your character, you will never come into contact with my Anju-poo again"! Mr. Akiyama slammed his fist on the table
"How do you know what Anju is doing right now? Are you a psychic or something? Like in that after hours tv show that has the ad for the ginko biloba I order"?
"…"
"…"
Not sure what Tessai was talking about. Mr. Akiyama just stared at him. "Let's just finish the game".
"Now tell us what you've been able to find out about the ryoka you've detained Captain Hitsugaya". The Head Captain turned his attention to the youngest captain in the room.
"I'm sorry, sir. The ryoka kept insisting that she was here for sight-seeing, so I was unable to figure out a motive or the total number of ryoka currently hiding in the Seireitei. Other than the two that were fleeing with her. I can only confirm a total number of three".
"I see. Anyone else have anything to report about the matter"?
"…"
"I see. Keep up the search and continue to send in any reports pertaining to the situation as soon as they are completed. That is all".
"Captain Hitsugaya. May I walk with you for a bit".
"What is it Captain Ukitake". Toshiro walked out of the meeting room and stood with Captain Ukitake by the corridor's railing.
"I wanted to know if you knew what the name of the ryoka you captured was". "If I ask him anymore details he may become suspicious".
"Does it matter"?
"No, I suppose not. I was just curious in case they somehow escaped. It would make it easier for me to make sure they weren't hiding in my squad if I knew their name".
Staring at the often-sickly captain. Toshiro didn't think it was that big of a deal to tell him. "It's Anju Yugetsu".
Eyes widening. Jushiro quickly put on a neutral expression. "My, what an interesting name. Thank you, Captain Hitsugaya. I'll leave you to go about your business now. Take care". Jushiro quickly walked down the opposite corridor. He needed to get into contact with Shunsui immediately.
"What was that about? Oh". Backing up Toshiro rubbed his nose. He had bumped into something. "Captain Ichimaru? Why are you standing in the middle of the corridor"?
"Oh, don't mind me. I couldn't help but overhear your conversation. Of course, Captain Ukitake would respond that way. I can't believe he's still getting so worked up over that name. It's been almost two hundred years. You'd think he'd be over it by now".
"What are you talking about"?
"You mean you don't know? I guess I'll have to explain it to you then. "Yugetsu" is the last name of the previous Head Captain. Head Captain Yamamoto retired his position to him nearly two hundred and fifty years ago, but one day he disappeared without a trace, never to be seen again. We were all quite surprised really. He was beloved by all you see. Even Head Captain Yamamoto was down about it for a while, but none were so effected by his sudden departure as Captain Ukitake".
"I wonder why I've never heard of this previous Head Captain before. Did he do something unforgivable"?
"So, why'd he leave his post"? Toshiro asked not understanding how someone could leave such a prestigious position and have no one know where they went.
"We don't know. Some say he was assassinated and his body was disposed of in a place no one would find it; others say he quit quietly because the pressure became too much for him, and some even think that he's still alive possibly hiding somewhere in the Rukon District, but I don't believe any of those theories".
"What do you believe"? Toshiro asked hesitantly, not liking the look on Gin's face. His grin had stretched uncomfortably wide.
"Well, it's hard to say, but I believe he did something no one in a million years would ever think possible".
Gin leaned down enjoying Toshiro's even more confused expression.
"Of course, that's just my personal guess". Gin pulled away. "Well, I must be going now, Captain Hitsugaya. Do take care of yourself. I've heard ryoka can be quite sneaky having all manner of tricks up their sleeves. Bye~".
Watching Gin leave, Toshiro wasn't sure what to make of their conversation. If Captain Ukitake seriously thought this ryoka was somehow related to the previous head captain, he was a fool, and even if she was, he didn't see how it would matter. She was a ryoka. Someone who had illegally entered the Seireitei. She'd be punished regardless of who shared her family name.
Brushing off his thoughts which served no purpose, he headed back to the Tenth Squad to get this interrogation over with. Hopefully the prisoner would be more cooperative now that they'd been sitting in the holding cell for a little over an hour.
He should've known that when Sorcerer Tessai took over the Cliffs of Daegomire that the game was over, but Mr. Akiyama couldn't let it end this way. "I-".
"I don't want it". Tessai put the card he had drawn down.
"What"?
"You're Kingdom of Faenor. I couldn't possibly take it when you've worked so hard to build it, and the story you made up about it was so nice. What a wonderful place it must be".
"Y-you really think so"? A blush spread on Mr. Akiyama's cheeks.
(Flashback)
"That's so lame, Hidehisa. We're not inviting you to play anymore if that's the best you can come up with".
(Flashback end)
Spacing out, Mr. Akiyama came to when he felt a pair of hands grab his own. Looking up he saw Tessai crouching in front of him.
"Yes. I really must get going now dear customer. The boss is probably worried sick about me by now, and I still have packages to deliver". Tessai looked at his wrist watch. "Oh my, we've been playing for three hours. I better hurry, or I'll be late with dinner prep".
"But… what about Anju"?
"What about her"?
"You won, so she's yours now. I have no right to pursue her".
"What are you talking about? Why would I pursue the little miss? She's practically my niece".
"Neice"?!
"That's right. I even delivered her myself. Such a cute little thing she was".
"This whole time I've been fighting for her… from her uncle"?!
"Say, I don't think I caught your name".
"Oh, it's Hidehisa Akiyama. Elven King Khirael is just my game name".
Upon hearing this the energy in the room shifted. "Say that again". A dark glint flashed across Tessai's glasses.
"Uh, it's Hidehisa Akiyama". Sweat started to form on Mr. Akiyama's brow. "Did I say something wrong? Ah, ow! This guy sure has a tight grip on my hands".
"Look me in the eye dear customer. When the little miss gets back, you are to stamp the invoice, take the receipt, and let her go about her business. Is that understood"?
Mr. Akiyama shook as a dark aura enveloped Tessai.
"Y-y-yes, s-sir".
"Great! You know I had a real fun time today. I should do something like this more often. Take care of yourself dear customer, and thank you for your continued patronage at Urahara Shoten. Goodbye, now". The front door closed signaling that Tessai had left.
Not sure what just happened, Mr. Akiyama saw the wizard costume had been neatly folded and placed on the table "When did he"?
"When the little miss gets back, you are to stamp the invoice, take the receipt, and let her go about her business. Is that understood"?
Shivering Mr. Akiyama shook his head to clear his thoughts. "On second thought, I think I'll stick to the girls in the magazines like all the other divorcees my age. A ha ha ha ha… ha… hah".
" Rangiku. Hey".
"Mhh. What? Captain what are you doing in my room"? Rangiku sat up rubbing the sleep from her eyes.
"Guess again. You're in our office". Toshiro stood in front of the couch Rangiku was now sitting on.
"Oh, yeah. I must've dozed off. All that running around today really tired me out. You should take a nap too Captain. I feel refreshed after mine". Rangiku raised her arms up stretching them.
"I don't have time for that. How's the ryoka"? Toshiro walked around to his desk getting out a piece of paper and pen. He wasn't sure if the ryoka would be more cooperative this time around, but he thought he'd better get a report started just in case. Looking at the plate of sweet buns that sat on his desk, he glared at the back of his lieutenant's head. "Rangiku, I told you to stop eating my snacks without asking permission first. It's basic courtesy".
"Why would I eat your snacks"? She opened up the magazine she'd been reading earlier.
"Because you always do". Writing the ryoka's name on the paper, he wrote down her description.
"I do not. I haven't eaten any of your snacks without permission since the last time you scolded me for it".
"If you're going to lie, make it more convincing".
"Ugh, there's just no getting through to you. Fine, I admit it. I ate your snacks, happy? I don't' know who's worse, your or Lieutenant Omaeda. Both of you need to learn how to share".
Pausing, Toshiro realized something. "Didn't I leave the ryoka's sword behind my desk". Looking behind him, he got out of his chair to make sure what he was seeing was true. He didn't see the red hilted sword behind him at all. Looking under his desk, he didn't see it there either.
"Rangiku, did you move the sword I put here"?
"Why would I move it"?
Furrowing his brow his eyes widened. "How long ago did you check on the ryoka"?
"Um, let's see. About an hour ago, or so"…
"You didn't check on the ryoka this whole time did you"?
"I'm sorry, Captain. I was just so tired~"! Whined Rangiku.
"Save it. We need to go to the holding cell now". Running out of the room Toshiro hoped what he was thinking wasn't true.
"Captain, wait for me".
Entering the room with the holding cell, Toshiro stopped seeing that it was in fact empty.
"No way, but how? I confiscated her sword and had Rangiku pat her down before locking her in here".
"Captain, is everything alright? Hey, where's the ryoka"? Rangiku walked into the room not understanding how this was possible
"That's what I'd like to know".
The scene with Mr. Akiyama and Mr. Tessai playing Bastilles and Basilisks was inspired by the first and last time I ever played Dungeons and Dragons.
Mr. Akiyama's first name Hidehisa is a play on his character because the first kanji is his name can mean excellent or outstanding which we've seen he's anything but. It's a play on how people can often not live up to their names… or will he? Guess we'll have to find out.
I still plan to take all of next week off, so the next chapter will come out sometime after. I only pumped this chapter out because my creative juices were flowing, and I didn't like where I left off last chapter.
Next chapter we continue with the Rukia rescue mission and take a closer look at Hiyori's relationship with Anju. Feel free to comment and let me know how you're liking the story so far. I want to know if you guys find the story interesting enough that you want to keep reading to see see how it plays out. I'd really appreciate it.
