Welcome to the next chapter!
r1d3r wa; Thanks for the vote! That would be an interesting way to go about it~
Rider126; Thanks for the vote! Lightning is a fun element~
vergil uchiha; Thank you very much! That would be pretty interesting, thanks for the vote!
Spirit-Saver; Thanks for the vote! Yeah, that would be pretty cool~ They'd be good for the harem!
Valtryek-sama; Thanks for voting!
ShadowUzumaki55; They are for sure. Mayuri got a surprise huh. She is yeah~ Tosen did yeah, he got shocked when he fought Zensuke, and yeah, Tosen thought he'd win, but got beaten. Thanks for the votes.
Silver crow; Thanks! Zensuke wanted to be apart of his fathers Squad, more of it shall be expanded upon in the coming chapters. Nemu had quite the awakening~ Gin was definitely having some fun~ Yeah, Aizen would be like that. Even Mayuri didn't know what to do when Zensuke praised him. Yeah, he's involved in their activities~ Rangiku had quite the fun~ Mayuri in his own way cheers for his Captain~ Tosen got quite the surprise. The only way Tosen and Baraggan would work together is if Aizen has involvement, maybe apart of his plans. Thanks for the vote. Whichever Zanpakuto wins, it would be powerful yeah. They'd be cool abilities. Hisana might be, some hints could be given soon~ They'd be cool to be there for the Captains. That would be nice for Rangiku. Nemu's could be. That would be interesting for Zensuke to make for the Quincy. Merry Christmas, I hope you had a good one! Thanks for the harem suggestions. Senna could be yeah. His Shunko might be. He could teach Nemu it. He could set up a system like that. Nanao could do yeah.
Guest 1; Thanks for the vote! Yeah, the fight was fun~ That'd be nice for Nemu~
Guest 2; Thanks, and thank you for voting!
kurenai lui; Thanks for the votes!
isao kachidoki; Yeah, it would be fun, thanks for voting!
HolyKnightX; Thanks very much! Yeah, his dynamics with the Gotei are fun~ Mayuri and Zensuke's relationship is pretty fun~ Thanks for the vote! Yeah, many things can be done with it~ Yeah, that would be pretty fun for Orihime, thanks for the suggestions!
Guest 3; Yeah, they're all fun. Thanks for voting!
Neonlight01; Thanks for voting! Zensuke's got some ways to counter Aizen for sure~ Yeah, Zensuke does keep him in check.
Guest 4; Yeah, his Zanpakuto will have Hime in its name, thanks for the vote! Yeah, the Tosen fight was fun to write.
Elliot-sama; Thanks for voting!
Atobe hyotei; Thanks for the vote!
Orihime fan; Tosen certainly didn't~ Yeah, Baraggan and Tosen would only work together if Aizen forced them too. He very much is~ Aizen and Zensuke's relationship is going to be fun to explore. Thanks for voting!
Link sense; Thanks for voting!
pan-senshun; Thanks for voting.
Yuki hanamiya; Thanks for the votes! Yeah, that would be a nice design for sure. Thanks for the suggestions!
Shigoto; Thanks for voting!
Guest 5; They could show up soon for sure~ Nemu's Zanpakuto is going to be fun to explore.
helios darkus; Thanks for voting!
shephawk; Thanks for voting! Yeah, they could be like that. That would be cool for that arc, thanks for the suggestions!
bell daimon; Thanks for voting!
Guest 6; Here's the next chapter~
Rikku kaitani; Merry Christmas! I hope you had a good one~ Yeah, Nemu had quite the explanation~ That's Gin for you, he had quite the time~ Tosen's unintentionally mentioned who it was, but Aizen wasn't convinced. Mayuri was stunned for sure~ Momo's going to get the support she needs from those around her~ Zensuke's always prepared for Yachiru~ Yeah, Zensuke and Toshiro will have a good dynamic. That's how Mayuri does things~ Glad you liked the fight between them~ Zensuke's got connections for sure. Don't know about Issei yet. That would be a nice sword. Thanks for the suggestions!
Borreload Firewall; They aren't there. Thanks for the votes.
Drain fafnir; Thank you for the votes!
Guest 7; Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year to you too! Thanks! Glad you like the fight between them! Tosen could do yeah. Thanks for the votes!
Guest 8; Thanks for voting!
Skull Flame; Thanks! Yeah, that would be quite a way to describe their relationship~ He does yeah, Zensuke's got a few connections~
inarizaki captain; Thanks for voting! Yeah, I suppose it would be like that~
Guest 9; Thanks for the vote.
Guest 10; Thank you for the harem suggestions, and vote!
Guest 11; Thanks for voting.
Feraligator male; Thanks for voting.
Seidou high; Thanks for voting.
Evo evo; Thanks for the vote.
Guest 12; Thanks for the vote.
konjiki burn; Thanks for the votes.
Taboo masanori; Yeah, it would be, thanks for voting.
Banguard divinez; Thanks for the vote.
With those reviews finished, its time to start the chapter!
Chapter 3
Several years ago, in the bustling building known as the Shin'o Academy, a place where students go to become Shinigami, Momo Hinamori sat within her seat, chatting away to some friends, while a red haired boy named Renji Abarai sat behind her, looking bored, and a boy with light blonde hair named Izuru Kira sat close by, showing a somewhat cheery face.
"I heard we're getting a new Sensei~" Momo giggled to Renji.
Renji let out a small breath. "Probably someone weird."
Izuru let out a small laugh. "You're just annoyed about what's going on with your friend and the Kuchiki's, I heard we're getting a Captain."
Renji's eyebrow twitched, as Momo smiled. "I hope its either Captain Zensuke or Captain Aizen, it'd be a dream~"
Izuru chuckles. "They are pretty cool Captains, I'd be for them."
As they talked, they were interrupted when the door opened.
Stepping inside, was Zensuke who, despite being a Captain, looked around their age, wearing his Captain's haori, his hair reaching just past his neck.
Upon seeing him, the girls put their hands together and all smiled gloriously, Momo in particular gasped "Ooh my gosh! That's Captain Zensuke Urahara of Squad 12!" happily, and when hearing his name, Zensuke looked up, meeting Momo's eye, and offered a wave, which she returned in kind.
Renji looks Zensuke over. "He's really a Captain huh? He feels quite strong."
"Ooh yes, he was made a Captain years ago, I heard he was one of the youngest Captains~ But I heard his Lieutenant is scary, and asks to experiment on you."
Renji shuddered, not wanting to be experimented on anytime soon, as Izuru nods. "I heard Captain Zensuke and Captain Aizen stopped a Hollow group attacking Shinigami, slaying so many together, it was amazing from what I've read."
Momo giggles. "Aah, I can't believe we're getting taught by Captain Zensuke~ He and Captain Aizen are best friends, they're both so nice, and generous people~"
While the girls admired Zensuke, their faces suddenly dropped when Mayuri stepped into the room, possessing face paint that striped horizontally across his face, his eyes as wide as saucers, his scary grin aimed at all of the students.
Immediately, most of the students called out "Demon!" in fright, Zensuke stifled a snicker, and an irate look came from Mayuri for the class, his terrifying eyes sweeping across them.
"Captain, these ones will be good for test subjects!"
The class grimace, while Zensuke releases a breath.
"No Mayuri-san, you can't experiment on the students. Remember, take a deep breath, and exhale the desire to experiment on living innocent people." Zensuke fires a kind smile at Mayuri.
Mayuri tapped his foot on the ground. "I'll only experiment nine times a day."
"Mayuri-san, honestly~ While experiments on the students is a no go, I did receive your request for experimentation with Gigai's, so I'll accept that, sound good?"
"Yes, Captain." Mayuri clicks his tongue but accepts it.
As they talked, Renji recognizes someone else that entered the room.
It was Rukia, and he was confused, since she wasn't even in his class.
She followed after Zensuke, steering clear of Mayuri, and stood to the side of him, Zensuke glanced at the girl, then looked out to the others.
"Hello everyone, due to some unforeseen circumstances, your regular Sensei's going to be out for a time, so until he's better, I'll be taking over the class. For those that don't know me, my name is-"
"Zensuke Urahara-san! Captain of Squad 12!" Momo cheered, but then looked immediately embarrassed.
"Yeah, that's me~" Zensuke turned his hand to the unimpressed Mayuri. "And this is…Mayuri-san, he's my Lieutenant, he wont be teaching, but wished to come, so he'll be assisting me." Mayuri looks to Zensuke bewildered, who in turn looks back kindly, so Mayuri concedes by his disarming look, and nods. "I'm sorry in advance if he says anything wild."
Mayuri shoots a glare for Zensuke, who disarmed him with an amused smile.
As Zensuke talked, mutterings about Rukia began going on.
"Isn't she that girl the Kuchiki are adopting?" One boy said with annoyance.
"Yeah, she's already got a Captain training her, talk about bias." A girl said with disdain.
"Yeah, special treatment right off the bat, guess that's what happens when the Kuchiki's adopt you." A girl murmured with a disgruntled expression.
The whisperings got to Rukia, who kept her head down to her chest, while Renji tightened his hand, but recalled she was with the Kuchiki now, causing brief hesitation.
But Zensuke, hearing the words, began speaking up. "Excuse me everyone, before we continue. Rukia Kuchiki-san is indeed here with me because I am assessing her, but her personal life, the situation going down is between Rukia-san and the Kuchiki's, is not a discussion for idle gossip or rumours. As for special treatment, I have no interest in her being a Kuchiki. To me, she's just another student who I hope gives her best in the lessons I teach her as well as in her assessments, like I hope you all do too. Now, putting that aside, lets continue and give our all, okay~?"
Mayuri looked to his Captain, and adopted a small smirk.
Momo swayed side to side, so happy to hear him say such things, how he expressed himself, and disarmed the situation so quickly, she thought it was cool.
Renji adopted a small smile, finding how Zensuke shut down those rumours immediately was pretty cool, and was glad for Rukia.
Izuru looked impressed, and nods strongly.
Rukia's eyes left the floor, and looked up to Zensuke, seeing him smiling at her.
Rukia felt the corner of her mouth lifting, it was the first time she had someone say they'd treat her like anyone else, and he wasn't going to go easy on her just because the Kuchiki adopted her, he was going to assess her fairly because she was just herself, and it made Rukia happy to know a Captain was like that…
In the present day, it was a typical morning in the Seireitei, and it was the day Rukia was going to the Human World, and for Zensuke, he knew it could bring a time where he'd have to fight, among other things.
Having heard from his friend on the Tosen and Baraggan situation, Zensuke thought they'd never willingly work together, but he could see Aizen also manipulating things so they had no choice, or if he ordered it, so Zensuke thought it would be best to keep an eye on that.
On that day, Zensuke was sat in his office early in the morning, and he happened to be joined by Toshiro, who was also using his desk to write some reports.
"The boring side of being a Captain. Paperwork." Zensuke snickered.
Toshiro's lips lift. "Yes, quite true. Especially when we have Lieutenant's that don't always do as we ask. Or in your case, ever do as you ask."
"I have Nemu-san, she's basically my Lieutenant in matters like this~" Zensuke adopts a small smile. "So, you said you wanted to talk about something?"
"Ah, yes. That's right." Toshiro cleared her throat. "I was...curious of your plans, today."
"Plans huh...well, Kyoraku-san asked me to go to his Barracks in about an hour, I think Nanao-chan might have a mission, and you know how he is, I think she can handle herself quite well, but I don't mind lending a helping hand. What about you Shiro-chan? Got any plans?"
"No, it was mostly my day off."
"Yet you chose to do paperwork? Captains can learn from you Shiro-chan~"
Toshiro's face tinges red. "I just wish to do my best, that's all. Though, Zen-kun, if you're free sometime this week, then maybe we could..."
Before she could finish, there was a knock at the door.
Toshiro released a breath, while Zensuke kindly smiled "I'd love to spend time with you too Shiro-chan~" which made Toshiro feel happy, as he turned to the door.
"Come in Nemu-san."
The door opened to reveal Nemu, walking in with a tray with tea.
"Captain, since you're entertaining a guest, I read that it is imperative to make the guest feel welcomed." Zensuke adored her ways. "Incidentally, I have also brought the med-kit."
Zensuke blinks. "How come?"
Nemu's near emotionless eyes fall onto the snow white haired Captain, who in turn looks suspiciously back.
"According to my visual data, Captain Hitsugaya was displaying the signs of having fallen ill, and now it has intensified." Zensuke sweat dropped while Toshiro's bewildered eyes met Nemu's assured ones. "Including Hinamori-san, and Matsumoto-san, Captain Hitsugaya's cheeks have turned a red colour, her heart rate has increased. Captain Hitsugaya, do not be alarmed, my Captain has medical expertise, he shall be able to fix what your current illness is. But, he will need to do a full body examination."
Zensuke looked to Toshiro, and found it funny Nemu was comically missing the point, despite the signs, but he understood why she thought that way about it, while Toshiro's mind kept thinking of him needing to do a 'full body examination' and what that would entail.
"Ooh, Shiro-chan's alright, its a bit warm in here, nothing to worry about~" Zensuke quickly spoke, Nemu nodding. "Either way Nemu-san, I have a few things to do today, would you like to come with me? Don't worry about Mayuri-san, I've got him covered."
"Yes Captain, thank you for the opportunity."
Zensuke waved his hand, looking down to the slightly red faced Toshiro, thanking Zensuke mentally for helping her out of that one.
Later on, Zensuke travelled to Squad 13's Barracks to deliver some medication for Ukitake, who wasn't feeling very well, and Nemu came to join him, leaving Mayuri under the watchful eye of Akon.
Walking across a grassy hill, Zensuke and Nemu enjoyed the peace and quiet, though Nemu didn't speak much, Zensuke could see that she was paying attention to a family of birds that had made a nest up high in one of the trees surrounding them.
"Like the birds, Nemu-san?"
Nemu shifts her eyes from the sky, to Zensuke, and tilts her head. "According to Mayuri-sama, birds are simple creatures that only know how to survive and make nests, as such hold no merit of study."
Zensuke chuckled lightly. "Even if birds, in Mayuri-sans words, are simple creatures, I think they're fascinating and quite beautiful. In fact, many for years in the past envied them due to being able to take flight."
Nemu curiously stares at Zensuke. "Captain Zensuke-sama, may I ask a question?"
"Of course." Zensuke spoke with a gentle smile usurping his face.
"Then, I heard Mayuri-sama speaking this morning, and he told me that I should be observing you to find more information out for him. Would it be wrong if I observed you?"
Zensuke chuckled. "No, its fine. You can observe me as much as you want too. I don't mind Mayuri-sans asked you to do that."
"Thank you, Captain. Shall I inform Mayuri-sama?"
"If he says anything to you about it, tell him I gave you permission, its all good."
Nemu gives a nod of thanks, as they made it to the Barracks of Squad 13.
Zensuke went to go and deliver some medicine to the ailing Ukitake, who laid in bed in his private room, so Zensuke gave him some once arriving.
"You didn't have to deliver it yourself, though I am grateful. I forgot to order some with how busy its been lately."
Zensuke cheerfully smiles. "Not a problem~ It not only gets me out in the sun, I get to see a friend, and Kyoraku-san also asked me to come to his Barracks, it seems something's going on, so I'll be heading over there soon."
Ukitake returned the sentiment. "Thank you again, your medicine always does the trick."
"Glad to hear it, they should be kicking in soon. So, I heard that Rukia-chan's heading off to the Human World today."
Ukitake chuckled. "That she is, Karakura Town. Seems like it'll be good experience for her."
Zensuke kept up his smile, and nods a single time. "Yeah, Rukia-chan getting out in the world is a good thing. Experience new things, and the Human Worlds always fascinated me, so I hope she gets the same joyous feeling I do when I go there."
Ukitake hums in agreement, but then began coughing.
Zensuke came closer, and rested a hand on his back, performing some healing Kido on him, and eased his symptoms, as the medicine kicks in, and helps ease his breathing.
"How is it now?" Zensuke asks, as green light danced along his fingertips.
Ukitake nods kindly. "Better, that's doing the trick."
"Good, and the medicines kicking in, you'll feel much better now." Zensuke spoke, seeing Ukitake's face soften from being scrunched up in pain.
Once satisfied the medicine was working, Zensuke begins standing, with Nemu following after him.
"You get some rest Ukitake-san, and don't hesitate to call if you need anything done, I can lend you Mayuri-san~" He joked at the end.
Ukitake shudders. "N, No. That's fine, I don't need him, but thank you for the offer."
Zensuke chuckles jokingly "I can never unload him on anyone~" and waves, and walks away with Nemu following.
Moving out into the openness of the Barracks of Squad 13, Zensuke was going to leave, when his eyes captured Rukia in his sights, seeing her swinging her wooden sword up and down, his eyes flickering a little, and exhaled, approaching the young girl.
"Hey, Rukia-chan~!" Zensuke spoke cheerfully.
Rukia nearly fell over when she heard his voice.
She hadn't even noticed his presence.
"C-Captain, I'm sorry I didn't see you there!"
Zensuke waved his hand, while Nemu looked on, her inquisitive eyes dancing between the two of them.
"Just came to visit your Captain, and give him a little helping hand, I see you're in the middle of training. You're off to the Human World today, right? You don't have to overexert yourself."
Rukia looked down at her wooden sword, and then to Zensuke. "You're right, but I want to be ready for when I head off to the Human World."
"Getting nervous, Rukia-chan?" Zensuke wondered, raising a brow, noticing that she was shuffling a little side to side.
Rukia exhaled, folding her arms. "I wouldn't say nervous per say, I just don't want to mess up. Its an important task, protecting a town. And I've heard Karakura is a town that does have more than the average Hollow."
Zensuke could understand that, though he could see behind her black eyes that there was something more going on.
"I'm sure you're gonna be fine Rukia-chan. In fact, here." Zensuke went into his Captain's haori, and fished out something that looked like a charm. "Know what this is?"
Rukia looked amused. "Yes, its a charm."
"Yes, but do you know what kind of charm this is?"
Rukia looked over the charm, it didn't give away anything that could tell her anything special about it.
"No, I guess its a charm for luck?"
Zensuke shakes his neck. "Its a charm for protection."
"Protection?" Rukia echoed, overlooking it once more.
Zensuke placed it in the young girls hand. "When I was a kid, I used to make these all the time, and hand them out, a way to make money. I was always pretty good at using Kido based abilities, and mixing it with technologies, so I made them and even Shinigami sometimes came and bought them, I even sold one to your brother before I joined the Gotei 13~"
Nemu stayed silent, and was surprised to hear that.
Rukia was as well, looking at it in awe. "Even my brother...So, they really work?"
"That they do. Keep that with you, and all those nerves will soon vanish~"
Rukia didn't know what to say, but in the end she began bowing her head. "Thank you, Captain."
"You can call me Zensuke, you know? When we're informal like this, I'd much prefer that~" Zensuke had said it a few times, and Rukia really liked him being so casual, yet she felt like his position also demanded respect, even if he was casual about it.
Rukia's cheeks took a notable tinge of red. "Y-Yes, Captain…erm, Zensuke."
Zensuke cheerfully grins, pulling closer. "By the way, got anywhere to stay in Karakura Town?"
Rukia went to answer, but paused, and ultimately shakes her head. "No, I didn't even think. I'll find somewhere."
"I know a place, if you're interested." Zensuke offered.
Rukia's eyes shone a little. "If you're recommending it Captain, then I have no doubt its going to be a good place."
"Thanks for the faith, and yeah, its a pretty good place for sure. I'll give you the details, I'm sure you'll have a good time there~ I'll contact them, I'm sure it'll be fine~"
"Thank you, Captain. Incidentally Captain…" Rukia paused, realizing what she was going to ask wasn't something she felt she could, so she hung back. "No, its nothing."
Zensuke cocks an eyebrow up. "What is it? You can ask me anything."
Rukia's cheeks tinged red, holding her fingers together underneath her sleeves of her Shinigami robes, as if to hide her thoughts. "I was just wondering, if you were busy this evening, for when I leave for the Human World? Renji…I heard he's gone on a mission for my brother…and my brother, I'm not sure if he'd…then there's…I know others are also busy so…"
Zensuke eases the girls heart. "I'll come and see you off, Rukia-chan."
Rukia let out a relieved breath. "Thank you for making time for me, Captain."
"Not at all, I'm glad to see off my friend." Zensuke smiled, but then paused, and he glanced left, and exhaled joyfully. "For a guy that seems to get lost so much, he seems to be able to find my location no problem~"
When Rukia and Nemu wondered what he meant, moments later it became clear when they saw the hulking Kenpachi running along the ground, his lone eye looking towards Zensuke, his other covered by an eyepatch which he was in the process of taking off, and on his shoulder, a very small pink haired girl was stationed there.
"Zensuke! There you are! I had a feeling you were here!"
Zensuke raises a curious brow. "Hey, Kenpachi-san, ready for a fight?"
More of a rhetorical question, Zensuke watched as Kenpachi brandished his chipped blade, looking deadly as he aimed it at Zensuke. Rukia was surprised she wasn't floored by the spiritual pressure he was releasing.
But then realized that Zensuke was using his own to offset Kenpachi's own so it didn't effect them, and she was thankful for that.
"Hey, Zen-chan!" Yachiru greets. "Cookies!"
"Hey, Yachiru-san~" Zensuke waved, pulling out a box. "Chocolate chip today~"
"Yay!" Yachiru dug into the box, while Nemu was astonished to see how quickly Zensuke could disarm Yachiru.
Zensuke faced Kenpachi. "Alright, lets go and have a quick match~ But it'll have to be quick, gotta stop by Squad 8 soon."
"Works fine with me, lets go." Kenpachi grins, his bloodthirsty smirk growing as he, and Zensuke both walk off.
Rukia didn't know how Zensuke dealt with Kenpachi day to day, but it seemed that they were friends, so she went along with it.
Later on that day, Zensuke along with Nemu went towards Squad 8 Barracks, and casually walked to an office, when they overheard two voices, one being Nanao, and the other being an older, laid back casual voice of Kyoraku.
"Captain, you can't simply ask another Captain when they've got duties themselves."
"I didn't ask him anything~"
"Captain, I saw the messages, you asked him to come and meet up. And I have a mission. I know what that means."
"Yes~ I did ask him to come~ I quite like drinking with him Nanao-chan."
An exasperated sigh leaks from Nanao's lips, as Zensuke glances to the confused looking Nemu.
"What's on your mind Nemu-san?"
"Their conversation, does it regard you, Captain?"
Zensuke didn't deny it. "It does, its a bit of a story, but suffice to say, Kyoraku-san has some thoughts about Nanao-chan going into the thick of things on her own, so from time to time he asks if I can go along."
"Does he doubt her ability? Is she unsuited for the role of Lieutenant in his eyes?"
Zensuke hums, and thought how to answer that. "No, it isn't that he thinks she's not a good Lieutenant, its more to do with the fact that Nanao-san is…well, she's important to Kyoraku-san, and he doesn't want her to get hurt, that's all."
"I understand, though I still have some questions. May I ask them Captain?"
Zensuke inclines, always encouraging her to do what she wished. "Of course. Anything I can answer~"
"Then, what is the relationship between yourself, and Nanao Ise-san?"
Zensuke coughed, surprised she was asking that. "Well, she's a good friend of mine, known her for years, and she used to make me the best bread ever. Like everyday without fail, it was so good~"
Nemu blinks, her face still as stoic as ever. "Bread, Captain?"
"Yeah, she did this flavoured bread, and it was always a treat to try them~"
Nemu studied her Captains face, and wondered more about their dynamic.
Zensuke then knocked on the door, moments later they heard a "Come in~" and they both walked inside.
Zensuke caught sight of a dejected looking Nanao, and a happy smiling Kyoraku, a jolly looking man who was wearing a flowery kimono.
"Aah, Zensuke-kun~ Great timing~ Say, you aren't doing anything right now, are you? Because I know Nanao-chan would want you to go with her to the Human World~ My poor Nanao-chan always gets sad when she doesn't get to spend time with you~"
An embarrassed blush worked its way onto her face. "C-Captain Kyoraku, Zen-kun… Captain Zensuke is also a Captain, he can't simply drop everything because you ask."
Kyoraku chuckled. "Its fine, I'm looking out for you Nanao-chan."
Zensuke looked amused. "I'm currently not busy, so what's this about going to the Human World?"
Kyoraku's smile grows bigger. "Great, then would you want to accompany Nanao-chan to the Human World for a bit~? I'm sure she'd love to go on a date with-" Nanao immediately took a clipboard, and pushed it against his face. "Nanao-chan! Don't fight your feelings!"
Nanao looked even more embarrassed than she did beforehand.
Nemu looked between her Captain, and Nanao, knitting her brows together to detect what was going on.
"According to my data, it seems Nanao Ise's cheeks have gained a notable heat, her heart rate has rapidly increased. Her core temperature has also increased. Captain, I believe that Nanao Ise-san is very unwell like Captain Hitsugaya this morning, shall we begin treatment? If so Captain, you have more medical knowledge than I, I suggest you do the full body examination of Nanao Ise-san."
Nanao rapidly blinks, her cheeks reddening even more when she thought of Zensuke doing a 'full body examination' whatever that entailed, Nanao's imagination was running wild.
Noting Nanao's flushing cheeks, Zensuke laughs it off to save her any embarrassment.
"She's okay, its just a warm day, right Nanao-chan~?"
Nanao clears her throat, pushing her glasses up the bridge of her nose. "Yes, that's correct. Though Captain Zensuke, I'm sure you're busy-"
"Its fine, I'll just move some stuff around. No issues~ So, when are we leaving~?"
Nanao's eyes flow to the floor, while Kyoraku fired a thankful look over to Zensuke. "Leaving in an hour~ I'm sure Nanao-chan will give you all of the details, thanks again Zensuke-kun~ When you get back, lets have a drink~"
"Sounds good to me~" Zensuke faced Nemu. "Lets go and check upon your father to make sure he's not trying to get around Akon-san to do some strange experiments, then we'll meet Nanao-chan later on."
Nemu agreed. "Yes, Captain."
Zensuke faced Nanao with a smile. "See you soon~ Let us know where to meet."
"Y, Yes Captain. I humbly apologize for Captain Kyoraku's methods."
Zensuke laughed happily. "Ooh don't worry about that, I'm more than happy to go along."
Nanao gives a thankful nod, as he and Nemu leave.
When it came time to leave for the Human World, Zensuke and Nemu tagging along headed to the location they'd be going to the Human World with Nanao.
Seeing Nanao, the usual bookish type, looking quite ready for a fight, with her hair pulled back into a bun, he looked enthused on the matter, so Zensuke approaches, waving his hand a single time.
"Hey Nanao-chan, ready?" Zensuke asks, noticing Nanao looked on curiously.
"Yes, Captain. We shall be going to Japan, to a city called Naruki City, and we're to exterminate a Hollow that's been causing the Shinigami present some trouble, and injured a few of the Shinigami."
"Sounds great, so I'm ready when you are."
Zensuke gave Nanao the go ahead, so she went to some men nearby, who opened the portal to the Human World.
Zensuke, along with Nemu, began together with Nanao, slipping through the portal.
Once arriving in the city, the suns rays were beginning to fade as clouds flood the sky, seemingly coating the sun, and a few raindrops began falling from the heavens, while Zensuke, Nanao, and Nemu all land on a rooftop.
Zensuke tugged back his kimono, exposing his chest, noticing that there was a tattoo having appeared on his skin, and he went to speak, when he felt from a distance away, there was some spiritual presence.
His eyes turned towards that direction, and curiously tilts his neck, as Nanao questioningly looks at him.
"Looks like we came on rainy season, and I didn't even bring an umbrella~" Zensuke joked, as he looked to the cloudy sky.
Nanao's face relaxed a little. "Yes, its a shame. But it seems the Hollow is close by, I just received a report from those in the area."
"Then I'll follow your lead, Nanao-chan~ Nemu-san, got your Zanpakuto?"
"Yes Captain." Nemu pulled out her blade, the green hilt and the warped tsuba coming from her katana blade she had stashed away.
"Then considering we're under the spiritual limiter right now, it'd be good for you to fight while restricted, should anything ever happen in situations like this. How about it Nemu-san? Up for it?"
Nemu bowed her neck. "Yes Captain, I shall slay the Hollow."
"Good response, then lets go~" Zensuke gives her a cheerful wink, and began hopping between rooftops together with the girls.
On the way, Nanao's eyes kept finding Zensuke's form, and then promptly dropping, as if she had some thoughts in her mind she wished to talk about, yet she wasn't able to fully get them out when she thought she could.
Zensuke sense this inner turmoil, so he spoke up.
"What's going on, Nanao-chan?"
Nanao nearly coughed when he called her since she was mentally distracted.
"Captain, can I ask a question?"
"Sure, what is it?"
"Captain Kyoraku…he asked you to come on this mission, correct? Even before coming to the Barracks."
Zensuke didn't deny it, knowing Nanao would figure it out. "Yes, that's right."
"I see, I'm sorry that he bothers you. Its my duties, yet he bothers you who's also a Captain. I can handle a Hollow, I've handled them before. But whenever I'm on my own, my Captain always comes up with an excuse to have you come along, so if it is an inconvenience for you, I apologize."
At Nanao's apology, Zensuke tried to relieve her thoughts.
"Its because he doesn't want anything to happen to you, but he definitely sees your talents, Nanao-chan. I can see your talents too, you're an incredible user of Kido based abilities, and I have no doubt that you'd be able to handle this yourself, but if it relieves his heart for me to come along, its not so bad, right? We get to spend the day together."
"That's true, and it does get you away from your Lieutenant for a time."
"Very true~"
As they did, Nanao noticed a parent and child together, Zensuke glancing to see them having a happy time.
"Do you ever think of your father, Zen-kun?"
"I guess a part of me thinks about him when I see happy families together."
Nanao develops an understanding face. "Do you wish you could speak with him now?"
"Yeah, but life carries on, as they say." Zensuke affirmed with a smile.
Nemu picked up on what he said, turning back to her Captain. "Captain, I cannot recall a conversation you've mentioned your father sparsely. If I may ask, what is the nature of your relationship with your father? Mayuri-sama despises him, and has forbidden me from mentioning him, do you feel the same as Mayuri-sama?"
"No, we just have a complicated relationship. And mentioning him around Soul Society, well there are people that'll remember him, some wont, and those that do, like the Central 46, lets just say they get all up in arms about me. But its nothing to worry about." Zensuke explained.
Nemu wondered more about it.
But didn't get to speak, when Zensuke whistled, noticing a spider like Hollow creeping across the ground.
Nemu lands on top of a rooftop, looking down as raindrops keep falling upon her head.
"This is it Nemu-san."
"Yes Captain. Executing." Nemu took her katana out of her sheath, and rushed down.
The Hollow howled into the air, and a spider webbing came up for the girl.
Nemu however, spins her wrist around unnaturally, one of her modifications, and rips right through the netting, Zensuke smiling at the sight, as Nemu lands on the ground, as the spider Hollow raises one of its legs to pierce her.
Nemu however brings out her blade, and blocks the strike, parrying it away from her.
"Not bad." Nanao notes.
"Yeah, she's coming along quite well, I'd say she's easily a Lieutenant now."
"Speaking of, how is your Lieutenant?"
Zensuke chuckles. "You know how he is, trying to do strange experiments."
Nanao hums. "And Central 46 say they've got to look out for you because of your father, when they've got a mad scientist like him running around."
Zensuke snickered. "Very true, but they're kinda bias against me. Guess Mayuri-sans never done Hollowfication experiments, I remember when they thought I was doing it too, and tried restricting me, even Gramps stopped that crap. Imagine trying to pin on a child for crimes like that."
Nanao looks amused. "Yes, it seemed at the time they wished to blame someone after...what happened with your father."
As she spoke, Nemu swung her blade out several times, parrying the strikes from the creature, each time her movements became faster, despite being under the limiter seal, like he and Nanao were as well.
She then, when seeing a chance, and forced the spiders leg to go flying into the air, placed her hand out, and gathered spiritual energy.
"Hado 31, Shakkaho." A red ball of energy formed in a palm of her hand, and then with a wave of her hand, unleashed the sphere, slamming against the side of the spider Hollows leg, and exploded one off, dropping it to the ground as it howled.
Zensuke looked on with pride for her usage of Kido, as the spider Hollow howled louder, and raised its head to the sky, gathering what looked to be akin to an acidic substance, mixing it with the webbing that it had.
Zensuke watches Nemu going for a strike, only for the Hollow to turn its blade like legs towards her to try and slice her down.
But she places her hand out, and chants "Bakudo 39, Enkosen." and creates a circular shield, blocking the piercing strikes from the Hollow, and Nemu used this chance to push ahead, her blade cleaving through another leg, the Hollow howling loudly.
As she goes to land, she sees the ground full of the acidic webbing, so Nemu steps into the air, hovering in the sky.
Zensuke smiled as the Hollow launches numerous waves of webs at Nemu.
Trying to latch onto her, she was able to dodge them expertly, despite being under the spiritual seals, Zensuke was impressed since he felt the Hollows power, and it was definitely at a seated officers level, and since they were under the seals, Nemu's power was reduced, yet the Hollow hadn't touched her once, which he praised.
When getting the opportune moment, Nemu held out her hands, and aimed her fingers out. "Bakudo 1, Sai."
Using that spell, the Hollows legs suddenly were forcefully brought behind its body. Because of that, the Hollow fell forward, and lands on its own acidic webbing, causing its own Hollow mask to begin melting.
Nemu appears above the Hollow, her katana aimed downwards.
"Executing." Nemu lunges down, her blade piercing the Hollows head, or what remains, and causes it to burst as she runs her blade all the way through, and together with the acidic webbing it left all over, the Hollow died as a result.
Once finished, Zensuke claps Nemu for a job well done. "Excellent Nemu-san, you've done quite spectacular~"
Nemu kept up her stoic face, but Nanao saw that she looked pleased, probably because Mayuri didn't praise her in the same ways Zensuke did, and she attached herself to such praise.
"Thank you Captain. Incidentally, I wish to report, the Hollow was stronger than in our database."
"It seems so, I'd say it was in a similar level of a Gillian Class Hollow, so you did very well Nemu-san, especially considering you're under the spiritual seal right now." Nemu bowed her head, as Zensuke looked left and right. "I think that's it. How about for a job well done, I treat you girls to some nice refreshments~ On the way here, I saw a nice little coffee house, could be fun to explore."
Nanao curls her lips. "Yes, I wouldn't mind that. I'm sure Soul Society can do without us for a short time."
Nemu agrees. "Yes Captain, I wish to partake in drinking coffee, thank you for the kind offer."
Zensuke was glad to hear Nemu expressing her desires more, even if she was subdued at times, it was good for her.
"Great, then lets get the show on the road, as they say~"
With that, the three took off together, to go and enjoy their time together.
Arriving at the coffee shop, wearing Gigai's now so they could interact with the other normal humans, Zensuke got the orders from both Nanao and Nemu, and went to go and get it from the front of the shop.
As he did, a small smile appeared on his face, as he felt something close by.
While waiting, a presence came up behind him, and he saw that there was a young girl with long hair that came to her mid back, and deep dark eyes.
She tapped her foot on the ground, while Zensuke looked towards her.
She looked back at him, and was taken aback briefly by his appearance, his golden blonde hair captured her eyes, as did the sky blueness of his eyes.
"What? Something on my face?" She asked.
Zensuke shakes his head. "Nope, just, no umbrella huh?"
"Stupid ass rain, caught me when I was already out."
Zensuke snickered. "Yeah, the weathers fickle for sure. Well, its nice seeing you."
"Yeah." The girl said quietly, wondering what was going on.
But Zensuke simply smiled, got his things, and thought "Its good to see a Quincy thriving in this era." and walked back to Nanao and Nemu, knowing he couldn't engage with her right now, while the girl looked at him from behind, biting back a blush when she checked him out.
But then her phone rang, so she picked it up.
"What's the hold up? I'm starving!"
"Getting it now Candy, be right there." The girl replied, and ran off after she got her stuff.
Zensuke watched her leave, a notable happy smile on his face, and enjoyed the time with his friends.
When the time came, Rukia was getting ready to leave for the Human World, she thought about if anyone would come and see her off.
She looked at the gate that was going to take her to the Human World, and then towards the area around her, no one being around, beyond those that operate the gates to the Human World, folding her arms, and adopted a small smile.
"Here I-"
"Rukia-chan!" Zensuke called out, flashing to her side. "Sorry, had some last minute things to do. And I managed to quickly snag someone before he could get away~"
Rukia looked around, perplexed. "Who?"
Zensuke thrust a thumb behind him, so Rukia looked, and saw a man named Byakuya was stood in the distance. His face was unreadable, but to Rukia, she didn't mind, as seeing him up there was more than enough right now.
"Sorry I couldn't grab everyone, but they're really busy. I saw Byakuya-kun, and he wasn't busy, so I got him."
Rukia blinks her surprise. "How did you get him to come? Big brother is usually busy now."
"Well, I gave him the incentive to come this time, including that if he didn't attend, I'd send Mayuri-san to his Barracks everyday for a month~"
Rukia coughed, then began to giggle. "N-No way."
"I'm joking, I'd not do that to anyone~ But I did ask if he could come, and he managed to come. Sorry if he's aloof, you know how he is."
"Its okay. Thank you Captain…Zensuke."
Zensuke grins. "Also, why I was late was because I was helping Renji-san wrap up his mission, knowing you'd want to see him~"
Rukia's eyes widened as Renji appeared, looking a little sheepish as he did so.
Rukia on the other hand looked to Zensuke with gratitude, before sharing a few words with Renji.
As she did, Zensuke flashed back to Byakuya.
"She's going to be alright. She's tough, and kind." Zensuke began.
Byakuya nods. "She's grown."
Zensuke smiled. "You can go over to her, you know?"
"I'm content here." Byakuya murmurs.
Zensuke understood. "I'm glad you came. Your opinion matters a great deal to her. Its too bad Hisana-san couldn't be here."
Byakuya inclines his head, his eyes looking to Rukia. "Indeed. You have our gratitude, for looking out for Rukia."
A humble smile worked its way onto his face. "Don't worry about that, its a pleasure."
"I can see the charm on her, you made them back in the past." Byakuya notes.
"You remembered. Good for some protection~" Zensuke views Rukia, his lips curling upwards.
Silently, Zensuke watched together with Byakuya as Rukia wrapped up her conversation with Renji, and together with Zensuke among some others who joined such as the women from the Shinigami Women's Association, they wished her well and she soon vanishes into the portal, heading for the human world.
When Rukia arrived in Karakura Town, she began doing her duties, slaying Hollows, and the likes.
But as it approached night time, Rukia followed to the address where Zensuke had given her, so she could have a place to stay and maybe even get some food, as she felt a bit of hunger beginning to grow in her.
Strolling through the streets, once doing her duties, and looked at the location.
She saw that it was a relatively nice sized Japanese style house that she came too.
Moving through the garden, Rukia notes the freshly cut grass, the flowers scattered around.
"This must be it...house numbers right, maps right...okay. Here I go."
So she walked to the door, and went to knock on it, noticing a barrier only when her finger slid through it, not realizing it was there beforehand.
Moving cautiously closer, her hand rapped on the door, her fingers seemingly sliding through the barrier without an issue, she assumed how the barrier was made, didn't include repelling Rukia, so she could go through it no problem.
Seconds later, the door opened, and she was greeted by a surprise when she saw a teenage girl, with a rather developed physique that could Rangiku some competition right away, her long waist length burnt orange hair. Her radiant smile shines on her face as she looks back up to Rukia.
"Hello, are you Kuchiki-san?"
"Y, Yes, that's right. You're…Orihime Inoue-san? Cap...erm, Zensuke told me, I could come here...the barrier around your home, its..."
"Ooh yes, Zen-chan developed it, he said it keeps all the bad people away~ And yes, that's right, my names Orihime Inoue, pleased to meet you!"
Rukia developed a kind smile. "Yes, its a pleasure. So Cap...I mean, Zensuke and you, are friends...?"
"Yes, that's right~ He asked me if you could stay, which was okay with me. The more the merrier as they say~ Please come in. Zen-chan's told me a lot about you, I've just finished making dinner. Zen-chan's sent over a bunch of stuff for us to enjoy~"
Rukia tilts her head curiously to the side, wondering how Zensuke and Orihime knew one another...
End chapter!
So this chapter expanded upon some stuff from the past, including Zensuke being a teacher for the Shinigami Academy, and even assessing Rukia. Hanging out with Toshiro, and showing their bond, along with helping out Ukitake, and Kyoraku trusting in him to take care of Nanao, though Nanao was happy to spend time with him, and a little cameo of a Quincy girl who may be showing up quite soon~
Then finally at the end, after Rukia went to Orihime's home, a nice sized house, and revealed she and Zensuke know one another, the relationship between them will be explored in the coming chapters.
So, for the Zanpakuto, I was surprised a good deal of people voted for duel light and darkness since it wasn't an option haha.
But the more I thought about it, I thought it could be doable with it fitting in terms of how Bleach's power structure works, though I'd have that as a Kido type for light and darkness, similar to Senjumaru's Shikai where she can make different things from her threads, that's how I'd envision darkness and light working together, like light to dark energies with different effects depending on what aspect is used or if they're used together, and forging different attacks or defences and other things.
As for the others, Lightning would be the lightning version of Yamamoto's sword basically, complete dominance over lightning, the same for solo Light and solo Darkness..
So, I'll leave it for the last chapter, either Lightning, solo Light, solo Darkness, or Duel Light and Darkness. If you'd like to vote, please do, and any suggestions, always welcome!
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!