Hello, everyone. ThunderReborn from 2025. This chapter has originally been edited by Darklord331. Finally, in April 2025, this chapter was edited again by my current beta reader, Waroyer123. Thank you and I hope you enjoy the story. The next few chapters are considered filler chapters. These chapters are from a few ideas I had received from my readers.
The following is a fan-based parody.
Bleach is owned by Tite Kubo, TV Tokyo, Viz Media, Studio Pierrot... and other people.
All other references of characters or abilities are not mine.
Please support the official release.
"Hello." -Normal talking
"Hello." –Ichigo's thoughts.
"Hello." – Zanpakutō speaking
"Hello." – Zanpakutō thoughts.
Kon'nichiwa [Translation of Hello]
Chapter 36:
Scene Change: Drákōn Workshop
Kisara and Valiona opened their eyes to find themselves in a world filled with yellow lines.
"Oh. I didn't expect you two to be here," a voice called. Kisara and Valiona turned to see a woman sitting on a chair. She appeared to be young, with long eyelashes, smooth snow-white skin, ruby-colored eyes, and luscious lips. Her figure was striking with a large bust, slender legs, and longhorns atop her head. Her waist-length pink hair shimmered with a silver shine, and she wore a light-colored robe-like dress.
"Who are you?" Kisara asked.
"My name is Navi. Welcome to the Drákōn Workshop," she replied.
"I assume you are a guide for new dragons who have learned how to enter the Drákōn Workshop?" Kisara guessed.
"Correct... for now," Navi said.
"So, tell us, how does this place work?" Valiona asked. "Our master is out there stalling the Skeletal Dragons."
Green orbs began to float around them, each one displaying a sketch of different armor pieces.
"The Drákōn Workshop is like an archive of armor and weapon designs created by a drákōn for their partners. You must choose the best-fitting parts from all the sketches and forge them to suit their partner," Navi explained.
"I see," Kisara said as she drew out Ryūgonken.
"Oh, a weapon not made by a dragon. Interesting," Navi mused as she floated in her chair.
"Ryūgonken, I know I'm not your master, but I need to see Draconic Regalia so we can reforge you for our master," Kisara thought.
Ryūgonken glowed red, and a pillar of fire surrounded Kisara and Valiona. As the pillar dissipated, Draconic Regalia appeared before them. Kisara released Ryūgonken, which floated beside the regalia. Both Kisara and Valiona stared at the stream of armor sketches, letting their imaginations flow freely.
"This armor we're reforging is a symbol of our bond," Kisara thought.
"This blade was a warrior's tool to slay our kin. This time, it will be a protector's tool to slay those who defy our master," Valiona thought.
"Interesting," Navi observed as the armor and sword began to glow with crimson, red, black, white, and blue light.
Scene Change: Outside
Ichigo continued attacking the Skeletal Dragon, fully aware that his efforts weren't harming it. Meanwhile, other Skeletal Dragons were killing more dragons, creating even more of their kind.
"Hurry, Kisara, Valiona," Ichigo thought, seeing a Skeletal Dragon charging toward a building. The sound of screaming reached his ears. Ichigo sighed, then shunpō'ed in front of the building.
"Getsuga Tenshō!" Ichigo shouted, sending the Skeletal Dragon flying away from the structure. He turned to the building's residents.
"Get away!" Ichigo yelled. The people nodded and quickly fled. Ichigo then spotted Rebecca and Cú Chulainn, who landed beside him.
"Any luck defeating the Skeletal Dragons?" Ichigo asked.
"No. Even the Headmistress's attacks can't destroy one," Rebecca replied. Ichigo looked and saw the Skeletal Dragon from earlier, now accompanied by more of its kin.
"Can you still keep going?" Ichigo asked, gathering his reiatsu into Yorugetsu.
"I'm not the Student Council President just because of looks," Rebecca said as she summoned Gáe Bolg.
"Master!" They turned to see Kisara and Valiona standing there, each holding a large sword.
"Kisara. Valiona," Ichigo said, rushing toward them.
"We have it ready for you," Valiona said, handing Ichigo the newly reforged blade. It was a large western broadsword, mostly crimson and silver. The right edge of the blade was black with red accents, while the left edge was white with blue accents.
"During the reforging process, the blade took on a new name," Kisara said.
Ichigo nodded, closing his eyes and taking a deep breath. He focused on the blade, trying to understand it.
"Appear before me." Crimson reiatsu began to gather around Ichigo. "Forged by the Maiden of Light..." White reiatsu joined the crimson energy. "Forged by the Maiden of Darkness..." Black reiatsu merged with crimson and white. "Glare at all creation and display your ferocious might!" The collected energy formed a towering pillar around Ichigo. "Dragon of Chaos, BAHAMUT!" Ichigo yelled.
A pair of large black and white wings erupted from the pillar, destroying it to reveal Ichigo clad in new armor. His head was encased in a crimson helmet shaped like a dragon's, adorned with silver horns. His right arm was covered in white armor with blue accents, while his left arm was encased in black armor with red-orange highlights. His right hand ended in Kisara's head, and his left in Valiona's. On his back, a pair of wings, one from Kisara and one from Valiona, spread out. His chest was armored in crimson with golden and green accents (1).
"ROAR!" A group of Skeletal Dragons charged at Ichigo. He raised his left hand, and Kisara's head opened, gathering blueish-white energy.
"Holy Retribution!" Ichigo yelled as he fired a blast of energy at the Skeletal Dragons, instantly destroying them. The others in the area stared at Ichigo as he lowered his hand. More Skeletal Dragons flew toward him. Both Kisara's and Valiona's heads opened again, and two blades shot out. Kisara's blade was golden-white with a blue edge, while Valiona's was black with a red edge.
Ichigo dove toward the flying dragons, swinging his blades with deadly precision. The army of Skeletal Dragons stood no chance as Ichigo tore through them with each swing. After slaying the last of the Skeletal Dragons, Ichigo landed, locking eyes with the original Skeletal Dragon.
"ROAR!" The Skeletal Dragon opened its mouth, gathering black energy within it. Ichigo had the blades disappear, as he pointed both Kisara's and Valiona's heads at the Skeletal Dragon.
Kisara's head and Valiona's head also began to gather energy. The Skeletal Dragon fired a blast of energy toward Ichigo.
"Chaotic Retribution!" Ichigo yelled as he fired his attack. The bluish-white beam fused with the reddish-black flames, combining into one colossal blast. The Skeletal Dragon's attack was effortlessly destroyed by Ichigo's strike, and the dragon was engulfed in the resulting energy. Ichigo flew back to Kisara and Valiona.
"How was the armor?" Kisara asked.
"It felt good. It could sense elements from Ryūgonken, Great Red, and you two," Ichigo replied.
"I also sensed holy energy from you, Kisara," Ichigo commented. Kisara nervously smiled.
"During the reforging process, I took a bit of holy energy from Longinus and fused it into both me and Bahamut. That fusion destroyed my hellfire ability but gave me holy fire," Kisara explained. Ichigo noticed that more people were gathering around them. He spotted Rebecca and Headmistress Io approaching.
"Meet me in your office," Ichigo yelled, and they nodded. "Kisara, Valiona, return to me." He ordered. They nodded and returned to Ichigo's mindscape. Ignoring the crowd, Ichigo shunpō'ed away. Moments later, he appeared in Headmistress Io's office and casually sat down on one of the chairs to wait for them.
Time Skip: One hour later.
Headmistress Io and Rebecca finally returned to the office, only to find Ichigo casually napping on the couch. He yawned as he woke up from his nap.
"Man, it took you two a long time to return."
"No help from you," Rebecca said. "Many people have been trying to find you."
"Find me?" Ichigo asked.
"Yes, because people believe you're an Arch Dragonar," Rebecca explained.
"An Arch Dragonar?"
"Yes, an Arch Dragonar is someone who has been granted a special suit of armor and weapon by their dragon partner. It's the second-highest rank for Elite Dragonars. For common people, an Arch Dragonar is like a noble."
"So, people want to find me to marry me?" Ichigo summarized.
"Yes. Many want to find you, especially since they know you're powerful, even without your dragon."
"I see..." Ichigo replied.
"Anyways," Headmistress Io interrupted. "I need to speak to Ichigo alone."
"Very well," Rebecca said, as she walked out of the office. Headmistress Io closed the door behind her.
"Can you bring your dragons?" Headmistress Io asked.
"Sure…" Ichigo said.
"Kisara, Valiona. Please come out," Ichigo called. Kisara and Valiona appeared before him.
"Yes, Ichigo?" Kisara asked.
"I asked to see both of you," Headmistress Io said, gesturing to her chair. "I wanted to personally meet you, Kisara." She looked at her with a soft gaze. "Have you heard of someone named Valam?" she asked.
"No," Kisara replied.
"Long ago, when God was still alive," Headmistress Io began, "He created beings called Holy Dragons. The devils attacked them, and though the Holy Dragons were hard to harm, only the strongest attacks could damage them. One such attack managed to wound a female Holy Dragon. At the time, the couple didn't realize that the attack had left something behind in her. They soon gave birth to a daughter, and this daughter was born with the ability to use both Holy and Demonic energy. When God discovered this, he deemed her an abomination and ordered her death. Despite his efforts, she survived. As she grew older, she found love and had a child of her own. God sought to destroy her again, but they couldn't defeat each other. In a last-ditch attempt, God used his power to throw her into the Reincarnation Cycle. This didn't prevent her from being reincarnated, and as she rediscovered her memories, she realized that no one remembered her. She spent years searching for answers, and eventually concluded that God had erased her existence from everyone's memories."
"How does this relate to me?" Kisara asked.
"She's saying that she is related to you," Ichigo said, piecing it together.
"I'm your mother," Headmistress Io said. The room seemed to fill with an aura as Headmistress Io began to glow blue. A massive feminine western dragon, shimmering with white eyes, appeared behind her. The aura reminded them all of Kisara's dragon form.
"So... you're my mother?" Kisara said, her voice uncertain.
"I am," Headmistress Io replied.
They stood in silence for a few seconds, each processing the revelation.
"What should I say to her..." Kisara thought while Headmistress Io was thinking the same.
"Well," Ichigo said, breaking the silence as he stood up, "Since there isn't anything else to discuss, let's call Rebecca back in and wrap this up."
"Very well," Headmistress Io said, relieved that Ichigo stepped in to break the tension. Kisara and Valiona nodded as their heads returned to Ichigo's mindscape. Headmistress Io called Rebecca back into the office.
"So, what do we need to discuss?" Ichigo asked.
"Are you certain you don't want to interact with our world?" Rebecca asked.
"I am."
"It will be hard for you to simply disappear. So many people saw you in battle, both with and without your armor," Rebecca continued.
"Especially those from the Royal Family," Headmistress Io added.
"The Royal Family?" Ichigo asked.
"Yes. Many soldiers died today at the hands of the Skeletal Dragons. They're coming here to mourn their fallen comrades and to meet the hero who defeated all the Skeletal Dragons," Headmistress Io explained.
"Why should I meet these people? I'm planning to leave this place with Yuzu and Karin," Ichigo said as he walked towards the door. "Unless you wish to stop me."
"Please." Headmistress Io stood up. "Our society needs to know if the Drákōn can return. We believe you and your siblings could provide clues." Ichigo stared back at Headmistress Io.
"Why should I care? Based on what I've seen… your society doesn't care about the Drákōn return," Ichigo said.
"Then you leave me no choice." Headmistress Io threw a marble at Ichigo. He easily dodged it, and the marble landed on the ground. It shot a beam at him, which he jumped away from. The beam hit the chair and was absorbed into the marble. Headmistress Io threw more marbles at him. Ichigo quickly ran out of her office.
"Damn him," Headmistress Io muttered. She raised her hand, and the marbles flew back to her. "After him!" she ordered.
"Yes, Headmistress," Rebecca said as she chased after him. Headmistress Io sighed, looking out the window.
Scene Change: Ansullivan Dragonar Academy
"Yuzu. Karin. Where are you right now?" Ichigo asked.
"We're in our dorm room," Yuzu replied.
"Pack your bags. We are leaving here," Ichigo ordered.
"Why?" Karin asked.
"I'll explain once I get there," Ichigo said. He made his way to Epona Hall and entered the dorm building.
"Um, excuse me, you're not allowed here," someone said. Ichigo ignored her and continued to climb the stairs.
"Hey!" She yelled as she followed him. Ichigo arrived in front of Yuzu's and Karin's door and knocked.
"Sir," the girl finally caught up to him. Ichigo turned to her.
"Yes?"
"You're not allowed in this dormitory. It's for female students only."
"Don't worry about it. I'm taking my sisters home," Ichigo said. As the door opened, Ichigo quickly slipped inside and closed it behind him. He turned to see two backpacks on their bed.
"Ichi-nii. What's going on?" Yuzu asked. Ichigo sighed and explained what he learned from Headmistress Io.
"I... see," Yuzu said, shocked by the revelation.
"You're planning to take us home?" Karin asked.
"I am." Suddenly, there was a loud bang on the door.
"Open this door right now!" Rebecca yelled.
"Have you two finished packing?" Ichigo asked, ignoring her.
"Almost," Yuzu said, continuing to pack. Another loud thud came at the door.
"Open this door right now, or I will break it down!" Rebecca threatened.
"Are you two done?" Ichigo asked.
"We are," Karin said, securing their backpacks. Their familiar perched on her shoulder. Ichigo broke the window with his fist and grabbed Yuzu and Karin.
"Hold on tight," Ichigo said as they jumped out of the window. As soon as they landed, Rebecca entered the room and saw the broken window and the deserted dorm.
"Damn it," she muttered.
Ichigo shunpō'ed Yuzu and Karin out of town and into the forest. He released them and summoned his car. They all climbed in, and a Garganta opened up, leading them to a new destination.
Scene Change: Kuoh Town: Underground Trainer
The peerage members were conversing with each other, taking turns sharing their pasts and abilities. Suddenly, a Garganta opened. They all stopped talking and stared at it. Ichigo's car drove out of the Garganta and parked in front of them. Ichigo, Yuzu, and Karin exited the car.
"Yuzu. Karin," Masaki said as she hugged her daughters. "Let me introduce you to everyone," she said, dragging them away. Ichigo chuckled at Masaki's enthusiasm. He noticed Esdeath and Eve were keeping their distance from the adults, so he walked over to them.
"Hello, you two."
"Hello," Eve replied, while Esdeath nodded.
"I heard you're starting to learn how to use your abilities."
"We are," Esdeath said.
"Would you mind showing me what you've learned?" Ichigo asked.
"Okay," Eve said. Her hair grew longer and transformed into fists.
"May I?" Ichigo asked. Eve nodded, and Ichigo gently touched the hair-shaped fists. "Have you learned how to use them?"
Eve nodded. She manipulated her hair, causing the hair-shaped fists to punch the air in front of it.
"I want you to punch my hand," Ichigo said, extending his open palm. Eve hesitated for a moment but then punched Ichigo's hand. "While her fists are large and sturdy, her punches lack power." She punched Ichigo's hand twelve times before her hair returned to normal.
Ichigo kneeled in front of Eve. "Good job, Eve."
"Thank you," she replied.
"Kahlua," Ichigo called.
"Coming!" Kahlua said, appearing next to them.
"Good job teaching Eve how to control her powers," Ichigo praised. Kahlua smiled. "However, remember that Eve's body doesn't have enough stamina to use her powers for long."
"I see…" Kahlua said.
"I think it would be a good idea to have her run a little and teach her basic hand-to-hand combat," Ichigo suggested.
"Um…Ichigo-sensei?" Eve said.
"Yes, Eve?"
"Why would I need to learn hand-to-hand combat when I can use my hair to attack people?" Eve asked.
"Good question. While your hair may look and feel like a fist, you don't know how to punch. Even if you do, you leave yourself wide open for an experienced fighter to exploit your weaknesses," Ichigo explained.
"I see…"
"Also, this training regimen will help you build stamina gradually, allowing you to use your powers for longer periods," Ichigo continued. "Do you understand, Eve?"
"Yes, Ichigo-sensei," Eve replied. Ichigo turned to Esdeath. Shirayuki appeared beside her.
"Hello, Ichigo. I missed you," Shirayuki said as she hugged Ichigo.
"Hello to you too, Shirayuki," Ichigo said, kissing her cheek. They let go of the hug, and Ichigo looked at Esdeath.
"Are you ready?"
"I am," Esdeath said, and ice began to grow around her arms, transforming them into claws. She charged at Ichigo, swinging her claws. Ichigo easily dodged her attacks. She continued charging at him. Ichigo noticed the determination in her eyes, which briefly glowed white. He felt a sudden pressure in the air, and for a moment, he saw Eve freeze. Before it returned to normal, Ichigo found Esdeath on the ground, her ice claws melted away. He and Shirayuki rushed to her side.
"Are you all right?" Ichigo asked.
"I'm fine. Just tired," Esdeath replied, before falling asleep in his arms.
"Shirayuki, do you think Esdeath stopped time?" Ichigo asked.
"I believe so, though I don't know how or why."
"Maybe she was born with a Sacred Gear that allows her to stop time," Ichigo theorized.
"Similar to Rias's bishop," Shirayuki added.
"Ichigo, this is Akua," Akua's voice came through the peerage link.
"This is Ichigo. Do you need help with something?"
"I do."
"What's going on?" Ichigo asked.
"A few days ago, Yasaka-sama gave me a mission to investigate a potential lead on the remaining members of Fairy Tail. According to the information, the members were using the ruins of the Shuzen Estate as their base of operations."
"What happened?" Ichigo asked.
"It turns out that Fairy Tail has found allies."
"Other allies?"
"Devils and Fallen Angels," Akua said.
"You contacted me to see what we should do since there are Devils and Fallen Angels?" Ichigo guessed.
"Correct."
"Have you contacted Yasaka yet?"
"I've tried, but she isn't replying." Ichigo sighed and easily deduced the problem. He walked over to the arguing kitsunes.
"Yasaka," Ichigo said.
"Yes, Ichigo?" Yasaka asked.
"Akua has been trying to contact you," Ichigo said.
"Oh," Yasaka blushed before reaching out to Akua.
"Ichigo," Tamamo said.
"Yes, Tamamo?"
"Can you help me persuade Yasaka to return control of the Japanese Leylines to me?" Ichigo immediately sensed the danger of getting involved in that argument.
"Nope. I'm not touching that mess. If you two decide to fight it out, I'll referee that match," Ichigo replied. Yasaka turned to Ichigo.
"Ichigo, please go to Akua and help her capture everyone there," Yasaka requested.
"Wait a minute," Akasha said. "Where are you planning to go?"
Ichigo turned to Yasaka.
"You're explaining what's going on to them," Ichigo said. Yasaka sighed and began explaining what Akua had told her.
"Wait…Fallen Angels and Devils are real?" Joan asked.
"Doesn't that mean God is real?" Jeanne concluded.
"You are correct," Ichigo said. "Angels, Fallen Angels, and Devils are real." Ichigo paused. "However, God was real," he emphasized the "was."
"Was?" Joan asked.
"Really?" Jeanne asked.
"Yes. At one point in time, the Christian/Catholic God existed. However, the Christian/Catholic God is dead," Ichigo explained. As expected, Jeanne immediately fainted into Joan's arms. Joan grew angry.
"When did he die?" she asked.
"Before you were born," Ichigo answered.
"Then everything we devoted ourselves to was for nothing?" Joan growled.
"No," Ichigo said. "Your belief in God helped push you to save France. Do you think the French would have won if you hadn't guided your people to victory?" Joan sighed, giving the unconscious Jeanne a lap pillow.
"Ichigo," Artoria said. Ichigo turned to her. "We wish to go with you." Ichigo looked around and saw all of his new peerage members nodding.
"If you're going to help nee-san, then I'm coming too," Moka said. Kahlua nodded.
"Ichi-nii, we want to go too," Karin said. Yuzu nodded.
"Oh no, you don't," Masaki interrupted. "You're not going with your brother."
"But Kaa-san…" Yuzu protested.
"No complaints. You can go with Ichigo if you defeat me in one-on-one combat," Masaki said.
"Or prove to me that you're strong enough," Ichigo added. Yuzu and Karin glared at Ichigo, but he ignored their stares and looked at Tier and Nel.
"Do you two want to come?"
"Thank you for the offer, but we must decline," Tier said. "There are rumors that a small group of Hollows will try to attack Hueco Mundo for various reasons."
"Not only that, some Espada members wish to fight you for the right to rule Hueco Mundo," Nel added.
"However, they must defeat both of us to be given that chance," Tier said.
"Luckily, we're both too strong for them," Nel replied.
"I see..." Ichigo said as they opened a Garganta.
"Bye, Ichigo," Nel and Tier said.
"Bye, girls," Ichigo replied as they entered the Garganta. Ichigo turned to the group in front of him. "What about you, Hana?"
"I'm fine staying here. I want to do some research about the current time," Hana replied.
"So Artoria, Gilgamesh, Scáthach, Raikou, Akasha, Rin, Zealot, Moka, and Kahlua are coming with me?" Ichigo asked. They all nodded.
"Akua. Reinforcements are coming. We'll be arriving at the front gate," Ichigo said.
"Very well," Akua replied. "I will meet you there." Ichigo summoned his car.
"Everyone, get in," Ichigo said. Everyone nodded and got in. Ichigo started the car, opened a Garganta, and drove through.
Scene Change: Shuzen Estate
A Garganta opened in front of the Shuzen Estate. Ichigo's Black Challenger SRT Hellcat drove out of the Garganta and parked right in front of the gate. Everyone filed out of the car.
"Everyone, get ready for battle," Ichigo said. Artoria, Gilgamesh, Scáthach, Raikou, Akasha, Rin, and Zealot got out of their physical bodies, now dressed in their servant attire.
"My God, do you wish for me to enter your shadow?" Zealot asked.
"Sure," Ichigo said. Zealot nodded and sank into Ichigo's shadow. Akua appeared next to Kahlua.
"Hello, Ichigo," Akua greeted. "It appears you gained more peerage members."
"It's good to see you, Akua," Akasha said. Akua gasped in shock.
"A-Akasha!? You're alive? How?"
"I'll explain it to you later," Akasha said. Ichigo quickly introduced Akua to the rest of his new peerage members.
"How should we enter?" Akua asked.
"Let's enter from the front," Akasha suggested.
"How are we preventing them from escaping?" Akua asked.
"I got this," Scáthach said. She drew a few runes in the air, and they flew around the Shuzen Estate. "The runes will prevent anyone from teleporting away."
"Will the runes prevent the Devils and Fallen Angels from escaping?" Akua asked.
"I believe so," Scáthach replied.
"Don't worry. I have a plan if they try to escape," Ichigo said. "Rise, Shirogane!" Ichigo's shadow suddenly expanded.
"Darker than darkness, emerging from the abyss, that is the sword that judges the shadow of science!" An ominous voice resonated as Shirogane rose from Ichigo's shadow.
"Shirogane. If you sense any dimensional disturbance, I want you to stop it." Shirogane nodded and disappeared into its pocket dimension. Ichigo turned to look at Akua. "Is the enemy aware of us yet?"
"It doesn't appear so," Akua replied.
"Then we will sneak in," Ichigo said.
"I got this," Scáthach said as she drew a set of runes and placed them on herself. She immediately became invisible. A few seconds later, Scáthach reappeared elsewhere. "The runes I will place on everyone will turn them invisible and undetectable," Scáthach explained. She quickly drew the runes and placed them on everyone.
"Everyone, let's go," Ichigo said through the peerage connection. Everyone jumped over the fence and carefully sneaked into the Shuzen Estate. They saw that the estate was mostly destroyed.
"It appears that Issa decided not to get the Estate repaired after our fight," Ichigo said. As they followed Akua, they saw a group of Fallen Angels, Devils, and Yōkai walking. The group quietly shadowed them. They soon arrived in a large ballroom filled with chairs. The group of Fallen Angels, Devils, and Yōkai sat down in the chairs. Ichigo and his group went to the back and stood in the shadows. The lights in the ballroom dimmed as the lights on the stage lit up. Ichigo could see Shuzen Issa standing in the middle of the stage. It seemed that he had healed himself after Ichigo's merciful ending. He wasn't alone. Next to Issa stood a young, handsome-looking man, appearing to be in his early twenties, with silver hair tied in a braided style. He wore a silver robe with detailed accessories. Everyone quieted down.
"Attention, everyone," the silver-haired man said. "For those who don't know, my name is Euclid Lucifuge."
"Maybe Grayfia's brother?" Ichigo thought.
"For those who don't know, I am Shuzen Issa," Issa said.
"We joined forces to do one thing..." Euclid started.
"To conquer the humans!" Issa shouted. Everyone in the crowd began to cheer.
"Do you think we've heard enough?" Ichigo asked. Everyone nodded. They destroyed the invisibility runes.
"ISSA!" Ichigo yelled.
"YOU!" Issa yelled when he spotted Ichigo. He leaped towards him, but suddenly someone kicked him, sending him flying into a nearby wall. He looked up to see Akasha standing there.
"Hello, husband," Akasha said with a sneer.
"Akasha," Issa mumbled.
"ATTACK THE INTRUDERS!" Euclid ordered. The army of Yōkai, Fallen Angels, and Devils charged at Ichigo and his group. Everyone charged at the incoming army. Ichigo shunpō'ed directly onto the stage.
"So, you're Kurosaki Ichigo," Euclid said.
"I am," Ichigo summoned Yorugetsu. Euclid fired a blast of fire at him. Ichigo casually split the stream of fire with Yorugetsu. Euclid threw more blasts of fire at Ichigo.
"Is that it?" Ichigo said as he continued to split the attacks. "So boring. To think Grayfia's brother was this weak," Ichigo added.
"You... you know Grayfia?" Euclid stammered.
"Oh, I do... and I know she's stronger than you," Ichigo replied.
"HOW DARE YOU!" Euclid screamed, throwing fireballs, ice shards, and lightning bolts at Ichigo. He dodged or blocked them with Yorugetsu with ease. Ichigo sighed, shunpō'd in front of Euclid and slashed him across the chest.
"Gah!" Euclid staggered back, pressing his hand to the wound, which began to heal slowly. Ichigo charged at him again, continuing to swing Yorugetsu. Euclid attempted to dodge, but Ichigo easily kept landing cuts.
"Fire Spin!" Euclid yelled, unleashing a wave of fire around him. Ichigo blocked it with Yorugetsu, using the opportunity to watch Euclid heal his wounds.
Ichigo rolled his eyes. "To think you are this weak," he said, casually spinning Yorugetsu.
"Fool! You think this is all of my power?" Euclid yelled, releasing more energy.
Ichigo glanced at him, unamused. "Really? Is this supposed to scare me?"
"DIE!" Euclid fired a blast of violet flames at Ichigo. Ichigo countered with a nameless Getsuga Tenshō. The wave of energy split Euclid's violet flames apart. Shocked, Euclid watched as Ichigo's attack continued toward him. He jumped out of the way, but Ichigo had already disappeared.
"Where did he go?" Euclid thought, searching the area. He looked up just in time to see Ichigo above him. Ichigo cracked a small smile.
"No one looks above them," Ichigo thought as he dove down toward Euclid. Euclid tried to dodge, but it was too late.
"Grr," Euclid gritted his teeth as Ichigo sliced off his arm. Euclid jumped back, clutching the bleeding stump. "I will not forget this!" he snarled, activating a teleportation seal.
Suddenly, the seal cracked and broke. Euclid was stunned. Ichigo took advantage of the moment, knocking him unconscious. He cauterized the wound and bound him with kidō.
Turning around, Ichigo saw that everyone else had dealt with the other enemies and knocked them out. Suddenly, a loud slam echoed through the room. Ichigo turned to see Akasha standing with her arms extended, her punch having sent Issa crashing into the wall.
"Come on, Issa. I thought you were stronger than this," Akasha said casually as she approached him. Issa slowly pulled himself from the wall. Ichigo noticed he had already released his limiter, pushing himself toward Akasha. Akasha stood her ground, waiting for Issa to approach.
In a flash, Akasha landed an uppercut, sending Issa crashing through the ceiling. His feet dangled beneath them. Akasha leaped up, grabbed his legs, and yanked him free from the ceiling. As they fell, she landed on top of him, slamming him into the ground. The dust settled to reveal Akasha still on top, holding his legs.
"You learned that from Quetz?" Ichigo asked, walking over.
"I did," Akasha replied, then grabbed Issa's neck and began licking it. Ichigo recognized what was happening. Before he could intervene, she bit down on Issa's neck. His eyes widened in shock, but he was too stunned to scream. Akasha slowly drained all of his blood. Ichigo could feel her devouring Issa's soul along with his blood. His body shriveled and dried out.
Once finished, Akasha released her grip and tossed his dried-up body to the ground.
"Why did you do that?" Ichigo asked, genuinely curious.
"Before I explain... Can I get some of your blood to wash this down?" Akasha asked.
Ichigo sighed and tilted his neck. She quickly bit down, drinking some of his blood before letting go and licking the bite marks.
"I devoured Issa's blood and soul for a few reasons," Akasha began. "By consuming his soul, I gained everything that Issa had—physically, mentally, and spiritually."
"Physically?" Ichigo asked.
Behind Akasha, a red shadow began to form. Out of it, Issa appeared, his eyes empty, like a hollow shell.
"I can summon any soul I've devoured as a minion," Akasha explained.
"What happens if they die?" Ichigo asked.
"I just reabsorb them," Akasha said, watching as Issa turned into blood and returned to her.
"And mentally and spiritually?" Ichigo continued.
"When I devoured him, I saw all his memories," Akasha said.
"And spiritually?" Ichigo asked again.
"His soul, and all the others I've devoured, are mine to use," Akasha replied.
"I see..." Ichigo murmured.
The others finished their battles and regrouped with Ichigo and Akasha. "Any issues?" Ichigo asked. Some shook their heads while others remained silent. "For now, we'll gather all the unconscious enemies and sort them into three categories: Yōkai, Fallen Angel, and Devil." They nodded and quickly went to work. Once finished, Ichigo contacted Yasaka.
"Yasaka, we've completed the mission. Can you contact Nurari to pick up all the unconscious Yōkai?" Ichigo asked.
"I can," Yasaka replied. Ichigo then pulled out his phone and called Sirzechs.
"Hello, Ichigo. It's been a while. What can I do for you?" Sirzechs answered.
"Can you come to my location to escort some rogue Devils and Fallen Angels?" Ichigo asked.
"Sure," Sirzechs replied before hanging up.
Ichigo turned to his peerage. "Moka, Akasha, Akua, and Kahlua, go through the remnants of the estate and see if there's anything you want to keep," Ichigo instructed. They nodded and began to explore.
A red seal appeared in front of Ichigo, and Sirzechs materialized.
"Hello, Ichigo," Sirzechs greeted him.
"Hello, Sirzechs," Ichigo said. Sirzechs looked at the captured Devils and Fallen Angels.
"Euclid," Sirzechs said, spotting his brother-in-law. He turned to Ichigo. "I'll take good care of them. What about the Yōkai? Do you want me to handle them as well?"
"Don't worry about it. I have someone else coming to take care of them," Ichigo replied. In the distance, they heard a car approaching. A yellow school bus appeared and stopped in front of them. The bus driver stepped out.
"It's been a long time, hasn't it, Nurari?" Sirzechs said, raising his hand.
"It has, Sirzechs," Nurari replied, accepting the handshake. They let go, and Nurari gestured toward the unconscious Yōkai. "So, these are mine to take back?"
"They are," Ichigo confirmed, watching Raikou walk toward Nurari.
"It can't be..." Nurari mumbled. Raikou smiled.
"Hello, Nurari," Raikou said.
"Raikou," Nurari nodded.
"How's your brother? Still causing chaos and mayhem?" Raikou asked.
"Actually, no. He's working on creating peace between the human and Yōkai worlds."
"Oh, to think you can teach an old dog new tricks," Raikou joked. "Or, in this case, an old berserker."
With the jokes done, the unconscious Yōkai were loaded onto Nurari's school bus.
"See you later," Ichigo said.
"See you, Ichigo," Sirzechs said as he teleported away. Nurari waved as the bus drove off. Ichigo saw Moka, Akua, Kahlua, and Akasha returning.
"Did you find anything of value?" Ichigo asked.
"No," Moka replied.
"Akasha, what are you planning to do with the estate?" Ichigo asked.
"I'm not sure. Do you have something in mind?" Akasha responded.
"I do. With more people joining our family, I think we should have a larger house," Ichigo said.
"What about our lives in Kuoh?" Moka asked.
"We'll keep the house there, but we'll use this new, larger house for the others to live in," Ichigo explained.
"That's a good idea," Kahlua said.
"So, are you planning to rebuild the estate or build an entirely new one?" Moka asked.
"What do you think, Akasha?"
"Burn it down. I don't want any more reminders of Issa," Akasha said.
"Very well," Ichigo replied, as he began spraying fireballs around the destroyed estate, ensuring nothing else was harmed. Soon, nothing remained of the estate. With that done, Ichigo summoned his car and drove everyone back home.
Scene Change: Kurosaki Household
They returned as it was getting late. Entering the Kurosaki Household, they saw Masaki, Rin, and Yuzu in the kitchen preparing dinner. Karin, Elizabeth, Esdeath, Eve, and Lunatique were in the living room watching TV.
"Hello, everyone," Ichigo greeted as everyone filed in.
"Just in time," Masaki said. "Can you help set up the table?" Ichigo grabbed the dishes from the cabinet, only for his other servants to snatch them away. Ichigo sighed and went to the living room to sit down. Each girl shared what they had done that day.
"Dinner's ready!" Masaki called. Elizabeth, Esdeath, and Eve immediately ran to the table, followed by Karin. Ichigo helped the pregnant Lunatique to the table, and they all sat down to eat.
"With the sudden increase in people living here, I decided we need another place to live," Ichigo began, catching everyone's attention.
"I suggested that we make the former Shuzen Estate our new home/base," Akasha added.
"How big will it be?" Gilgamesh asked.
"Land-wise…" Akasha said, "About 5000 hectares (12,355.27 acres)."
"Anyways, I want all of you to provide Akasha with ideas or suggestions for the new home," Ichigo said.
"How will we get from the new home to here?" Masaki asked.
"We'll likely connect some kind of portal from here to the new home/base," Ichigo explained. Akasha pulled out a notepad, and everyone began sharing ideas. Ichigo's dinner was interrupted by a voice in his mindscape.
"Ichigo," Jesus said.
"Yes, Jesus?"
"Can you take me to Heaven now?"
Ichigo sighed. "Fine. Let me finish my dinner first."
"Thank you," Jesus replied. Ichigo finished his dinner and placed his plate in the kitchen sink.
"I'll be right back. I need to fulfill a promise," Ichigo said, stepping outside. He pulled out his phone and dialed an extremely long number. The phone rang as he held it to his ear.
"Hello, Ichigo. What can I do for you?" Michael answered.
"This might be weird, but can you take me to Heaven?"
"Um… why?"
"Let's just say, I have something you'd want in Heaven," Ichigo replied cryptically.
"Very well," Michael said. A golden seal appeared beneath Ichigo's feet, teleporting him away.
Scene Change: Heaven
Ichigo found himself standing on a white cloud. The surroundings resembled what he had seen in Longinus's mindscape.
"Hello, Ichigo," Michael greeted, dressed in the same armor Ichigo had seen at the peace conference and dinner party.
"Hello, Michael. Is there somewhere we can talk privately?"
"I see…" Michael said. "Follow me." He led Ichigo up a few flights of stairs to a door. Michael opened it, revealing an office. "This is my office. No one will be able to hear us in here," Michael said. Ichigo summoned Longinus, which began to glow golden. The energy from the spear's glow formed a human body. Michael gasped when he saw who it was.
"Hello, Michael," Jesus said.
"Jesus!" Michael exclaimed as he rushed to hug him. "How? I thought you died with your father?"
"That's true," Jesus replied. "However, when I was stabbed with Longinus, a portion of my soul became lodged within the spear."
"But in that case, you wouldn't have known what happened to your other self since you two would have been separated," Michael theorized.
"Not quite," Jesus answered. "When my soul fragmented and was absorbed by Longinus, the fragment remained tied to me until I died."
"How come you haven't tried to return to Heaven until now?"
"None of my wielders were strong enough to communicate with me... until Ichigo forced his way into Longinus's mindscape," Jesus said.
"I see," Michael replied, turning to Ichigo. "Ichigo, once again, Heaven owes you a debt," he said, bowing to him.
"No problem, Michael," Ichigo responded. "I do have a question, though."
"Go ahead."
"With Jesus back, how will this affect the world?"
"I'm not sure... but I do have a theory," Michael said. "After God's death, the entire celestial faction has weakened. Angels' holy attacks do less damage, blessed items are weaker, and many prayers now go unanswered, just to name a few. But with Jesus in control instead of me, this may improve significantly."
Michael teleported Jesus and Ichigo out of his office, and they arrived in front of a white throne.
"Where are we?" Ichigo asked.
"This is the Seventh Heaven; home to the Sacred Gear System and God's System," Michael explained. Jesus walked up to the throne and sat down. Suddenly, the throne began releasing massive amounts of Holy energy.
"What's going on?" Ichigo asked.
"Heaven is growing stronger with Jesus's return and his position on the throne," Michael explained. Soon, the flow of energy ceased.
"You all right, Jesus?" Ichigo asked.
"Man, that was a lot of information," Jesus said.
"What happened?" Ichigo inquired.
"My Father foresaw our fate. So, he decided to preserve the knowledge of creation and store it in the throne. When I sat down, it poured all that knowledge into my mind," Jesus explained.
"I see," Ichigo said.
"Ichigo, please summon Longinus," Jesus requested. Ichigo complied, summoning the spear. Jesus raised his hand, and a golden ball of energy began to form. He walked over and placed it into Longinus, which glowed for a few seconds.
"What did you do?" Ichigo asked.
"I placed an angel into Longinus," Jesus explained.
"Why?"
"That angel will become the mentor figure to help you use Longinus."
"I see..." Ichigo responded.
"What's the angel's name?"
"The angel will reveal itself to you when it's ready," Jesus replied.
"I see..." Ichigo said again.
"Ichigo, as Michael said earlier, Heaven owes a debt to you," Jesus said. "There is only one way for me and Heaven as a whole to repay this debt." Jesus extended his hand. Ichigo hesitated for a moment, then shook it. Suddenly, Jesus's eyes glowed golden. Michael gasped as he realized what Jesus was about to do.
"Ichigo, Heir of Clan Kurosaki, Heir of Clan Shiba, Heir of Clan Yamamoto," Jesus intoned. Ichigo could sense the divine energy radiating from him as he invoked his full name. "I name thee my sworn brother. Though not blood of my blood, bone of my bone, or flesh of my flesh, I choose thee as kin, with all rights and obligations that come with it." Jesus's body began to glow golden. "Cry for aid, and I shall hear you, and give aid if it costs me my last breath. Seek succor, and you shall have it from me, no matter the reason. If all the universe be arrayed against you, know that I shall guard your back. Request sanctuary, and it shall be granted, regardless of your foe." The golden energy flowed into Ichigo. "So, let it be," Jesus said. The golden glow faded.
"You..."
"I just made you my brother," Jesus said. "This debt can't be repaid with anything physical or knowledge. An act for an act. You returned me to Heaven and helped Heaven become the powerhouse it once was. I return that debt in brotherhood and alliance." Jesus turned to Michael, who had regained his composure. "Can you send Ichigo back down now?"
"Right away," Michael said as a golden seal appeared beneath Ichigo's feet.
"See you, Michael. Jesus," Ichigo said.
"Goodbye, Ichigo," Michael replied.
"Bye, Ichigo. Thank you for your help," Jesus said. A small flash of golden light and Ichigo was gone.
Scene Change: Forest near Kuoh Town
Five people stood in an empty clearing in a forest near Kuoh Town. Three were leaning against different trees. The first was a two-meter-tall man with a well-built physique and shoulder-length gray hair, dressed in a Japanese school uniform covered by Greek-inspired armor. The second was a young man with black hair tied into a bun and a pair of shades, wearing a black Japanese school uniform. The third was a beautiful young foreign lady with blonde hair and sky-blue eyes, wearing a Japanese school uniform with armor on top.
In the middle of the clearing were two people: one kneeling, the other standing. The kneeling figure was a cute foreign girl with a slim body, shoulder-length blonde hair, and blue eyes. She was dressed in a sorceress-like dress, a huge blue hat with a black bow and yellow stars, and a matching cape with pink flowers and a white interior. She was drawing a seal on the ground. The standing figure was a bespectacled young man with blond hair and a strand of hair across his face, usually dressed in a business suit.
"Are you sure this is going to work?" the two-meter-tall man asked.
"Heracles, for the last time, this will work," the bespectacled young man replied. "Unless you want to question my sister's skills."
"Grr," Heracles growled in response. Suddenly, the seal began to glow golden. The girl stood up, and her brother pulled her behind him. Everyone stared at the seal as Ichigo appeared. He quickly realized he wasn't at home but could still sense the familiar presence of those back at his place. Ichigo glanced at the strangers around him.
"Who are you?" Ichigo asked. "Why am I here?"
"Please, calm down, Kurosaki Ichigo," the bespectacled young man said. "My name is Pendragon Arthur."
"I'm Pendragon Le Fay," the girl behind Arthur added.
"Heracles," the large man introduced himself.
"I'm Connla," the young man with shades said.
"Jeanne," the last person spoke.
"We're all part of the Hero Fraction," Arthur explained.
"Hero Fraction?" Ichigo asked. As Arthur continued explaining, Ichigo reached out to his servants.
"Hey, guys. Can you hear me?"
"What happened, Ichigo?" Akasha replied.
"I was wondering if Artoria and Jeanne or Joan could come to my location."
"Why?" Artoria asked.
"Well, it looks like I was forcefully teleported by a group of people related to heroes from the past."
"Oh?" Jeanne replied.
"Yep. I found two descendants of Artoria and someone claiming to be Jeanne's reincarnation."
"That sounds dumb. I want to come just to teach that faker a lesson." Joan criticized.
"Anyone else?" Scáthach asked.
"One of them is named Connla…"
"Oh? I guess I'll join them," Scáthach responded.
"And I'm here because…" Ichigo interrupted Arthur's monologue.
"We wish to recruit you," Arthur said.
"Anyone else?" Archer asked.
"The last one is Heracles; I'll deal with him later."
"Okay, we've found your location," Artoria said.
"Unfortunately, I'm not interested in joining your faction," Ichigo said. Artoria, Joan, and Scáthach suddenly appeared in front of him, and everyone charged toward their respective opponents.
Scene Change: Ichigo vs Heracles
"Eat this!" Heracles shouted, charging at Ichigo. He swung a punch with his right arm, but to his shock, Ichigo stopped it with just a finger.
"WHAT?!" Heracles exclaimed. He tried again, but Ichigo easily blocked each punch with a single finger.
"Is that all?" Ichigo asked.
"Variant Detonation!" Heracles yelled, surrounding himself with red-orange energy. "Let's see how you handle this!" He launched a barrage of punches, each empowered with fiery energy, but once again, Ichigo blocked them effortlessly.
"How?! How can you be so strong?!" Heracles yelled, desperation creeping into his voice as he continued his attack.
"You forget who you're fighting," Ichigo said, finally countering. He grabbed Heracles's wrist and pulled him down. Heracles lost his balance and fell to the ground. Before he could react, Ichigo stood on his neck.
"You're fighting against someone who has defeated gods and demons," Ichigo said. With a swift stomp, he knocked Heracles unconscious. Ichigo then dragged the unconscious hero toward Artoria, who was dueling with her descendant.
Scene Change: Scáthach vs Connla
Scáthach approached Connla, a sad smile on her face.
"You look so much like him," she said softly.
"Who?" Connla asked, his unease growing. "Why does she feel familiar? Like someone I should know and fear?" he thought.
"Oh? You don't recognize me?" Scáthach asked, summoning her spear. Connla's eyes widened as he recognized the weapon. He had researched his own lineage. Connla was the son of Cú Chulainn and Aife, and Cú Chulainn wielded the same red spear in her hands.
"Y-you're the descendant of Scáthach," Connla stammered.
"So close," Scáthach replied with a hint of amusement. "It seems I need to introduce myself," she said, stepping closer. "I am Scáthach, the Queen of the Land of Shadows," she declared. Connla's eyes widened in shock.
"How?" he asked, completely thrown off guard.
"Magic," Scáthach replied calmly. "But I'm not here to meet my many times great-nephews." With a sudden movement, she pointed Gáe Bolg at Connla's neck.
"I'm here to find out why you tried to kidnap my Master." From Connla's shadow, a set of shadow spears emerged, pointing directly at Scáthach.
"Defeat me, and you'll find out," Connla challenged, launching the shadow spears. Scáthach easily dodged every attack.
"Her speed is incredible!" Connla thought, his admiration for her strength growing as she disappeared from his sight.
"Up here," Scáthach's voice called. Connla looked up and saw Scáthach in mid-air, her Gáe Bolg glowing with red energy.
"Let's see if you can handle this," Scáthach thought.
"GÁE BOLG!" she shouted, hurling the spear toward Connla. Desperate, Connla dove into his shadow to avoid the attack. For the first time in his life, Connla felt fear.
"I'm going to die," Connla thought to himself. "I'm going to die. I'm going to die. I'm going to die!" Soon, the attack stopped. Connla looked around to find that Scáthach had disappeared. He rose from the shadow, but before he could react, he blacked out. Behind him stood an unamused Scáthach with her hand extended.
"He hid from my attack. How did Connla's descendant turn out to be a coward?" Scáthach thought. She noticed Ichigo watching Artoria duel one of the men. She picked Connla up and walked over to him.
Scene Change: Joan vs Jeanne
Joan stood in front of Jeanne.
"You're the supposed reincarnation of Jeanne d'Arc," Joan sneered.
"I am. And you are?" Jeanne asked.
"Call me Joan," Joan growled. Joan charged at Jeanne, swinging her flagpole in a flurry of attacks. Jeanne summoned a pair of holy swords and blocked Joan's assault. Joan pressed forward, relentless in her attack.
"Blade Blacksmith!" Jeanne shouted, creating a wall of swords around Joan. Forced to retreat, Joan jumped away.
"No wonder people believe your lies. You're just as pathetic as she was." Joan taunted.
"Don't insult her!" Jeanne snapped, sending a barrage of holy swords at Joan. Joan easily swatted them away with her flagpole.
"Don't make me laugh. Despite claiming to be her reincarnation, you know nothing of her struggles. The trials she endured, the pain and suffering for her god," Joan mocked.
"And the despair that came once the truth was revealed," Joan thought bitterly.
"Like you would know," Jeanne shot back. Joan chuckled darkly.
"All evil is here," Joan declared, drawing her sword. "The time for revenge has come!" A blaze of fire erupted from her sword, hurtling toward Jeanne. Jeanne summoned a wave of swords to block the flames, but they were easily torn apart by the fire, and the heat began to sear through her armor.
"This is the roar of my soul, forged by hatred…" Joan muttered.
Suddenly, a young woman carrying a flag appeared in front of Jeanne.
"Here's the work of the Lord!" the newcomer cried, driving her flag into the ground. The flag unraveled itself magically, forming a glowing barrier. "My flag defends our brethren! Luminosité Eternelle!"
"Le Grondement de La Haine!" Joan shouted, as spikes shot from the ground toward them. However, all the spikes bounced harmlessly off the barrier.
Soon, the attack ceased. Jeanne turned to thank her savior, only to be knocked out by her. Joan sheathed her sword and walked over.
"You finally showed up, Ruler," Joan said. (Jeanne d'Arc, the servant, will be called Ruler to prevent confusion), her tone flat.
"Joan, must you use your Noble Phantasm on her?" Ruler asked, eyeing the unconscious Jeanne.
"This foolish girl claims she's our reincarnation, yet she knows nothing of the pain we've faced," Joan sneered. "I just wanted to give her a taste of the suffering we endured."
Ruler shook her head.
"Let's just meet up with Master," she said, picking up the unconscious Jeanne. Ruler and Joan made their way toward Ichigo.
Scene Change: Artoria vs Arthur and Le Fay Pendragon
"Who are you?" Arthur demanded.
"It's not proper manners to ask for someone else's name without introducing yourself," Artoria replied.
"My name is Arthur Pendragon, and this is Le Fay Pendragon," Arthur said.
"So Ichigo was right… You are my descendants," Artoria remarked.
"What?" Arthur and Le Fay asked in surprise.
"I am Artoria Pendragon, King of Knights, and Once and Future King of Britannia," Artoria declared.
"Impossible," Arthur muttered, pointing his sword at Artoria. "King Arthur was a man and wielded a holy blade—not like the one you hold."
"If you want to see the holy aspect, that's fine," Artoria replied, transforming into her holy aspect. Arthur and Le Fay were taken aback by the overwhelming holy aura radiating from Excalibur.
"What about the fact that your legend says you were a male? And what about Mordred?" Le Fay asked.
"In my time, I hid my gender because I believed the men wouldn't listen to a 'Queen'," Artoria explained. Arthur and Le Fay nodded in understanding. "Myrddin decided the best way to solve our inability to reproduce was to turn me into a hermaphrodite. Morgan drugged me and had her way with me."
"I see…" Arthur said thoughtfully. "Great Ancestor, I challenge you to a duel."
"Very well," Artoria replied. "Your sister won't interfere…right?"
"She wouldn't," Arthur answered. Le Fay nodded and stepped aside.
"Will this be a duel of just swordsmanship or everything?" Artoria asked.
"Swordsmanship," Arthur responded.
"Very well," Artoria agreed. Both drew their swords, ready for battle.
"The duel between Arthur Pendragon and King Artoria Pendragon shall begin on the count of three," Le Fay announced. "One." Arthur and Artoria glared at each other. "Two." They tightened their grips on their swords. "Three." Arthur dashed forward, attacking with speed and skill, but Artoria easily blocked his strikes. He continued his assault, but every move was swiftly neutralized. Le Fay watched closely, knowing her brother's swordsmanship was formidable, praised by many as a prodigy. Yet, as she observed Arthur facing Artoria, it was like watching a child trying to fight a master. Every attack Arthur made was blocked, and Artoria immediately followed each with a counter.
"Impressive swordsmanship," Artoria remarked, her voice calm despite the intensity of the duel.
"Thank you, Great Ancestor," Arthur replied. "Your skills are exactly what your legend said they were." They continued for a few more minutes, until Artoria ended their duel with a hard strike near Arthur's wrist, forcing him to drop his blade. Before he could grab it, Artoria already had Excalibur pointed at his throat.
"I believe this is my win," Artoria said.
"It is," Arthur replied. Artoria moved Excalibur away from his throat. He walked over and picked up his fallen sword. Le Fay rejoined them. He turned to face Artoria again.
"As our Great Ancestor, I wish to return this to you," he said as he presented the blade to Artoria. Artoria looked at the blade that Arthur held out.
"Why?" Artoria asked.
"You don't recognize this blade? It's Caliburn; The Sword from the Stone." Artoria sheathed Excalibur and grabbed the sword, performing a few swings before handing it back to the confused Arthur.
"This isn't my Caliburn," Artoria replied.
"What do you mean?" Arthur asked.
"Caliburn was broken in battle, which forced me to use Excalibur. The Caliburn you wield is not the same one I wielded long ago."
"So, you're saying that the sword in my hand isn't Caliburn?"
"I believe an angel took the broken Caliburn and tried to reforge it, resulting in the Caliburn you hold," Artoria theorized.
"I see…" Arthur said as he summoned Excalibur Ruler. "Great Ancestor, can you tell me your thoughts about this blade?" Artoria grabbed Excalibur Ruler and swung it a few times.
"This blade is foreign to me," Artoria said, returning it to Arthur.
"I see…" Arthur said, sounding disappointed.
"Why do you sound disappointed?" Artoria asked.
"The blade you just wielded is known as Excalibur Ruler, one of the seven fragments of the original Excalibur that was destroyed during your battle with Mordred," Arthur explained.
"I tasked Sir Bedivere with returning it to the Lady of the Lake. The only possibilities are that an angel took the blade from Sir Bedivere or the angels created a holy blade and called it Excalibur." Artoria said.
"I see…" Arthur said, his voice trailing off as he was shocked to see the entire group had been defeated by Ichigo and his allies. "So, the Hero Fraction lost?" Arthur asked. Le Fay turned around to see Ichigo and everyone standing behind her.
"I didn't notice they were standing behind me," Le Fay thought.
"You finished Artoria?" Ichigo asked.
"We have," Arthur replied instead. "What will happen to us?"
"The only option is that these three will be given to the devils to interrogate for information," Ichigo said.
"And us?" Arthur asked. Suddenly, a familiar red seal appeared.
"Oh, speak of the devil," Ichigo chuckled as Rias, Kiba, Akeno, Issei, and Koneko appeared behind Rias, ready to battle.
"Ichigo?" Rias said.
"Hello, Rias. Good to see you and your peerage is here." Ichigo greeted her, then added, "What are you doing here?"
"We detected a large amount of energy here, so we decided to investigate," Rias replied. "I assume you took care of the problem."
"I did." Ichigo handed Rias the unconscious Connla, Heracles, and Jeanne. "These are some members of the Hero Fraction."
"I see. I will hand them to Nii-sama to deal with," Rias said.
"I can imagine him complaining about the additional workload."
"Additional workload…" Rias's eyes widened. "You're responsible for the large capture of Devils, Fallen Angels, and Yōkai less than an hour ago?"
"Yeah," Ichigo said.
"Akeno, if you could please?" Akeno nodded and took the unconscious prisoners, teleporting them away.
"What about them?" Rias asked, pointing at the Pendragon siblings.
"My name is Arthur Pendragon, and this is Le Fay Pendragon," Arthur said.
"As you may already know, I am Rias Gremory," Rias replied.
"In exchange for protection against our family and our enemies, we would assist as tutors for your peerage and allies," Arthur offered.
"Why?" Rias replied.
"In all honesty, I joined the Hero Fraction just to find strong opponents. From what rumors I've heard, I know that being on your side would allow me to find stronger opponents," Arthur explained.
"Wherever Nii-sama goes, I go," Le Fay added. "I also wanted to meet the Oppai Dragon," she said, blushing.
"Oppai...Dragon?" Ichigo repeated, giving Rias a questionable stare. "What did the pervert do?"
"Azazel heard about Issei triggering his Balance Breaker by poking my breasts and ended up making an entire show about it. He used the opening song to the show when Issei went Berserk due to a training accident," Rias said. Ichigo walked up behind Issei and slammed his head down into the ground. Issei quickly pulled his head out of the dirt, ready to attack the person who did it, only to meet Ichigo's vengeful glare.
"How dare your perverted habits ruin Ddraig's legendary history," Ichigo said. Suddenly, Boosted Gear began to glow.
"Manifest," Ddraig said as Issei's Scaled Mail appeared.
"Hello, Ddraig," Ichigo greeted.
"Hello, Ichigo. Thank you for punishing him for his actions," Ddraig said as he glared at Rias. "These devils encourage his actions."
"I understand, my friend," Ichigo said, patting the Scaled Mail's shoulder. "During my freshman year of high school, I developed a reputation for being a tough guy who rarely smiles and punishes perverts like Issei," Ichigo added. Issei felt a shiver go down his spine. "While I was doing some Shinigami business, a perverted spirit managed to enter my body and ruin the reputation I had carefully built (2)," Ichigo said. Ddraig turned and looked at Ichigo.
"I found an ally in this darkness!" Ddraig said, tears beginning to form in his eyes.
"Go on and take comfort," Ichigo said as Ddraig released his tears of despair. While Ddraig let out his emotions, Ichigo's glare remained fixed on Issei.
"I said I was sorry," Issei muttered.
"Does 'sorry' fix Ddraig's reputation?" Ichigo asked.
"No," Issei replied.
"Though…" Ichigo began to smile. "Being the strongest wielder may offset this," he added.
"Um…" Issei didn't know why, but for some reason, he felt an overwhelming urge to run away. Ichigo turned to Rias.
"I want to see how strong your peerage is now, compared to when I first tested you," Ichigo said.
"Now?" Rias asked, surprised.
"No. In the morning," Ichigo replied.
"That's fine. We needed to do something as a club anyway," Rias said. "Also, is it all right if Azazel-sensei comes as well?"
"Sure," Ichigo replied, nodding.
Ddraig finally finished releasing his despair.
"Thank you, Ichigo," Ddraig said gratefully.
"No problem, Ddraig," Ichigo replied. "A good way to release your despair is finding a positive outlet—like training a wielder."
"Good idea," Ddraig said.
"Do it while he dreams, and in any free time, he has," Ichigo added.
"NOOOOO!" Issei screamed in despair. Ichigo and Ddraig both laughed at his misery.
"It's getting a little late," Rias said, noticing the time.
"Very well. See you tomorrow," Ichigo said as they all prepared to head home.
Scene Change: Kurosaki Household
Ichigo walked in to find Yuzu washing the dishes.
"Hello, Yuzu," Ichigo greeted.
"Ichi-nii! You're back," Yuzu said with a smile.
"Have you seen Karin?"
"She's in the shower. Is there anything you need?"
"Let her know that I'm testing both of you tomorrow."
"Testing us?" Yuzu asked, a little confused.
"Yes. We're going to have a spar to see how strong both of you have become."
"Oh… I'll let her know," Yuzu said, still processing the news.
"Thanks, Yuzu. Goodnight," Ichigo said as he headed upstairs to his room.
Ichigo took a quick shower and went to bed.
Author's notes:
Omnimon but with Red-Eyes and Blue-Eyes instead of WarGreymon and MetalGarurumon.
That scene was inspired by a similar scene from Highschool: BLEACHED by the user Slycer. It is in chapter 28.