Hello everyone :)
Here comes Chapter XV
Usual disclaimer, reminder and warnings. Nothing new, but needs to be written.
Friendly reminder: this story will be slightly AU and some characters might be OOC. For anyone who is not into YAOI, please do not read any further, this is not going to be your cup of tea :) Although, by now, I am sure most of you know what you're getting into x3
Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach or any of its characters, they all belong to Tite Kubo-Sensei etc., etc.
WARNINGS: Spoiler alert for anyone who is not up to date with the manga and only watched the anime! Somewhere along the way might contain but is not limited to include dark themes, suicidal thoughts, heavy sexual contest, yaoi (again xD) and some other themes not suitable for under-age reader. Read at your own risk and discretion! And if you don't like, please don't hate too much :3
I hope everyone is having a great beginning of the year. I sure can't get any sleep with my Muse and plot attacks. Not that I mind, I love the dreams they produce :3
Thanks for all the lovely past, present and future reviews. You fill me with eagerness to continue posting and writing.
My Muse, hereby, wants to thank pretty much everyone: all readers, newcomers and those special people who push me that bit further every single time they leave a review as they encourage me to do my best and type my keyboard away :)
I know, you know who you are xD
Chapter XV
"A simple question, with an even easier answer."
He paused momentarily for an amplified effect. A fond smile stretched on Ossan's face, visible and unrestrained.
"It was my grandson."
Soken's mind was about to explode. Not only was his Majesty smiling, but he just said his grandson called him Ossan? How did Heika even have a grandson if Masaki-san was introduced as the last remaining member of the Kurosaki household? Thinking about it, Masaki-san was not introduced as Heika's daughter only as the last relative. Did his Majesty recently loose his family and grandson? No, it did not sound right. Based on the previous conversations, Heika and Shirosaki-san have been together for a long time. Could it be? Was his Majesty referring to the beginnings? To his first family? He would have to go through the old tomes, if he wanted these questions answered. He had already insulted Heika's grandson by his comment of scoundrel. He would not risk any possible repercussions his words or questions may bring upon his family.
The poor man was unaware he had already been forgiven. Ichigo had always been able to pull a smile out of Ossan. He had been respectful when needed, adhering to the formal standards and rules of the family. However, in private it was a different story. The little energetic child who always addressed him respectfully or with 'Grandpapa' turned into a teenager and a strong young man. The title of 'Grandpapa' was gone and exchanged with 'gramps', only to be swapped with 'Ossan' just prior his departure. At first, he abhorred the casual mannerism Ichigo used and often reprimanded the young one. Though, he was never able to stay anger at the spirited soul for long. After some time, he realized Ichigo never meant to disrespect him when calling him 'Ossan'. Ichigo used the name 'Ossan' in a showcase of affection and fondness. It was meant to replace the childlike 'Grandpapa'. Needless to say, afterwards he never felt the need to scold his grandson.
Ossan sensed the upset in Soken's reiatsu. Having been engulfed in his memories, he failed to realize the level of distress the man emitted. Stupefied by such behavior, he could not stay quiet and inquired.
"What seems to be the problem Soken-san? Is something wrong? Your reiatsu is all over the place."
Pulled out from his ocean of worries, Soken did respond.
"Heika, my deepest apologies, I did not mean to offend You or Your family with my words. I can assure You it will not happen again. I should have known You would have not permitted just anyone to address You casually. I failed to realize that prior to my sentence."
Ossan looked forward, intent on making sure his companion did not see the roll of his eyes. He proceeded to reassure the man nothing was wrong.
"You have nothing to worry about Soken-san. I am not upset. What you thought was understandable. For someone who had not met my grandson, it was a most logical conclusion. Therefore, please relax. We are not within your household or mine. At the moment we are just two persons walking the streets, heading in the same direction. Besides, centuries of history should have enlightened you that I have never been known for getting troubled easily. Am I correct in assuming, I was believed to be a lenient person most of the time, unless provoked?"
Soken was speechless. He really needed to check the old books. They were gathering dust instead of being used. He would make sure to go through them in detail.
"My apologies Heika. It has been a rather long time since anyone thought about time passed."
Ossan turned and looked deeply into the others eyes.
"As mentioned, think nothing of it. As long as we are out of sight of the more uptight members, we can have a regular conversation. After all, considering you have volunteered to help with the situation at hand, we will have ample time for you to feel more comfortable around me. Not to mention, I am positive Shirosaki's presence will greatly contribute."
Soken was astonished and barely managed to nod his head in agreement. He understood well. It was the same case with his son and butler. When away from bat ears and peeking noses, he insisted on a more casual atmosphere.
The rest of the journey was spent in serene silence. Once they reached the house, they were immediately greeted at the gates by the ever-alert Cord. He assured Miss Masaki did not ruse from her slumber and offered once again the spare room to the high esteemed guest.
"I do appreciate your offer. However, to prevent a shock for Masaki-san as well as for the staff at the inn we are currently staying at. I believe it would be more adequate for me to take her back. On that note, Soken-san, were you seen by the employees when you visited us?"
Soken shook his head in negative. He was a prudent man, favoring stealth when in uncertain or unknown locations.
"Perfect. Please do take me to Masaki-san, we will be on our way. Soken-san, I would like to continue our pleasant conversation at more appropriate hours today. That is, if you would be available, of course."
Soken read the meaning behind those words and fully agreed. He had no previously arranged obligations the whole day tomorrow, or rather today. The following day he did have several duties and meetings which would require his presence.
"I will be honored to resume our discussion in a few hours. Any particular hour I should present myself? I would not want to be a nuisance considering the current hour."
Expecting nothing less, Ossan added. "None at all. I am the one inviting you. Therefore, any time which suits you the most will be greatly appreciated."
Soken understood and agreed to visit once fully awaken. They soon arrived at the room occupied by the resting girl. Ossan gently took her in his hands, gave his regards to Soken and his butler and vanished within the shadows. Soken would never forget the sensation of being within that power. He had been surprised the little one seemed completely at ease. She had not stirred at all. He proceeded to his chambers and wished a pleasant remainder of the night to the faithful Cord.
Having arrived at the inn, Shirosaki was greeted by the Night Receptionist. Knowing it was late, he made sure to leave a few grunts and comments for the gossiping workers.
"Ah man, meetings between lawyers take forever. At least the case is mostly complete. If we continue at this pace, we will be able to gather the remaining evidence before the set date at court."
Looking at the young man behind the desk he spoke in a casual tone. "Oh, good evening. Am I right to presume my father and sister have returned from their outing? I must have lost track of time working again. Are any of the chefs still working at this hour? I would highly appreciate anything light to snack on before resting."
The man at the desk has short black hair, bright blue eyes and pale skin. Dressed in a navy-blue kimono, bowed and confirmed the availability of the chef as well as the list of accessible plates. Among the variety of dishes, Shirosaki opted for a large plate of sesame seared tuna accompanied by various sauces and proceeded to his room.
Once in the comfort of the stateroom, he could not but feel the absence of the little girl. He would admit the little one managed to sneak past most of his defenses. He had to be careful, else he might become too attached and would try to make it difficult to leave her behind should she decide to stay with her relatives.
He was startled by a light tapping noise. Having his senses on high alert, he did not miss to notice the reiatsu from outside the window. He had merely ignored it, until now. The sound was not loud, but it did grate on his nerves. He exhaled loudly and approached the window from where the noise came from. There outside stood a black cat. Sheesh, he just met the thing a little while ago and it was already trying to upset him.
He opened the window and let the feline in.
"So, what do you want? Here to check where I sleep or just wanted to keep an eye out for the big, bad Hollow? Meh, whatever. I'm about to get some tuna through room service. Wanna have a piece or something? If yes, you should hide in the bathroom. I don't think these guys approve of pets in the inn."
He was met by a hard glare, soon turned into a happy expression as much as you could guess from a cat. Yoruichi would never say no to tuna, so she followed the Hollow who directed the cat to the restroom. He was right on time too, as the moment he closed the bathroom's door a light knock alerted him of his arrived order. These guys were fast workers.
He went into his assigned room and opened the door to the hallway. He did not want to let them know he was alone. That would result in a terrible affair. The server had no qualms and presumed the polite sir was just taking care of his family. Such an honorable young man, making sure his relatives were not awakened even though he had worked such late hours. The night shift was considered the graveyard shift. Anything and everything was used as a way of breaking the monotonous boredom. Thus, all workers had already heard about the pale guest's return and the story he had given at the Reception desk. Therefore, he quietly served the plate and left the room trying to make as less noise as possible.
Shirosaki closed the door behind the staff He shook his head a few times before returning to the main room and opening the restroom door for the cat. He took the tuna dish, a small saucer and placed a few pieces of tuna on it. Having it offered to the cat, he proceeded to devour his share. He was absolutely famished.
The cat continued to stare the man down. The Hollow was even able to eat regular food. Kisuke will be jumping in joy at the notion of such discovery. The cat did take the offered saucer and delightedly wolfed down the juicy meal.
Deciding to tease the Hollow, it spoke and asked if it would be alright to talk about a few things. Shirosaki had no issue with that, he had resigned himself to another chat the moment he noticed the feline. So, he just said. "Sure, why not?"
The cat moved a few paces from Shirosaki and was soon covered by smoke. Shirosaki had been surprised at the smoke and prepared for a possible attack. What he had not been expecting was to see a dark skinned naked woman instead of the cat. The woman is slender and well-endowed of average height. Probably around 5' or 5'1''. Her hair is waist-length and purple with chin-length bangs framing the sides of her face. Her golden eyes retained some of the feline semblances.
'The heck! Why is there a woman? A naked woman at that!?'
He could see a large smile on the woman's face. She was probably expecting a reaction of some sort. Heh, like hell he would give her the satisfaction. He closed his eyes, puffed out and grunted something under his breath about demon cats and exhibitionists. Then went back to his room where he rummaged through his luggage and pulled out a long, short-sleeved satin robe. The robe was double sided with the currently top part being a dark ruby color, while the interior was raven black with gold embroidery. He took the clothing item to the still naked woman and threw it at her face. She was not hit because she caught the robe in the air. She looked back and forth between the cloth and the Hollow with a confused expression.
Shirosaki had no patience left for childish games. "Well? What are you waiting for? An invitation? Put the thing on. I don't want to spend the rest of the night with a shameless woman prancing around in her birth suit."
Yoruichi was disheartened. She had hoped to squeeze some fun out of the Hollow. Embarrassment was one of the sensations she was expecting. At the minimum surprise. Instead the guy had been calm and collected. She had not expected the robe either. 'This guy is full of surprises. No wonder Kisuke seems so intrigued.'
Once she put the robe on she was even further amazed by the Hollow.
"Want some more tuna? You seemed to enjoy it before. Or is it just a cat thing?" He said with a large smirk on his face. She had been so stunned by the others behavior that she did not even register the offered plate.
Shirosaki knew he won this round and sat at the chair by the dresser, enjoying the last bites of tuna. 'Hehe. Had she done a stunt like this a few centuries ago, she might have got what she wanted. Now that I think about it, even then, she would have had a few laughs from Ichigo rather than from me. He was the prudish one, not me.'
"What is it kitty? Surprise, surprise. Unable to accept defeat? What? Did you really expect me to jump up in the air and squeak like a little girl or something like that? Hah! Better luck another time. Now, if you don't mind, care to enlighten me as to what you wanted to talk about?"
She was finally brought out of her amazement. She would not accept anything but victory, thus, would try to poke a few of the Hollows buttons. She returned the smile in kind.
"Aw, such a shame. I'm not even used to wearing clothes anymore. What is it? Afraid of a little skin show? Are you sure you don't want to take another peek? Who knows when you'll get a chance to look at a body like this again."
Shirosaki snorted and rolled his eyes. "Woman, sorry to burst your bubble, but I am not interested. If you don't have anything useful to say, you can leave. It was a long day and I would love to get at least a nap."
They stared each other down for a long time, neither ready to back down. Shirosaki's triumphant smile was nearly matched by Yoruichi's leer. The contest would have lasted the rest of the night, if not for the appearance of Ossan and the sleeping girl in his hands. Talk about good timing. Ossan lifted an eyebrow and looked at the two, trying to figure out what was going on. Seeing he would get no response from either person, he shook his head and placed Masaki back in bed. Once he was sure she was comfortable, he turned to give his charge and the unknown person his coldest and hardest glare. Needless to say, both lost interest in their game, frozen in place by the threatening look.
Satisfied with the result he monitored for the two to follow him to his assigned room. Shirosaki was the first to stand up, but allowed Yoruichi to enter first. Closing the door behind the troublemakers, Ossan sighed. These days were simply not long enough. Either that, or someone was shortening their lengths. He turned and watched the woman. He could tell immediately who she was by her reiatsu. Though it was well concealed, he was sure it was the cat from the store. Both the cat and the person in front of him emanated the same aura of curiosity and mischief.
"Good evening Shihoin-san. May I inquire as to what kind of business you have with my partner at this hour? I was under the impression we had settled everything back at the Shoten for this night."
The woman did not show any sign of being surprised by the others knowledge of her identity. Although, within she was seething. This was the first time anyone figured her out without breaking a sweat. She would think nothing of it for now, and made herself comfortable on the bed.
"I say, this night is getting more and more interesting by the minute. It's been forever since I've had this much entertainment. But you may want to tell your 'partner' to get that stick out of his ass. He is too uptight and no fun at all."
That did hit a nerve. It took everything Shirosaki had not to explode right there. He so did not have a stick there, nor a tense individual most of the time. The only thing that gave him away was the twitching of his left eyebrow.
"Che. I'll remember that one. No more tuna for you little kitty." He tried really hard not to pout, but he did mumble something nearly inaudible about ungrateful cats and not sharing dinner.
Ossan had a hard time containing his anger as well. It was not every day that he had to go through so many emotions or problems. From what he could gather this far, she was the same cat from the store and judging by the lack of clothing, must have changed her form within their rooms. Unless she had no issues running undressed. Shirosaki must have offered his own robe to give the uninvited guest some modesty. The empty plate and saucer he had noticed in Masaki's room, spoke of a meal, which Shirosaki must have shared. All in all, he could not let so much slide aside. Especially not in view of Shirosaki and his behavior which has been outstanding ever since they met Masaki.
"Shihoin-san, anything you may want to know about the two of us, our intentions or plans can be easily discussed at the Shoten as we have previously agreed with Urahara-san.
However, know that I will not allow you or anyone else to speak to Shirosaki in such a way. If you have come all this way just to insult my companion, I will ask you to leave immediately. Please keep in mind that if you do continue to offend the two of us, I will take mattes in my own hands. Trust me, you do not wish for that to happen."
You couldn't tell who was more shocked, Yoruichi or Shirosaki. Everything was said in a calm voice, but the heat in the words was not missed. Yoruichi was wondering if for the first time in her life, she bit more than what she could chew. Next to Ossan, stunned in silence stood Shirosaki, whose eyes were in danger of popping out from their sockets. This was a first for Ossan to use that tone with someone else. Normally, it was reserved for Shirosaki. Something within Shirosaki warmed up at the knowledge that Ossan would actually stand up for him and his sake. Must be a side effect of their long camaraderie.
A tender small smile appeared on Shirosaki's face. It was one of those smiles he had ever shown one other person. Proof of just how touched he was by Ossan's action.
"Thanks, Ossan."
It was said quietly. Too quietly. Had Ossan not been right next to Shirosaki, he would have missed it.
Yoruichi missed the words, but understood the meaning behind the pale ones' demeanor. She would not admit defeat, although she did in fact loose. She'll find another opportunity to play with the two. Probably when they got some sleep. It was no fun if she could not pull their strings. Looking at the two, she could see they were connected in a far different way than what she originally thought. Something connected these two. She was curious and wanted to unveil the mystery these two presented. What could have possibly bonded two mortal enemies? They were not only working together. No, there was a sense of solidarity deeper than anything she had ever seen between two persons who were not intimately involved.
Unless they were intimate? They did not give that vibe. Uh! She could not figure them out. Oh well, it would not be a first. She will find another way around their defenses. She cleared her throat in an attempt to gain the two's attention. She did get their attention along with annoyed looks.
"Sorry, mind to leave your love-making for later, when I'm gone?" Hehe, she couldn't pass on the opportunity to do a little jab. Shirosaki and Ossan glanced at each other for the briefest seconds, before Shirosaki erupted in laughter. He tried, he really did try to keep it down and be quiet. But that was too much. Ossan would have loved to roll his eyes, but instead raised a sound proof barrier in hopes of preventing an unexpected wake-up call for the sleeping girl next door. Little did he know that Masaki could sleep through a storm. Once asleep, she couldn't be woken easily.
Shirosaki was brought down to his knees, clutching his stomach with tears of mirth around the corners of his eyes, still laughing out loud. That was most certainly not what Yoruichi had expected.
"Ops! Guess I was wrong about your relationship." She received an exasperated glance from Ossan and even more laughter from Shirosaki.
"Was there a point to your visit or was all of this just a form of breaking your personal boredom? It would be most appreciated if we could have our privacy and the comfort of rest before we engage in any new activities."
Shirosaki was slowly recovering, but continued to snicker every now and then. He would have to spend more time with the were-cat.
"I did come to ask if you could keep an eye out for Hollows for a few days? The local Shinigami was called in for questioning due to the death of her comrade from the nearby town and no one was assigned as of yet. I think they are still checking what to do since this does not happen often. I'll go and check what is going on in Soul Society for a while. Kisuke is kind of busy experimenting and Tessai is going to try and keep him from making a huge mess. Think you could do me this favor?"
Shirosaki rolled his eyes, but was stopped from speaking up his mind by a hand on his shoulder.
"We will do what we can. I am sure you noticed there is a minor we are taking care of at the moment. Her safety is our number one priority, but we will do our best without being detected. Just as you and your companions do not wish to be spotted by the Shinigami, we too desire to remain under the radar. Shirosaki even more so. Can you imagine what Soul Society would do, should they get a hold of him?"
Shirosaki did not miss the feel of Ossan's reiatsu. He was politely telling the cat the girl was off limits. But was also diverting the attention from himself and putting Shirosaki on the spot light. Oh, he was good. Trying to make himself invisible. Judging by the nods he received from the feline woman, he was succeeding.
"Thank you, I'll go and relay the message to Kisuke before I go. I'd love to get to know the both of you better. In time I hope we can be really good friends. Well, then see you around."
Having said that, she turned into her cat form again and disappeared using Shunpo. The previously window was now open, leaving no doubts as where she had left from.
Both remaining males tiredly sighed. Simultaneously they searched with their reiatsu for any new arrivals. It did not hurt to make sure the demon cat was really gone. Sensing nothing unusual or out of place. Ossan closed the window and removed the barrier. He opened the door to check on Masaki. Thankfully the girl was blissfully still asleep. Shirosaki saw the other was tired by the slight slouch of Ossan's shoulders.
"Ossan, we are both weary and sleepy. Why don't we go get some rest and I'll tell you my findings in a few hours?"
He did not wait for an answer from his partner, but went ahead and left the room. Once in his assigned stateroom, he took a quick shower and did the rest of his business. He hated going to sleep dirty. Once finished, he took a set of sea green and emerald cotton pajamas. Just a plain shirt and shorts. He was asleep even before he touched the bed.
In the opposite room, Ossan had undergone a similar procedure. He was wearing a white cotton jersey and black trousers. Only he could find no rest. Too many things were running amok in his mind. By the time sleep claimed his consciousness, sunrise had already greeted the world with its light.
In a room lit by large monitors, a dark-skinned man was seated in a white chair facing the myriads of screens. His sightless eyes invisible due to the thick white framed, black shaded sunglasses. His aegean blue hair is braided and tied in a low ponytail by an orange ribbon. Black finger-less gloves adorn the man's hands who was wearing the standard black and white Shinigami Shihakusho. White calf-high boots clad his feet. The man was immersed in his work. How he knew what he was doing although blind was a mystery known to none but him alone. Even though concentrated he did hear the slight opening of a door nearby. Still working on his assignment, he greeted the new arrived person without the need to see who the individual was.
"Good evening Aizen-sama."
A polite, soft-spoken voice greeted back in kind. "Good evening Tousen. How are things going?"
The addressed Tousen stood from his spot and pointed to one of the many monitors.
"Not as we had expected. The latest specimen sent to the Human world did minor damage in Narukishi city and obliterated the local Shinigami. However, once back at the base, it started convulsing. I've been working on it ever since. I am afraid this sample was somewhat lacking. Soul Suicide should commence at any given moment."
There was a vague sound followed by a disappointed comment.
"So, it was a failure after all."
Nothing was said for a few seconds. Until the same soft voice spoke up again.
"Oh well, nothing we can do about it. Can I leave the disposal of the experiment in your capable hands? I have just found an even better specimen we can work on. Gin is preparing it for the procedure. By the way, have there been any news regarding Shinji Hirako and his group of misfits?"
The sightless man bowed and replied. "Of course, Aizen-sama. No. I regret to inform no new data has been found on the group. Ever since the incident, they have been untraceable."
If the man could see, he would be running for the hills at the enraged expression marring his companions face. Having approached the blind man, the one named Aizen was revealed by the light emanating from the screens.
At about 6'1'' he too was wearing the standard Shinigami uniform. The man has square framed glasses and calculative brown eyes. Short wavy brown hair with a fringe encases the youthful face. Along with the glasses he gave the impression of a scholar. Full lips were frozen in a blank expression. All in all, the man appeared to be a very kind and well-respected individual. Nothing would give away the manipulative and dangerous nature this person had as it was well hidden behind an unbreakable mask. Should you look intently into those brown pools, for the briefest second you might spot a glimpse of his true intentions. Similar to this instant when he was upset.
Nonetheless, by the time you blinked, his disguise was back in place. What matters if those research materials were still misplaced? It just meant he had to try to flush them out a little harder. He was, after all, a very patient person. His partner was able to detect the smallest of smirks on Aizen's features. He could not understand what the grin was about, but did not concern himself with it. As far as he was concerned Aizen-sama had the answers to all questions and was leading them toward a better future.
An abrupt beeping noise brought both men out of their musing. Aizen approached one of the keyboards and pressed a few buttons. Soon a cheerful voice could be heard through the speakers.
"Aizen-Taichou, the new addition is ready. Wanna take it out fer a walk?"
An excited glint was present in those brown eyes. Perfect timing. Gin surely did a wonderful job.
"Not yet Gin. We shall wait for a new Shinigami to be assigned to Narukishi before we continue. Please do keep it under surveillance until further notice."
The conversation was over after an affirmative "Hai Taichou.", was heard.
Facing the still silent dark-skinned male, Aizen spoke yet again. "It would seem we are ahead of schedule. Tousen, please do take care the previous subject is removed. Once done, would you join me for a cup of tea? We can leave Gin for a few hours. We should then get back to our barracks. We can test the newest specimen as soon as we have a new representative in our city."
Tousen bowed once again to his leader. "Yes Aizen-sama. I will join you shortly."
Expecting nothing less from his most loyal follower, Aizen left the room and the other to his own thoughts and duties. He was not worried. Shinji's group would be located sooner or later. He had ample time. There was also the issue of finding Urahara Kisuke. But he chose to take that assignment and solve it with his own hands.
Urahara Kisuke, a name he both respected and loathed. The only individual in all three worlds who could stand on par with his own intelligence. Finding Shinji Hirako and the rest would result in locating Urahara Kisuke. So far, they were testing around Narukishi city as it was under the jurisdiction of his own squad. Naturally, they would move to another city in case there would be any suspicions. But for the time being, it was the perfect sacrificial lamb.
He would recapture the escaped scoundrels, make Urahara Kisuke to bow down to his will and acquire the others Hogyoku. Once he had Urahara's orb, he would feed it to his own gem and achieve his ultimate goal. He would overthrow the Reiou and stand at the top of the worlds.
Morning came way to early for a still drowsy Shirosaki. It took him several seconds to understand what caused him to awake in the first place. The smell of breakfast was welcomed as opposed to the Hollow reiatsu he felt a little bit away. He groaned in annoyance, but stood up and opened the window. Disappearing in a flash of Shunpo.
He ended up in a park. The Hollow was a small serpentine thing of a magenta body. The mask itself was also nothing special. Using a quick Bala, the Hollow was gone.
'What better way to start the day. Should have stayed in Hueco Mundo.'
Looking around for any other Hollows nearby, he noticed an elderly man cowering behind a tree stump. Just an average guy, with short black hair and a black and white business suit. The chain on his chest reached his waist. The fellow must have recently died, probably a car crash in his early thirties and no one managed to send him over to Soul Society.
'Che. Stupid incompetent Shinigami unable to do their own bloody job. Meh, may want to send this one on his merry way. Not that he'll have a better life over there.'
He moved in the direction of the still quivering man and exclaimed. "Oi, you there. Come over here for a second and stop trembling. I'm not gonna hurt you or anything."
The soul complied out of fear. Shirosaki looked menacing without even trying.
"Look here, I can give you two options. One: you stay here and more of those things will come after your sorry hide. Two: I can send you to the afterlife. Your choice."
The poor man was frightened out of his mind, but easily opted the second option. He had no desire to meet those huge monsters again. Shirosaki materialized his Zanpakuto, which only managed to scare the living daylights out of the elderly man who promptly passed out.
"Che. Coward. Meh, at least it makes things easier. Less explanations." Mumbled Shirosaki and promptly hit the man on the head with the hilt of his wrapped sword. The soul shined blue for a few seconds, before it dissolved and passed on to Soul Society. Shirosaki promptly dissolved his Zanpakuto. He would have to remember to try and spend some quality time with Zangetsu. It's been a while and he had yet to claim his reward from Ossan. The mere thought was enough to put a large smile on his face. Feeling much better, he turned and was about to Shunpo back to the inn. He used Shunpo when he wanted to go silently. When he wanted Ossan to know he was leaving he chose Sonido instead. Therefore, when he left the inn he chose Shunpo, since he was not sure who was awake and who was sleeping.
Just as he prepared to move, he stopped and looked around. He felt someone's presence. No reiatsu, just the sensation of being watched. He breathed deeply through his nose. The smell was familiar and new. 'Aha! Got it!'
Combining a Shunpo with a tiny portion of Sonido, he moved at an unbelievable speed. He was gone with a little buzz, but re-appeared silently behind someone's back. Having the upper hand, he shocked the figure clad in a black overall cloak.
"What are you doing sneaking around on people this early in the morning GetabÅshi? By the way, good job with hiding your reiatsu. I did not feel you coming at all."
The discovered shopkeeper pulled out his paper fan from one of the sleeves of his mantle and turned to face Shirosaki, hiding his large grin.
"Ma, ma. Good morning to you too Shirosaki-san. I'm surprised. How did you know it was little old me, if you did not feel my reiatsu?"
Shirosaki rolled his eyes, his smirk still present. "You'd want to know, wouldn't you? Be a good Shinigami, answer my question first and I may end up answering yours."
He went to grab the fan, but Urahara had been swifter and closed the item, before putting it back in one of the cloaks many pockets.
"A fair exchange of information. I can work with that. By the way, what was that exquisite technique you just used? It sounded like Sonido, but I never heard you coming behind me."
Shirosaki gave the eccentric man a blank stare. "Oi, trying to avoid answering my question by asking more? That's not how things work."
Shirosaki sighed exasperatedly, it was way too early to deal with the nutcase.
"You know what, it's too early to deal with you and your antics. I'm going back. I'll go and get myself some breakfast. Then, if I feel like it, I may pay you a visit. See ya!"
He was gone just as he finished talking, unwilling to give the store owner the chance to explain himself. The blonde man took a few moments to compose himself. A smile crept on his face.
"Shirosaki-san. A Hollow who does not eat other Hollows but purifies them instead. You can even perform Konso*. Yoruichi-san even said you had a regular human meal last night. Just what are you? Such an enigma."
Urahara closed his eyes contemplating all the data he managed to gather so far. He would unravel the mystery that is one Shirosaki Ichirou.
Yay, I'm trying to give you even longer chapters How is it so far? Should I continue writing longer chapter or was the previous length enough?
I can't tell you how excited I am getting. The story is flowing and going. Just the fact that a certain 'Protector' will make his appearance soon is enough to give me sleepless nights x3 x3 x3
Looking forward to any and all criticism, by now I'm getting the feeling you don't hate and for that thanks :3
*Konso* = Soul Burial. For those who may have forgotten, it is a Shinigami technique to send spirits to the Soul Society. Normally the souls turn into back swallowtail butterflies and then move on. Making it a bit different for Shirosaki. He still uses the hilt of his Zanpakuto, the souls glow and turn into reishi which is guided toward Soul Society. Once there, the soul reforms clad in the clothes of the district it ends up in.
Reminder: English is not my mother language so if I made any mistakes or any errors, please let me know. I am the writer and the spellcheck person all in one. I know this is getting old. But better safe than sorry xD
Wishing everyone an amazing day/night ahead and an even brighter tomorrow, whenever that time comes :D