Ulquiorra was ready to go as he was waiting by the front door facing the stairs. He was currently wearing his new green clothes and it looked no different than what he usually wore. He felt that the quality was identical to the original as it felt the same to his skin. He had been waiting for an hour at the first sight of sunrise for Akasha. It was his way of expressing loyalty. He had done the same for Aizen as he would arrive as soon as he was needed. It should be the same for Akasha-sama.
"You're so punctual Ulquiorra." Akasha said as she walked down the stairs. Akasha reached the bottom of the stairs and smiled at him. She had to commend Sakon as his new attire was identical to his old one.
"Is the clothing to your liking?" She asked for his opinion.
"Yes, it is the same design." He stated to her as she approached him. She started inspecting every aspect of his clothing as she walked around him. He did not question her odd behavior as he stood completely still, only his eyes tracked her around as she circled him.
"That's good to hear, but I think you look better in white as it highlights your eyes." She slyly said hoping to get something out of him.
"Irrelevant." He failed to realize her intentions.
She sighs in defeat but continues, "I'll let Sakon-san know though because it really does suit you."
Ulquiorra not caring whatsoever ignores her comment. He had no reason to as he had no preferences. The only reason he wore white was because it was Aizen-sama's wish.
"I notice that you still have that sword with you. Is there a particular reason why you carry that everywhere?" Akasha asks as she tries to reach for it. Ulquiorra immediately stops her by grabbing her arm.
"Don't touch it." He told her as he used his other hand to readjust his Zanpakuto. She found his behavior to be out of character. He did not seem to mind anything at all, but this sword was important. Why was that? She had to know.
"Why can't I?" He lets her arm go and puts his hand on it. He was reluctant to answer but he knew he had sworn to obey her commands.
"This sword is a part of me, and it is a vessel that contains my powers."
Akasha was intrigued by this vital piece of information. Was the source of his power that sword that never leaves his side? What would happen if he should lose it?
"If you lose this, then you cannot access your power?" She curiously asked him as she thought it was the source of his power.
"I will be unable to use my full strength without it." He stated as he looked down on it.
Does this mean that he might possess a weakness? Is that sword the only thing we must take from him to stop him if he ever loses control?
Akasha made a mental note to investigate further, but decided it was time to go. She did not want to arrive late to the meeting with her companions. It was disrespectful, especially if you were the one who called for one in the first place.
"We should get going as I don't want to arrive late to the meeting." She voiced her concern to him as she did not have much time.
"Lead the way, Akasha-sama." Ulquiorra could only agree with her.
Akasha and Ulquiorra headed out the front door. Akasha waves her hand in concentration with their destination in mind. He was unable to get a good look at it the day before but today he was ready. He could see that her silver bracelet glowed for a split second. The same portal he had traveled through yesterday appeared instantly. The bracelet was the source of the portal it seemed. He follows her in. Akasha chose to remain quiet through the tunnel. She was planning on how to tell them about Ulquiorra. How should she start? This was a delicate issue. Would they understand her decision to teach him? Before she knew it, they reached the end and emerge at the castle grounds. It was a Victorian style castle fit for a king. It would have been if it was for its dark bleak color and its spooky barren surroundings.
"This is where we are meeting the other dark lords. They are unaware that I am bringing you here, so they might not like it. Be prepared for anything." Ulquiorra silently follows her and makes a mental note not to kill them. Akasha knocks at the castle's gate and it is opened by a short gray goblin.
"Good morning, Akasha-sama. Mikogami-sama is waiting for you along with Fuhai-sama. Please follow me." The goblin motions them in.
"Good morning Kisame-san. I hope they are not annoyed with me for the sudden meeting." She said as they followed him inside. Kisame was always the one who escorted her. They got along very well because of it.
"Mikogami-sama is always looking forward to your next visit. I'm sure it is fine." Akasha inwardly was not happy to hear that.
I hope he doesn't ask me out on a date again. I don't want to end up hurting his feelings.
It was quite a walk as the hallway of the castle was large. It gave Akasha time to plan on how she would start her explanation. The Goblin took them to two large wooden doors with metal handles. This was the room that Mikogami would always use when he hosted the meetings.
"Here we are Akasha-sama. They are waiting inside for you." The Goblin bows to them as he waited for them to enter.
"Thank you, Kisame-san." Akasha says as she opens the door. As she walks in, she is greeted by Mikogami who spots her. He was seated on a chair across a large round table accompanied by Touhou.
"Akasha, it is good to see you. Touhou and I were discussing a possible new seal that we could implement to… Who is that with you?" Mikogami eyes narrow under his white exorcist garment. He seemed like an ordinary priest, but his glowing eyes were menacing. He gave off a similar aura to Akasha, Ulquiorra had secretly measured his yoki. The older man next to him had a weaker aura. Ulquiorra could tell it was a façade as he suspected his power was being restrained as it had a similar feeling to the others.
Touhou who was in his old man form, became interested in the short man as he could feel that he was not normal. His eyes were covered by circular glasses and he seemed to be wearing a ceremonial robe.
Akasha could tell that Mikogami was not pleased to have Ulquiorra accompany her. She could sense the jealousy in his voice. She quickly decides to clarify the situation.
"He's a friend of mine that I brought to this meeting. Go on and introduce yourself." She persuades Ulquiorra in a playful tone. He steps ahead of Akasha and introduces himself.
"I'm Ulquiorra Cifer, I'm currently under the service of Akasha-sama." Mikogami thinking that he is a simple servant recovers to his usual self.
"I see. Why did you bring a simple servant to the meeting Akasha? You know that we are not allowed to discuss important matters with others. Especially, mere servants."
Touhou disappointed in what he heard did not believe that he was just a simple servant. He could sense his strange yoki energy and it was not like anything he sensed before. He was an expert in yoki manipulation and yet, it was foreign to him. Ulquiorra on the other hand, thought the exorcist talked too much for his own good, just like Grimmjow.
Impudent trash.
Akasha not liking how Mikogami was speaking to him decided to correct him.
"Ulquiorra is not my servant. Like I said before, he is my friend and he is also, the reason we are having this meeting today." Touhou wanted to pat himself in the back because he had a feeling this meeting was about the pale man. He was eager to learn more about him.
I knew it right from the start. His energy is not normal after all. He thought as he focused his attention on the pale man.
Mikogami's irritation for Ulquiorra only grew, "Why does this man warrant an emergency meeting. He referred to you as his master, so he is not important enough to be here with us."
"Now, now Tenmei. I can tell that he is quite unique and whatever Akasha has to say about him is important." Touhou decided to speak for the first time as he thought Tenmei was being too rude to Ulquiorra. Tenmei only glances at his friend and decides to remain quiet. He did not like how they were rebuking him. Akasha impressed with Touhou's deduction begins to speak once again.
"As I was saying before, Ulquiorra is a friend that I met yesterday."
Mikogami and Touhou simultaneously thought the same thing after hearing that.
Where have I heard that one before?
"He is someone I found in the human world and I tried to convince him to leave peacefully. Let's just say it didn't go as planned and we ended up fighting."
Mikogami only glared at the pale man who dared to fight his Akasha. Touhou was impressed that someone dared to fight her in the first place.
"During the course of the fight, I quickly learned that he is extremely powerful." She continued.
Touhou had suspected he was a high S class and now he wanted to know more about him. Mikogami decided to interrupt her.
"So, the reason you brought him here is because he is high S class?"
This did not go unnoticed by Ulquiorra. It seemed monsters and hollow shared similar ranking systems. This was an interesting revelation. It was strangely nostalgic to him.
"Actually, Ulquiorra surpasses the category of S class. I fought him at less than half his strength and I was still unable to beat him" Akasha told them with a simple chuckle.
Tenmei's and Touhou's faces said it all. Tenmei's mouth could finally be seen under the hood with his mouth wide open. Touhou was so shocked that he dropped his transformation and changed to normal. His real form was much younger and taller. His hair was now longer and black. Even his robes changed as they were now white, bell-sleeved robe with a more decorated black robe beneath.
"Tha-That's Im-Impos-sible! No one alive besides us are above S class!" Tenmei shouted at her. That may have been true before, but it was not anymore. Akasha could tell that they would not be able to handle her next comment.
"I'm afraid he is in a league of his own" Her words gave them a sense of dread and Touhou was the only one who managed to speak now.
"Are you sure? No one besides Alucard has ever beaten you." Touhou joined Tenmei as he too gazed at the short male who now had his eyes shut.
"It's true. He could probably kill us all and we wouldn't be able to stop him." Akasha said with a darken tone. Tenmei regained his composure as he refused to believe such a claim. This total stranger could not possibly be stronger than them. They have been alive for hundreds of years and no one stronger has emerged.
"Nonsense! There is no way this shrimp can be stronger than us! We would have known about him long ago!" He loudly voiced out his opinion. What an outrageous claim? Monsters with power are worship by lesser monsters. Someone as strong as him would have been well known to everyone if it was true. This couldn't possibly be true.
Ulquiorra had heard enough. He would let him feel the difference in their power. He instantly unleashed his total reaitsu for a mere moment which quickly changed the tone of the room. The dark lord quickly realized that there was no room for argument. As he felt the overwhelming reaitsu directed at him. The power he felt was so great he thought that it was going to crush him. The man before him was a true monster. Tenmei was now starting to regret how rude he was to this monster who probably wanted to kill him for his petty insults.
Oh shit! I insulted him and now, he probably wants to kill me!
"If all that you say is true, then why is he serving you?" Touhou asked as he wondered how Akasha was able to command him. Why would someone with his power be serving her?
"Well…I made a deal with him." Akasha replies with a chuckle. Tenmei fearing the worst, blurts out his greatest fear.
"Does he want you as his mate?" Ulquiorra's disgust for the man grew as he now sounded like Nnoitra, but he didn't show it. Touhou's eye widen at hearing Tenmei, but he focused all his attention at Akasha. He was curious to see if Tenmei was right. Akasha's face reddens at his words, but quickly composes herself to answer.
"Of course not! I promised to help him understand and find his heart."
Both dark lords asked the very same question.
"What do you mean?" What did that entail? Who would request something like that? They wanted answers.
"Ulquiorra doesn't experience emotions like we do. He wants to be able to understand why our hearts let us feel and he wants to able find his own someday." Akasha sadly stated to them.
Touhou felt sad for the arrancar as he didn't know how Akasha will be able to help him. Tenmei on the other hand, was relieved as he didn't have to fear for his life. He flashed a sinister smirk underneath his robes at the good news.
This man is pitiful. He will not have the urge to kill me because he doesn't have any emotions. He can't hate me or be angry with me. Also, he will never fall in love with Akasha. Tenmei's eye lit up under his getup as he knew, he had nothing to fear from this heartless monster.
"Don't forget what will happen if you fail to keep your promise." Ulquiorra stated as he gazed at Akasha, who could only nod at his cold words.
"What does he mean by that?" Touhou asked as he sensed Akasha's yoki fluctuate.
"If I fail him, he will kill me and destroy everything I want to protect." Her words scared the dark lords as they thought Ulquiorra was totally crazy.
This man is insane. I can't let him be around her. I'll have to get rid of him somehow. Tenmei thought as he went through different scenarios on his head.
Akasha, you made a deal with the devil. I hope you know what you're doing. Touhou didn't know how she planned to fulfill the deal. He felt it was something that people are born with. Could it really be taught?
"I won't fail though, as I really want to help him." Akasha stated with a smile as she wasn't willing to give up on him. Ulquiorra's only thought at that moment was on why she was so determined.
She must be afraid to die. It was the only logical answer.
"Touhou, can you make a seal to restrain most of Uquiorra's power?" Akasha asked him as she knew he was the expert on seals. Touhou not being familiar with his energy wasn't so sure.
"To be honest his power is nothing like I felt before. I can try but there is no guarantee it will work."
"My power is already sealed." Ulquiorra commented as he saw Touhou deep in thought.
Akasha was confused as she knew his powers were not sealed. Ulquiorra reaches for his Zanpakuto and unsheathes it, which makes Tenmei and Touhou nervous. Akasha trusting Ulquiorra, remains calm and lets him explain.
"Murcielago is the manifestation of my power, most of my strength is sealed in it. My true form is locked within." Ulquiorra explains to them as he handles his Zanpakuto. Akasha was terrified and completely awed at the same time.
"You're still hiding your true strength?" She asked a bit too enthusiastically.
"That's correct." Ulquiorra casually answered her. Tenmei and Touhou didn't want to believe what they were hearing but he didn't seem the type to bother lying. Akasha's vampire instincts immediately took over her as she yearned to witness his true form.
"Let me see your true form Ulquiorra." She leaned a little closer to him as she was clearly interested.
"That is not something I can do as it will destroy this place and kill the weaker monsters in the castle." Ulquiorra sheathes his blade as he tells her this cold heart fact.
"Besides, you specifically requested that I don't harm others." He explained further as he did not want to break her conditions. Akasha embarrassed that her Shinzo blood took over her, looks away from him.
Oh Darn! I got too excited!
"I appreciate it if you restrain yourself. I wouldn't like to lose my home." Tenmei glared at Ulquiorra in jealousy. He never felt so inferior to anyone in his life. Touhou, however, was eager to see what he was capable of.
If most of his power is sealed, then he should be strong enough to kill Alucard if he ever returns.
"That's all that I wanted to discuss. Let me know if you're able to create the seal Touhou." Akasha seemed in a hurry to leave.
"I'll contact you if I come up with something. He replied to her as he saved some of Ulquiorra's emitted energy in a talisman.
"Akasha, visit me again, sometime soon, without him of course." Tenmei told her with a tinge of jealousy.
Akasha politely answered, "When I'm free to do so Tenmei."
Which is not going to happen. She thought as she started to head for the exit.
"It was nice seeing you all again." She told them as she waved goodbye and left the room. Ulquiorra starts to follow her out.
"Take care of Akasha, Ulquiorra." Ulquiorra heard Touhou behind him as he exited the room.
The walk back home was eerily quiet as Akasha had not spoken. Ulquiorra found it odd that she remained quiet as she is usually talkative. He paid it no importance as his only concern was when he was going to learn about the heart. Akasha stayed silent because she could still feel the excitement in her veins.
Calm down! I need to calm down as it is just my vampiric instincts. I can control myself. We're almost home! Akasha was composed on the outside but inside it was hell. She had a strong urge to drink blood, specifically his. Luckily, they appeared in front of their home, when she suddenly spoke out rapidly.
"I need to check on something, so feel free to wait for me out in the back yard!" Akasha took off to satisfy her urge to drink blood not waiting for his response. She had spoken too rapidly that he was barely able to comprehend what she blurted out.
How strange.
Ulquiorra decided that he would just wait it out in the roof looking out to the backyard. He effortlessly leaps to the roof of the three stories mansion and that's when he spots the children training. They were currently wearing white Gi outfits. He focused his attention on Tsukune who seemed to be sparring with Sakon. Sakon was wearing the same getup as the children.
"If you wish to get stronger, you must be able to attack, not just defend. Now Tsukune, show me what you have learned." Sakon instructed to him as he stretched his limbs.
"Right Sakon-sensei." Tsukune states as he gets into his fighting stance. He watched as Sakon got into his position. At any moment Sakon would shout to start the training and Tsukune was prepared to immediately attack him to get the advantage.
"Begin!"
The moment that Sakon shouted Tsukune went in for a roundhouse kick. Sakon easily evaded the kick and followed up with a simple punch. Tsukune blocks the punch and he is sent flying. The power behind Sakon's attack was great and he would have lost if he did not block it. Tsukune backflips onto his feet and goes for his own punch. Sakon easily grabs Tsukune's fist and judo throws him. Tsukune maneuvers his body to counterattack with his own throw. Sakon is thrown but he easily lands on his feet. It was something that he had used before on the boy.
"Mix it up a little. You are just copying me." Sakon taunted as he knew Tsukune could do better. Tsukune charges Sakon and goes for a dropkick which he easily jumps over.
He has improved, but his defense is still wide open. Sakon easily finger chops Tsukune on his head and he is knocked down to the ground.
Sakon-sensei is still going easy on me. Every time I attack, I leave myself open. When I defend, I'm able to fare better, but I can't win fights defending. Tsukune stands on his feet and faces Sakon who is waiting for him to stand.
"Do you wish to continue?" Sakon asked him as he noticed that Tsukune was frowning as he thought of what he could do.
"Yes, let's continue." Sakon flashed a grin as he saw Tsukune get into his stance again.
Ulquiorra having seen enough turns his attention to Moka who is practicing her kicks. Moka was kicking a giant pillar made of reinforced concrete over and over. She delivers a powerful kick which digs into it. Annoyed she pushes herself free.
I should be able to destroy this thing by now with a simple kick. I should try to focus my yoki into my attacks. Moka frustrated starts to pummel the pillar an onslaught of kicks. Her attacks were chipping the concrete with ease, but the pillar remained intact. It was frustrating. It did not help that Ulquiorra was spying on her.
I can sense that he is watching me. Moka quickly glanced up at him and she saw him looking down at her.
He's judging me. I'll give him something to watch! Moka stood still and began to focus her power into her right leg. She was going to give him something to gawk at. Moka released all her yoki as the reddish aura rose out of her.
SMASH!
The pillar is split in two as she easily smashes through it. The top side is sent flying into some trees which are knocked down by the force. She gracefully lands on her feet as she prepares to finish the bottom half. Moka proudly smirked before delivering a drop kick.
BOOM!
The rest of the pillar is reduced to dust and ruptured steel. It was unrecognizable. The force was so great that the ground shook. Ulquiorra felt the home sway beneath his feet.
I did it! I knew I could do it, as I am a Shinzo! Moka felt powerful as her first attempt to manipulate her yoki worked out perfectly. Sakon and Tsukune had watched her destroy it after hearing the loud noises. They were surprised of Moka's achievement because it was the first time, she caused so much destruction.
She's the spitting image of her mother. She will be a fine warrior. Sakon was impressed of how quickly she learned to focus her yoki. Tsukune felt happy for Moka, but he was still upset that she was always ahead of him. No matter how much he improved it was never good enough.
Moka never has trouble on her training. I, on the other hand, struggle to improve. Is it because I'm just a human?
Ulquiorra could see Moka's smirk and he couldn't understand why.
Is she proud of her achievement? She doesn't have an opponent to defeat or kill. What is the point then?
Ulquiorra seeking an answer decides to ask. Moka could tell that Sakon and Tsukune were impressed with her performance. Hoping to see Ulquiorra's expression, she turns to look. However, he was not there.
That bastard! He doesn't think I'm worth his time! Moka was annoyed that she wasn't worth his attention.
At least I don't have to deal with his gloomy presence. She had failed to notice Ulquiorra standing directly behind her.
"Are you happy with your performance?" He questioned her suddenly. Moka quickly turns to face him as she was spooked by how sneaked behind her.
How the hell did he get behind me. I didn't sense him move.
"What are you talking about?" She asked back gaining her courage.
"Did you find happiness by destroying that?" He asked her again as he pointed to the pillar behind her.
"Are you making fun of me?" She angrily asked back. Her eyes narrowed and she clenched her teeth.
"That is not my intention. I'm simply asking if it makes you happy?" He monotonically answered her. She examined him as he spoke to her and she doubted he could mock her. Moka, wanting him to go, answers him.
"I guess you can say that. I'm just proud of how far I am in my training." Ulquiorra wanting to hear more inquires further.
"How does that make you happy?"
"It just does, okay! Someone like you wouldn't understand!" Moka sneered. Ulquiorra glared into her eyes which made her uncomfortable.
Did I hit a nerve? She thought as she looked away from him momentarily.
"Perhaps, but I hope to understand one day" He said to her. Moka, now feeling a little guilty, did not know what to say. She could not bear to stare into his eyes any longer.
"And you will." Akasha stated as she heard him say that to her daughter. Moka and Ulquiorra both notice Akasha who is now standing next to them. Ulquiorra did not get the chance to reply as Moka wanted to talk about her achievement.
"I was able to destroy the pillar!" Moka proudly exclaimed to her mother.
"I know and I'm so proud of you Moka. You're always surprising me." She said as she patted Moka on the head. Ulquiorra only gazed at Moka who was now smiling after being patted.
"I did it on my first attempt too" She said with a smirk.
"That's incredible." She answered with a smile.
"You should continue your training to improve your control of your yoki." She added as she wanted to start Ulquiorra's lesson.
"I will as I need to become strong. Stronger than my other sisters" Moka commented. Akasha nodded and faced Ulquiorra.
"I think it's time we start your lessons Ulquiorra. Don't you think?"
"Yes, I've been waiting to learn about it." Ulquiorra replied as he turned to face her directly. Akasha quickly motioned for Ulquiorra to follow and they both vanished in front of Moka.
"I better get back to training." Moka told herself as she got into position in front of the next pillar.
Akasha and Ulquiorra were back in Akasha's office both sitting down. Akasha was ready to begin with his first lesson. She had planned this out in her head. However, how much did he really know? There was only one way to find out.
"Now to begin our very first lesson, I need to know how much you really know. Let me ask you, what do you know about emotions?" She asked him as she scooted closer to the desk. She closely examined him as he formulated his answer.
"Emotions are unreasonable thoughts, sensations, or delusions that humans possess. It leads to humans disregarding reason and act foolishly. It overrides their instincts and can make humans feel attach or afraid. It is a burden." Ulquiorra plainly concluded to her. Akasha, now seeing who she was dealing with, began to explain.
"Emotions are so much more than that. Emotions might lead one to act foolishly, but it can also make people understand each other. Emotions are what connect people together." As she mentioned those words, Ulquiorra remembered the time he asked Orihime why she has not lost hope.
Flashback
"You will die here all on your own, without anyone to hold on to." Ulquiorra coldly told Orihime as he faced her.
"Everyone came here to rescue me. My heart is already together with theirs." She replied to him as she stood her ground.
"Do you honestly believe that?" He doubted her stupid logic.
"I do. I came here because I wanted to protect them all. I didn't understand why they came. I just wanted everyone to be safe. And that's when I realized something. Everyone must have felt the same way." She said as she thought deeply about it.
"In reality, it is impossible for people to truly share their feelings. It's simply human delusion." He continued in futile attempt to crush her hope.
"It may be impossible for us to all share the exact same feelings. But when they both care for each other, your hearts are able to draw a little closer together. That's what it means when we say our souls are one." She strongly argued as her eyes filled with hope. He would be unable to break her. She seemed to be getting stronger as she recently learned the news of her friends storming Heuco Mundo.
Flashback Ends
"This connection you speak of, is it linked to the caring of others?" He asked her, remembering the words Orihime told him. Akasha thinking that she was getting somewhere continues the explanation.
"Yes, caring for others is what allows people to connect to each other, as they are willing to share their feelings with each other." She finished with a smile. Ulquiorra deep in thought, stayed silent for a moment as Akasha watched him, hoping he realized what she meant.
"How does someone go about caring for others? What makes you care for others?" He asked her as he didn't understand. He gazed at her intensely.
"Those are all good questions. Well, we go about caring for others when we keep them in mind. We always ask how they're doing and feeling. I guess you can say, we want to be a part of their life and we always want what's best for them. As for your last question, that is something that is hard to answer with words alone. But I will say the bond you feel with another is what makes you care. A connection that you feel with them, and the connection they feel with you." Akasha tried her best to answer. Ulquiorra not understanding why they feel such connections in the first place asked her to explain. Akasha talked about these suppose connections to him for hours, until dinner time. Akasha decided to end their lessons there because she was overwhelmed with his questions.
"That is all for today Ulquiorra, as I am exhausted. We can continue tomorrow." He did not like the idea of it ending, but he did vow to follow her orders.
"As you wish Akasha-sama." Ulquiorra promptly stood up to leave.
Aren't you coming to dinner?" He heard her say as he reached for the door.
"I don't need constant feeding to survive." He reminded her as he opened the door.
"I insist that you join us as it might help you find what you're looking for." Akasha told him with a smirk. He paused for a bit as he turned his head towards her.
"How would that help me?" She could have sworn he sounded interested.
"Having constant contact with everyone might be what helps you understand. It's worth a shot, don't you think?" She saw his eyes flicker in thought.
"If you say so."
Tsukune could not wait to eat. He rubbed his hands together in anticipation as Sakon brought him his plate. He was starving after all. The minute his meal was placed he immediately reached for it.
"Mmmmm… it always tastes better when I'm so hungry." Tsukune said as he took a bite of his gourmet burger.
"You're always so annoying after training." Moka told him as she drank her tomato juice. She slowly drank her juice through a straw as she glared at the boy. He was stuffing his face with food as if he had not eaten in days. It was disgusting to her.
"That is a sign that you trained well." Sakon now dressed in his normal attire, joined in the conversation as he stood by waiting for Akasha's appearance.
"I did try my best, but I still wasn't able to master it." Tsukune frustratedly said to Sakon before taking another bite.
"In time, you will master it and then you will be able to start learning more advance techniques." Sakon commented as he noted Tsukune's change in tone.
"I hope so as I want to be able to spar on equal footing with Moka." Tsukune said with optimism.
"Don't keep me waiting too long as I'm bored of training by myself." She smirked at him.
"I can spar with you if you like." Sakon told her as he hasn't fought her in a while. He was eager to face the young mistress once again.
"It's boring when we fight each other as we know each other's moves." Moka replied as she took a sip of her drink. She did not share the same feeling.
Tsukune agreeing with Moka added in, "Not to mention the fight drags on forever since you guys have crazy stamina."
"That is true, but I do enjoy a good fight." Sakon happily voiced his opinion. Moka and Tsukune only laughed at Sakon's obsessions with fights. It was to be expected as Sakon was an experienced warrior.
"You think Ulquiorra-san is going to join us for lunch?" Tsukune asks as he recovers from laughing.
"I think he will and before I forget, Tsukune-sama, please refer to Ulquiorra as Ulquiorra only. He does not like titles as he does not want to be referred to a human." Sakon told Tsukune who only nods.
"That's so stupid. Does he hate humans or something?" Moka curiously chimed in. She covered her mouth as if to block her words. She had quickly realized her mistake and tried to correct it.
"He can't really though as I thought he doesn't have any feelings." Moka felt so rotten as she tried to cover up her mistake, but it was already too late. Tsukune having heard her only started to shiver. Sakon felt like screaming at her for speaking the taboo, but his focus was on Tsukune.
"Everything is going to be okay young master. Just breathe nice and slow." Sakon was now by Tsukune's side as he held on to his right shoulder. Tsukune was unable to hear him as the only voice he heard was the one on his head.
Why is there a weak human in my presence?
I hate nothing more than humans. Let me hear your screams.
I will never accept him! This is all your fault! You should have died!
The voice played like a record. Tsukune could only hear the voice that tormented him with unfathomable hate. Tsukune began to tremble uncontrollably as he started to relive those moments.
"Tsukune! I'm so sorry! I didn't mean for this to happen! Please forgive me!" Moka cried out as she hugged Tsukune as he suffered through his PTSD. It was a futile attempt. There was nothing she could do for him now.
"Tsukune!" Akasha yelled as she rushed to his side and Ulquiorra not far behind. Her keen eye had noticed his bizarre behavior. It was unsettling.
"What happened here?" Akasha demanded as she held on to Tsukune's hand. She gripped his hand in comfort hoping to calm him down, Sakon was the first to answer her.
"It is my fault Akasha-sama as I was the one who caused this to happen." Sakon sadly looked down in disgrace. He knew if he did not speak about Ulquiorra's dislike, this predicament wouldn't have occurred. It was a foolish mistake and he had to pay the consequences.
"What did you do?" Akasha angrily asked as she faced him with a scowl. Ulquiorra quickly noticed that Akasha sounded like a different person and the change in atmosphere. Moka fearing for Sakon's wellbeing grabbed her mother's hand.
"It was me! I was the one who said that Ulquiorra hated them!" Moka shouted with tears in her eyes. She did not want Sakon to be blamed for something she had caused.
What is going on here? Who do I supposedly hate? Ulquiorra thought as he looked at the poor boy. Akasha turns to face her daughter with a perplexed frown and she motions for her to explain.
"How could you? You know that you're not allow to speak of them in that way in front of Tsukune!" Akasha practically yelled at her daughter for bringing forth the locked away memories of Tsukune. Moka could only look down in shame as she knew her mother was disappointed in her.
"I didn't mean to say it! I would never hurt Tsukune on purpose! You have to believe me!" Moka cried out as tears flowed down her face. Akasha knew Moka cared deeply for Tsukune as she is never far from his side and is always the first to protect him. Ulquiorra having watch all of this unfold, grew a little interested in their interactions. He wanted to figure what he had to do with what was going on.
"What does my opinion have to do with anything? I can see the boy is severely afraid of something that he is unresponsive, but how do mere words affect him so?" Ulquiorra asked as he looked around the room waiting for someone to answer. Moka quickly turned to face him at his sudden questioning along with Akasha who looked surprised at his sudden interest. Sakon heard him as well and looked his way, but he decided to remain silent as he felt it was not his place to speak. Akasha knowing that Ulquiorra was interested in what was going on decided to appease him.
"Tsukune is a human that I found eight years ago, and because of that he was mistreated by the people I trusted to protect and care for him. Ever since, Tsukune becomes like this when he hears a person mention that they hate humans. Moka believes that you hate humans and she said it to him without thinking!" Moka winced after hearing her mother mention her blunder. Her mother's tone sounded so harsh at the end. Her explanation was all that he needed to hear, and he nodded at her explanation. This was a simple misunderstanding.
"I do not hate humans. I just can't understand why they act the way they do. I simply am not human and thus, I do not see the point in honorifics and their meaning." Sakon now understanding Ulquiorra's point of view was relieved that he didn't despise humans. Moka felt ashamed and stupid for jumping to conclusions that hurt Tsukune. Akasha was glad that Ulquiorra didn't hate humans for no reason. Akasha scoops up Tsukune in her arms who became a little calmer after hearing him speak.
"I'm sure Tsukune heard you say that. Thank you, Ulquiorra." Ulquiorra saw her briefly smile at him and he almost didn't know what to say as this was his first time being sincerely thanked. It took him a couple of seconds to respond.
"I only wanted to clear the confusion." He finally uttered.
"Nevertheless, thank you." Moka and Sakon were both amazed at the sincerity of Akasha's words to him, but they remained silent. Akasha proceeds to walk out with Tsukune closely followed by Moka. Ulquiorra watched them exit the room before turning his attention to Sakon.
"I'm overjoyed that you were willing to clear her misunderstanding." Ulquiorra could see Sakon give a faint grin as he spoked to him.
"I do not want you all to be misinformed. Will the boy be alright?" Sakon was intrigued to find him concern for the boy.
"Are you worried about the young master?"
"Akasha-sama told me that if I joined them at dinner that I might learn something. I need him to be well so that I can discover what she meant." Sakon became disheartened after hearing his reasoning.
"I see. He will be physically fine after he sleeps it off, but I hope he is not depressed when he wakes up." Ulquiorra upon hearing what he wanted to know, starts to exit the dining room.
"Won't you be joining us for dinner?" Sakon asked him as he knew Ulquiorra was fond of his cooking.
"I lost interest after he became ill as there is nothing I can learn if they are not all here." Before Sakon could say anything else, Ulquiorra sonidos out of the room.
Akasha gently lays Tsukune on his bed and covers him with his blankets. Tsukune having calmed down was fast asleep with a peaceful expression. Moka sat by the bed on his study chair watching him sleep with guilt in her eyes. Her eyes were red from crying. Akasha could see how guilty she felt that she decided not to punish her.
"I didn't mean for this to happen. I was careless, and I just said it without thinking." Moka clenches her hands as she spoke to her mother, her voice softer than normal.
"I know how much you care for him and that it was a mistake. Now all we can do is wait for him to wake up and help him get through this." Akasha hugged her daughter who returned the hug.
"I'll stay with Tsukune tonight as I won't be able to sleep without making sure he's okay." Akasha simply nodded to her.
"That is something that I appreciate Moka as I won't be able to do so. I have to go see your father as there was an incident involving two vampires in the human world." Akasha sadly explained to her. Moka scowled at the mention of her father. She did not want to think about him at this moment.
"I might not be back until the morning. Don't try to stay awake all night as you need your rest too."
"I won't I'll go to sleep as soon as I'm sure he doesn't have any nightmares." Akasha gives a final squeeze before leaving them alone.
"Where is Ulquiorra?" Sakon was interrupted as he cleaned the table. It was Akasha and she had a serious visage.
"I do not know, after what happened he left as he saw no point in staying here for dinner." He truthfully answered her. He could not sense him for some reason. Akasha knew immediately that he only agreed to dine tonight if he could interact with them all. Akasha found it a bit amusing that he didn't care for anything else except for his lessons.
"Check in on Moka later. I want to make sure she falls asleep. I'm heading out."
"I shall." He answered as he was worried about Tsukune. He wanted to check as soon as he could. She quickly disappears with a nod as she heads outs to meet her ex-husband.
I really don't want to see that bastard right now. It's his fault after all. Akasha thought as entered the warp tunnel.
Ulquiorra stood on the balcony of his room looking out at the reddish moon. Ulquiorra was hoping to discover what Akasha meant, but it was ruined by Tsukune's PTSD. He was now currently thinking on why he was thanked.
Thank you. These words don't mean much, but why did I hesitate to speak. It's spoken between humans to acknowledge gratitude. It is not my first time hearing it, but why did it affect me so? Ulquiorra not wanting to dwell in such thoughts dismissed it as simply a first-time experience.
"I wonder what that woman would think of me if she knew I hesitated because of those words. What would Aizen-sama think of me? Would he be amused? Would he be disappointed" He thought out loud.
Flashback
"Ulquiorra it has been several weeks since you came here, and yet, you have not taken in any fraccions to serve you." Aizen stated as he sat on his throne looking down at Ulquiorra who remained kneeling in front of him.
"I desire no such things Aizen-sama. I see no point in having inferior arrancars help me with tasks that you have personally given me." He lifted his head to gaze at his master.
"That's disappointing as I would have like to know what sort of tasks you would have given them." Aizen stated with a frown as he supported his head with his left hand.
"I would have given them minimal tasks like conveying information to other arrancars and nothing more, Aizen-sama." He immediately explained as he did not want to displease his lord as he noticed his visible frown.
"It seems the decision of bringing you here was the right choice after all, as no other Espada is as devoted and as loyal."
"That is my sole purpose, Aizen-sama. I simply existed without meaning before I met you. When I first laid my eyes on you, I had a vision. The vision of you conquering all 3 worlds and I was standing by your side as one of your loyal subjects. I do not believe in anything I can't see, and when I saw that vision, I felt something I haven't felt before, purpose." Aizen having heard him speak, gave a smile as he knew that Ulquiorra would be one of his most valuable assets. Aizen did not expect his Zanpakuto to affect Ulquiorra so well. One thing was certain, he would never betray him. Aizen chuckled at his handiwork.
"I'm pleased to hear that. Now Ulquiorra there is something else we must discuss."
Flashback ends
Ulquiorra detected Akasha's departure as he felt her presence vanish.
Akasha-sama seems to have other important manners to attend to as she left Tsukune's side. Since she is not here then I will rest for today and check on the boy tomorrow. I need him well if I wish to learn more from Akasha-sama. Ulquiorra reenters his room and shuts the balcony door.
Issa Shuzen was currently sitting on his throne as he waited for the immediate appearance of his first wife Akasha Bloodriver. He was dressed like a duke in his elegant black clothing. He twirled his index finger through his long black hair in anticipation. He knew that the incidents caused by those brats would bring her here. She always came running to him when vampire incidents occurred in the human world. Always defending those despicable humans.
How long has it been since she left me for that human? I loved her until the pathetic filth entered our home. I tolerate humans for her sake, but I won't ever let them near me and my family. Those humans drove my father insane and I won't let them near us.
Suddenly without warning, the giant doors in front of his throne room opened violently.
"Issa! I told you that humans are not to be harmed by vampires! You failed to keep them in control!" He heard Akasha yelled as she marched with her intense aura. Issa angered by her remark stood up and glared at her.
"I only failed because they were teenagers, but they have already been punished." Akasha could tell that Issa was annoyed at her remark as he took great pride in his leadership. He was the current head of the vampires after all.
"Just don't let it happen again. Now that I know it has been taken care of, I'm leaving." Before Akasha could turn around and leave, Issa speaks to her with a calmer tone.
"Wait. How is Moka? Is she still fond of that human?"
"Moka is fine and becoming a fine vampire. Yes, she cares about him as much I do or even more. That is why she can't ever forgive you and doesn't wish to see you." Issa frowns after hearing his daughter take the side of the human. Why can't they see that the human would ultimately betray them.
"That human ruined everything for me. He took both of you away from me." He stated with a menacing tone.
"You're the one who pushed us away, as you hurt a defenseless child. You tormented him for being human and you almost killed him. You're sick with hatred!" Akasha shouted and released her yoki which flared with great rage.
"My daughter and I could never be with someone so cruel! I won't let you poison her mind with your senseless hatred!" She continued as she narrowed her eyes. Issa's yoki flared immediately to match Akasha's.
"Senseless? Humans killed our family and friends, and they drove my father insane! You know that better than anyone!" Akasha knowing the truth of his words, felt her resolve waver. However, she knew that Tsukune is not responsible for what happened in the past. Her resolve was quickly restored.
"Even so, Tsukune is a young innocent child that has nothing to do with what happened in the past." Akasha spoke to him defiantly.
"He's human and that's the only reason I need." He responded with a strong sense of superiority. Akasha disgusted with his answer decided that there was no point in trying to change his mind as she could see how crimson his eyes became as he stated that.
"Since, you have taken care of the issue I do not need to stay here any longer. I'm leaving, I can't stand the man you have become." Issa did not get the chance to argue back as she left the room with her superhuman speed. Issa's anger reached his limit as he punched his great throne into dust. Slowly calming down, he utters his frustration.
"Those stupid humans took my father from me and they have taken you too!" He voiced his anger and his failure to make them see reason.
"I told you that Akasha is too attached to that human." A beautiful silvered hair tanned woman appeared wearing a revealing black dress. Issa only looked back at her.
"She won't ever understand the error of her ways. That is because she is too kind for her own good. I think she needs a little help from us don't you think?" She said as she gave a wicked smile to him. Issa wanted to know what she had in mind.
"What do you mean, Gyokuro?" Issa asked his second wife as she approached his side.