Capítulo 5: Chapter 5: Being Human
*This fanfic belongs to Melkor's Mercy, i dont own anything*
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Karakura Town XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
A tall, dark-haired man with a light beard and a determined face walked quickly as he made his way to a shop. Two children were arguing in front of it as he approached.
"Ururu! Stop standing around and being so useless!" a foul-tempered red haired boy shouted.
The much more passive, black haired girl looked down almost shamefully with her doe eyes, "Sorry, I'm coming Jinta,"
"Yeah, you are sorry!" the other child continued. Before either one could say another word, they noticed the arrival of the stranger.
"Can I help you?" Jinta half-demanded as the man stared at him for a moment.
"Is Urahara-san here?" he asked emotionlessly.
Ururu nodded, "Yes sir…he's in the shop."
"Hey who are you supposed to be anyway?" Jinta followed up as he sent a fierce glare towards the stranger. The man said nothing as he made his way past them up towards the door. Much to his relief, Urahara quickly spoke for himself as he walked outside, "Ah c'mon, Isshin…we've known each other long enough for you to call me Kisuke. What brings you here, to my little shop? I haven't seen you in a while."
"I think you know why I'm here…" Isshin replied with a slight touch of hostility in his voice. Kisuke immediately got serious once he noticed the other man's attitude.
"Let me guess…you're wondering about that spiritual pressure which showed up in Karakura Town the other day?" Urahara asked knowingly.
The other man nodded, "Yes…as you know, my powers have slowly been coming back, but that night I actually sensed something after Karin ran away."
"What'd she run away for?" Urahara questioned with a slight frown.
Isshin sighed, "We were visiting Ichigo and Masaki's gravesites. Karin hasn't been the same since her brother died. I think she knows what happened to Ichigo…but she never talks about it. When we went to visit his grave the other night, she got upset and took off. Shortly afterward, I sensed a hollow for the first time in years. It was going after her I think."
"I see…well it may interest you to hear that there was a strange hollow sighting a few nights back. Two in fact. The hollows that appeared here the other night were certainly nothing to laugh at…my sources tell me they were Vasto Lordes. From what I understand, the soul society sent four captains to deal with it," Kisuke said casually.
"Four captains?! That's overkill even for a Vasto Lorde…wait did you just say there were two of them? Why would two be working together? We've never seen hollows cooperate like that before. Not to mention…Vasto Lordes are extremely rare. Two together is a sight nobody could even see in their entire lives. Are you sure of this?" Isshin said disbelievingly.
"Eh, from what I found out, it was definitely two Vasto Lordes. You say you sensed one of them going after your daughter huh? What happened after that?" The man contemplated as he waved his fan harder.
The former captain took a deep breath and stared at Urahara with complete seriousness, "I caught a glimpse of it fleeing when I caught up to Karin. The hollow looked a lot like the one that attacked Masaki and myself many years ago. It had the same horns and mask…but it looked different than before. You don't think it could be the same one do you? I mean that'd be impossible for that hollow to be alive right?"
"I was listening in on some gossip from the Soul Society, and apparently they've got a name for that hollow. The one with forward facing horns…it calls itself White," Urahara explained.
Isshin cracked a fist, "It can't be the same one though could it?"
"Wait…so you're saying you think this hollow is that one? Well, that would definitely explain it's unusual power. Though, I haven't really seen this thing up close, so I couldn't tell you for sure," Kisuke theorized.
"I know it's that hollow…I'll never forget those eyes it had," Isshin said distantly.
Kisuke shrugged, "Well if you already know then why are you asking me?"
"Cut me a break will you? I was just wondering if you knew for sure. I just have this gut feeling that it's the same hollow. That creature is after my family, and I need to know why," he stated annoyed.
Kisuke cocked his head, "Did it attack your daughter at all?"
"I don't think it got a chance to. After I sensed it for the first time, I could also sense many spiritual pressures appearing. I'm assuming that must have been the four captains they sent to fight this hollow," Isshin stated.
"That makes sense I suppose…but as interesting as all of this is, what did you come to me for?" Urahara asked again.
Isshin stared at him intently, "I think that hollow killed Ichigo…I don't know how it's alive, but it has a vendetta against me and my family. If it's going to be a danger, then I can no longer shirk my duty…I wish to speak to the Soul Society."
"Err…are you sure that's a good idea, Isshin? I highly doubt they're gonna welcome you with open arms after you just up and abandoned your post all those years ago," Kisuke sighed.
He nodded, "This hollow is my responsibility…I need you to open a door to the soul society so I can speak to the Gotei 13. I'll accept whatever punishment they demand…but I cannot sleep knowing that thing is still alive. For the memory of my son…it needs to die."
"Jeez, Isshin…I've never seen you this worked up before. Here, come on inside, and have some tea first," Urahara gestured for the other man to come in his shop.
The former captain crossed his arms, "Don't try to talk me out of it…I'm also going to need you to watch after Karin and Yuzu until I get back. I know they'll be safe with you while I'm gone."
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Soul Society Some Time Later XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
"This captain's meeting is hereby assembled. Is everyone ready to discuss how to deal with this White?" Yamamoto demanded.
All of the other captains had reassembled after spreading word through the ranks about White. The Vasto Lorde had become quite the iconic symbol of infamy in the Soul Society after hearing about its ruthless battle against Captains.
Soifon was the first to speak, "Captain Commander…allow me to make a suggestion. Could we perhaps use the humans it was after as bait and ambush it?"
"It would be unfair to involve humans in such a dangerous ploy, Captain Soifon…I believe we simply need a stronger presence in Karakura Town, as well as full surveillance of strong spiritual pressures in the world of the living. This hollow appeared once…it likely will again," Ukitake cut in.
"We need to catch this thing off guard! If it has the power to fight off two captains at once, and outsmart half of you fools, then we can't just wait around until it shows up," Soifon argued.
"I believe she is right in this matter…conventional defense will not suffice. We need to hunt this hollow down before it has the chance to wreak more havoc. From the way it commanded the other Vasto Lorde, I wouldn't doubt if this hollow had the potential to rally more of its kind against us," Byakuya agreed.
The sound of doors opening soon caught everyone's attention as Isshin walked in with his Shinigami attire. The tattered white haori remnant on his shoulder quickly caught everyone's eye. Toshiro was the first to speak, "Captain, Shiba!?"
"What is the meaning of this intrusion? Captain Shiba, why are you here?" The head captain yelled authoritatively.
"Well there's a face I haven't seen in a while…" Kyoraku said casually with a grin. Several Shinigami quickly ran behind Isshin and bowed low, "Sorry head captain! We didn't know what to do…he demanded to see you."
"You are dismissed…and close the door behind you," Yamamoto commanded causing the lower ranking Shinigami to leave immediately.
The old captain stared Isshin down with a serious expression, "Captain Shiba…you abandoned your post if I'm not mistaken. What gives you the authority to intrude unannounced and uninvited?"
"Captain Commander Yamamoto, I've returned because of the hollow that's been sighted. The one with forward facing horns…I've fought it before. That thing almost killed my wife decades ago…and I believe it killed my son," Isshin explained.
"As unfortunate as that is, I fail to see how that matters to this Captain's Meeting. You have no place within the Gotei 13 and no authority to make requests here. Your former ties to the Qunicies are no secret to me as well. You had better have a good reason for being here!" Yamamoto announced.
Isshin bowed his head, "Hear me out, Captain Commander Yamamoto…I don't want my seat back in the Gotei 13 and I could care less about the Shiba family inheritance. All I want is for you to tell me where that hollow, White is."
"You say you've seen this hollow before…when? How is that even possible Captain Shiba? The Hollow White, was a Gillian when we first encountered it years ago. We would have noticed an encounter between two beings of your power," Hitsugaya cut in doubtfully.
Isshin shook his head, "I first encountered it decades ago. That hollow was unusual…even after killing it the creature didn't die in a traditional way…I think it's found a way to return. And now it's after my family in order to get revenge."
"An interesting bit of information if I do say so myself," Gin noted with a sly foxy grin.
'You fool…have you not even considered the possibility that the hollow is actually your son? Or are you simply blinded by your grief and refuse to accept that possibility?' Aizen inwardly laughed. Nevertheless, he kept a poker face as he spoke factually, "I believe your theory may in fact be correct, Captain Shiba…this hollow is certainly not like any others we've seen. Though truthfully, there is very little we truly know about them."
"If it has a history with you, then that might explain its hatred for Shinigami. The fact that it somehow survived a battle against you would give it reason to behave this way," Tousen added.
Gin seemed to catch onto Aizen's and Tousen's behavior and spoke up also, "Captain Commander, If I may speak, I believe Captain Shiba's request is reasonable. I see no reason why you should deny him. I myself would feel responsible in his position."
"I don't know why he left, but Captain Shiba's a good man…I vouch for his integrity, Captain Commander," Toshiro spoke up as well.
"I don't need you to vouch for that, boy…I've known Captain Shiba since before you were born!" Yamamoto declared annoyed. Hitsugaya submissively nodded as he decided not to argue.
Isshin gave him a nod of thanks nonetheless, "I appreciate their input, but I want to make things perfectly clear here. I have no desire to earn your forgiveness…I just want to avenge my son and to make sure that thing stays away from my daughters."
Aizen almost grinned, 'I wasn't expecting him to show up, but that's no hindrance to my plan. This might just be the best opportunity to deal with him before his powers fully return. Not to mention, I will take great pleasure in seeing his anger when he learns the truth.'
Yamamoto seemed to be processing the idea as he stared Isshin down. After an unusual silence, he spoke, "Very well, Captain Shiba…I assume you wish to kill this abomination, and you want my permission?"
"Yes sir…I want to destroy it once and for all. It's the reason I originally had to leave my post. It nearly killed my wife as well," he explained.
Several of the captains seemed interested by his explanation. Yamamoto raised a brow, "Is that so? If that is indeed the case, then perhaps you should go and regain your honor by killing it. I will allow you to participate in our dealings with the creature. After it's dead, I will officially decide how to deal with your abandoning the soul society. Is that understood?"
"I understand…" Isshin replied seriously.
Yamamoto nodded as he motioned for Isshin to stand at the end of the group. Deciding to be the smartass of the group, Kyoraku chuckled, "Old man Yama took that better than I thought he would."
Nobody responded to his comment much to his disapproval. After a brief silence, Byakuya spoke, "As I stated earlier, Head Captain, White seems to possess a certain degree of influence over other hollows…it seems likely that this hollow is challenging the Soul Society."
"Are you kidding me?" Soifon crossed her arms, "no hollow would be stupid enough to directly taunt the Soul Society."
Unohana seemed deep in thought, "We've battled hollows this powerful before…but they've never been as organized as we have, or as defended. White may tip the balance against us, if it is not eliminated soon."
"I understand everyone's concern, but one hollow, no matter how powerful is that big of a threat to the soul society. This thing needs to die for its actions, no doubt, but I believe many of you are overreacting. Vasto Lordes, are extremely powerful, but the very few that do exist are around captain level. It would be impossible for that many powerful hollows to gather, assuming that many even exist. You're all just assuming the worst because you couldn't kill it easily with your bankais," Soifon ranted.
"You talk like that'd be a bad thing. I've been waiting years for something this exciting to happen," Kenpachi added as he imagined the possible future battle.
"This is not something to find exciting, Captain Zaraki…what we're dealing with is a hollow that does not fear us. We must tread lightly…we don't know what else it's capable of," Byakuya said distantly.
"This hollow is definitely powerful, but it is also a coward. If we can corner it, than we can kill it," Toshiro spoke assuredly.
"I agree…no hollow, no matter how powerful can face the full might of the Soul Society," Komamura noted.
"All squads are to be put on high alert…regular patrols will be made to the world of the living, and I want at least four captains in Karakura Town around the clock. If you're all too feeble to kill this hollow, then you are undeserving of the rank of captain, and I will be forced to kill it myself…don't let it come to that," Yamamoto commanded threateningly.
"Yes sir!" everyone shouted in unison, minus Isshin.
"Captain Hitsugaya, Captain Zaraki, Captain Soifon, Captain Kuchiki, and Captain Shiba. I am hereby deploying all of your squads to the World of the Living. You will stand by while Captain Kurotsuchi develops a way for us to enter and return from Hueco Mundo. The rest of you are charged with the defense of the Seireitei. Dismissed!" Yamamoto concluded.
Afterward, everybody filed out of the Captain's meeting, minus Isshin. The man walked up towards the first Captain with determination in his eyes. Kyoraku and Unohana both sent him curt nods as he passed. Upon reaching the old warrior, Isshin spoke seriously, "I appreciate your willingness to let me do this Head Captain…I will do everything in my power to slay this hollow."
"There is one condition I neglected to mention…you are to rejoin the Soul Society and become a captain once a seat becomes available…" Yamamoto stated.
Isshin seemed shocked, "What? But…I can't, I have a family back in the world of the living."
"I will hear none of your excuses, boy…you were one of my finest captains. I have no doubt that you will fare better than these young, arrogant children. My personal opinion about your life decisions aside, I will not deny the Soul Society the chance to regain one of its strongest captains," Yamamoto explained.
The other man seemed doubtful, "I can't though…my daughters need me."
"You should have thought of that before you returned here…I will not throw away a useful captain out of spite. Now leave…" he replied before pounding his cane authoritatively.
Isshin slowly nodded and reluctantly turned away, "We will negotiate the terms of my return once this is over, Head Captain…"
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Outside of Squad One Barracks XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
As Isshin walked outside and made his way through the Seireitei, he was soon surrounded by the four captains he would be stationed with. All of them eyed him up and down curiously. Kenpachi was the first to speak, "So you used to be a captain eh? Must have been pretty strong if the old guy agreed to let you go with us."
"Mind your words, Captain Zaraki…Captain Shiba used to be my Captain. He's no pushover…I'll bet he's more than a match for you," Hitsugaya said as he directed a glare towards Kenpachi.
"Is that right?! What about it, Captain Shiba? Want to put that theory to the test?" Kenpachi asked with a wicked, beaming smile.
Isshin simply stared at him carelessly, "I'm not interested in fighting people for no reason. You'll find out for yourself, how strong I am when we see White."
"Hah! Alright, then…but once it's dead, I want to see what you're made of," Kenpachi replied.
Byakuya spoke slowly, "Assuming that nonsense is over…allow me to introduce myself formally. I don't believe we've ever officially met, Captain Shiba…but I welcome your aid in this mission. I am Byakuya Kuchiki, head of the Kuchiki Family."
"I remember when you were a kid…your grandfather spoke highly of you, as did Yoruichi," Isshin said as he briefly nodded his head respectfully.
"I'm Captain Soifon…and that's all you need to know. So long as you don't get in my way or tell me what to do then I won't have a problem with you…" Soifon said as she crossed her arms.
"Did you mean to rhyme that on purpose?" Isshin couldn't help but laugh.
The woman immediately got flustered, "Shut up…I can already tell I'm going to hate you."
"I miss when Yoruichi was the Captain of Squad Two…" Isshin added fuel to the fire. This seemed to work as the woman got fired up, "What'd you just say?!"
"Well you four should probably go attend to your squads," another voice sounded.
Everyone turned to see Aizen standing there with a courteous grin. Soifon wasted no time walking away mean mugging Isshin. Kenpachi and Byakuya said nothing as they simply left. Toshiro was the only one left and stared at Aizen doubtfully, "What do you want Captain Aizen?"
"Nothing, just passing by," he smiled as he began to walk past them. He and Isshin locked gazes briefly as they passed.
Both had thoughts on the encounter. Isshin narrowed his brow, 'Something's not right with him…'
'With all of you gone…securing the Hogyoku will be as easy as taking candy from a baby. And if Ichigo just so happens to defeat any of you while I'm busy, then all the better,' Aizen laughed inwardly.
After he passed, Hitsugaya shook his head, "I should be on my way…feel free to come by Squad Ten if you'd like, Captain Shiba."
"Thanks," Isshin said as his eyes remained glued on Aizen.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Hueco Mundo One Week Later XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
"We've been killing these hunting parties for a while…do you three feel any stronger?" Ichigo asked his Adjucha followers. The trio all offered different responses. Loly shrugged, Menoly nodded silently, and Apacci pranced, "I feel so alive! There's nothing like a good ambush against Barragan's army."
"I'll say…I'm honestly shocked he hasn't retaliated yet," Menoly agreed.
Apacci gave her an amused look, "As if he'd believe hollows like us could do something to his so called 'elite fighting force!'"
"Yeah, but he might suspect White of the deed…and since we're always with him, that would make us credible," Menoly replied.
"You think that arrogant King would leave his big fancy palace to track us down? I doubt he even cares these minions of his have been going missing. I mean it's Hueco Mundo after all…hollows die all the time, right Ichigo?" Apacci turned to him for added input.
"I'm sure the pettiest of deeds would bother him. He left his palace to track me down after my first fight on the surface," Ichigo said as he remembered his encounter with the unusually strong panther Adjucha.
Loly seemed almost shocked by his comment, "That must have been quite a fight if it drew the King himself."
"It was less of a fight and more a scrap between me and this other powerful Adjucha. He was the first hollow I encountered that I couldn't easily kill," he responded.
"Umm…hey, White. I've been wondering something for a while now. I wanted to ask you sooner, but I wasn't sure if it was appropriate," Loly spoke up, "why does Apacci think your name is Ichigo?"
Menoly cocked her head as she gave Ichigo a stare, "Yeah that's been on my mind too…is it some nickname she calls you?"
"I already told you idiots that Ichigo is his name! He said so himself. How many times do I have to say it?" Apacci announced with a tone of annoyance.
"She's right, you two. Ichigo is what my name used to be…when I was human. I let her call me by it so I don't forget it. It sort of helps me to keep my mind focused when I think about my old life," he replied honestly.
Loly gave him an uncertain look, "So then you're trying to be human?"
"Not really…I'm just trying to keep my mind intact in this desolate place," he admitted causing the three to eye him uncertainly.
Menoly shook her head, "What do you mean? You're the most ingenious hollow I've ever seen. Your instincts are amazing."
"Yes…but there's more to life than instincts. We've had this talk before…I just need something. I don't know what it is, but the hope of finding it is the only thing that keeps me sane in this world. I've lost so many of my old memories…but I remember flashes of my old life. Family I used to have, and the only thing that keeps me from forgetting is that name," Ichigo sighed.
"Family?" Loly asked, "you had a family?"
"I did…" he said almost sadly.
Apacci seemed saddened as well by his mood, "Maybe that's what you're looking for?"
"What, a family?" Ichigo questioned doubtfully.
The deer shook her head, "No…companions. You said so yourself right? That's why you're helping us."
Ichigo seemed distant in his own thoughts, "Right…I did say that didn't I? I want to fill this emptiness…or at least distract myself from it."
"You don't have to explain yourself to us. I suppose it's difficult to go on once you've peaked your power in Hueco Mundo…I think I understand why you feel the way you do, Ichigo," Menoly said empathetically.
The orange haired hollow nodded at her remark, "Well it's good to not be alone…I'm glad you three are with me. It keeps me from going crazy…"
"Jeez, don't get all sentimental on us Ichigo…" Loly scoffed.
Apacci and Menoly both shot her a surprised look. Loly eyed them both curiously, "What? Why are you two looking at me like that?"
"You just called him Ichigo…" Menoly said surprised.
Loly cocked her head, "Oh…I guess I did."
"I don't care what you three call me…most know me as White, so you can address me as such if you'd prefer," he shrugged.
"I'll call you Ichigo, because I was the first person you ever told your real name to! Therefore I was your first companion." Apacci half bragged.
'No you weren't…that Mouthless Hollow was. I wonder if he's okay,' Ichigo thought distantly, 'I wonder why he hasn't tracked me down yet? I hope he didn't go back to that pit…or maybe he can't find me? I should probably look for him.'
Loly scowled at Apacci, "Oh so you think you have some kind of deep connection with him then? I mean, this little group's good and all, but you did just meet him too. Plus Menoly and I knew him when he was an Adjucha."
"Have we just met though? I mean we've been traveling together for a while now" Menoly held her head dejectedly, "It feels like an eternity since before we knew you."
"Maybe it has been…it's hard to tell the difference between hours and days here. In the world of the living, the moon isn't always in the sky. It has day and night…it makes it easier to track," Ichigo explained.
Apacci sighed, "Well, if I counted correctly, that was our three hundredth kill together…"
"Has it been that many?" Loly asked amazed.
Menoly nodded, "I believe she's right…I've counted too."
Ichigo jerked his head towards the distance quickly silencing his companions. They all stared at him anxiously wondering what was wrong. Apacci spoke first, "What do you sense, Ichigo?"
"Something's following us," he said seriously as he stood up to face the direction of their stalker.
Ichigo immediately rose his spiritual pressure signaling a challenge to whatever was trailing them. It seemed effective in baiting their pursuer as a woman adorned in white landed in front of them. The Vasto Lorde brought out both of his swords threateningly as he hissed an echoing taunt, "Who are you?!"
The female creature had the face and body of a human which Ichigo found bizarre. Her mask appeared mostly gone minus some type of spiked hairclip mask fragment. Her hair was purple and she had teardrop shaped markings below her eyes. What seemed most unusual about her was she appeared to be carrying a Zanpakuto.
The Vasto Lorde stared at her uncertainly, 'Is she a Shinigami? Why is she dressed like that…and what's with the sword? Her face even looks human. What is she?!'
"No way…this one is a Vasto Lorde! When I sensed it I thought it would have just been a powerful Adjucha. Dordoni, Gantenbainne, get over here!" the woman said enthusiastically.
A similar creature landed nearby the woman, followed by a third one. Of the two newcomers, both were male. One had a poof styled afro with a headband shaped mask fragment. The other was quite tall, and had medium length brown hair slicked behind some type of headpiece. He also sported a light van dyke beard and a red sash. Both of the newcomers seemed equally as surprised as the purple haired woman.
They all stared at Ichigo eagerly. "Look at those sword arms…and that mask! That hollow looks fearsome!" the one identified as Gantenbainne exclaimed. Ichigo stared at his unusual hair, 'What the hell is that supposed to be on his head?'
"What a catch!" Cirucci said as she moved in closer. Her two companions slowly followed. The other man appeared more cautious as he noticed the dangerous look in Ichigo's golden black eyes.
"Cirucci, don't provoke it…Vasto Lordes are dangerous, even for Arrancars. We should try to communicate with it first," the brown haired man said as he motioned for the group to stay where they were.
'Arrancars? What's an Arrancar?! Is it another type of Shinigami?!' Ichigo thought as he stared them down with as much intimidation as he could project. It seemed effective as his power rose causing the sands to blow away from his direction.
The three quickly rose their arms up to block the sand as they tried to get a closer look. Dordoni squinted his eyes as he focused closely on Ichigo's appearance. The ghostly pale skin covered in blackened plate like armor made him very unique looking compared to most hollows. Upon identifying the lines down Ichigo's mask, the orange hair, and the forward facing horns, the Arrancar's eyes widened considerably.
"Do you see those horns?! And that Marked Mask?! Do you two know what hollow this is?!" Dordoni gasped.
"I've never seen you this serious before about anything. Is this some kind of famous hollow?" the afro man asked.
The other man scoffed at him, "You can't tell?! This thing matches the description of 'White!' He's even got the orange hair too!"
Gantenbainne's eyes widened, "Don't be ridiculous, Dordoni…White is just a legend that the Adjuchas made up to scare each other."
"Arrancars…" Ichigo spoke up catching the three newcomers' attention, "what are arrancars?!"
Apacci, Loly, and Menoly stood back silently as they watched Ichigo scare the Arrancars. The strange beings seemed amazed by Ichigo's reaction.
Cirucci grinned joyously, "There's little doubt this hollow is the real White. If he is, then we have to secure him by any means necessary. This has got to be the luckiest encounter imaginable."
"No doubt this will be dangerous," Dordoni nodded, "but we can't let him escape. Gantenbainne, get into position. Cirucci cover the other side. If he makes any sudden movements, be ready."
The afro man raised a brow, "Umm…I don't know, man. This one might be too strong for just the three of us to tame. We might need the boss for this."
"I'm already here…and if you value your lives, you wouldn't be doing what I told you not to do." a feminine voice sounded from behind them.
They all turned towards it surprised. "Neliel…it is good to see you. I didn't know you were nearby?!" Curucci said shocked.
"I just happened to be in the area when I felt this spiritual power…I immediately recognized it as White's. You three are lucky I showed up when I did. He could easily have killed any of you. I've had dealings with this hollow before. I will have a better chance of communicating with him than you will. Just stay back so he doesn't hurt you." Nel explained.
Curucci scoffed, "Why should we be afraid of him? Arrancars are more powerful than Vasto Lordes."
"Some are…but I doubt any of you could match him. You were all Adjucha born Arrancars. That aside, White probably thinks you're Shinigami." she stated causing the three Arrancars to nod.
As the woman approached, Ichigo looked at her curiously. Her aquamarine hair had an unexplained resemblance to that of the unusual Vasto Lorde he encountered during his Adjucha days. Upon looking at her mask fragment, Ichigo immediately realized she must have been the same being, 'She's got the same hair and mask as the hollow who healed me…she can't be a Shinigami though?'
"You recognize me don't you, White? It's me, Nel…" the woman said as soothingly as she could.
Apacci, Loly, and Menoly were all distrustful of her as they all mouthed off different insults. "Hey, who are you supposed to be anyway? Get away from White, you wannabe Shinigami!" Apacci shouted.
"We're Arrancars…not Shinigami. I understand this must be confusing for you, but please listen. You and I are both hollows…we've simply regained parts of our humanity by taking off fragments of our masks." Nel stated as she walked closer.
"What kind of idiot would do that?!" Loly said doubtfully.
Ichigo growled as Nel got closer, "Stay where you are, Arrancar…don't come near me or my followers!"
"There's no need to be afraid, White…we mean you no harm," Nel tried to reason.
"Don't listen to this bitch! Her group was talking about taming you or something," Apacci said to Ichigo as she directed a distrustful glare towards the Arrancar.
Nel glanced back with an annoyed look towards her fellow Arrancars, "Don't mind what they said…that was a very crude and incorrect way to describe why we're here."
"What do you want from us?! If you're looking for a fight, then we'll kill you!" Menoly yelled somewhat angrily.
Nel sighed, "The Arrancars have been seeking others like ourselves…to band together. I assure you there is no malicious intent here. I want you to join us, White."
"Others like you? What makes you think I have anything in common with your kind? I don't go around pretending like I'm a Shinigami." Ichigo said defensively.
Nel frowned at his hostility, "I can tell that you nurture and protect those hollows at your back. You help them…just like I once helped you. It's called compassion. You and I both share this trait whether you believe it or not. You're on the verge of becoming an Arrancar like me…let us help you."
"You know her?" Loly asked disbelievingly.
Apacci's eyes widened, "Wait…she said she helped you. Was she that female Vasto Lorde you told me about?!"
"I am indeed, the same one…my name is Neliel. Please don't misunderstand my purpose. I am by no means a threat. White is a lot like I am, and I have been searching for him for quite some time," the Arrancar answered.
"Don't compare me to a Shinigami pretender such as you! If you're trying to talk me into ripping off my mask then you can get lost! I don't want whatever 'help' you're offering." he said defensively.
Nel seemed put off by his comment, "I don't remember you being this angry the last time we met. Has something happened since then to incite your rage against me?"
He was having a difficult time understanding his emotions as he kept a cautious glare focused on the Arrancar. Something about her offer seemed tempting, but he loathed the idea of becoming like a Shinigami. Ichigo scoffed at her, "Nothing has…until now."
"You claim you are not like us, yet you act as human as we do…I remember watching you from time to time. You strove to achieve greatness, to find meaning, and to fill the hole in your heart. You thought becoming a Vasto Lorde would grant you this…but it did not. Trust me when I say, I understand how it feels. All I'm doing is offering my help…trust your heart and listen to me," Nel elaborated.
"My…heart? What the hell are you talking about?!" he demanded.
"Listen, White…we Arrancars believe in becoming whole. We're hollows who want the same thing you want. This is by no means a ploy to subject you," she tried to reason.
Apacci growled at her, "How do you know what he wants?!"
Nel glanced at the deer with calm eyes, "Because I wanted the same thing…it's why I helped him. It's why he helped you."
"Then tell me what I want since you seem to understand me so well," Ichigo said doubtful sarcastic tone.
"I remember the look in your eyes the first time I met you…the longing to fill the emptiness. It angers you that you can't understand the meaning of your existence. I know what it's like, but listen to me when I say that you will never find what you're looking for if you remain a Vasto Lorde. Eventually what little soul, heart, and mind you have will dwindle into insanity as you endlessly kill other hollows in this barren desert. You'll be a killing machine driven only by instinct. Your soul might as well be trapped in Oblivion by that point…Is that what you want? I don't think it is," Nel continued.
Ichigo looked down for a moment contemplating her words. He couldn't deny that there was in fact truth in the underlying statement she had made. Nevertheless, he did not like they way it was presented. It almost felt like an ultimatum. The Vasto Lorde looked up at her full of anger, "So my only option is to become like a Shinigami?!"
"What is it about them that angers you so? Most Menos in Hueco Mundo have never even seen their kind." Nel asked concerned.
There was a long silence minus the sound of blowing wind and shifting sand. Ichigo scoffed, "The way they look at me…the way they kill hollows. Their unrestrained sense of entitlement…it makes me sick. I hate them!"
"You wouldn't be one of them though…you'd be one of us. Arrancars are very powerful, and we're closer to humans than even Vasto Lordes. Think of it more as you becoming like a human," Nel persisted.
He seemed doubtful, "How does removing parts of your mask make you more powerful? Not to mention, what makes you think you know what's best for me?!"
His spiritual pressure continued to rise as he stood there seething in anger. Everyone minus Nel appeared worried by this action as Ichigo pointed one of his sword arms at her, "I will not forsake this power I earned…I don't need help from some weaklings like you!"
Loly and Menoly traded shocked expressions. The former seemed troubled by his disposition, "I've never seen him like this before…"
"I think he's going to kill them…" Menoly replied as her eyes remained glued on the scene.
Apacci simply stared silently, 'Why is he so angry at her? I've never seen Ichigo lose his cool like this…'
"Our power is by no means weak. Since power is all you seem to care about, allow me to show you mine. Our Zanpakutos contain our original hollow powers. We can better control it this way by focusing it into what's called a release. I believe you remember my old form…watch this." Nel responded calmly.
Ichigo watched curiously as Nel drew her sword and held it parallel to the ground. She place a hand on it as she focused her power, "Declare…Gamuza."
Nel and her sword both glowed as a sphere of pinkish energy erupted quickly alarming Ichigo and his companions. The light was blinding as it blasted back Nel's companions and Ichigo's Adjucha entourage. Sand kicked up even faster as the light faded, revealing Nel to be in a form very similar to her Vasto Lorde one.
Ichigo was surprised to say the least. Her power was unexpected as it caused him to slide back from the mere pressure. As if this were a challenge, he immediately countered her spiritual power with his own. Blackened red spiritual energy poured from his body causing her aura to abruptly stop in a clash with his.
This exchange of energy greatly alarmed everyone. Gantenbainne shook his head, "What is Neliel doing? That's just going to piss him off."
"She's doing this the hard way…" Dordoni sighed.
"I've never seen her release before!" Cirucci exclaimed almost excitedly. The purple haired Arrancar cheered, "kick his ass!"
Upon hearing this comment, Ichigo channeled blackened spiritual energy over his swords. He stared them down with hostility, "If you're so strong, Arrancar, then how's about you show me!"
"This isn't good…now she's gone and pissed it off," Gantenbainne said fearfully.
Nel looked at her friends briefly, "I'm doing this for your safety…he's slowly been losing control of his humanity ever since we arrived."
"That can't be good…" the brown haired arrancar said worried as he noticed Ichigo breathe heavily causing the very ground to rumble. The three Adjuchas at his back were more than terrified by their leaders' rising power.
They were barely able to stand as Ichigo's power continued to rise. Apacci looked at him frightened, 'I've never seen him this angry before…what's wrong with him?'
With two tremendously powerful cleaves, Ichigo launched a double torrent of blackened energy at the group of Arrancars. It was immediately blocked by Nel as she charged her lance and cut both waves in half sending them veering into the distance. An explosion ignited in the distance causing the three lesser Arrancars to immediately gasp.
Cirucci's eyes widened disbelievingly, "What the hell was that?! Did you see what he just did?!"
"I'm so glad Neliel is here," Dordoni let out a breath of relief; he was thankful to still be alive. The arrancar leader looked back at the trio seriously, "Stay back…I don't want you three getting caught in the crossfire. I have to bring him under control."
Ichigo cracked his neck and growled, "I'm sick of you talking like you understand me and what I've been through! I clawed my way to the top of this hell, and I will not let somebody like you challenge me! I'm the most powerful hollow in Hueco Mundo!"
"I'm not challenging you…I was showing you my power. Though if you must insist on violence for no reason then it seems I have no choice but to fight you. I had hoped you would be less feral after all this time…it would seem I was mistaken. You're little more than a rabid beast it seems. Perhaps you aren't ready to become an Arrancar yet," Nel sighed.
"Perhaps you're ready to die…" he said darkly.
Nel stared at him passively which only seemed to incite his anger further. She shook her head disappointed, "So this is how you choose to repay my kindness? Perhaps it was a mistake to help you after all. If you will not accept your humanity then you are a danger to your followers and every living creature in Hueco Mundo." Nel said distantly as she rose her lance over her shoulder. She gripped it tighter as her eyes remained fixed on him, "Lanzador Verde."
She chucked the weapon at him like a javelin at an incredible trajectory. Ichigo could barely lift his arms in time to counter the weapon. It sent him sliding with tremendous force and actually managed to break one of his sword arms. Ichigo narrowly deflected the weapon force as he cut it with his other sword arm breaking its path.
He swiftly dove down and landed. His disbelief was evident as Nel used a Sonido to recover the lance midair. She landed in front of him and looked down at the Vasto Lorde, "Learn some humility, White…you're not the strongest hollow in Hueco Mundo. You're a beast with no control…one who's too afraid to swallow his pride."
Anger surged within him upon hearing this comment. For some reason, he felt an indescribable bloodlust take over him. He howled angrily as he held his arm up regenerating the damaged blade. Nel stared at him and sighed, "And there it is…you've lost control."
Ichigo charged her and attempted a powerful slash. Nel easily parried his attack with her lance before overpowering him. She twirled the weapon around and stabbed him dead center in the torso immediately drawing blood.
He couldn't even react in time as she lifted him off the ground with the weapon still imbedded. Nel brought him to her eye level, "I really hoped I wouldn't have to do this…"
Pink spiritual energy charged over the lanced as she flung the impaled Ichigo into a nearby rock formation. He was hanging from the wall bleeding profusely as it kept him pinned. Despite the devastating attack, Ichigo appeared no less feral as he writhed angrily.
"Rargh!" he growled as he lifted his legs up and kicked off the weapon pulling himself free of the rock wall. Nel blinked over towards him and immediately recovered her weapon moving in for another charge. Ichigo ducked under it and followed up with a low sweep attempting to slice Nel's legs. He was successful much to the other arrancars' displeasure. Nel grimaced in pain as she felt blood spurt from her freshly inflicted wounds.
"He cut through Neliel's Hierro!?" Gantenbainne gasped.
"This is bad…" Cirucci said with a low tone, "Her attack didn't even faze him!"
Nel said nothing as she continued to parry and counter Ichigo's attacks. The two were unsuccessful at landing a hit on the other for what seemed to be an endless flurry of swipes. Finally, Ichigo overextended as he leapt to slash Nel's throat.
She took advantage of this by standing back on her hind legs and kicking him. Ichigo quickly felt himself get crushed under her hoofed feet. Nel pointed her lance down at him and frowned, "Stay down…"
Unfortunately for her, Ichigo managed to push her off as he jabbed a blade through one of her front legs. Nel's face tensed at the pain, but she didn't say a word as she backed off. The Vasto Lorde wasted no time charging a colossal cero between his horns as she stood there motionless and bleeding.
Without thinking, he fired it at her, but right as his attack released, a moment of clarity struck him. 'Wait…she can redirect this!' he thought, immediately realizing it was a mistake. Nel opened her mouth and swallowed the cero, much to the Adjucha girls' shock. They all stared horrified as Nel spit Ichigo's cero right back at him. 'What am I doing?! Apacci, Loly, Menoly! They're in danger!' Realizing his companions could get hit by the attack, Ichigo flew in closer to block the full force of the counterattack.
He was barely standing afterward as his body visibly sizzled from taking the full force of his own cero at point blank range. Nel seemed surprised by his action, "So you do still have some control left?"
Ichigo hissed in pain as he tried to remain standing. Collecting his strength, he charged Nel again and began to swing like a rabid beast. Due to his weakened condition, Nel had no trouble parrying his attacks. She kicked him down and pointed her weapon at him again, "Stay down, White…don't let your rage consume you. You'll never beat me like that…"
"GAH!" he shrieked monstrously as he appeared behind her with a sonido. Right before he could decapitate her with a sword arm, Nel jerked her elbow back impaling him from behind with the back half of her lance. She immediately pulled the weapon out of his body sending him to the ground.
Ichigo felt his power dwindle as both sword arms receded. Lying there on the ground, Ichigo could only stare in disbelief as Nel looked down at him sadly, "I'm sorry I had to do that…but you gave me no choice. I don't want to hurt you anymore…so please just surrender."
'Surrender?! She thinks I'm weak…I'm NOT WEAK!' his mind was racing as he managed to stand up. His blade arms slowly came out again as he gathered his strength. Ichigo panted heavily and hissed between breaths, "DIE!"
Nel couldn't react in time as he leapt forward and stabbed her through the stomach. She stood there in disbelief as she felt the blackened sword arm sticking through her. Ichigo heaved her over his shoulder as he launched her with a wave of black spirit energy.
This sent the Arrancar flying into another rock wall. He wasted no time going after her ready to finish the woman off. The four legged Arrancar quickly recovered, but she was bleeding quite profusely as many wounds now covered her body.
She seemed less passive, and more worried as her eyes focused on him intently. Nel panted as she clutched her stomach. Her fellow Arrancars seemed worried as she stumbled slightly trying to keep a hold of her weapon.
"Nel!" Cirucci shouted fearfully. The woman tried to run in but was immediately held back by both Dordoni and Gantenbainne. Dordoni shook his head, "Stay back Cirucci…we'll only get in her way."
"He's about to kill her! We can't just stand here and do nothing!" she shot back.
Nel instantly voiced her opinion, "Get out of here, you three…I'll hold him off."
"But Nel!" Cirucci said upset, "we can't just abandon you!"
"Go! White's too strong…" she said half-defeated.
Ichigo looked over at the trio and growled as he charged a cero between his horns. Nel immediately intercepted it and fired it back at the rabid Vasto Lorde. This time Ichigo countered his redirected cero with a double cross slash from his swords.
His golden black eyes appeared almost evil as he slowly advanced. Everyone seemed disturbed as he released a menacing, echoing growl. Gantenbainne turned towards Cirucci, "We need to go, now! C'mon!"
The three Arrancars reluctantly left leaving Nel alone in front of this terrifying monster. Ichigo was about to pursue them but was blocked as Nel intercepted him with a fierce kick. This sent him sliding back a good distance. Once she was convinced that her friends were safely away, Nel clutched her lance tighter.
It seemed she had nothing left to say as she stared him down without fear. Ichigo watched her with intensity brewing. He cackled maniacally as he charged in for a final blow. Nel mustered her remaining power and braced for his attack.
As their attacks collided, the desert shook with unparalleled force creating a sandstorm around them. Nel was having trouble keeping up with his speed as she only managed to block half of Ichigo's relentless attacks. He furiously hacked away and roared, "I'm the strongest hollow in Hueco Mundo! Don't ever deny that!"
His statement was followed by a powerful jump attack. Ichigo guided both of his blades down for a vertical slash. Nel rose her Lance up and blocked both blades with either half of her lance. The two were deadlocked for a moment as they tried to overpower each other.
Nel felt herself sinking as the pressure behind Ichigo's swords began to overwhelm her. Deciding to take a gamble, she lifted her lance higher allowing Ichigo to push her further. With her remaining strength she spun in sideways flaking off both blades before impaling him in the stomach again.
The Arrancar didn't fare well from her risky attack as Ichigo stabbed both blades into her shortly after. Nevertheless, Nel began to charge as she ran him into the large rock formation nearby. The arrancar managed to impale him against the wall again, but she knew she had finally reached her limit. Nel grimaced in pain as she felt her powers dwindle, 'I'm done for…'
Both hollows were bleeding severely as they kept their weapons imbedded in the other's flesh. After a few moments Nel spat up blood and let go of her lance. She pulled back and stumbled away pulling free from Ichigo's swords.
Her form immediately dissipated afterward as she changed back into her more humanoid appearance. The woman shook as she tried to breathe. She briefly dropped to her knee as she was no longer able to stand. The large lance impaling Ichigo against the wall disappeared as well and reformed back into her Zanpakuto.
The Arrancar looked up at him as she tried to stand. Ichigo himself was in rough shape as blood was oozing from his many wounds. They were not immediately healing due to the nature of Nel's attack. The Vasto Lorde slowly walked towards her with his blades extended.
Nel stood up finally and spoke sadly, "I'm sorry I couldn't help you."
Ichigo reared both blades back ready to execute the woman. As he swung them, Nel threw her Zanpakuto to the side. He immediately stopped mid swing as they locked gazes. Ichigo felt horrified, 'What the hell am I doing?!'
The Arrancar stood there with a sad smile on her face, "You were right, White…you are the strongest. So kill me."
"Neliel," Ichigo said her name as he immediately felt regret for what he had just done. Part of him realized that she was right about all the things said prior to their battle. Ichigo stared into her eyes almost disbelievingly, "Why did you throw your weapon down?!"
"Why does it matter? You've won…isn't that what you wanted? To see me dead?" she replied.
He felt an indescribable shame from her question as he looked down distantly, "No…"
"I'll tell you what I wanted, White…I wanted a heart. I wanted a soul. I wanted happiness. I wanted to find and share these things with others," Nel said as she dropped to her knees again.
Ichigo seemed distraught by her words, "Why are you telling me this?"
Nel didn't respond as she simply stared at him.
"Ichigo!" Apacci shouted worried as she ran over towards the wounded Vasto Lorde. Upon noticing that Nel was still alive, the deer Adjucha stopped short.
Nel seemed surprised by the name, "Ichigo? Is that your real name, White?"
Loly and Menoly quickly caught up. Both traded shocked expressions seeing Nel still alive. Loly spoke up first, "You haven't kill her yet?"
"I can't kill her…" Ichigo said finally as he receded his swords. He looked down at her regretfully, "I'm a monster. She doesn't deserve this…"
"Are you kidding me? Didn't she just try to kill you?" Menoly protested doubtfully.
Nel smiled weakly at him, "I knew you were an Arrancar…Ichigo."
'Maybe we are the same after all…' Ichigo noted mentally as he began to calm down.
Before he could respond to Nel's comment, the woman collapsed into unconsciousness. Ichigo caught her before she hit the ground and lifted the defeated Arrancar bridal style. He looked at her intently, 'My pride almost cost this woman her life…why did I lose control? What made me so angry…she's not a Shinigami. She's a hollow…like me. She wanted to help me…to protect me. What's wrong with me?! Why did I hurt her like this?! Damn it!'
"Umm…Ichigo? What are we going to do with her?" Apacci asked curiously.
The Vasto Lorde seemed depressed, "I shouldn't have lost control..."
"Wait, so you're going to take her offer and become an Arrancar then?!" Loly jumped to conclusions.
He shrugged, "I don't know about that, but I can't just leave her in this condition. She helped me once, and I repaid her with this…hatred. I feel terrible."
"We can talk about it later. Let's get out of here before other hollows show up to investigate this area," Menoly said concerned. Ichigo nodded as he lead his three companions away into the distance.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXxXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Further Away in Hueco Mundo XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
A certain hollow sniffed the air with excitement as he felt a surge of spiritual power in the distance, "White!"
He grinned maniacally as he cracked his clawed hands, "I've finally found you!"
"Grimmjow…are you sure it's a good idea for us to go after that hollow again?" a tall almost skeletal like Adjucha asked concerned.
The hollow turned around to face him intently, "Why? Are you implying he's stronger than me, Shawlong?"
"No my lord…you are the King," the Adjucha bowed submissively, "but I believe he may very well be a Vasto Lorde by this point. Every hollow that has ever pursued him has died."
"Grimmjow can take that guy! He's a Vasto Lorde now!" Di Roy exclaimed excitedly. The former panther Adjucha was indeed a Vasto Lorde. Ever since his encounter with White, the beastly Adjucha had been fueled to become stronger than the infamous dragon.
Only recently had Grimmjow finally achieved what he sought for so long…the pinnacle of hollow evolution. His new form was quite formidable. He now stood on two legs, and had a more humanoid appearance compared to his previous panther form.
Despite that, he still possessed a tail, claws, and long feline ears. His hands and feet were black, and his face was covered in a fearsome looking mask. His feral blue eyes were accentuated with green markings over his mask's eyeholes that extended all the way back towards his greenish-blue furry ears.
The blue haired beast cackled, "White's time is coming soon…but first I think it's about time we put an end to Barragan. White won't be able to ignore my power after that…I will be the King."
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Deep in the Outskirts of Hueco Mundo XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
A certain mouthless, green-eyed hollow was sitting on top of cliff overlooking the empty desert. His eyes seemed distant and sad as he sat there alone, 'I wonder if White is okay...those Shinigami Captains couldn't have killed him. Yet I haven't sensed him after all this time still...I hope he's alive.' Ever since his return to the desolate desert of Hueco Mundo, the Vasto Lorde had been slightly depressed at being parted from his companion. He often reviewed the different things he and White had done during their journey together. The hollow felt a familiar emptiness arising ever since being parted with White.
Whether he knew it or not, Ulquiorra, had been genuinely concerned about the well being of his fellow hollow. The only other creature that had ever acknowledged him in his abyssal existence was White. Ulquiorra briefly looked up at the crescent moon, forever shining in the darkened sky. 'Why did we get separated? What am I supposed to do now? What would he have done?' The green eyed creature thought about Ichigo's final words to him, 'Come find me when I return to Hueco Mundo he said...how am I supposed to find anything in this endless desert of nothingness.'
Part of him was very distraught at why Ichigo wanted him to leave, but the more he thought about it, the more he began to realize that Ichigo had done it for a reason he didn't understand. 'Was he concerned about my safety? Or perhaps this is a test to help me cope in his absence. I don't understand you White...but you seem to understand me. I wish I could have at least told him my name.'
Just then, the hollow jerked his head forward as he sensed an immensely powerful spiritual signature echoing in the distance. Ulquiorra's eyes widened, 'Could it be him?! That power...I should go investigate.'
Wasting no time, Ulquiorra began to fly towards the spiritual pressure in the distance with a hopeful thought on his mind, 'I'll find you White...and together we'll find what we're looking for.'
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