Disclaimer: It kills me every time I have to do a disclaimer; it reminds me of not being talented enough to create series like Naruto and Bleach. Naruto is property of Masashi Kishimoto, and Bleach is property of Tite Kubo. I do own my slowly diminishing pride in regards to this disclaimer, though.

Jinchuuriki no Seireitei

Chapter Eleven: Shinigami Among Shinobi

"You know, I never understood why this village is called 'hidden'..." Yoruichi spoke, "I mean, sure, it's a forest, but take a nice hike through the area and 'wham' there's the front gate, open for everyone to see."

"It's a shinobi thing, you wouldn't understand." Kakashi replied, "Besides, it happened before my time. I didn't have a say in naming the village."

The room fell silent again as Kakashi, Yoruichi, and the others waited for Naruto to return. It was sort of comical; Kenpachi was sitting in a corner with Yachiru, who had unsurprisingly become interested in a small moth that fluttered into the room from the open balcony door. Ichigo was looking out over said balcony while Soi Fon had taken to meditating quietly in a corner opposite of the the hulking Eleventh Division captain. Jiraiya, meanwhile, was overlooking a small notebook and scribbling in it once and awhile.

"Naruto's coming. He's got some girl that has pink hair with him..." Ichigo's voice trailed off, causing everyone to look up from what they were doing.

"That's Sakura. She's one of Naruto's former teammates, and my former student." Kakashi replied, getting up from his spot. He didn't show it, but he was actually hoping to be the first to greet Sakura. He missed the only female student of his old Genin team.

Another moment passed before Naruto landed on the balcony, Sakura in his arms and blushing slightly. The blond introduced the rosette kunoichi to Ichigo before the three walked inside. Sakura took no more than three steps into the apartment before her eyes lit up, "Kakashi-sensei!!!"

"Yo." Kakashi replied in his usual nonchalant manner, though his eyes were closed a little, showing that he was smiling. Sakura took that as her cue, and ran to hug her old teacher. After a brief, yet heartwarming, reunion Sakura noticed another familiar face.

"Hello, Jiraiya-sama. Naruto told me that you were here too...though, I thought you weren't in the Gotei Thirteen...right?"

Jiraiya smiled, "Heh, yeah. I'm just here as an advisor and consultant between the shinobi world and Soul Society. Although, I do know some kido...so I have knowledge in some of the shinigami practices."

Sakura smiled happily, "I'm glad Naruto has friends in Seireitei..." She turned to the others, and her eyes rested on Yoruichi, her head tilting to the side for a few moments before she spoke in a careful tone, "You're...Yoruichi...Shihoin, correct?"

Yoruichi grinned, "Yep!"

Sakura's face once again lit up to a smile, "I've heard about you from Naruto." She bowed, "It's an honor to meet you."

Yoruichi laughed, "Please, no need for formalities, I'm not a captain anymore. If you're going to bow to anyone, Soi Fon is the one to do that to."

"Yoruichi-sama, please..."

Sakura turned to the shorter woman, "Ah, I remember you too! You're the one who helped Naruto in his shunpo and close-combat training."

Soi Fon was a bit surprised by a mortal knowing all this, "Um, yes, I am." She glanced over to Naruto for a moment before turning back to the rosette kunoichi, "How do you know all this?"

Naruto cleared his throat, "I-I kind of have a connection to Sakura-chan. Um...it's a long story, but apparently a part of Sakura's consciousness is my zanpakutou's spirit. I can communicate to Sakura-chan through my blade."

"See, this is why I never bothered talking to my blade." Kenpachi grumbled in an almost monotone voice as the silence fell on the group, "It's way too complicated."

Soi Fon, who seemed to be the one who actually was truly concerned about the matter, raised an eyebrow, "You can communicate with a mortal through your zanpakutou?"

Naruto scratched his head, "Um...surprise? Heheh..."

The Second Division captain sighed, "Well, we'll worry about this matter later. For now, you knowing about us isn't a problem." Soi Fon looked at the humble living space that was Sakura's newly acquired apartment, "You don't happen to have any sleeping arrangements for a few people, do you?"

Sakura chuckled a little, "I...not really, I wasn't expecting any company until just a day ago. I really didn't have time to prepare."

"Not a problem, Sakura. I'm sure we can pull something off." Kakashi spoke while waving a hand, "Besides, there won't be much time for sleeping; most of us will be on patrol for the night."

After a few moments passed, the group went about designating guard duty for the night. Kenpachi would take first shift along with Kakashi, Yoruichi and Soi Fon would take second, and Ichigo, Naruto, and Yachiru would take third duty just before sunrise.

It was close to eleven at night when Kakashi was heading out with Kenpachi for patrol. Naruto approached the silver haired man just before he left, "Kakashi-sensei."

"Hm?"

Naruto ran a hand through his hair as he tried to think of how to state the question on his mind, "Um, is Sakura going to get in any trouble for knowing about Soul Society?"

"Ah..." Kakashi was quiet for a moment before he replied, "Naruto, I'm not entirely sure, since your condition with her is a unique one. Chances are that if she does, it'll be let off lightly, since she didn't really have a choice in the matter of knowing. Not only that, but she seems to be keeping it a secret for the most part, and she is letting us use her home as a base." Kakashi smiled as he turned towards his exit, "Worse case scenario, she is put on execution. If that happens, well, Ichigo can give you a rundown of what to do in those situations."

"What about you?"

Kakashi laughed, "I believe you remember the saying of a ninja who breaks the rules being scum, but a ninja who abandons comrades is lower than scum, correct?"

"Yeah...I do." Naruto gave a nod.

"It still applies to me with Sakura and you. I won't abandon either of you if the situation called for my help." With that, Kakashi dashed out into the night, leaving not even a ripple in the air with his departure.

- - - - -

Kenpachi stood on the top of a large building that Kakashi had stated was the 'Hokage Tower', whatever that implied. As far as Kenpachi was concerned, it just happened to be the largest building in the area, so it gave him a good view of everything within the village.

"Figures that I end up getting stuck with the shift where nothing interesting happens."

"You know, there's not anything necessarily wrong with a peaceful night. Especially in a village of shinobi." came the quiet reply of Kakashi, who was leaning against one of the curved arch-like structures on the flat roof of the tower.

"Unlike you, I don't like sitting around and reading smut." Kenpachi retorted with a smirk. As expected, Kakashi looked up from his reading material while giving the Eleventh Division captain a flat look.

"It's not smut. It's literature."

It had been close to four hours since they had started their watch over Konoha. Aside from the single low-level Hollow, which Kenpachi took care of out of anger that it wasn't a more powerful enemy, nothing had happened for the two Soul Reapers.

Kakashi checked the clock on his soul phone, and nodded, "Well, may as well go and get Soi Fon and Yoruichi. They're shift starts in a few minutes."

Kenpachi grunted in agreement, and the two took off to Sakura's apartment. Only a few moments passed before they were leaping through the open window of the small apartment.

The others were sleeping, Naruto and Sakura had agreed on sharing a sleeping space on the futon in her room. Ichigo had crashed on a roll-out cot that Sakura provided while Yachiru was sprawled next to him with a blanket covering her feet, having been kicked off in her sleep. Jiraiya had simply rolled out a blanket and taken a pillow from one of the closets, having become used to sleeping on the ground ages ago as a ninja. Soi Fon had taken to sleeping on the couch.

However, there was one person missing. Kakashi looked around before being tapped on the shoulder by the monstrous captain. Kakashi looked to Kenpachi, only to see the taller man pointing to the slightly ajar door of Sakura's.

Kakashi looked into the room. Sure enough, there was Yoruichi sleeping soundly. Sakura's futon was actually quite large, now that the masked Shinigami took a good look at it. Yoruichi seemed to be capitalizing on this, seeing as she had taken to sleeping next to Sakura, a blanket wrapped around her as she snoozed quietly.

Kakashi cleared his throat softly, and the Shihoin looked over her shoulder. The former captain waved to Kakashi signaling she was awake. She crawled off of the futon and put her jacket on, and walked out of the room before speaking quietly, "Anything happen?"

Kakashi shook his head, "Just a low-level Hollow. Nothing outstanding." The silver haired man looked back to his two students before giving Yoruichi a curious look, asking a silent question.

Yoruichi grinned, "I like her. She's a lot like Soi Fon."

"You mean she hits hard?"

The former captain groaned, "No. I mean she's a caring individual that can be a bit reserved around new people."

"You hardly know her." Kakashi pointed out, "You shouldn't go making judgments like that."

Yoruichi just grinned, "I'm right, though, aren't I?"

Kakashi shrugged, "I suppose. Just don't go and try and start buying her lingerie like you do with Soi Fon."

"Awwww, but that was on our list of things to do tomorrow." Yoruichi pouted, "She'd look cute in anything I find for her! Seriously."

"Stop trying to sexually assault my student via lingerie shopping, Yoruichi." Kakashi replied in a bored voice, flipping open his book, "Besides, I'm sure she already knows how big of a flirt you can be."

"What are you saying?" Yoruichi asked, taking a step towards the silver haired shinigami.

Kakashi shrugged, "I'm just saying she's probably already comfortable with you and Naruto being in a relationship. No need to go and try and explain yourself to her."

"Am I that transparent?" Yoruichi asked with a sigh.

"No. I just know you better than the others. Except maybe Naruto...at least in some ways."

"I feel like I'm intruding on something when I'm around the two." She spoke, "I know Naruto and Sakura said they don't mind, but-"

"Don't worry about it; if Naruto and Sakura said it's okay, then it's okay. Trust me." He closed his book and looked around the living room to see Soi Fon pointing to the open couch, having woke up.

"Don't take the couch."

Kakashi blinked, "Are you seriously saying I can't take the couch to sleep on?"

"Yes." Soi Fon replied.

"Why?"

"Because it's comfortable, and I want to have it free when I return from patrol and want to sleep." the petite captain replied before heading out with Yoruichi.

Kakashi gave a sigh before taking a spot in the corner. He'd probably catch about an hour of sleep at most, seeing as he wasn't that tired to begin with. Years of working in ANBU did that to you.

As the night wore on, it soon came to Naruto, Ichigo, and Yachiru, who were taking the final watch. Sakura tagged along with Naruto, shadowing him as he moved around the village rooftops. Only five minutes into following him had caused her to break out into a sweat.

"Hey...Naruto, can we maybe take a break? I...I can't use the flash step like the rest of you..."

Naruto grinned, "Sure thing, Sakura-chan. I guess I forgot that I'm faster than I used to be, heh."

The two were now sitting on a fairly tall roof, speaking in hushed tones to avoid the chance of any random patrol from hearing them. After all, the vast majority of Konoha probably couldn't see Naruto and the others, so the idea of Sakura appearing to talk to herself wasn't exactly a good idea.

"Well, Yoruichi seems like a really nice woman in person." Sakura commented, "She said something about me showing her Konoha tomorrow if we had any time."

Naruto laughed, "Heh, yeah, she probably wants to shop for clothing. She'll probably drag Soi Fon-chan along too."

The rosette smiled, "I'm glad that the others aren't upset with me knowing about Soul Society and all that." She took in a deep breath before exhaling, "I imagine that Seireitei will keep tabs on me now, right?"

"I'm going to be safe and say that they will. You're a spiritually sensitive person who is aware of Seireitei. You also happen to know a bit of what's going on in Soul Society at any given time." the blond replied as he looked up to the slowly brightening horizon, "Don't worry too much about it, Sakura-chan. I think if anything, this will help get you a place in the Gotei Thirteen someday whenever you go to Soul Society."

"Ugh, let's not look that far ahead into the future, Naruto." Sakura smiled, "I don't like the idea of having to get old first before I can get Soul Reaper powers when I kick the bucket."

Naruto stood up along with Sakura, and the two watched the first rays of light streak across the sky, "I hope Ichigo and Yachiru can see this. It's always neat to see sunrise in Konoha..."

Sakura felt Naruto lace his hand with hers. She turned to him, her face shining with the light of first dawn, "Yeah."

Naruto's smile suddenly began to grow into a grin, "Hey, Sakura, I got an idea. Here, let me pick you up."

Sakura raised an eyebrow, "Naruto, what are you do-yaaaaah!!!"

Naruto hopped off the roof and flew into the air, Sakura still squealing in surprise as he raced through the air, "Sakura, just relax! I won't let you go!"

"Gaaah! Naruto, sl-slow down! Not so fa-yaaaaah!!!" Naruto dipped down towards a pond in a park, skimming across the surface of the water. All the while he held Sakura securely in his arms while she had a death grip on him.

"Heheh, come on, Sakura. Look at the sunrise. It's beautiful."

As Naruto floated back up into the air, Sakura turned towards the east. She took in the sight, "Oh...wow...it is beautiful from up here."

Sure enough, Naruto and Sakura were well above the tree line and buildings, watching the sunrise from high above. Even after the sun had long ended its crawl into over the horizon, the two were still hovering in the air, Sakura dozing off a little in Naruto's arms. Eventually, the sound of light, rhythmic breathing was heard from the kunoichi, and Naruto looked down to see Sakura had fallen back asleep.

"Heh...I guess I should get back soon."

Flying back at a slower pace, Naruto landed on the balcony of Sakura's apartment. He walked in the door to see Jiraiya awake and scribbling on a scroll at the quaint little kitchen table. Kenpachi was drinking a cup of coffee while Yachiru was snoozing on the couch. Soi Fon was sitting in the corner, quietly meditating while Yoruichi was looking at a catalog that Sakura had lying on a side table. Ichigo was also sleeping, having taken up one of the vacant cots.

"Ah, welcome back," called Kakashi, who was in the kitchen, helping himself to some coffee as well, "You two are a bit late. Ichigo and Yachiru came back about a half hour ago."

"Yeah, we decided to relax outside for awhile." Naruto explained, "Sakura-chan fell asleep just a little while ago."

"I can see that. May as well put her back to bed; she could probably use it." Kakashi replied, "Go and get a few hours of rest, Naruto. Soi Fon said she wanted to get some training in with you in one of the training grounds around noon."

Naruto smiled before looking to the Second Squad Captain. She cracked open a single eye and smiled a little before resuming her meditation. The blond just laughed quietly before carrying Sakura with him to the bedroom. Now that he took the time to notice it, he was pretty tired.

- - - - -

Ichigo had helped himself to a plate of toast with jam after getting up. After eating, he approached the man he had been hoping to speak to since they had arrived in Konoha.

"Kakashi-san."

"Kakashi's good enough, Ichigo."

"Oh, well, uh, Kakashi, I was wondering if you'd be able to-"

Kakashi stretched his arms a bit as he got up from his seat at the small table, "I'd be happy to train with you for a while. We can head over to my former residence. I need to move the training ground to a different spot anyway, otherwise I risk having someone finding it. That would cause problems with Soul Society."

Ichigo blinked before nodding, "Okay."

Kakashi stifled a yawn, "Yoruichi, I'm taking Ichigo to my old place. I need to move my training chambers to somewhere else, and I figured we could get a quick spar in while we're there."

Yoruichi, who was leaning against the balcony while watching the early morning sky brighten, nodded to the two, "Have fun. Don't go too hard on Ichigo."

As the two left, Ichigo couldn't help but wonder why Yoruichi seemed to be stifling a laugh. Whatever the reason was, Ichigo was certain that he'd find out soon enough.

As soon as the two Shinigami left the apartment from the balcony, Jiraiya approached Yoruichi, "What's so funny?"

The Shihoin shook her head, "Kakashi seemed eager to get to his training chambers. I'm guessing that he's been hoping to let off some steam, and Ichigo may end up being the outlet for that."

"You don't say. I hear that Ichigo kid unlocked the final release of his zanpakutou. That true?" The Toad Sage asked.

"Yep. I saw him go through the fight with his zanpakutou and helped train him a little as well. He's definitely a diamond in the rough."

Jiraiya grunted in understanding, "Heh. I still can't believe that Kakashi was a Shinigami for almost two decades. He was already a powerful shinobi as it is, but to find out that he could have easily outmatched almost any ninja in the world with his true powers is baffling."

"Heh, the guy unlocked his shikai within the first two years of being a Soul Reaper, and achieved bankai about ten years after that. He's always been a bit of an overachiever, but he's always done things in such casual manner." Yoruichi spoke while chuckling, "To be honest, he'd be an amazing captain if it wasn't for the lack of motivation to do things. He's almost worse than Shunsui Kyoraku. The fact that he works under said captain is almost ironic."

"Shunsui...ah, that man." Jiraiya laughed, "A very cultured fellow, that captain. He's an avid reader of mine, heh."

Yoruichi rolled her eyes, "Surprise, surprise."

Jiraiya just laughed a bit more, "Well, I'm off to go and check on some people in the village."

Yoruichi raised an eyebrow, "Check on some people? Why? They can't see you."

Jiraiya shrugged, "I know. I just want to see how they're doing." He hopped out the balcony as well, leaping across buildings with grace that seemed unnatural for a man of his physical age and appearance.

"Yeesh." Yoruichi spoke as she headed back inside, "Why are all the strong ones always perverts?" She ignored the little voice in the back of her head that saying that she was among the category labeled perverts, deciding to instead keep herself busy by returning to her catalog.

- - - - -

"So, Kakashi..." Ichigo began as the two stood in a massive valley, long blades of grass swaying calmly in the apparent wind that existed in the training chambers, "How exactly did you manage to make such a huge place like this?"

Kakashi smiled behind his mask, "Urahara helped me out. The grassy valley was my idea."

"Okay, what about that sun up in the sky?"

Kakashi looked up to the bright light over their heads, "Oh, that? Simple."

"Simple?"

"Yeah, just a little dabbling we did with kido. Nothing special." The former Jounin replied.

Ichigo sighed, giving up on trying to understand the complexity of the more intricate Shinigami powers, "Fair enough. So, you needed to move this place somewhere else?"

"Yeah. I was thinking of a small location a short walk north of the village. There's an abandoned farmhouse that hasn't been used in a few decades now. I think that if I set up the training chambers there, there'd be less of a chance that someone would run into it. We lucked out with no one moving in her yet." Kakashi gripped the scabbard of his sword, "That's not what I want to focus on at the moment though."

Ichigo got the hint. With a flourish of Zangetsu, the white wrapping fell free of the blade. Ichigo got in a ready stance, "Any restrictions for this spar?"

"No. Show me your bankai."

Ichigo's eyes widened a little, "My...bankai? Seriously? You're zanpakutou's not even released."

"Just show me your bankai, Ichigo. Trust me on this one."

Ichigo decided to not argue, and pointed his sword forward so the point was aimed at Kakashi, "Bankai!!!"

Kakashi stayed in place as the blast of spiritual energy blew over him. As the dust cleared, there stood Ichigo in his black and red garbs. Kakashi nodded, "Alright, now I'll show you my shikai."

Ichigo watched as Kakashi got into a battle stance of his own, his zanpakutou at his side as he gathered power. The area seemed to darken a bit while a lightning-like aura began to envelope him.

"Strike without mercy, Gin Karuido!!!"

All at once, Ichigo felt his body tremble as an electrical charge erupted from his opponent. He covered his eyes as the blinding light illuminated their battleground while a crackling sound could be heard. Opening his eyes, Ichigo laid his eyes upon Kakashi with a silver colored spear in his right hand.

"T-that's your shikai?" Ichigo asked, a little disturbed by the raw power exuding from Kakashi.

"Yes. The thing is..." Kakashi began, the electric bolts streaming around him becoming more violent, "I could take this up another notch if I so desired."

"You mean...?"

"Yes," Kakashi answered, "I too have bankai."

Ichigo steeled his features, "So, are we going to get this spar started, or what?"

Kakashi shifted his feet a bit, spinning the spear in his hand around while beckoning to Ichigo with an open hand, "Come."

Ichigo ran at Kakashi with a burst of speed, cracking the ground as he took off. Kakashi quickly put his spear up in front of him, blocking Tensa Zangetsu and halting Ichigo's attack. Ichigo had already flash stepped away by the time the older Soul Reaper had managed to regain his balance. He could make out the faint outline of the teenager as he ran around him.

Ichigo circled around Kakashi a few more times before making a sharp turn and thrusting his blade at the former Jounin. Kakashi took a step back and to the right, avoiding the black katana by a few inches. Ichigo felt a sharp pain in his abdomen as Kakashi delivered a powerful kick to the ribs.

"Gah!" Ichigo cried out as he was sent rolling a few meters. He stopped himself and pushed off the ground just as Kakashi smashed the point of his weapon into the ground, missing the teen by less than a second. Ichigo sidestepped the silver spear as it sliced a few hairs off of his sideburns.

"Why are you still concentrating on where my weapon was, Ichigo?! Focus on me!!" Kakashi spoke, his voice stern and as cool as steel, "If you plan on stopping Aizen and the Espada, you'll need to do better than this!"

Ichigo felt the blunt end of Kakashi's weapon smash into his stomach. He coughed up some spittle as he felt Kakashi slam an elbow into his back. The teen raised a hand to catch Kakashi foot that would have snapped his neck back. Their eyes locked for a moment, and Ichigo smirked, "Fine. I'll show you what I'm capable of."

Kakashi's eyes didn't soften in the least, "Good. It's either that, or I'll beat you into submission."

"That's not going to happen, though. I'm not going to lose so easily."

The black aura that surrounded Ichigo so suddenly had Kakashi taking a step back. Studying the boy as white mask fragments began forming, the former Jounin gripped his spear tightly, "I was right..." Kakashi's reiatsu began to increase in response to Ichigo's power boost, "You're a Vizard after all." He chuckled, "I guess I can't afford to hold back anymore."

"I can only hold onto this state for about twenty-three seconds, maybe a little more if I don't use my powers up so quickly." Ichigo replied as his mask became whole, "Here I come, Kakashi."

The two shifted their footing a bit. The air around them crackled with spiritual pressure. Kakashi lifted his hitai-ite, and his Sharingan spun around a few times as he studied the teenage Vizard.

Then, they moved.

- - - - -

Shikamaru looked up as a chill ran down his spine. He rolled his shoulders a few times before pushing off the wall he had been leaning against. Ino and Chouji, who were enjoying a small meal of barbeque pork and steamed vegetables, looked up to the Nara boy, "What's up, Shika?"

"Eh, nothing." Shikamaru lied. He closed his eyes while trying to ignore the weird sensation that was running through his body. Something not too far was releasing a lot of spiritual power or whatever Sakura called it.

"You sure? You've been acting weird lately." Ino asked, "You've actually been...well..."

"What?" The Nara asked.

"You've been very distracted, Shikamaru." Chouji finished for his kunoichi teammate, "Ino and I have been noticing you actually keeping yourself busy with work, lately. It's not like you."

"Hm. I suppose it's about time I start taking my role as a shinobi seriously." Shikamaru replied, "I guess with Naruto being gone, someone's got to fill in the gap he left with missions..."

"Shika..." Ino began, but Shikamaru was already walking down the road without them.

"What's up with him?" Chouji questioned, not expecting an answer. The two looked to each other before paying their bill and leaving to catch up with their teammate.

- - - - -

Outside the walls of Konoha, Soi Fon stood motionlessly on a large tree limb. Her eyes were closed, her haori folded neatly at the base of said tree.

Snap!

Clang!

Thwack!

Soi Fon smirked as Naruto had his blade pressed against her own sealed zanpakutou. Naruto's expression was set into a grimace as he tried to force her to lose ground. She put more of her own strength into holding Naruto back.

"Hrrrraaaaaa!!!!" Naruto cried out as his reiatsu output increased. Soi Fon matched him for spiritual pressure, the two causing the bark on the nearby trees to crack.

"Not a bad start, Naruto, but you gave yourself away with that snapped branch." Soi Fon chided, flash stepping back to put some distance between the blond and herself.

"Yeah, I figured that out a little late." Naruto grumbled, lowering his stance for a moment, "I got a bit excited, I guess."

Soi Fon shook her head, "You're better than that."

"I know, I know."

"I'm serious, Naruto!" Soi Fon snapped, "That's a mistake I would have expected of you maybe a half a year ago." She held her sword horizontally, "Now, I'm going to make you pay for that mistake. Prepare yourself, Naruto."

"Eh, S-Soi-Fon, don't tell me you're going to-"

"Sting all enemies to death! Suzemebachi!!"

Naruto cursed under his breath as Soi Fon's image faded. The hairs on his neck stood on end, and he quickly ducked as he felt the Second Division Captain's hand swipe just over his left ear. He spun around on his heel and attempted to uppercut her, only for her to catch his fist with minimal effort.

"Damn." Naruto grumbled, "You were seriously going to hit me with that, weren't you?"

"Just a graze on the shoulder blade, Naruto. This is only a spar." she replied, a small smirk on her face, "After all, I don't know how well you'd stand up to me in a true fight. Considering the way you're going about it right now, probably not that well."

Naruto's eye twitched, "Oh yeah?" Naruto's power spiked quickly, "I'll show you!!"

"That's the way, Naruto." Soi Fon thought, shifting her feet a bit as a wind began to pick up.

Naruto faded from Soi Fon's vision, reappearing right in front of her. He thrust his sword towards her shoulder blade, only for her to back up while stepping to the right. Not giving her a moment to recover, Naruto slid forward while lifting one of his feet to kick her in the chest. She blocked the attack, her body trembling from the impact.

"Got you!" Naruto shouted, "Hado Number Four! Byakurai!!"

Soi Fon flash stepped away as the streak of white lightning blasted through the forest canopy. She turned to see Naruto running towards her again.

Soi Fon quickly traced a shape in the air, "Bakudo Number Thirty! Shitotsu Sansen!" A golden triangle formed out of thin air, and three beams of light shot out of each point. Naruto's eyes widened as he was blasted back by the attack. He soon found himself pinned to a large tree, the beam of light holding him in place by one of his hands, the cloth of his Academy garb, and one of his pant legs.

"Damn it..." Naruto grumbled as Soi Fon walked towards him. She grinned in a mocking manner as Naruto gave her a withering glare.

"Should have seen that coming, Naruto. You know you can't outmatch me in speed yet. You should be fighting with more forethought." The Second Division captain scolded, "Kudos though on being able to get in front of me like that."

Naruto's grimace turned into a grin, "You talk as though I'm beaten, Soi Fon-chan."

Soi Fon raised an eyebrow, "What are you-?" She felt Naruto's reiatsu increase, and hopped onto a distant branch just as Naruto blasted away the restraints on him.

Naruto flexed his arms a bit, "Heh, Ichigo told me that sometimes the best way to break free of a spell is brute force. Looks like he was right."

Soi Fon looked to her student in mild wonder, "To break free of a binding spell so easily with so little experience in that field of kido..." She let out an amused chuckle, "Figures; he always has to go and throw the opponent for a loop."

Naruto raised his sealed zanpakutou into the air while the winds around him picked up, "Dance for me! Shinkuuzakura!!"

The powerful maelstrom that always accompanied Naruto's release blew through the forest. Soi Fon didn't move an inch, her eyes locked with the blond, "Are you going to take this spar seriously now, Naruto?"

Naruto simply nodded.

"Good." Soi Fon replied. The two shot off from their respective branches, leaves fluttering through the air as they continued their spar.

- - - - -

Sakura walked through the halls of the Hokage Tower, looking to her side every once in a while and sighing, "Yoruichi-san, I don't know if this is the best way to go about this..."

Yoruichi, who was decked in her Stealth Force uniform and a simple haori, smiled, "Don't worry, Sakura. I've dealt with things like this before. I know how to work with humans."

"Have you ever dealt with shinobi, Yoruichi-san?" Sakura whispered, "We're not so quick to trusting strangers, and Tsunade-sama is our leader. She's obligated to being suspicious."

Yoruichi just placed a hand on Sakura's shoulder, giving her a reassuring squeeze, "Like I said; don't worry."

- - - - -

Shizune stood before Tsunade as the Godaime looked over a scroll on last night's patrol report, "Tsunade-sama?"

Tsunade looked up, her eyes showing clear signs of exhaustion, "Two more deaths, Shizune. They're like the ones before, too. The victims were disemboweled and..." She cut herself off, "I don't know what to make of it, Shizune."

A knock at the door shook the two out of their thoughts. Tsunade looked up, "Yes?"

Kotetsu walked into the office, bowing before speaking, "Hokage-sama, Sakura-san and a guest are here to speak with you."

"A guest?" Tsunade inquired, "What for?"

Kotetsu shook his head, "I asked them, and Sakura simply stated it was important and relevant to Konoha's safety."

Tsunade's eyes narrowed, "Bring them in then."

Kotetsu bowed again before exiting the office. A moment later, Sakura and a woman with dark skin and golden eyes that seemed almost feline entered. The stranger bowed, "Hokage-sama, it's an honor to meet you."

Tsunade nodded, "Before I say anything else, who are you, and what is your purpose here?"

Yoruichi grinned, "I'm Yoruichi Shihoin of the Shihoin clan. As for my purpose..." The woman looked around the room before leaning down to Sakura and whispering, "Am I correct in assuming there's about six shinobi just outside the office and by the window?"

Sakura nodded.

"Okay, good to know." Yoruichi continued, "Hokage-sama, would you be able to put up a sound barrier, please? This matter is a bit private."

Tsunade stood up, "Shihoin-san, I'm afraid unless you inform me on your intentions, I will do no-"

"Tsunade-sama," Sakura cut in, " Please. This is important. Trust me."

Tsunade looked to her apprentice. Sakura clearly was concerned about the matter at hand, and if Sakura trusted this woman, well, she could too, "Fine." Tsunade ran through several hand seals while Shizune shut the curtains to the window. As soon as the sound barrier was put up, Tsunade spoke, "Go on then, Shihoin-san."

Yoruichi gave a grateful nod, "Thank you, Hokage-sama. Now, this matter relates to several things that may be a bit hard to take in."

"What do you mean?" Tsunade asked.

Yoruichi gave a cat-like grin, "You may want to have a seat."

- - - - -

Ichigo sat on the ground, taking in deep breaths while Kakashi was tending to a gash on the boy's ribs, "H-how did you do that?"

Kakashi looked to the teenager's brown eyes, "Simple. I practiced."

Ichigo shook his head, "I still can't believe your bankai is that powerful when you've only been a shinigami for less than twenty years."

"You flatter me." Kakashi joked, "Alright, that ought to do it. Don't move around too much, and those bandages ought to do the trick. I'm not a Fourth Division officer, but that should hold well long enough for you to recover fully."

"Thanks." Ichigo spoke, "Hey, Kakashi?"

"Hm?"

"I found out my father is actually a shinigami as well. I was wondering..." Ichigo's voice faded as he tried to find words to his question.

"What, Ichigo?" Kakashi asked, preparing himself for a long explanation.

"How did you go about meeting him? I only heard bits and pieces from Kisuke and my old man before I left with you guys, but...I was wondering if you could tell me more."

Rubbing his masked chin, Kakashi sighed, "I'd need more time to tell you. It's a long story, and believe it or not, it kind of ties into our current situation with being in Konoha."

"It does?" Ichigo looked to the older Soul Reaper, his eyes narrowing, "How?"

Kakashi rubbed the back of his neck while taking in a deep breath, "Well, it all started back about thirteen years ago. I was a year into my service under the Eighth Division at the time..."

- - - - -

Jiraiya was taking a drag from his tobacco pipe while sitting on the top of the Sandaime Hokage's head on the Hokage Faces, "I wish you were here, old man. You would have been a great Soul Reaper with that immense amount of wisdom you always seemed to have."

The Toad Sage blew out a ring of smoke before chuckling, "Then again, maybe it'd be better if you weren't a Soul Reaper. Chances are that you'd probably get on my case about not being one already, heheh."

The wind blew through the Sannin's mane of white hair. He looked down to the bustling village, a smile crossing his face, "Then again...I think Minato would be giving me hell as well for not being a shinigami..." Grimacing a bit, Jiraiya leaned back on his rocky seat, "I sometimes wonder if it's even worth trying. Hell, I was a crappy godfather to a boy that had no family...what could I do with the responsibility of protecting the spiritual world?"

The wind picked up and Jiraiya had to brush strands of hair out of his face, "Gaaah! Alright, alright, I get it!" The wind died down as quickly as it came. Jiraiya sighed before standing up, "When we get back to Seireitei, I'll go and join the Academy. Don't expect anything though."

Jiraiya turned around, heading towards the stairs leading back down to the village. He couldn't help but smile as his thoughts wandered to his godson, "Hell, I'm surprised Naruto hasn't gotten on my case yet. Probably best if I get cracking on the shinigami business before he decides to hassle me too."

- - - - -

"Naruto, are you certain that no one will recognize you? I mean, aside from the brown hair, brown eyes, and lack of whisker marks, you look almost exactly the same."

Naruto, who was disguised in his gigai, smiled to Soi Fon, "Bah, don't worry, Soi Fon! The best disguises are subtle ones. I won't stand out so much if I look like an ordinary citizen of Konoha."

Soi Fon, who too was in a giagi, rolled her eyes, "Fair enough. If people start questioning you though, I'll do the talking. Alright?"

"You got it!" Naruto replied with a thumbs up. She shook her head while they continued to a ramen bar that Naruto had been talking about.

"Welcome!" greeted a young woman in a cooking apron, "What can I get for you two?"

"Miso ramen, please." Naruto spoke, "Eh, make it two. I'm starving."

"One beef with extra vegetables, please." Soi Fon replied as she looked at the menu on the wall behind the bar counter.

"Alright then, two miso ramen and one beef with extra veggies." the girl repeated, "Dad, did you get that?"

"Yeah, already on it, Ayame!" replied the cook in the back.

"Can I get you two anything to drink in the meantime?" Ayame asked, "We have the traditional teas, sake, and even some wine imported all the way from Wave Country."

"Since when did Ichiraku's start serving wine?" Naruto asked.

Ayame smiled, "Well, in all truthfulness, our business has been slow lately, so we've tried to attract more customers with some imported wines. It...it has been helping, but we've been having trouble for the past year. We have our regulars, but with the current economy problems due to our little conflict with a few other shinobi nations, it's to be expected that times are tougher for us."

"Conflicts? Really?" Naruto leaned closer, "With who?"

Ayame shrugged, "Hard to say. Some say it's a cold war more than anything. All talk and no action. Personally I'd rather have that than actual fighting..."

Soi Fon nodded, "I'm surprised that shinobi villages have so many regular citizens. It must be hard living here knowing that there are those who wish to attack your home."

Ayame laughed, "You get used to it with time. We actually were invaded a few years back, but we managed to stop the enemy forces. One of our own shinobi managed to stop some sort of monster that the enemy had been planning on letting loose on the village." Her smile fell, "Honestly, I miss him. He was one of our best customers, and a great boy."

Soi Fon looked to Naruto, "I think I've heard of him. Uzumaki, wasn't it?"

Ayame's eyes brightened up, "Y-yes! Naruto Uzumaki! You've heard of him?"

Soi Fon nodded, "I've heard stories about him. He was traveling with one of the Sannin, or so it's been said..." She sighed, "He died some time ago, didn't he?"

"He died trying to bring back his friend that defected the village," spoke another voice. The group turned to see an elderly cook with two bowls of miso walk out from the kitchen, "He was a great kid...it's a shame that Sasuke had to go and do that to him and the rest of those kids..."

Naruto sighed, "Sasuke was lost. He was being manipulated by Orochimaru, and was obsessed with avenging his clan."

Teuchi Ichiraku gave Naruto a scrutinizing look, "You've heard about that too?"

Naruto shrugged, "Hard not to. He was the last of the Uchiha."

"Hmmph. Uchiha or not, the boy took away a great ninja and wonderful person from all of us." Teuchi stated as he set down the bowls of miso, "I guess it's mainly speculation on what caused it. We're just civilians; we don't get the full story most of the time."

Soi Fon could tell Naruto's mood had dropped a bit. She decided to brighten it up a bit, "So, I've heard that Naruto Uzumaki invented a rather perverted jutsu that changed him into a nude woman."

Naruto looked up from his bowl and gave the Second Division captain an embarrassed glare. Ayame groaned as she recalled the various times Naruto had shown his friends the jutsu while eating ramen at their establishment.

This would surely go under information that Yoruichi would use for tormenting him later. That devilish smirk Soi Fon's face seemed to only further support Naruto's thoughts on the matter.

"It could be worse, I guess...they could know that I am Naruto..." the blond thought.

- - - - -

Tsunade was pouring herself a saucer of sake as Yoruichi finished her explanation on why they were here in Konoha, "That's pretty much all I've got to tell you."

"So," Tsunade began after gulping down the small saucer of rice alcohol, "You're telling me that some evil spirits are devouring my men and women, and that some other-worldly group of death gods is looking into the matter?"

"Pretty much." Yoruichi replied, taking a saucer of sake for herself.

"On top of that, Kakashi, Jiraiya, and Naruto are among your group that's here right now, and that Naruto is actually a shinigami in training?"

"Yes." the Shihoin continued.

"I still can't believe that Kakashi has had that much power for the past fifteen years and we never knew of it..." Tsunade spoke, "Shizune, I need another bottle."

"Yes, Tsunade-sama." Shizune spoke, handing her another bottle. She too had a small cup in her hands.

"What about this Aizen guy? Is he a major threat to us right now?" the Godaime asked.

Yoruichi closed her eyes, "I can't honestly say. The Arrancar are aware of Naruto, and if that's the case, I think it's safe to assume that Aizen at least sees him as a threat. We know of the nine bijuu as well. If Aizen somehow got all of those beasts under his control..."

"I don't think that's going to happen." Tsunade spoke, "After Naruto was killed, Akatsuki sort of collapsed. Obtaining Naruto was vital to their plans. With him dead, and the Kyuubi's chakra having converted to reiatsu and being taken along with Naruto, I think it's safe to assume that obtaining all the tailed beasts is next to impossible for our enemies."

"Not for Aizen." Yoruichi murmured, "The man's always a few steps ahead of us. He probably already has a plan made to obtain that power should he succeed in taking out Karakura."

The Godaime set down her saucer, "Speaking of which, why are his Hollows in the Elemental Countries?"

"That," Yoruichi began, "is due to your Yondaime Hokage, Minato Namikaze. He made a contract with a shinigami, supposedly."

"So...?" Tsunade began, "Weren't you Soul Reapers always aware of our plane of existence?"

"Yes, and no." The Shihoin rubbed her left temple, "Yamamoto once mentioned that we have the power to travel to another dimension. He stated that we should avoid it though, since a large portion of it's inhabitants are more in tune with their spiritual power."

"He was referring to us ninja, wasn't he?" asked Shizune.

"Yes. You see, we Soul Reapers like to keep our existence rather low-key to the living. Only a few are actually aware of our existence who are alive, among them being our dear Sakura."

Sakura smiled while looking down, "I have Naruto to thank for that."

Tsunade nodded, already informed on the unique link between Naruto and her apprentice, "I see. So, Yoruichi, what can we do to help insure that we are safe from attacks?"

"Not much, in all honesty." Yoruichi stated, "If you have any people who seem to be more spiritually aware than others, perhaps keep an eye on them. Hollows are attracted to strong spiritual energy sources. If anything, have them patrolling the village to give reports."

"I see." Tsunade whispered, "Yoruichi-san, I sincerely thank you for telling me of this. If you hadn't shown me the fact you're just inside a fake body, I probably wouldn't have believed any of this." She took out a scroll and dipped a brush in ink, "I know this may seem a bit...informal...but if you could give this to your leading Commander General, I'd greatly appreciate it."

Yoruichi took the scroll, reading over the contents.

To the Sotaichou of the Gotei Thirteen,

I have received word from Yoruichi Shihoin on the predicament relating to the Hollows and your upcoming war with a group of renegade shinigami and Arrancar. Though we may not have much to offer, please feel free to use any of our facilities when needed. Simply have any of your agents inform me of your business, and I will do whatever possible to assist you. While we are in the midst of a struggle between other shinobi forces right now, I realize that this is a much larger-scale problem.

Thank you.

A seal of the Godaime Hokage was placed on the bottom of the scroll. Yoruichi nodded to herself before rolling up the scroll and placing it in a pants pocket, "I'll be sure to give it to him."

"So, how long does your group plan on staying here?"

Yoruichi got up from her chair, "Probably another two days. We're just going to need to get the key in case we ever need to manipulate Naruto's seal holding the Kyuubi. We may also be able to place the Yin part of the Kyuubi's chakra into Naruto someday."

Tsunade sighed before getting up. She walked over to the window, "Why do the best people have the worse of problems dumped on them?"

Yoruichi gave strained smile, "Hard to say. That boy's amazing, the way he just takes everything into stride..."

Tsunade and Shizune both shared a smile, the blond Hokage nodding to herself, "Yeah...speaking of that gaki, where is he right now?"

Sakura spoke first, "He went with one of the captains to train. Her name is Soi Fon, and she's one of the best hand-to-hand combat tutors Naruto could have. There just a little ways south of here, if I'm correct."

Yoruichi nodded in agreement, "Yeah, Soi Fon's opened up a bit more thanks to Naruto. I would even go so far as to say that he's made her a happier person. She's always looked to me as an idol and older sister I suppose; maybe she just needed someone to mentor as well."

Tsunade grinned a little, "Well, tell that idiot that he better come see me or else I'll be sure to give him hell when I finally kick the bucket myself."

"Hehehe, I will, Tsunade-sama-" Yoruichi eyes darted towards the window, and she turned to Sakura, "You feel that too?"

The kunoichi was shaking a bit, nodding slowly, "It feels like the Arrancar that Naruto fought, except worse."

"Damn! I thought we would at least have a day's time before something like this would happen." Yoruichi cursed, "Sakura, head back to your apartment. I need to find Kakashi and Ichigo. Chances are that they can't sense the reiatsu within the barrier Kakashi created in his chambers." With that said, the Shihoin vanished with a quick flash step.

"Sakura, what's going on?" Tsunade asked, her ninja instincts telling her that something was wrong.

"I-" Sakura bit her lower lip, "I'm not entirely sure who it is out there, but it feels like the enemies we've faced before. The Arrancar."

"There are enemies here? In Konoha??" Tsunade asked, rubbing her temples in frustration, "This is just great. Sakura, are they powerful foes?"

Sakura nodded an affirmative, "Really powerful. I just hope the other captains can get to them before innocent people get hurt..." Sakura looked out the window, her heart racing as she felt an oppressive force washing over her.

"Naruto..." Sakura thought, "...hurry back."

- - - - -

Sasuke took a few steps out of the Garganta, taking in his surroundings, "Konoha..."

"Sasuke, remember," spoke Harribel, who along with Apache, Mila-rose, and Sun-Sun, also exited a portal, "Find the target first, then you may do as you wish with this village."

"I know. I don't need you reminding me. Just stay out of my way, Harribel, and everything will be fine." The Quinta Espada looked down from his spot in the air, his Sharingan spinning wildly.

Apache looked to her superior, "Harribel-sama, what are your orders?"

Harribel turned to Apache, "Insure that our mission won't receive interference. I imagine that Soul Society has sent a few to stand guard over this place ever since the portal between realms became larger."

"Yes, Harribel-sama." Mila-Rose, Sun-Sun, and Apache replied with a bow.

Sasuke clenched a fist, his reiatsu spiking, "I'll show them all the consequences of killing off the Uchiha. They will know the power of the Quinta Espada." His knuckles were white as he gripped the handle of his own zanpakutou. He began to float down to the front gate of Konoha, revenge and hatred the only things on his mind right now.

- - - - -

Naruto and Soi Fon both stood in place, looking up to the sky where a large rip in space could be seen.

"That reiatsu..." Naruto thought, "I feel like I know it somehow."

Soi Fon gave her pupil a perplexed look, "Really?"

Naruto nodded, "Yeah. I don't know why though."

Soi Fon sighed, "Well, it's definitely one of the Arrancar. Let's move."

"Right."

The two ran down the road before turning down an empty street. They both pulled out a Soul Candy dispenser, swallowing a gikongan. There gigai stumbled a bit before looking to them in their spiritual forms.

"Report to Sakura-san's apartment. Stay out of danger." Soi Fon spoke. The two souls nodded before running off to Sakura's.

"If they're here to attack Konoha..." Naruto paused, gripping his zanpakutou, "...they're going to have one hell of a hard time doing so."

End of Chapter Eleven- Okay, before I say anything else, sorry to those who waited for an update on this fic. It has been more than a couple of months since my last update, and I blame that on college, work, and being occupied with my other stories as well.

Anyway, yeah, finally got to the beginning of the soon-to-come inevitable encounter with Naruto and Sasuke! Wooo! I can assure you that there will be action and much fighting in the next chapter. Let me know what you think so far.

Well, until the next update, see you later!

Also, a big thanks to Paradox Jast for his awesome beta-skills! Thanks man!