Strike Force

Three Days Before Departure

Uryuu grunted, dropping to his knees as the swirl of bright blue energy around him coalesced, dropping him to his knees as it was sealed back into the Sanrei Glove. Giovanni watched the teen from a fair distance away, noticing that Ichigo had finally rested as well. The teen had been dodging Uryuu's arrows while simultaneously trying to fire back at Uryuu. The resulting clash between the two had only served to make them stronger. Giovanni was sure both of them would be useful in the upcoming invasion of the Soul Society.

'At last,' Uryuu thought. 'It's complete. I owe it all to you...grandfather.'

Ichigo grunted falling to his knees as Uryuu began to rest from his successful training. "Finally!" The teen cried out, the bow of Quincy energy in his hands fading. "That was awful!"

"Yes but it showed quite a significant bit of progression. You make your bow faster than you did before," Givoanni called.

"Yeah because last time I nearly died from one of the arrows Uryuu shot at me!"

"My point still stands."

Ichigo rolled his eyes, ignoring the Quincy. Giovanni snorted and looked at the both of them.

"Alright. You two rest for the remainder of the day. Tomorrow the training gets worse, so prepare yourself. Both of you are gonna be sparring against me, and Ichigo you can only use your Quincy abilities."

"Goddamn it!"

The wall cracked underneath the force. The building had stood for a multitude of years, abandoned and unused by the people of Karakura Town. The wall was still strong though. It was built to hold a bank, only for the company to never move into the building. It's wall were thick, iron beams running through them with a brick covering around it all lathered in a layer of cement. It was built to last. Even without being maintained there wasn't a single visible flaw in its craftsmanship.

That was why it was so surprising to the people of Karakura Town when the wall exploded outwards in a flash of energy.

Orihime cheered, raising Chad's fist to the sky. "You did it! Chad that was so amazing, way to go!"

"You clumsy fool," Yoruichi hollered, cutting their celebration short. The duo looked at the cat confused. "That explosion is causing a panic in the streets! Quickly out the backdoor!"

The trio of students didn't hesitate, immediately dashing for the backdoor. Yoruichi shook her head as she watched the trio move. 'I can't believe how fast the two of them have awakened their powers and become capable individuals.' The cats eyes then shifted to Tatsuki, running slightly slower than her two friends, the girl looking at her hands the entire time.

'Her on the other hand...'

"Tatsuki come here."

The girl stopped following her friends, glancing at the cat with curiosity. "Yes Yoruichi-sama?"

"You still have yet to unlock your powers, and we will leave in three days to go to the Soul Society. I can't send you out there until you prove to me that you can awake the abilities that you did back when your school was attacked by Hollows at will."

Tatsuki frowned, nodding at Yoruichi. The cat glanced up at her. "So here and now, this is your last chance. Prove to me that you can activate your abilities before the humans get here to investigate, or I'm cutting you from the mission."

Tatsuki's eyes widened, fear gracing her eyes as she heard the ultimatum. "Yoruichi-sama-"

"No arguing," Yoruichi called. "I'm not doing this because I don't like you, I'm doing this to save your life. The Soul Society is not a kind place, you will die there if you go with no powers. Either you demonstrate that you are capable of standing up against serious threats or you can stay here in Karakura Town until we all get back. You're free to try and practice without me, but the fact remains you will not be going to the Soul Society unless I see your powers activate right now."

Tatsuki frowned, glancing at Yoruichi and nodding. The teen glanced at her hands, a frown on her face. Her powers? She didn't even know her powers. All she knew was that they had activated when Orihime was in danger and she just felt...strange. It was just a strange thing inside her that she felt the need to call upon. She didn't know if she could call upon it at will. But she would try.

Tatsuki closed her eyes, trying to remember what it felt like. The needles piercing her skin. Orihime's cries for help that she could do nothing to stop. The bright light and the darkness. The feeling of unearthly power coming up from her. That feeling, it was like...like living.

"Interesting. I've never seen anything quite like this."

Tatsuki blinked, her eyes widening as she saw her body covered in a thick cover of sleek black armor, red lines swirling around it that flowed like a form of energy. Tatsuki flexed her hands, feeling the subtle power underneath. She felt like she could destroy worlds.

"So this is my power," Tatsuki stated, her eyes widening as she heard her voice. She sounded like metal screeching together. Yoruichi grimaced, craning her head.

"Yeah, don't talk when you're like that," the cat muttered. "But you called upon your power. Good. We can see what it's capable of later, when humans aren't breathing down our neck."

Tatsuki nodded, and the duo dashed out of the building before the residents of Karakura Town could find them.

Ashido frowned at the look of disbelief on the captains faces. "I'm telling you, Captain-Commander I saw a Hollow of significant strength. It looked like a Shinigami almost, but strangely enough it possessed Hollow and Quincy abilities."

Yamamoto frowned, glancing at Shunsui who shrugged at the glance. He didn't know what was going on. A Hollow with Quincy abilities was unheard of. It was impossible. Hollows couldn't develop Quincy abilities because Quincy's couldn't be absorbed by a Hollow like other souls. The abilities just didn't mesh. It was rare for a Hollow to absorb the abilities of another Soul in the first place, but developing a Quincy's abilities should be impossible. And any Quincy Soul that turned into a Hollow should lose the abilities that it had in life. It didn't make any sense.

"While that makes little sense, considering what you just stated is completely impossible," Mayuri stated. "It is fascinating. A Hollow that possess Quincy abilities. If that is true it brings a whole new depth to Hollow research. And considering this matches the description of a Hollow we've already seen in the Human World. I must demand that this Hollow is brought to me alive Captain-Commander. The research I will be able to perform is astonishing."

"No," Yamamoto stated. "The research be damned, a Hollow that has the abilities this one displays cannot be allowed to exist."

"But Captain-Commander surely you understand the significance of this Hollow. What if more Hollows are developing this ability? If this is indeed the Hollow from Karakura Town not only has it grown incredibly powerful in a short amount of time, it has also developed Quincy abilities. There may be something to Hollow development waiting to be discovered-"

"No!" Yamamoto stated. "This Hollow is to be K.I.A., is that clear?"

"Yes Captain," the Captains present called, causing the elderly soul to sigh. "Dismissed. Ukitake I must talk with you."

The sickly white-haired Captain paused, glancing at Shunsui who merely shrugged. With a nod Ukitake approached his teacher. "Yes Captain-Commander?"

"A ruling came in today from Central 46. You will not like the news."

Ukitake frowned. Central 46 never delivered good news, and in the recent past of the Soul Society there was only one thing that warranted a ruling. One action by a specific Shinigami that could have warranted a ruling, regardless of whether or not she was present. Rukia.

"What did they rule?"

"While her stay in the Human World was not extended due to the presence of the Adjuchas-class Hollow the fact that she did not kill it immediately is being ruled as a conflict of interest. The Central 46 does not believe that they can trust her actions any more."

"What do you believe?"

"What I believe is irrelevant. The Central 46 is the governing body of the Soul Society as dictated by the Soul King. There rules are absolute. Rukia Kuchiki is to be sentenced to death by Sokyoku. Please inform the girl of this. I shall handle the rest."

Ukitake grit his teeth, looking at the elderly Soul harshly. "You're saying she's to be punished outside of my jurisdiction, despite what you said beforehand?"

Yamamoto frowned. "The Central 46 is the governing body of the land. They make the decisions youngster." Yamamoto glanced at Ukitake out of the side of his eye, a harsh gaze on his face. "Or did you forget that?"

Ukitake clenched his fist, turning on his heel to leave. He did not respond to the question.

Day of Departure - Evening

"Karin you haven't been talking at all," Yuzu stated, looking at her sister, the girl still staring at her legs. "I know what happened was really freaky but you have to tell someone. Maybe dad or Ichi-nii could help?"

"No," Karin stated, shaking her head. The girl thought back to the strange mask on Ichigo's face, and how it looked so much like those creatures that invaded Karakura Town. Ichigo's didn't seem to be whole unlike there's though. She had always thought it was a birth defect, but now...maybe it was something more? Was Ichigo turning into one of those things? But he never seemed aggressive, and surely there would be signs. Then again, what would she know, this was all new to her? What did her father have to do with all of this? Nothing was adding up. There was only one thing she knew for sure.

"They can't know about this. We can't put those two in any more pressure than they're already under. We have to protect the family now. Dad and Ichigo are going on their trip soon so we can't bother them."

Yuzu could not understand the gravity of the situation right now. She couldn't let her. Her sister was already sensitive after their mother died...to learn that their father and brother had likely been keeping secrets from them, one so big that it threatened their lives, it was not something she could allow.

"But what if they do?"

"They don't. Have you seen either of them facing down a monster before because I haven't."

Yuzu frowned. "But still, what are you going to do? There's something odd about those boots that you were using."

Karin frowned nodding. The girl focused, her mouth thinning in concentration before the boots formed on her legs again, almost as though they were melting from her skin. It had taken a while, a few days of practice, but she could call on them and deactivate them at will. From what she could tell all they did was make her faster and her legs stronger. Other than that it didn't seem to do much.

"I have to get used to using this power," Karin stated. "More of those monsters are likely to come, and I have to be here to defend Karakura from any of them."

"You can't do that," Yuzu cried. "That's a great idea, but you're by yourself. Those monsters are powerful, you can't hope to defend Karakura from all of them."

Karin shook her head. "Someone has to Yuzu. They hurt people. Besides, I handled the one that attacked us pretty handily didn't I?"

"Yeah but..." Yuzu muttered, only for Karin to smile, placing a hand on the girls head.

"Don't worry Yuzu. I'll be fine. You'll be there to take care of me."

Yuzu smiled, a lone tear falling from her face. "Yep!"

"Isn't this exciting everyone we're finally here at the fireworks festival!"

Ichigo groaned at Keigo's shouting, trying block out his voice. 'This might be my last summer vacation and I have to deal with this?'

"You're so enthusiastic," Mizuiro noticed, although the teen was checking his phone and clearly ignoring Keigo as well. Keigo nodded, clenching his fists tightly.

"Why not? Who doesn't love to watch stuff light on fire and explode!"

"Well don't forget about me," Isshin stated, his thumb up to the sky. "I slept on the sidewalk last night in order to save the very best spots! Follow me and we'll go there now!"

"Hey for a grown-up you're all right," Keigo cried.

"Yeah let's go," Yuzu cried. "This should be fun!" Karin groaned at her sisters enthusiasm, merely nodding. Isshin then turned to Tatsuki and Orihime, the two girls watching with confused expressions.

"What about you two lovely ladies care to join us?"

"Maybe later," Tatsuki replied with worry in her voice. Isshin didn't hesitate.

"Suit yourselves!"

Isshin, Yuzu, Karin, Mizuiro, and Keigo all ran off towards the fireworks show, Ichigo staring at his father with a strange look. The teen scratched the back of his head, sighing. "Well might as well, guess I'll go too," the teen muttered.

'You'd think with the mission coming up he'd be trying to calm himself down not get more hyper.'

Ichigo turned to face his two female friends. "Sorry Tatsuki it's always like this. You don't have to come along if you don't want to."

"Oh don't worry about me Ichigo I'll probably catch up with everybody later you just go ahead and have fun."

Ichigo nodded, waving. "Alright see ya."

"They're all so energetic," Orihime stated, a kind laugh echoing from her lips.

"Yeah I wish I could be like them. There's a lot of pressure on our shoulders in a few days ya know?"

"Yeah I understand. I don't think Kurosaki-kun even knows that we're coming along either. That might be why he's trying to act so normal around us."

"You know Orihime, for someone who seems airheaded you're really good at picking up on things you know that?"

"Really," Orihime said, a smile going on her face. "Well that's good because I had some ideas right..."

Tatsuki simply smiled, listening to the girl rave about whatever her heart desired. Orihime was so pure, and so innocent. She really shouldn't be going into a battlefield, regardless of her powers or how much she cared about Ichigo. But Tatsuki knew she couldn't stop her. It was on her to deal with any threat that came Orihime's way. That was her job as her protector. Her being such an airhead was something she shouldn't lose, ever.

"Did I ever tell you about all the times I used to come here with my brother," Orihime stated as the two girls walked, the sun turning the river next to them a dazzling orange. Tatsuki blinked, craning her head. "He had this amazing ability to catch a dragonfly on his fingertip. He would just point his finger to the sky, and right away a dragonfly would land. It was like magic. I always wanted to be able to do that too, but I never could."

"That's ok," Tatsuki stated, grabbing the girls shoulder. Something was clearly on her mind. "As long as you did your best that's fine. It means you gained something, even if it was good memories with your brother."

"Do you think I"ll see him? In the Soul Society?"

Tatsuki frowned, unable to meet Orihime's desperate eyes. The girl wanted closure, that much was obvious. But Tatsuki couldn't give her that reassurance that she would get any. From what Yoruichi described the Soul Society was massive. There was a small chance she'd see her brother, and smaller chance that he'd remember her, especially after being a Hollow.

"I...I don't know."

Orihime frowned, tears forming in her eyes at the honest answer. She knew it was the best she could hope for. "Yeah, it's probably not likely," Orihime stated. "But still, I'd like to see him. If only to make sure that he was happy."

Tatsuki smiled, grabbing the girls hand. "He had an amazing sister throughout his life," Tatsuki stated. "I'm sure he is happy Orihime. I'm sure he is..."

Fireworks erupted behind the duo.

Day of Departure - Night

"Well I guess it's about time. All we can do now is wait," Ichigo muttered, opening the window in his room before glancing at his father. The man nodded, leaning against the wall a pensive look on his face. "What is it dad?"

Isshin was silent for a few moments, before he sighed. "Your sisters," Isshin stated. "Karin specifically. Her reiatsu changed. It's gotten more powerful over the past few days, significantly so. It's worrying."

"Is that a bad thing?"

"You know what more powerful reiatsu means Ichigo," Isshin stated. "It means more attention from Hollows. She's not at the level where only an Adjuchas would be a threat to her, meaning that regular Hollows are going to try their luck. With us being gone I'm worried."

"I'm sure Hat-and-clogs will protect her."

"Probably," Isshin stated. "If Kisuke doesn't protect them I'd kill him myself."

Ichigo snorted but nodded nonetheless. The two girls were his sisters, and no harm would befall them if he had anything to say about it.

"Hey dad...what was the Soul Society like?"

"The Soul Society," Isshin stated. "It was an interesting place. The Rukongai functions similarly to medieval times, with the Seireitei being the supreme power in the area, although there are Lords that have significant power, enough for the Seireitei to recognize them for official business. The two areas are separated by a massive wall, guarded by gatekeepers. And the people...souls...whatever...are pretty much like the ones you'd meet here. They differ. They're unique. Not everything is good, but it's better than being a Hollow I think."

Ichigo frowned nodding, the stain of knowing his existence dawning on him. The fact that he called Isshin father was still...somewhat awkward considering the fact that the man was not his father. Some Hollow was. It was...unsettling knowing that. Even if he didn't know the full story knowing that was all he wanted or needed to ever know. Isshin was more of a father to him than any Hollow.

Before the teen could think on it anymore however he suddenly blinked, glancing at the window. The teen's eyes widened before he leapt to the ground, a small object flying through the window before splattering on the wall in a red paste. Ichigo blinked, glancing at it.

"Urgent meet us outside the Urahara Shop immediately," Isshin read, frowning.

"Who the hell contacts people like that? This is like some T.V. crime scene written in the victims own blood, and it better not stain my wall!"

The paste dripped further to the ground, revealing more letters from Kisuke's notice.

"If you're thinking this is like some message written in the victim's own blood cliche from some T.V. show, then you obviously have no sense of humor," Isshin stated, a snort escaping his mouth.

"Whatever," Ichigo snorted. "You ready?"

Isshin smirked, stepping from the wall. "Ready."

The two nodded to each other, walking out of Ichigo's room. The two paused as they moved to leave the house, stopping at Yuzu and Karin's door, a grim look on their faces.

"We'll be back you two..." Isshin stated.

"I'm gonna miss you sisters," Ichigo stated. "When I get back I'll be sure to spend more time with you guys."

The two males did not know that behind the two girls stood there, tears silently falling down their faces. With that being said the two males of the Kurosaki household left.

"Well well if it isn't the Kurosaki family, and right on time. Welcome to the club," Kisuke stated.

The teen next to Kisuke stood up, the teen drawing recognition from Ichigo's face. "Hey Chad, what are you doing here?"

"Rukia saved me once," Chad stated. "I want to help her out if I can. I'm going too."

Ichigo stepped back, stunned, but before he could respond another voice interrupted him.

"What's the matter? Are you hard of hearing or something? He's coming with us."

Ichigo glanced at Uryuu, frowning at the teen as he stood next to Giovanni. "Yeah I get that, but it's not safe for him! He's just a regular human, and this is a dangerous mission! Besides, I thought it was just supposed to be the four of us," Ichigo stated, gesturing to his father and Giovanni. "With whoever Kisuke's friend was!"

"Well you were wrong," Ichigo heard, and his heart sank. The teen turned to see Orihime and Tatsuki standing behind him, a grin on the martial artists face. Orihime nodded, a small smile on her face.

"I guess we're all present and accounted for!"

"Can someone please tell me what the hell is going on here?"

"You're a little slow on the uptake aren't you," a masculine voice called, a small cat sitting in front of Ichigo.

"Yoruichi," Isshin stated, giving the cat a nod. The cat nodded back.

"Kid don't tell me you didn't notice the increase in hidden powers in these three friends of yours," Yoruichi stated. "There have been so many clues. You need to be more observant than that if you want to survive. While you were training, so were they. I know you know about Uryuu, but Orihime, Tatsuki, and Chad have all developed their own abilities. Instead of asking stupid, meaningless questions you ought to be thanking them."

Ichigo blinked, stepping back slightly before his eyes widened. "A freaking cat just spoke to me!"

"Alright alright, everybody let's take this little party inside the store, there are things we can't talk about in the open."

"Orihime," Ichigo called, causing the girl to stop walking as everyone moved towards the house. Tatsuki paused not to far from the duo, glancing back at them. "How much do you know about what's going on? I mean, this is gonna be dangerous."

"Yes, I know. But I can't let you go alone."

"I won't be alone."

"Don't you understand," Tatsuki stated shaking her head. "Orihime is going because she cares about you and she cares about Rukia. That's all she needs to care about to go."

Ichigo frowned, Orihime nodding at Ichigo before she walked inside the building, Tatsuki following her. With a grimace Ichigo followed. The group descended into the basement. Chad, Orihime, and Tatsuki's eyes all widened as they looked at the massive construction.

"Wow," Orihime stated. "This is so incredible! Who knew there was something this humongous right below the shop. Ichigo isn't it amazing!"

"I guess."

"What a heartwarming reaction," Tessai stated, tears falling from the mans eyes as he grabbed Orihime's hands. "It's such a pleasure to have you on this trip my dear."

Kisuke shook his head, waving his hands before clapping to get everyone's attention. "Alright everyone your attention please. All eyes right over here." The man smirked as he got their attention, snapping his fingers as a massive stone construction appeared before them like a door frame, the man gesturing grandly.

Isshin groaned. "Not this thing again."

"Well you can't exactly get to the Soul Society the traditional way. You'd be surrounded and killed in an instant. This is your only option of getting in there with time to avoid the detection of the Soul Society. Now for everyone who doesn't know listen up. This here is called a Senkaimon. It essentially lets you travel between worlds. Unlike normal gates this one has a spirit particle conversion machine."

"A what?"

"Let me explain," Kisuke stated. "As you already know the Soul Society is a spirit world. That means that unless you're already in spirit form it's impossible to enter. Right now only three of you can cross through to enter, Ichigo - because of his unique genetic makeup, Isshin - because he's a Shinigami, and Yoruichi. The rest of you will be formed into spirits as well when you cross through the gate."

"So," Uryuu stated. "It will let us pass through without collecting our souls."

"Exactly," Kisuke stated. "But there's a catch," Kisuke stated, grabbing Ichigo just as he marched towards the gate. "The time period that the gate is open for you is only four minutes long."

"But is that enough time," Ichigo questioned.

"Ordinarily no," Isshin stated, interrupting Kisuke. Ichigo paled at his fathers words, glancing at him. Isshin was frowning at Kisuke. The man simply stared at Isshin right back.

"The whole scheme is a little shaky in the first place. Four minutes is the best I can give you. After that it will close and anyone who hasn't made it through yet will be trapped forever in the Dankai. It's a precipice world between here and the Soul Society."

"How will we ever make it," Orihime questioned.

"We can just use our powers," Tatsuki stated. "We can speed through and carry the people who can't move as fast."

"I wouldn't recommend that," Kisuke stated. "While it's true you can do that, it's risky to do it when this gate is so unstable. It may react negatively. To be frank, I don't know."

"Then how do we do it," the girl questioned.

"Go forward," Yoruichi stated, glancing at the teens. "Remember what I told you between your heart and soul. You must have no doubt. No fear. Do not think of those you are leaving behind, the will to go forward will be your guide. And don't look back. Only those that can do these things can follow me through the gate and survive."

"We all know this already or else we wouldn't be here," Ichigo stated. "Enough preaching, let's do this thing now!"

"And you understand that if you lose you can never return to this life again right?"

"Well thanks for keeping it simple," Uryuu stated. Ichigo nodded.

"For once four eyes is right. We just won't lose."

Kisuke smirked, nodding as the gate flashed a brilliant blue light. "Everyone understands huh? Good. As soon as it opens run in as fast as you can."

"Right," Ichigo muttered.

"Good luck. Now go!"

The group of Yoruichi, Isshin, Giovanni, Chad, Uryuu, Orihime, Tatsuki, and Ichigo charged through the breach. Kisuke could only stare at the entry way as he saw the group disappear, a sigh escaping his lips. The man slowly reached up, tapping the entry of the portal only to grimace as it rejected him with a red energy sparking along his hand. The man clenched his fist, frowning.

"We're all counting on you."

The group grunted as they ran, the path in front of them the only thing not covered in that purple...miasma. Orihime honestly didn't know what to call it, but it did not look good. The space before them was the only thing that looked natural so it was what she followed. Orihime frowned, watching as the rest of her friends ran in front of her. She was the slowest person in the group. No surprise there. Her abilities weren't physical in nature like all of theirs were. Her powers were likely the least offensively oriented, but that was fine. She would help in whatever way that she could. Her healing would undoubtedly be helpful in a situation where they were infiltrating a foreign power. It was all about perspective!

"Speed up Orihime," Uryuu called. "Don't look now but that section we just came through is collapsing on us! I'm running as fast as I can but I still don't think we're going to make it through!"

"Quit looking behind you and concentrate your effort on running," Yoruichi called. "If the restricted current swallows you up then it's all over!"

The group nodded, trying their best to speed up only for a massive surge from the miasma to leap forwards towards Orihime. Luckily Uryuu glanced backwards just in time, managing to drag her out of the way, at the cost of the back of his outfit getting caught in the miasma. Ichigo glanced back as Uryuu shouted.

"Uryuu!"

The teen grabbed his larger blade, preparing to cut off the miasma. "I knew that stupid outfit of his was gonna get him caught!"

"Hold it! You mustn't do that Ichigo! The restrictive current entangles the spiritual body. If you reveal yourself using your Zanpakuto it'll swallow you too!"

The teen grunted, pausing as he glanced at Uryuu only for two figures to dash by him, both of them ripping Uryuu's cape and setting him free with a grunt. Giovanni and Chad glanced at each other before they nodded.

"Try and move faster this time Uryuu. I'm not letting another Quincy die on my watch."

Shaken Uryuu stood, preparing to run only for Chad to grab him and place him on his shoulder before taking off in a dash. Giovanni and the rest of the group followed closely, ignoring Uryuu's shouts of protest. Suddenly the teen fell silent, his eyes widening as he heard the commotion. "Um, I don't mean to bother you all while you're running but something else is coming!"

Yoruichi afforded a glance back, the cat's eyes widening as it saw the giant light behind them emerging from the miasma before a massive black thing started to approach at terrifying speeds.

"What is that!"

"It's the cleaner," Yoruichi called. "It comes through here every seven days to clear out the passageway. It's just our bad luck that today is the day. Don't look back at it, that will only slow you down! Just keep running to press yourself harder!"

The group charged, putting all of their effort into running only for Uryuu's eyes to continue to widen in horror. "Guys we're not gonna make it!"

Orihime glanced backwards, frowning as she saw the cleaner approaching. Uryuu was right, they weren't going to make it. Not at this rate. The girl's hands flew upwards, reaching her hairpins. She couldn't attack, that much was obvious, her offensive power was not particularly strong. But her healing and defensive capabilities were. And that was what she was going to rely upon here. That was how she would be useful!

"Santen Kesshun, I Reject!"

Her hairpins glowed a bright golden before three pins launched themselves forwards, glowing golden energy rapidly growing between them to form a triangle like shape in front of the girl. The cleaner roared straight forwards however, clashing with the shield with a grunt and crackle of energy. Everyone shouted a sudden force throwing them forwards. Above the East Rukongai suddenly the sky ripped open, white light shining through before beams of light shot forwards towards the ground causing dust to shoot into the air. As the smoke cleared it revealed the group fine, all having safely landed on Orihime's shield, although their landing positions were awkward to say the least.

"Hey," Orihime stated. "Is everyone alright?"

Uryuu grunted, slowly standing. "I knew it would be rough getting past that gate but I had no idea it would take such a toll on my equipment," Uryuu stated. The teen slowly opened his shirt to reveal another cape. "I wasn't expecting to have to use my spare cape so soon."

"Ah man," Tatsuki stated. Ichigo groaned.

"Don't tell me he brought a change of clothes."

"So this is the Soul Society," Giovanni stated. "Not quite what I expected I'll be honest."

"This isn't the Soul Society in how we typically refer to it," Isshin stated. "This is the Rukongai, the outside of the Seireitei. This is where all the Plus come to live after they've died and reached peace or have been sent here by a Shinigami. The Seireitei is where the majority of the Shinigami are. The entire thing is technically the Soul Society, but few people refer to the Rukongai as such."

"I see," Giovanni stated.

"Isn't this great? We all made it and everyone's okay," Orihime stated.

"This is not great we were lucky," Yoruichi stated, jumping at Orihime to slam into her face. The girl grunted, staggering backwards as Yoruichi glared at her. "I told you not to expose your spiritual powers in there! We're fortunate that the cleaner only made contact with the shield area, if it had even touched any part of your hairpins themselves we'd all be dead now!"

"I'm sorry I, I didn't know," Orihime stated. Tatsuki frowned, placing a hand on the girls shoulders.

"Hey lighten up how was Orihime supposed to know that?"

"I did tell Ichigo not to cut the miasma with his sword did I not?"

The girl frowned, silence overtaking her. Isshin then stepped in, clapping his hands to get everyone's attention.

"Whatever the case we're all here safe and sound. We won't do anything stupid like that again, right Orihime?"

"Yes sir," she muttered.

"Good! Now let's get going to the Seireitei!"

"Wait a minute," Uryuu stated. "This is where the Plus reside right? Doesn't that mean there should be, well ya know, Souls around? It seems awfully quiet around here."

"Probably scared them all off with our landing," Giovanni stated.

"Look at those buildings over there," Ichigo stated, pointing at the more polished architecture. "Why do they look so different?"

"Don't even worry about that," Yoruichi stated.

"Oh I know! I bet that's the Seireitei right! Where all the Shinigami live!" The teen clenched his fists in victory before charging forwards. "Alright Shinigami here I come!"

"Wait you idiot, you can't run up to the gate like that! You'll be killed!"

Ichigo frowned, glancing back with a confused look on his face. "What," he managed to get out right before he shouted, a massive wall slamming on the ground in front of him. If he had been just a little faster or the wall a little slower he would have been crushed. The teens eyes widened as the walls continued to fall around the Seireitei, forming an intimidating wall of stone around the entire place until it was no longer visible.

"Impressive," Giovanni stated. 'No wonder he's biding his time. This place is well fortified.'

The group's eyes widened further however as they saw the titan of a Shinigami that stood before the gate, the man standing at least seven Ichigo's tall, and just as wide with pure muscle.

"What the hell is that," Uryuu muttered.

"Well, well, well, it's been a long time since anyone's tried to pass by the Spirit Gates without a travel permit," the giant said in a deep, booming voice. "And I don't get many guests these days. So welcome to you, little man."

Renji paused as he swung his sword, his blade stopping just before it cleaved through the wooden post in front of him. The Shinigami frowned, grunting at the speakers blasting the announcement out to the entire Soul Society.

"Red alert, red alert, intruders detected in the East Rukongai. This is not a drill. Red alert, red alert, breach detected in East Rukongai."

"Wait what," Renji muttered. "Intruders?"

The Shinigami next to him nodded, quickly disappearing in a burst of speed. Renji followed, his Shunpo easily capable of keeping up with the Seated Officer, the duo appearing in front of the Hakuto Gate with a crowd of other Shinigami around them.

"So the intruders are outside the Hakuto Gate?"

"Then as long as they're on that side there's no need for us to get involved in the matter."

"No," Shuhei stated, a frown on his face as he glanced at the gate apprehensively. "Something is wrong."

"I understand how you feel," Renji stated. "Maybe it's just paranoia but...you think he's here too huh?"

"Rukia is," Shuhei stated. "And with how attached to her he seemed to be it would only make sense."

"I don't know who you guys are taking about," a Seated Office stated. "But we really shouldn't worry, because on the other side of the gate is none other than..."

The giant brought down his massive axe, cratering the ground next to Ichigo causing him to frown, the dust kicked up from the blast getting onto his clothes. He had not brought a spare.

"I am Jidanbo Ikkanzaka, the Hakuto Gate Guardian! Whenever you are ready give it all you've got!"

Ichigo blinked, as though he was just now registering the fact that Jidanbo was threatening him. "Oh are we supposed to fight?"

Jidanbo blinked, before he tilted his head. "Why of course little Soul. Are you scared?"

"Not really," Ichigo stated, grabbing his smaller blade and drawing it. "I just wanted to make sure. I wasn't really paying attention before."

"Should he really be taking this so casually," Tatsuki stated. "I know he's strong and all but that guy is gigantic! He can't be a Soul from a human!"

"He is Jidanbo," Yoruichi stated. "He is the guardian of the Hakuto Gate into the Sereitei, one of four gates and he has never been defeated in combat in over 300 years by any invader who has crossed his path. It will not be an easy feat to defeat him."

"How do we plan on beating someone like that," Tatsuki questioned.

"Well the first thing we need to do is come up with a strategy to defeat him. This is where your creativity comes in. Ichigo let us-WHAT ARE YOU DOING?"

Chad and Orihime were both running forwards towards the two facing off in front of the gate, completely ignoring the conversation Tatsuki and Yoruichi were having.

"Come back here both of you! Have you lost your minds!"

Jidanbo raised his blade, Ichigo not bothering to lift his own as the giant cratered on the ground behind him, dragging it around to cause the stones to lift up into the air, blocking the entryway from the two Humans attempting to interfere.

"You two need some works on your manners. What are you country bumpkins or something? We're civilized here in this city. Here are the rules: Rule number one, always wash your hands before you sit down to eat. Rule number two, don't eat food that's fallen on the floor. Rule three, battles in the city are always fought one on one!"

The Human's eyes widened, causing Jidanbo to frown. "The spiky-haired kid appeared in front of me first, so he shall be my first opponent. Then I'll come back for you two. This won't take long. Promise."

"Oh no, Ichigo's in trouble! That guy isn't just big he's insanely strong!" Orihime cried. "We have to do something!"

"Orihime, Chad are you there?"

The duo paused as they heard Ichigo's voice, the teen not even sounding worried about the situation that he was in.

"Yeah, Ichigo it's us! Are you alright?"

"Yeah, I'm still alive and kicking!"

"That's good! We're coming to help you! Just wait right there!"

"Yeah, well here's the thing Orihime, I'd actually like you and Chad to just stay put and let me handle this by myself."

"What? Ichigo this is too big a job for even you to handle alone."

"Don't worry," Ichigo called, his voice hinting at annoyance. "Just wait over there. It'll be okay!"

Tatsuki shook her head, marching forwards. "I refuse to do that! Ichigo we can't afford to wait around! Instead of wasting time battling the guardian we've got to attack together and get passed this challenge."

"Nah," Ichigo stated plainly, getting her to sweatdrop. Before she could argue however Chad approached the wall, a smirk on his face. "Can you do it," he asked quietly.

Ichigo grunted, rubbing the back of his neck with his free hand. "Probably."

"Probably!" Tatsuki called. "What's wrong with you don't you understand this is a life or death situation we're in here!"

"Look don't worry about it alright. Listen I'll tell you all an interesting little story. Uryuu, remember when I was training with you and Giovanni? You guys said I was unbalanced at the time, do I seem unbalanced to you now?"

"Not at all," Giovanni stated. "You're the most in balance you've ever been since you actually started using your powers."

"Right. And in those long, grueling hours of work I didn't just learn Quincy abilities. I gained tremendous strength and stamina."

"This is no time for bravado Ichigo," Tatsuki called. "This is serious."

"Don't worry about it," Isshin stated, waving them off. "Ichigo's got this. He's my son after all!"

"Indeed I'm not worried about him," Giovanni stated. "Throughout our training Ichigo progressed quite rapidly. There is no doubt in my mind that he can easily defeat this opponent."

"But he's so huge," Tatsuki argued.

"And Ichigo is strong," Uryuu muttered. "Stronger than I care to admit. Whether it was the training with Giovanni and I or his time in Hueco Mundo, he is not someone to take lightly. He was fighting Lieutenants before he even got training."

"To be fair, he was losing those battles," Giovanni stated. "But he did not make it easy on his opponents. He has only gotten stronger since then."

"Exactly," Ichigo stated before he pointed his small blade up at Jidanbo. "Thanks for waiting. Now let's get to the part where I kick your ass."

"Tch. You done making speeches?"

"I mean technically I never asked you to wait," Ichigo muttered. "You could have attacked at any time."

A vein on Jidanbo's forehead bulged, the muscles in his arm tensing. "So you are a country bumpkin after all. Didn't your folks teach you any manners," Jidanbo roared, raising his axe.

"Actually no," Ichigo muttered.

"I take offense to that!"

Jidanbo ignored the comedy, glaring at Ichigo with a vengeance. "If someone is kind enough to wait for you, you should say THANK YOU!" Jidanbo cried out his declaration as he brought down his hammer, Ichigo lazily raising his sword up as he did so. With a BOOM the two weapons met, a cloud of dust kicking into the air. As the smoke died down however Jidanbo's eyes widened as he felt his axe suddenly shift upwards.

"Huh?"

Ichigo had stopped the attack cold with his short blade.

"Who are you spiky head," Jidanbo muttered, fear in his voice for the first time.

"I'm no expert, but isn't it also bad manners to attack before your opponent is ready?"

Jidanbo's face reddened before the giant of a man burst out into laughter, his voice echoing throughout the area. "You're gutsy I'll give you that spiky head! I can't remember the last time someone was able to stop the swing of my axe! This is going to be fun! For once I'll be able to give it everything I have! Of all the intruders that have come upon this gate, there have only been two who were powerful enough to stop my first swing. But that is where the story ends because neither they nor you could ever hope to stop my second swing!"

With that Jidanbo swung his axe once more, Ichigo raising his blade in a lazy guard despite the man clearly putting more effort into this swing. The weapons clashed, another cloud of dust shooting into the sky, only for it to clear to reveal Ichigo standing there, unharmed.

"Are you still standing? Impressive. I guess I get to keep trying until you break. Let's see how you like this! Jidanbo Ten Strike Festival!"

The man roared as he swung downwards, counting his attacks as clouds of dust kept shooting into the air from the force of his blows. The wall that separated the battling duo from the rest of the strike force shattered under the force, revealing Jidanbo with his axe downwards in a final swing as the wave of blows ended.

"Got him...I think?"

The giants statement could never be more wrong as Ichigo stood there, his small blade deflecting the axe just as it had deflected all of the other ones.

"What?" Jidanbo called. "That's impossible! How can you still be standing?"

"He's not wrong," Tatsuki muttered. "That does seem impossible."

"Ichigo is so cool right now," Isshin muttered, tears falling from his eyes. Uryuu shook his head at the man.

'This is Ichigo's father? How are they so different?'

"Are you finished Gate Keeper?" Ichigo muttered. "Because if you are then it's my turn now!"

"I'm not done," Jidanbo called, panic clear in his voice. "I'm not done! I just have to bring out some more weaponry," the giant called, pulling another axe from his clothing. Ichigo snorted. That wouldn't help, and the giant knew it. He was panicking because he had never been pushed this far before. That much was obvious. Jidanbo roared, raising the weapons above his head before he flexed, his face turning red with effort as the armor on his arm shattered as his muscles expanded, falling to the ground.

"My ultimate attack! See if you can withstand the Jidanbo Banzai Strike Festival!"

Ichigo watched the attack descend, a sigh escaping his lips as he merely cocked his blade back. 'He's not worth any technique.' And with a grunt he swung, shattering the axes like paperclips, the force of the blow sending Jidanbo flying backwards into the gate with only his handles in his hands, the metal of his axes all across the ground.

"Woah Ichigo sent that giant flying with a single swing of his blade," Orihime called. Tatsuki's eyes were wide.

"No way," she whispered. 'Ichigo...just how strong have you become?'

Jidanbo grunted, blinking before he hopped onto his feet. "Woah you almost got me that time! I can't believe I slipped and fell on my behind! It's been a long time since that happened. What's that weird look on your face for? I bet you're the one who thinks you sent me flying backwards don't you! You should really know better than that, but it's typical of a country bumpkin like you to think that a gatekeeper like me could be blown away so easily? All I have to do is make one more swing with my might axe and-"

Ichigo pointed.

Jidanbo glanced at where he pointed, his eyes widening as he saw his only the handles to his axes in his hands, just now noticing the damage that had been done. The giant was silent.

"Well?" Ichigo muttered. "Are you gonna say something or just stand there?"

Jidanbo could only blink once, twice, and three times before he burst into tears, falling to the ground as he slammed his hands on the ground whining. "My axes! My axes are ruined! Why? Why did you have to do it! Why? Why did you have to destroy my beautiful babies! Why?"

Ichigo sweatdropped.

"He was just trying to be a tough guy on the outside," Uryuu muttered, rubbing the back of his head.

"Hey look I'm sorry about your axes but I couldn't let you keep swinging 'em at me. Although I guess I could have let you keep one of 'em. My bad."

"No you're not bad," Jidanbo whined. "Even though you're my enemy you care! Instead of using this time to get through the gate you're actually caring about your opponent and his axes! What a good person you are my spiky headed enemy! What a generous heart you have!"

"Well it's only natural to wanna console someone who cries so much even if they are a bit...big."

Jidanbo nodded, rising to his feet. "I know, I'm acting like a big baby. All that crying and moaning over a couple of old axes. I'm nothing but an embarrassment as a man. I'm a total loser! You have defeated me not only as a warrior, but as a man as well! It has been three hundred years since I've guarded the Hakuto Gate and in all those years never have I lost a challenge or allowed anyone to pass this way! I thought the day would never come but you were the first man to defeat me! Therefore, I Jidanbo hereby grant you passage through the Hakuto Gate!"

Ichigo blinked. "Oh? Cool."

'That's all he can say,' his high school friends thought simultaneously, shaking their heads.

"Wait," Giovanni called. "You're going to let all of us pass through?"

"That's right. I was decisively defeated in battle by your leader. As a result I have no right to stop anyone in your group."

"What!" Uryuu called. "Who ever said anything about Ichigo being our leader! Absolutely not!"

"It's no big deal so why are you so upset Uryuu," Ichigo stated, a deadpan expression on his face.

"So your name is Ichigo huh spiky head?"

"That's right. I'm Ichigo Kurosaki."

"That's a pretty cute name for someone who seems to take himself so seriously don't ya think?"

Ichigo glared at the giant man. If looks could kill, the giant would be dead. "My name is not cute! Ichi means number one, and go stands for guardian and that's what I am!"

Isshin shook his head at his sons antics, a small smile playing on his face. Giovanni noticed the look, a smile developing on his face as well. Jidanbo smirked at Ichigo's outburst.

"Yeah whatever, you take care now. I don't know why you're so determined to pass through this gate but those you'll meet on the other side are all very strong."

Ichigo grinned, and for a brief moment he wanted to let his reiatsu flow freely, but he decided to follow his better judgement and controlled himself. "I'm well aware of that. I have some scores to settle in there if I ever get the chance."

Jidanbo nodded. "As long as you think you know what you're getting into. Now stand back."

With a grunt Jidanbo slowly began to move the gate upwards, his muscles bulging through the tremendous effort. It was clear this was hard on him. His skin color was slowly changing to a reddish hue and the sounds he was making sounded painful. But the gate continued to rise. With a final roar of effort Jidanbo threw the gate upwards, resting it on his shoulders as he breathed in deeply, sweat trickling down his form. Slowly the giant glanced upwards only to freeze.

Ichigo frowned, the giant had not said anything since opening the gate and seemed like he was going to continue doing that. Ichigo couldn't see why, the giant covered the majority of the opening, so the teen rushed forwards glancing at Jidanbo. "Hey Jidanbo what's up? Why are you frozen like that? Is everything alright?"

Jidanbo didn't respond, his eyes still locked on something. Ichigo frowned, glancing forwards, looking for whatever Jidanbo was worried about. There was no one he could see that was too significant. From this distance all the Shinigami looked the same with their black robes. There was only one...oh.

Ichigo immediately tensed as he saw the white haori. He knew what that meant. The Captain approached them, stopping not far from them, a pleasant smile on his face but the pressure in the air was anything but. Ichigo frowned.

"Who is that?"

"That is none other than the Captain of Squad 3, Gin Ichimaru!"