The wind howled through the shattered windows that acted as the ground of the mindscape the Death god and his spirits resided in.
The former shinigami pales as his scorned spirit and the Hogyoku glare at him with such a hidden ferocity it was palpable. For all he knew, it was going to be a battle of life and death, and the outside world would suffer for it. Ichigo knew he had no zangetsu at his hip, so he would then have to be using his fists.
He shifted into an unsure battle stance which betrayed his air of confidence in ways that revealed he was actually nervous. Why shouldn't he be? The being who destroyed the most powerful enemies Ichigo had acquired, and the object that gave rise to spiritual warfare the likes the universe had yet to see, were both staring him down with hatred.
The small woman, standing next to the hollow stepped forward, her dress flowing elegantly, ignoring the extreme tempest they found themselves now trapped in.
"I'm the Hogyoku." The petite woman said, Breaking the stoic silence.
His anger getting the best of him, The hollow spat out "Like I said. Green-Bitch."
The smaller woman, looking fed-up with his vulgar mannerisms and lack of tact turned her icy glare to the taller and more imposing figure next to her.
"As I keep saying, Stop calling me that, Fool of a Hollow." The Hogyoku said, then turning back to the source of the change in the inner world.
"I'm the Hogyoku." The petite woman said.
Ichigo was nearly breaking bearing with how cold he was.
"Weak. To think that THIS is the one to defeat my former master.." The woman said, Unimpressed.
She waved her hand, and the landscape changed from a snowy hellscape, to something more familiar to the death god.
"Remember? Remember the world that came about from your failure?" The hollow taunted. Much to the Hogyoku, and Ichigo's Ire.
"Begone." The Hogyoku said, as she waved her hand towards the Hollow, and he began to turn into a black fire. Much like the last time Ichigo put him into a dormant state.
"I'm not through with you, boy." The hollow growled, as he pointed at Ichigo before fully disappearing.
Ichigo was stunned. The hollow would attack and lecture, sure, But he had never thrown out these insults so casually. Why?
"I wonder why he was so angry.." Ichigo asked, Crossing his arms.
The woman scowled, and said "When was the last time you've performed Jinzen?"
Ichigo thought back to when the last time he'd done that, and the most recent he could find was when he was training for the Final Getsugatensho. Truthfully, through his crusade for his friend Orihime he realized not once had he spoken to Old man Zangetsu.
"..When I defeated Aizen?" Ichigo said, Then snapping his eyes back up and asked "Wait, I thought I killed Aizen, And the Hogyoku was fused with him. What's going on." Ichigo asked, Putting up his guard to the max.
She simply held up her hand and said "Calm down, Fool. No. That's not what's happening at all. I had not once intended to lose, Yet, We lost. So I decided that Aizen, My former Master, Was no longer suitable for me. Thus, When I felt your weakening spiritual pressure and figured out that the attack that had surpassed me was at the cost of your powers." The Hogyoku spoke, Before pausing to see if Ichigo got all of that. He nodded, and then she continued as the waters began to chill around the pair.
"I got to work Bonding with your soul," The Hogyoku continued.
Ichigo's eyes widened, as he crossed his arms, putting a seemingly broken puzzle together.
"I was able to stop the descent of your Powers by repairing the hole in your Soul sleep.. As I expected, It worked, and now as an added bonus, Your soul has stopped ageing completely. You have been sent to this world. An unknown variable has occurred due to the fusing to your soul. What happened next forced me to use every power I had to continue my own existence." Said the Hogyoku, Studying her new master's face.
"how?" Ichigo finally croaked out. Oddly enough, his mouth and throat were dryer than a desert, even underwater.
Normally, Fighting creatures from nightmares and maniacs who strove for dominion of the world would be the man's Tuesday, but this? It was something that caught Ichigo's undivided attention. As well as a primal sense of anxiety.
"When you tried to revert back to Shikai, I was startled by the sudden strain of your power being restricted. Imagine a gushing faucet, being plugged. I was the only place the excess Reiatsu could rush to. It was unintended, But in order to not be destroyed, I used all of that power by crossing into another Universe. I was panicked, and I'm sorry. Up until now, However. I had identified some foreign Reiatsu of a shinigami named Rukia Kuchiki and her Zanpakuto, So using those imprints as a base, I had discovered a way to physically manifest. Aizen had preferred me to be formless, And I shall do the same. If you wish it. " She said, as she cast her eyes down.
Ichigo blinks, as he struggled to process all of that information. "Well...It's okay if you stay like that. That actually answers a lot of my questions...But will we be able to go back?"
"It...Will take a very long time, Ichigo." The Hogyoku responds.
Ichigo looked around for a bit, Already expecting that answer. One more question that he had, Was, why was his hollow here, and Old man Zangetsu wasn't?
"Where's Zangetsu?" Ichigo asked.
The Hogyoku pondered for a minute, Then met his eyes with a small grin.
"You want me to bring him here?" She asked, Already anticipating Ichigo's nodding.
"Very well." She Responded, And waved her hand to her right. There was a vortex of water that sucked the air from above and brought it down to their level, and once it was done, It revealed Ichigo's worst fear.
There was the hollow, Standing there with it's Helmet pulled to the side, Absolutely grinning like a madman.
"Oi, You should see how pathetic you look." It's watery voice rang out.
Ichigo was stunned. How? How? He clearly said Zangetsu. 'There's No-...Oh.' Ichigo's Face morphed from being dumbstruck to looking like he had just finished the world's greatest puzzle.
Now it makes sense. The Hollow had already told him before, Many times, That he was in-fact, Zangetsu... But that means.
"Now you get it, You fuckin Idiot. Did it click into place?" Zangetsu said, Looking very angry.
"You've been askin' for support from something other than your Zanpakuto. I've been dormant for the LONGEST fuckin time! Until Green-Bitch here-" He was interrupted by the small woman's pouting, but continued. "Released that Thing's hold on my and my presence. Ta, Da! Here I am." Zangetsu said, Emphasizing the word 'Thing'
"..." Ichigo couldn't find the words to say. THIS was his zanpakuto? His partner? Then...What was The old man?
"Simple." The Hogyoku answered, Almost as if she's reading Ichigo's mind.
"Juha Bach."
Ichigo was confused. He had never heard of that name before.
The Hogyoku sat down on a platform of reishi and while sighing quietly, she motions for Tensa zangetsu to come over to her. He scoffs, and pulls his mask down before coming over to her.
Ichigo also sits down on a platform of reishi.
"Juha Bach, or Yhwach, Is the Progenitor of the Quincy race. From analyzing your soul I have found vast amounts of Quincy Reiatsu. And the source..."
"Is me." Another, More comforting voice, emanated from Tensa Zangetsu's shadow.
The Hogyoku sighed, and said "Don't cut me off. I was getting to you in a moment." Tensa Zangetsu's shadow began to morph into a 3D object, and Began to take shape. A short time later, The Young Zangetsu was present, Except, That flowing-like-fire cloak had reverted to just a regular red tinted black cloak. Underneath was just a white button up uniform blouse.
"Hello Ichigo." The young man greeted.
"Are you...Juha Bach?" Ichigo asked, Testing the name on his tongue.
The young man had a sorrowful expression plastered to his face.
"No, I'm Merely a Manifestation of his soul. All quincies have his blood coursing through their veins. You, are no different, Ichigo." The Teen-aged Yhwach Manifestation replied, Anticipating Ichigo's shocked expression.
"I'm really a Quincy...How? Surely Uryu would have picked up on that, Right?" Ichigo stammered out Growing increasingly anxious under Zangetsu's scrutinizing gaze. But it wasn't malicious.
"Ichigo. I'm sorry, to have hidden something such as this from you. The Hollow...Zangetsu...Was dormant, because of me. I was the dominant spirit. I oppressed him and his influence as you grew. Why? I did not want you to walk the path of the Shinigami. I could only foresee pain and misery from that. But...As always, the Hollow found ways to break the shackles around him, and help you. The battle with the Espada, Ulquiorra, I could no longer contain his influence. He was fully awakened, and he assumed control as the dominant spirit." The Quincy spirit explained.
Seeing Ichigo's understanding look, He continued.
"When the Hogyoku merged with you, She had taken off all of the blocks I had placed within your Shinigami powers. The reason you don't see a tangible difference is this: Your Spiritual pressure has exceeded worldly sense. In other words, Your Reiatsu is now so extreme that it can no longer be felt by normal means. It is transcendent. You...Are transcendent. It is as the Hollow said. 'You are a god.' and in the most literal sense, too."
"But.." Ichigo began, but then he found that he had nothing to say. Nothing came to mind. He was truly a God? Truly transcendent? Everyone around him called him as such, and even made accommodations to the way they referred to him, but he didn't truly believe it.
The Shinigami was a loss for words. Merged with the Hogyoku? Where was she? He'd showered plenty of times to see that the stone was nowhere on his body.
"So. You're the Real Zangetsu?" Ichigo asked, as he pointed towards the Helmet-clad Zanpakuto.
"No Shi-... duh."
Ichigo shook his head at Zangetsu's near curse laden answer. "And you're the manifestation of my Quincy...powers?" Ichigo tested, Unsure if that was the right term.
"Yes."
"....And you both change appearance whenever I enter Bankai?" Ichigo pondered, A hand to his face.
The trio of spirits looked at each other, Knowing what's going to come next.
Overwhelmed by the revelations he was facing, Ichigo collapsed unto his rear, and tightened the fist that was not on his face.
"You're both my Zanpakuto..One half is hollowfied, and the other is quincy...and the Shinigami part is the vessel that holds you both?" Ichigo concluded.
The Hogyoku giggled, before stating "Well...I guess that can be said. Close enough."
"...I see." Ichigo said, In realization. However, There came many more questions. Both about his Hollow and Quincy Heritage.
There were so many possibilities for Ichigo now. How much could he learn with these newfound truths? How much good can he do to the world with his newfound power?
It was unnoticed by the Shinigami and his Partners, But the Hogyoku noticed well.
The ocean was draining, and the Buildings were growing. Slightly, But still growing.
"Now comes the fun part! Now that you know I'm your Zanpakuto, It's time to test if you're Worthy of my power!" Hollow Zangetsu bellowed out as he got into a stance.
Hotheaded by nature, the Zanpakuto, not hollow, called forth his sword form and used sonido to appear twenty feet Infront of Ichigo, his newly realized wielder.
Ichigo, not willing to let this destroy him chose to treat this as any other trial before: By standing up and surprisingly, Tensa Zangetsu was already in his grasp.
But there was one dilemma..
"Wait. What do I call you? I already call Yhwach Zangetsu, And it'd be weird to call him anything else."
Saying this caught The Quincy spirit by surprise.
"I dont give a singular shit what you choose to call me. I am Zangetsu." The zanpakuto spirit replied.
"...I got it, Shirosaki. Shiro because you're white as hell, and Saki because thats half of my last name. Plus, you're my spitting image." Ichigo said.
"I hate you." Shirosaki replied, Smirking under his mask.
"I'm sure...that you both are Zangetsu...But it'll get kinda confusing if I call you both by the same name, I guess." The substitute said.
"Well, If I recall correctly, Shiro here, wants to give you a trial. Correct?" The Hogyoku chirped from her platform of light-green Reishi.
"W-Wait, Hold on, You're not off the hook yet." Ichigo said, Shaking a finger at her, Shiro face-palmed and grew restless.
The small Woman raised her eyebrow and chuckled. "Oh?"
"Yeah. We need a name for you too... How about..-"
"Tsuki no Negai. Suki, If you want." Suki interrupted, A form of determination plastered to her face.
"Okay, Suki.." Ichigo responds, as he hears some heavy breathing, he turns to his left to see Shirosaki, and he did not look happy whatsoever.
"You done with your weakling naming ceremony yet, King?" The Irate sword spirit called out.
"Yeah, Yeah. Don't you worry. I'll beat your ass just the same. Get ready!" Ichigo said with a grin.
Suki and Zangetsu disappeared to a spot further away to watch the battle.
Ichigo was finally armed, And surprisingly, Getting his ass kicked.
"So. Quincy. If you didn't want Ichigo's life to be pain and misery...Why did you hold back his power? Surely you see issue with that logic. To want to protect him, Yet, Dampen his ability to protect himself and those he cares for." Suki asked, a sly grin adorning her face. She shifted to view Zangetsu's youthful face better, as her Armor clacked against each other as she crossed her arms under her chest.
"...It's selfish, But I wanted to be the source of his power." Zangetsu says, Wistfully, as he overlooks the battle being waged ahead of them. Buildings crumbled and fell with each strike and parry, Yet it seems that Ichigo had finally found his rhythm, and was faring well.
"To see him in pain...Was never something I wanted to see. But it was for naught. That power, That...Hollow was always the dominant one, Even when I was the one present. Even when dormant, he always was keeping a vigilant eye on Ichigo." Zangetsu continued.
"Suki." Zangetsu asked, Re-affirming her attention to him. "This is what was told to Ichigo, Among the first of his visits to this world...Do you know how I hate the rain? And it rains in this world too. If his heart is troubled, The sky becomes cloudy. If he grieves it will rain ever so easily. I wonder if you understand...the fear of being rained on, in this lonely world." Zangetsu said, Looking at the battle closely, as he thought back to a time when before the hollow was active, and it was just him and the flagpole.
"To stop that rain...I lent him any strength, any power, If he had faith in me, I would not allow any rain to fall within this world. As long as I am here, He will never fight alone." Zangetsu concluded. Suki looked on in what looked like a mix between admiration and confusion.
"I see." Was her simple response. She wasn't his Zanpakuto, So she couldn't allow herself look into Ichigo's memories. She was only able to look at his personality, and his soul. His memories are his, and his alone.
"Well...It's a shame to see, But it appears that the rain had bested this world."
"Yes...When Ichigo's heart was blown out of his body, He had died with anger, Grief, Sorrow and Regret, And soon, This world was flooded. That Girl, Orihime, Was the only thing keeping Ichigo alive. She gave the hollow enough time to assume control and save Ichigo. At the cost of the boy's control over the hollow."
"I..See." Heart blown out of his chest? When? She and Aizen weren't in Hueco Mundo at the time, so she wasn't able to see the fighting. Just what happened in Hueco Mundo?
"Thank you, Hogyoku. For you have given us a chance to be a part of Ichigo's life once more." The young Zangetsu said, as he nodded towards Suki.
"...It's quite alright. I'm just confused on why he has an attack that directly ruptures his soul sleep." Suki questioned.
Zangetsu ignored the question and turned his attention to the near concluded fight a bit too quickly.
Suki realized that she's not going to get any more answers from him, and with a sigh, conceded her argument in favor to watch the battle.
Ichigo's victory had began pulling through, If Ichigo's flurry of unarmed strikes could show. But Shirosaki wasn't done yet, as he began to use his sword as a flail, and retreating in favor of using ranged attacks.
The battle continued for another two hours, before both occupants began to slow down.
"Give up damn it!" Ichigo called out to Shiro, Who looked rough in comparison.
"Shut.. your stinkin'... mouth" Shiro said, Swiping at Ichigo's midsection.
With a sudden burst of power, Ichigo grabbed Shiro's Gauntlet, And flipped him over his head. Thrusting him into the side of a skyscraper.
"Damn it!" Shiro said, Breathless at the force Ichigo exuded.
"I win." Ichigo breathed out.
"ha...haha...ha-hahaHAAHAHAHA!" The hollow cackled violently, as he stood back up, all signs of damage gone, and his sword disappearing.
"I guess you really did listen to me, huh. To what I said about instinct." Shirosaki said, Pulling his regenerating mask aside to reveal a monstrous grin.
Ichigo didn't answer, but he looked down to see an all Tensa Zangetsu chaining itself to his arm once more. The Handle and blade were white, But the chains and guard were black, The gauntlet itself was still pitch black, But it was now flowing like fire..
"Ichigo, You stupid dumbass, I now give you permission to use my powers. Fully." Shiro said, Stressing the word 'Fully'
"...That means.." Ichigo began, but was interrupted with;
"Thats right, Idiot! Helmet, Sonido and All!"
This was one of the rare times Ichigo had seen Shirosaki act like this. Aside that time he complained about not being able to use electronics underwater...and that time he reminded Ichigo of when he saw Yoruichi naked in the hot spring..
"I see..." Ichigo said, before walking up to his zanpakuto.
Shirosaki, Looking up with a perplexed face, he questioned: "The hell are you doing?"
Ichigo didn't answer immediately, greatly increasing Shiro's confused face.
"Partner.?" was the word Ichigo said
Well it was more a question, as he stuck his hand towards the zanpakuto.
Shirosaki was confused, then pulled his mask down with a chuckle. "I hate you." he said as he grabbed the hand, and shook it briefly before squeezing hard.
Pulling the death god close as to get into his face, he spat;
"Die again, and I dunno if I'm gonna be able to asspull next time." Warned the newly named Shirosaki.
Ichigo chuckled earning the ire of the hollowfied sword spirit in front of him.
"...Not to be cocky at all...But have you seen the power scaling of this world?" Ichigo reminded.
"...Fair point."
"Do not dismiss the gods from the outside so easily. We still have yet to see their strongest." Zangetsu reminded wisely.
"True...I also want to explore the dungeon, But I'm pretty sure that I wont be able to. gods aren't allowed to go into the dungeon." Ichigo reminded wistfully
"That is also true. But, Since when were you one to Obediently follow rules? To submit yourself to impossible and disloyal laws?" Zangetsu said, The faintest hints of a grin tugging at his lips.
"Damn right." Shiro said, Using Ichigo's hand as leverage to stand up straight.
The shinigami then and his spirits looked towards an awkward looking Suki.
"There's still an important matter to reveal to you. I'm ashamed to have forgotten it, But here it is." Suki said, Holding out a hand.
Ichigo stood rigid, What else could she reveal to him? He's almost numb at these revelations.
In the center of her palm, There was a single orb of golden energy. Ichigo shuddered at the feeling of the ominous Reiatsu pouring out of the orb.
"What...Is that?" Ichigo asked, His eyes were glued to the energy.
"The power you used to save your friends in Hell." Zangetsu concluded.
"It is as Zangetsu said. This, Is the power the Kushanada gave you, in order to defeat the Togabito named Kokuto.."
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Flashback: Hell, With Ichigo
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Ichigo was trying, And failing, To hold the Hollowfication at bay, But he could still feel it coming. His eyes flickered up to Rukia for a moment.
"Yes! Hate me more, It's the only thing that's gonna make you strong, Boy!" Kokuto growled out as he started to walk towards Ichigo.
The substitute was forced to stop struggling to stand, In order to not lose his head. Kokuto had begun to assault the wounded substitute with hasty and precise slashes.
Ichigo was totally on the defensive, As the orange haired man ducked and rolled under another swipe.
"Tch" Kokuto said, as he materialized his chains and wrapped them around Ichigo's ankle.
With a mighty tug, Ichigo was dragged and thrown through a pillar of fossilized bones. But, The sinner wasn't done yet.
Kokuto, Still using his chain, Had thrown Ichigo overhead and into the ground with a harsh *SNAP*
Then, The chains de-materialized as Kokuto divebombed the shinigami with his sword outstretched.
Ichigo didn't even have time to block it, and was impaled through the stomach, Ichigo's passive Reiatsu barrier exploded underground as it was penetrated.
"What's wrong, Cant summon forth your demon? Do you need me to kidnap your sisters again..." Kokuto baited, and was then subject to a hard and heavy wave of Reiatsu that seemed to make the air shimmer and flicker.
Kokuto jumped away with a scowl and looked on as Ichigo's Reiatsu flickered like fire around him.
Ichigo's eyes were Gold on Black, and there was a signature warble to his voice that was a telltale sign of Hollowfication.
Then, The boy's eyes widened considerably as a porcelain substance erupted from his chest, Mouth and Eyes.
The hollow had arrived.
Ichigo was again, Trying and Failing to not succumb to the hollowfication process, Keeping conscious was among the first of his priorities.
"That's it...Good." Kokuto began "Your body's lost control before.. The second time should be easy!"
But the substance still coated his skin and formed that white devil that annihilated the 4th Espada.
"The truth is.. you can never truly suppress that monster within you! Struggle as much as you like, In the end it's Hopeless!" Kokuto taunted again.
The experience was extraordinarily tiresome and exhausting, To stay conscious whilst your body trying to act against your wishes.
But.. it was starting to fade, His battle with his consciousness was beginning to end with the Hollow as the victor. Just before Ichigo slipped from reality, A single, comforting yet frightened voice screamed out.
"Ichigo!"
Ichigo's eyes snapped open, and looked at Rukia who was now being held in the air by her Chain of sin.
He couldn't hear exactly what Kokuto said, But it made him angrier. He wanted to prove that smug bastard wrong..
*BWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!*
What sounded like a single gigantic trumpet sung it's deep tune across the battlefield. Signifying the emergence of the Kushinada.
"Do you hear that, Ichigo? It's the Kushinada, They're appearing because they've sensed the change in your spiritual pressure."
Ichigo's horned helmet had almost been formed, when the Kushinada began to encircle them.
"They're here to devour the man who destroyed hell! Hurry Ichigo, Become a monster and crush them! Or would you rather be eaten? It doesn't matter really since you'll just come back to life! It's an endless cycle!" Kokuto shouted
"Ain't...Gonna happen!" Ichigo rasped out through his mask.
"Eh?" Kokuto grunted out with a cockeyed expression.
"I'm not...Gonna let it happen!" Ichigo said, Breaking his left horn. "Seeking revenge because your feelings were hurt? That's bullshit...It's Childish. You blame your pain on those around you, and refuse to take responsibility for your actions.."
The substitute tripped over his footing, but regained it and stood up and threw a glare at Kokuto.
"How long do you think you can run from your pain before it consumes you?" Ichigo continues, The hollowfication dissolving into reishi.
The Kushinada stand up straight, and appear behind Ichigo.
"The main reason I came back here was to save my friends...And I will! But I refuse! I refuse to sacrifice those around me!"
A Kushinada peered at Ichigo's back, Having reached the Shinigami's level.
"Ichigo! Run now, Get away!" Rukia's voice cried out from atop of the tree.
The substitute's hands stopped trembling, as he said "I will fight for my friends with that solemn vow in my soul!" As the last of the Hollowfication was cast off.
Ichigo was looking up at the time, to see the palm of a Kushinada, Sailing right towards him.
His instinct was to run, To dodge, But then as if time stopped, The Kushinada's hand slowed considerably.
"Ichigo Kurosaki." A deep baritone voice rang out from seemingly everywhere.
Ichigo was frozen, But conscious.
"I accept that Vow."
Then, Ichigo was allowed to move his head, But not his mouth.
What he saw, Was incredible.
There was a man with short hair, and glowing white skin wearing a regal-like Yukata adorned with gold. But, Ichigo couldn't see his arms or legs.
"I am the soul king, Ichigo"
..Did he hear that right? Soul king?
"Yes, It's true. Now, For more pressing matters. The sinner Kokuto."
Hearing Kokuto's name, Ichigo's attention was immediately on the Soul kings...Quad pupiled eyes..
"Once free, There will be catastrophe, Pain and chaos. Kokuto will not stop until the entire world and it's people have felt monumental grief. I cannot allow this. So I will help you." The soul king informed, Ichigo's eyes widened.
"Hear me, Ichigo!" The soul king's voice grew loud. "I will grant you the power of the Kushinada. Whilst in this form, You will be able to free your friends from Hell's grasp, As well as chain those too damned to save."
"By this I decree!" Was the final order of the soul king, Before disappearing.
Then, the Kushinada's hand smashed the ground and Ichigo, And began to transfer itself to Ichigo.
What happened next was history.
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End flashback
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"Yeah...I remember. Why didn't I remember meeting the soul king?! That's some seriously Unforgettable stuff!" Ichigo asked, Outraged at the gap in his memory.
"When you dispelled the Kushinada's armor, It might have taken that portion of your memory as well." Suki responded, Thoughtfully.
"But. Here it remains, Still a part of your soul. It seems, That it's somehow...Dormant." Zangetsu said, also staring at the golden mass of energy atop of Suki's palm.
"WAS Dormant. Until exposed to yours truly." Suki said, a small smile.
"W-what does that mean?" Ichigo stuttered out.
"That means, Because of me, You're able to enter that form again. Just say the words 'Eien no Horobi'" Suki said with utmost seriousness.
"Ichigo. This power is not to be taken lightly. As the soul king said, It has the power to Damn people to Hell for all of time."
"Yeah, I heard him!" Ichigo snapped.
The power from...Hell. At his fingertips It..It was terrifying! This much power! I dont have the right to damn people to hell?!
"The soul king seemed to think otherwise." Suki said, Moving her snow-white hair behind her ear.
The fact that she could hear his thoughts did nothing to quell Ichigo's frenzied Heartbeat. Why was all of this just dumped on him? Why not in segments like usual?
"I'm trying my hardest to follow here...Okay, So first, I find out that my Shinigami powers aren't vanishing because SOMEHOW the Hogyoku, Who i've named Suki, had merged with me and ended up stopping the process. Then I find out that I can't speak with either one of my spirits and alot of time passes until randomly one day I'm pulled in her by Shiro in order to meet the Hogyoku who's now telling me that I still have the powers of Hell..." Ichigo said with a long drawn out breath.
"...Yeah sounds about right." Shirosaki responds.
Ichigo sits down, His legs unable to cope with his nerves.
"Ichigo. Ar-" Zangetsu was cut off when the aforementioned man said
"Hisagi was kinda right...If you don't fear your power, You don't deserve it." Ichigo thought, Remembering the time Shuhei Hisagi briefed him about the battle of Karakura before Ichigo arrived.
"...That's not the right way to go about it, But if that makes you feel better kingy then whatever." Shiro said, scoffing at how pathetic Ichigo looked, as the man sat down to process all of this information.
"..Perhaps we should have waited for this. Maybe all of this information was too much." The young quincy manifestation questioned.
"No. He needed to hear this. If not, Then how could he be a proper god? For what is a god of death if he cannot control a soul's final destination?" Suki said, Her gaze offering no sympathy.
"Ichigo" Suki sighed out, and crouched to his level. Her armor clinkering with her movement. She then stared at him in the eye. "Like it or not, The path of the god of death is the road you're on. You now have your first godly ability. Use it with the utmost wisdom."
Ichigo gulped, and nodded.
"A-alright. I will."
This seemed to please the woman, If the act of hugging didn't show.
She wrapped her arms around him, and spoke into his ear.
"You're never alone...Ever. Out of every shinigami I've ever encountered, You're the first to make me feel...Anything. Imagine the horror of an uncaring and emotionless life..." Suki said, Nuzzling into Ichigo's neck.
"I-I understand.." Ichigo said, Meek at how close Suki was to his face.
She yawned quietly, and said: "I'm sleepy...Stay safe until I return.. please?"
"I will." Ichigo said, Returning her hug.
Suki Pecked his cheek and giggled quietly before turning into particles.
"Well, I guess Green-bitch wanted a nap. Whatever." Shiro said, before turning around and walking away.
"..." Zangetsu was quiet as he looked at the retreating Zanpakuto spirit. He was perplexed because unbeknownst to his wielder, When Ichigo an Suki began hugging, In that moment, Shirosaki looked like a proud parent. Like everything he had wanted to happen, happened.
"I'm going to go back now, Is there anything else you two wanna share with me?" Ichigo said, Standing up.
Zangetsu looked at Shiro's retreating form, and said
"No, I..I do not think we have anything else."
Ichigo looked at zangetsu before nodding.
"Alright"
The god of death returned to the waking world once more.
"Say, Old man. I'm pretty fuckin happy to not have disappeared. aren't you?" Shiro called out.
"I am Indeed Elated." Zangetsu responded.
"...Ichigo is happier."
"Yes, I noticed it too."
The Ocean, was steadily draining. The tallest of the townscape's buildings was nearly breaking surface, The sky was bright and cloudless.
"Damn it...Doesn't that mean that the rain's gonna come back if King bitch gets broken up with?" Shiro said, In angry realization.
"Yes. An inevitable outcome." Zangetsu responded in a downcast tone.
The Hollow's shrieks of anger reverberated through the ocean of misery they were under.
()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()
Meanwhile, Ichigo familia, Pub Hibachitei. Same night.
()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()
"Whew! I thought we were goners!" Ren said, As Mirba was healing his arm.
Ren was speaking of when he and Mirba pressed onto level 19 before having to fall back due to overwhelming numbers as well as running out of food...They don't know how to ration well... Other than that.. they'd completely overestimated their abilities. Just BARELY grinding down to Rivira. But..They couldn't for the life of them understand why there was a gigantic hole in the ceiling of the safe area.
"Well, I told you both not to leave the safe area until we've rested...I understand the excitement.. to hear these stories about Rivira...But to actually visit it? Beautiful..." Acero muttered that last part to himself.
Acero had debated on just staying there until the next time Mirba and Ren came to visit, But Mirba was heavily against the idea.
"Yeah, True...Hey, Bell!" Mirba called out, Finishing with Ren's injuries.
Bell and his party, who had just entered the tavern, Turn and greet happily.
"Hey Mirba! What's up? How was that party?" Bell asked.
Mirba smiled sweetly as she said
"It was just great! The people were nice, The atmosphere was comfortable and even the food was amazing!...Ichigo's is better.. but other than that, I liked it." Mirba said, Resting her chin on her intertwined fingers.
"Yeah, Goddess Hestia made sure to take a couple boxes haha" Bell said, Awkwardly.
"So...What's the occasion?" Mirba asks
"We're celebrating Welf's level up! Its crazy actually, We're leveling up pretty quickly, even I'm close to raking up to lvl 3" Bell says happily. More proud at how well his friends are improving along with him.
"Oh is that true? How wonderful! Dinner's on me tonight" Mirba said with a wink at Welf.
Welf then spun to his left, and pulled bell in close. Mirba and company stared for a second, then shook the behavior off and started exchanging pleasantries.
"W-What's the matter, welf?" Bell asked his friend.
"T-That girl...How...How...How is she so Beautiful!?" Welf nearly stopped whispering, as he snuck a glance at her over his shoulder.
Mirba saw him looking and then she smiled and waved slightly.
His head snapped back down as his blush intensified.
"M-Mirba?" Bell squeaked out
"What are you two talking about, over here?" Ren asked, as his head popped in between theirs
"what the?!" Welf exclaimed as he noticed Ren, Who was now laying on the table.
The group shared a laugh and began to order their food.
They talked for a while and even considered making an even larger party. But, Mirba insisted that she'd have to get Ichigo to sign off on the entire thing.
"I don't know if they call you the 'Record Holder' Or whatever, But you shouldn't try to con people ALL the time" A young sounding voice called out, To bell.
The group look over to see a Pallum standing with an aura of smugness. He wore a black uniform with orange trimmings, and had an image of a bow on his chest.
"A rabbit who's fast at running and nothing else. Ran from all the monsters and Ranked up!" the Pallum continued, Making an imitation of a small animal. "And now he says he's close to lvl 3? If I were him I'd be too embarrassed to leave my home."
"Sheesh." Was Welf's reply, as he turned towards his food.
"Dont acknowledge him, Bell-sama" Lili offered to Bell.
"The Little one's right. Pay him no mind." Acero told Bell, Who was shifting in his seat nervously.
"Oh.. right." Bell nodded.
"Look! Your comrades are just a bunch of random people from different familias!" The little annoyance began again "A failure of a blacksmith, A shrimp for a supporter, And three random nobodies from that Miserable excuse of a god. But.. I guess thats perfect for a cheating rookie, Though!" The boy's group burst out belly laughing.
"Both the cowardly rabbit, and the blonde bimbo's familia are the weakest of them all! Lowest of the low. Both lead by a Useless God, a worthless nobody with nothing to his name and by a failure of a goddess with no dignity, And no authority. Just her enormous boobs."
Ren's glare harshened, and Acero's frown deepened. For Mirba?...This hit the mark for both Mirba and Bell.
Bell made movements to stand up, But Mirba beat him to the punch.
She stood up with immense speed, Practically kicking her stool into the wall, turning it into splinters as she slammed her hands down, impacting her handprints into the hardwood table.
"You son of a bitch, You've blasphemed against my lord. Take it back before I Have your tongue!" Flickers of dark fire, Colored lime green, swirled around her for a second.
If anyone looked deep into her eyes, They would find that the whites of her beautiful green eyes were slightly darkened.
"M-Mirba!" Ren stammered out, in disbelief. Bell nodded as he stood up as well.
"I am telling you to take it back!" The Argonaut ordered.
Acero crossed his arms and awaited for the eventual conflict.
The Pallum was trembling for a little bit, but he salvaged his mock-authority and chuckled when he said "So you're mad 'cuz I'm right, Huh?! Tell the truth, You're both embarrassed to be the children of such useless gods huh!"
"But that strawberry is the dumbest of all, Just look at his face! I don't imagine ANYONE wanting to be under something so stupid."
Mirba nearly blitzed the table into splinters, But she stopped once she saw Welf's tankard impact the pallum's face and spill on the ground.
"Sorry...My hand slipped." Welf lied with a grin.
"Damn it!" The boy's party members said as they got up ready to fight.
"...I'm more than ready to accommodate your wishes. You shouldn't have done that, Though." Mirba said in a low voice.
Chaos ensued as Bell and Mirba's party decimated the Familia of Apollo.
Acero and Lili stood off to the side, and the pallum looked extraordinarily concerned.
"Who's next? Who wants some!?" Welf called out in challenge.
"I do." A lone voice called out from where Apollo familia sat.
A tall man with long hair tied back uncrossed his legs and stood up.
Before Welf could see what happened, The man dashed towards him and open-palm punched Welf, Sending him careening towards the entrance.
"Welf!" Bell called out, Looking at his passed out friend.
The man swiftly dashed to Bell with great speed, and proceeded to 3 shot him.
"Is that all you've got, Little rookie? Hurting my Familia members carries a high price. That goes for you too, Blondie." The man says, Dropping bell to the floor.
"You didn't stop that little shit's provocations, Yet you claim no responsibility, Hyakinthos, Captain of Apollo familia. Is that really the best Apollo could do? Such low integrity for a god. Someone should be hired just to keep accountability." Mirba said, The green lights appearing yet again as she stalked up to the unconscious boy, and stomped on his elbow, and smirked at the sickening crunch she heard. Still, Hyakinthos did nothing except glare, as sweat began to bead from his forehead.
"No movement, still? Maybe This" Mirba says, Stressing the word, as she rolled the boy over with her legs, and stomped mercilessly on his knee. "Will get you to quit being a pansy. He still has one knee and one elbow left sooo you better just choose huh."
Dark pink fire flickered into view from on top of her figure, as if the woman herself was aflame, however it was very faint, and to the untrained eye- invisible.
The whites in her eyes were darkening slowly as well.
"Tch!" The man didn't take that smoothly as he dashed towards her just like he did with Welf and Bell.
But she wasn't Welf or Bell.
She visibly disappeared with a green flicker of light, and dodged his attack with counterattack ready.
He ran right into her kick at full force, Knocking him back to gather his bearings.
"Y-you!" He seethed, Nose bleeding.
Lili scurried to Take Welf and Bell out of the way.
"All bark, No bite?" Mirba questioned, Her glare intensifying.
He was hesitant to make a move, Luckily, Mirba was impatient.
"Fine. I'll show you the power of the 'Worthless familia'" She echoed.
She blitzed the man, Who could hardly move out of her way, But as soon as he dodged, She changed her direction mid-air, That light green light appearing underneath her feet as she did so, And was able to catch the man's shirt.
Bunching it up in her fist, She used her momentum to score a direct elbow strike to his nose, But he wasn't completely incompetent.
Holding up a hand, he blocked her attack, and parried with one of his own.
Mirba was sent sailing across the bar, But quickly regained both her sense of direction and bearings.
"Come, Then." She said, Motioning for him to come at her. He growled, But obliged. As he sped to her, His hand went to his back and grasped something elongated, and pulled it out to reveal a short sword.
It was like lightning, But the motionless Acero had flashed over to where Hyakinthos was, and grabbed him by his throat Halting his momentum.
With another hand, Acero grabbed the drawn short sword from Hyakinthos's hand, and cast it to the ground. A series of gasps and whispers rose amongst the crowd.
"A cowardly tactic. To attack an unarmed adversary because of your own shortcomings as a warrior. You felt good pummeling those lower than yourself, Yet, cant hold a candle to someone far superior to you? What a joke." The tall elf said, Throwing Hyakinthos aside.
Ren guided a seething Mirba out of the pub, whilst lili and Acero picked up Welf and Bell.
Before leaving, Acero dug around in his pocket, pulled out what seemed to be 459 valis.
He looked at it, Before tossing it towards the bartender, and finally disappearing.
()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()()
Ichigo familia, at the Mansion
"You did what?!" Ichigo practically shouted, Not believing his ears.
"We...may have started a barfight." Ren said, wistfully.
Ichigo sat down with a sigh, Mirba, Ren and Acero sat across from him.
"The literal first day I let you outta my sight... you made sure they got home safe, Right?" Ichigo asked, Referring to Welf and Bell.
"Of course." Mirba said, Uncharacteristically serious.
"...Well, Whatever. No harm no foul, Right? Just a regular bar fight, I go say sorry, pay some sort of fine, Right? It's whatever." Ichigo said with a casual shrug of his shoulders.
Ren looked at Mirba with an worried expression, and her tough facade nearly crumbles.
"...Right?" Ichigo said, Not believing that there's more.
"...L-Lord Ichigo... I..Uh." Mirba began, Ichigo then shushed her and said
"Ah, Hold up for a second. Ren, You're dismissed for the night. Goodnight, Sleep well! Acero. Thank you, Really, For not letting Mirba get hurt, I guess I'll have ta reward you later, Huh. Anyways, Both of you are dismissed. I wanna talk to her Alone." Ichigo said, Not missing the look of Horror on Mirba's face.
They both bowed and offered apologetic looks towards Mirba, Before leaving the duo.
"Hm. Now we're alone. So, What's on your mind." Ichigo said, Figuring that she couldn't talk due to the other two's proximity. When in reality...It was having to talk to Ichigo, That made her so nervous.
"I...I lost control of my anger...I...Hurt someone..." Mirba choked out, the unfamiliar sting of tears at the corners of her eyes.
This was unexpected...Oh damn. She must have hurt someone pretty bad to break her Aloof and Goofy demeanor.
"...I see. What happened, It's alright, You can tell me anything." Ichigo said with a warm gaze.
She nodded, as a tear rolled down her cheek.
"I...Broke Luan Espel's Right knee, and Right elbow." Mirba informed as Ichigo looked...Relieved?
"I...See. whew, That's alot better than I ex-"
"And I liked it!" She yelled out, Tears freely flowing down her face.
"I Did it because it felt good! I Enjoyed the twitch of pain that went down his back, And at the horrified looks everyone gave me. Yet, I did it again with his knee! I wanted to make sure he could never spew such..such complete and utter Bullsh-..crap! " Ichigo was stunned.
"All those things he said about you...I knew that he was just trying to get under my skin... It just.. I couldn't control it!"
She chuckled angrily "To think that I told you 'I like seeing the smiles of the people who I help' What a...a...Freaking hypocrite!" She continued her depreciative rant.
Mirba hunched over and covered her eyes with her hands.
"I...I cannot believe that...That I could do something like that...and enjoy it.." Mirba sobbed out. Quietly.
Ichigo stood up.
"I und- I understand if you dont want to keep m-me here anymo-" She was cut off as she was enveloped in a warm embrace by Ichigo.
"Nobody's perfect. Nobody. Not me, Not you, not anyone. I don't hate you. And I dont want to cast you out because of a mistake you're clearly sorry for making." Ichigo said, Rubbing slow circles on her back.
"But- But! I went against one of your three general commands! 'Don't use unnecessary force, especially on a defeated opponent.' " Mirba parroted out.
"Well I guess I'm gonna have to find a suitable punishment, Huh. But I'm in no means going to throw you out because of a Human mistake." Ichigo said in a comforting tone, Still hugging Mirba.
She gasped and sobbed harder, as she reached and grabbed the back of Her god's shihakusho, as if it's the only thing anchoring her to reality.
"Shh, It's alright." Ichigo said softly, as Mirba continued to vent her frustrations.
Normally, Ichigo would be horrified to see that there was snot on his clothing, But considering the circumstances, It was kinda expected.
Mirba had passed out after a solid hour of straight up sobbing. But, Ichigo found that he could in no way be angry with her. She made a mistake, and wholeheartedly apologized. What's there to be mad at? And apparently, It was instigated by the Pallum.
But Ichigo found, That there was one thing to be absolutely Livid about. The complete lack of control, that this 'Apollo' has over his children. This is enough to make Ichigo's temperature rise considerably.
*Well Shit, King. I'm Impressed that Blondie had it in her. But there's something else. I'm sure you felt it too.*
'yeah, I felt it from here. Its unmistakably Hollow. I need to check her Falna, To see what changed.' Ichigo said, Thoughtfully, While stroking Mirba's head in a comforting manor.
*Ichigo. There will be consequences for your children's actions.* Suki spoke in a grave tone.
'Yeah...I know.' Ichigo thought, as he moved the hair from Mirba's eyes, Exposing her beautiful face to the world.
Ichigo's legs were getting tired, So he effortlessly carried Mirba to her room Bridal-style, and laid her down atop her bed, Only going as far as removing her footwear for her and covering her with her blanket.
Ichigo's eyes scanned the room to see it filled with pink, Pink decorations, Trinkets, Art, And even Pink colored figures on a shelf. He chuckled softly as he realized just how much of a girly girl Mirba truly was.
"Goodnight, Mirba." Ichigo said softly as he closed her door.
*Bang, Bang, Bang.*
Ichigo was already downstairs, and preparing breakfast, So Ren thought he'd be nice and check the door.
It was pretty short, But Ichigo could swear that he heard feminine voices.
Ren walked into the kitchen with an envelope in his hands.
"Oh, What do you got there." Ichigo asked, Stirring the food.
"A letter...From the Apollo familia." Ren sighed out.
Ichigo removed the food from the heat and turned towards Ren, Who had the letter outstretched.
"Probably has to do with what happened last week." Ren responded as Ichigo put the letter up his sleeve, and said
"Right...Well, Call Acero and Mirba down here then."
Ren nodded, and sped towards Acero and Mirba's room.
Ichigo then loaded up 4 plates, and headed to the dining room to set the table.
He noticed the sounds of people coming into the room and looked up.
The god of death smiled, mostly at Mirba, and said "Good morning, How was your sleep."
Mirba smile bashfully as she eyed her food with great interest.
"It was great, I haven't slept like that in forever." Mirba said, steadily consuming her food.
"That's good." Ichigo said, as he pulled out the letter.
Mirba stiffened once she saw the crest on the envelope.
Opening the letter, Ichigo took out it's contents and studied them carefully.
A smile grew on his face, and Mirba couldn't help but be put off.
"Good news, We've been invited to Apollo's Banquet tonight. I'm supposed to bring only my captain." Ichigo says, Folding the letter.
Mirba sighs out in anxiety, as she started to pick at her food.
"Mirba, If you dont wanna go, That's fine. We don't need to go." Ichigo smiled.
Her head snapped up, Did she really want to sacrifice her Lord's chance to meet and mingle with other gods? No, Never.
"W-what are you talking about! I'm just thinking about what to wear, is all." Mirba said with a smile.
"Uh...Alrighty then, let me know when you're ready." Ichigo said, Beginning to eat.
"Of course"
Ichigo and Mirba were dressed in similar colored clothing. Mirba's dress was black with green trimmings to further compliment her eyes, and her hair was tied up into a bun with a golden ornament shaped like a pentagon.
Ichigo was dressed in a black suit where his coat reached to the top of his thighs. The inside being a velvet textured red color, and had threads of gold weaved throughout the fabric giving him an ethereal sheen. His orange hair was combed and was elegantly tied back...Mirba insisted that he should comb it first.
"I...I'm nervous." Mirba squeaked out.
"Its alright. With all of us here, you're perfectly safe." Ichigo said, Remembering how he left Tensa Zangetsu at the Mansion.
'If it comes down to it, king, Cero is an option.'
'I dont wanna end up destroying Orario'
Ichigo and Mirba walked into the Ballroom and were nearly blown away.
There was gold everywhere. On the walls, On the tables, And even on the damn food! (some of it)
"I-Ichigo..." Mirba said shyly
"..Hey is that Hestia?"
Mirba looked over to where Bell and Hestia were, and together with Ichigo, she began to walk towards them with a small smile.
"Hey Bell, How are you doing?" Mirba asked with her hands clasped.
"O-Oh, Mirba! Sorry I didn't see you there haha. I'm doing well, Thanks!" Bell answered.
"Where's Welf and Lili?" Mirba asked, Concerned.
"They're back home waiting." Bell answered.
"Hey Ichigo, Whats up?" Hestia asked the taller man.
"Oh, Nothing much. Is this all there is to this banquet? Standing talking and eating?" Ichigo asked.
"Eh, Not really. There's still the dances and the announcements to start." Hestia informed.
"Sooooo. What's the strawberry lookin' for?" Hestia asked, Teasing the man.
"I'm looking for the host, Apollo." Ichigo simply said, Surprising Hestia. She too, knew what happened on the day of Welf's level up.
"I-I gotcha. Have fun with that" The goddess responded as she walked back to the larger group.
"wooooooo! Who's THIS beauty" Hermes whistled.
"This is Mirba, My captain" Ichigo smiled, as he pushed Mirba slightly.
"O-Oh, Right!" Mirba said as she swallowed her food.
"I'm Mirba tuganis, Ichigo Familia's captain. It's nice to meet you Lords Hermes, Miach, And Takemikazuchi!" Mirba exclaimed with a bow.
"Ah, Quite the lively one, Isn't she?" Miach smiled.
"Indeed, But...I cannot say this enough, But Feast your eyes on this!" Hermes pointed over at Asfi, who had a blush painted to her face.
"...Quit embarrassing me before I hit you.." Asfi meekly said.
Hermes shuffled towards her, and said, "Awww You're cute when you blush."
She scoffed, and elbowed the man into the wall fifty feet away.
Ichigo tuned out of the conversation and began to look around and the party.
To his left, Next to some concession tables, He saw Hephaestus conversing with Loki about something, It looked like she was blushing as well.
The god of death walked over towards her, and still went unnoticed.
"Hey what's up?" asked Ichigo, Surprising Loki and the divine smith.
"I-Ichigo...H-Hey!" Hephaestus responded, Unable to meet his gaze.
The man's eyebrow raised and asked "Are you alright?"
"Yesimfine" Hephaestus responded rather quickly.
"? Well, Alrighty then. Just comin' to say hi." Ichigo said, as he turned around and walked towards Hestia and company.
Ichigo could slightly hear Loki speaking in a hushed tone saying something like "you dummy! That was your chance!"
Hephaestus cried out in embarrassment.
"Ladies and gentlemen, Thank you for joining me today!" A jovial voice called out from the top of the main stairway.
'Oh? Apollo?' Ichigo thought to himself as he took in the man's appearance. He wore a bright red piece of fabric, and a jade/Emerald circlet in the shape of olive branches around his head.
'...Definitely Apollo' Ichigo said.
Three figures appeared Next to the Roman god, One of which, Mirba was glaring at intensely.
"I wanted to make this event special and shake things up a little!" He began "I hope everything is to your liking! The act of dressing up our children and showing them off at this banquet is such a treat, Is it not?" Apollo said, Enthusiastically.
To this, The gods and goddesses in the room gave cheers of approval.
"It fills me with great joy, to see my brethren and their children...Quite a splendid night indeed. I feel as if I'll make many new friends this evening...I consider myself truly blessed." "Come now! The night is young, Please, Enjoy yourselves to your Heart's content!" He finished, before his gaze locking onto Ichigo's.
'...I don't like him' was all Ichigo thought. Shiro and Zangetsu shared this sentiment.
Two hours have passed, and Ichigo had been Mingling with the other gods for some time now.
"C'mon Hephaistus! He's not going to refuse you!" Loki said, Surprisingly cooperative with Hestia.
"B-But...I'm so nervous...It sounded so easy to do.." Hephaestus said, Trying to cover her face.
"Gah, Well, Shoot. I wish you the best of luck." Hestia said, as she resumed stuffing her face.
Hephaestus's face was burning, as she noticed the dancing had begun.
'...Do it...Do it!' Hephaestus's heart was telling her.
"...Screw it." She said, and with fiery resolve, she walked over to Ichigo, Who was leaning on a pillar.
"Ichigo!" Hephaestus called out, Rather confidently.
"Y-Yes? I wasn't sleeping idunnowhatyoumean" Ichigo said hastily.
Well, Here she was. About to ask out another god to dance with her.
"I-Ichigo... Would you by chance... want.. to.." Hephaestus began, But then cut herself off after noticing how weak she sounded.
"AHEM! Ichigo. Would you give me the honor of this dance?" Hephaestus was positive that she messed up her question, But she was too far to back out now.
A flash of surprise danced on Ichigo's face, as he grasped her outstretched hand.
The party stopped and stared at the pair.
"Of course I will." Ichigo said, Taking her by the hand to the dance floor.
'Holy crap...I don't know how to dance!'
There was a cacophony of cheers and applause at this.
*Surely you're not one to back down from a challenge.* Zangetsu goaded.
'Damn it...' Ichigo said, Grasping onto the scarlet faced goddess.
The shinigami's breath hitched as he noticed just how beautiful she was.
"H-Hello" Hephaestus said, bashfully.
Ichigo responded in the form of a smile.
Immediately, Ichigo and Hephaestus stole the dance floor with their elegant movements, Hephaestus insisted that she take Lead.
Ichigo's face burned as he felt all eyes on them when she dipped and twirled him.
But then she pulled him close, and before he knew it, She was next to his ear.
"Ichigo...I've been really thinking about this...Truly..." She began, and Ichigo held his breath.
The goddess had a red shade to her cheeks, and her breath was catching in her throat. The ethereal beauty's body was hot with embarrassment, but it was a good type. The butterflies in her stomach raged on, making the woman feel kind of queasy, but she knew she had to press on.
"I'm unsure as to whether you feel the same...But... I Lov-" At this, she was cut off with "Esteemed Guests! How are you enjoying the banquet!" Apollo rang out, Walking towards Ichigo.
Every light was turned off, and a spotlight formed around Ichigo and Hephaestus.
Immediately, Bell and Hestia came to Ichigo's side.
"Apollo...what is the meaning of this.." Hephaestus growled out.
"Salutations, Hestia and Ichigo...I heard a rather nasty rumor that our children had a bit of a run in" Apollo said, Ignoring the Divine blacksmith.
"Eh- Uh yeah, I suppose they did." Hestia said, not knowing the full extent of the ordeal.
"And Ichigo...It appears that one of mine suffered serious injuries at the hands of your child, And I'd like to request compensation." The asked seriously.
"Ah- I have no idea what you're talking about, I'll have you know, Bell was in some pretty bad shape as well!" Hestia retorted.
"Okay, It doesn't matter. What do you want." Ichigo asked, Already expecting this answer.
"Ah, ah, ah. Doesn't matter? Can you both make those claims after you see this!" Apollo said, dramatically throwing his hand behind him to point at the Issue.
Another spotlight revealed the pallum man Mirba brutalized.
"It...It hurts...Hurts..." The pallum looked like he had been run over with a train. His arm and Leg were in a cast, and he looked to be on some sort of heavy pain killer.
"Jeez...Did you both really do that?" Hestia questioned in surprise.
Mirba gasped and held her hands to her face in horror.
"Dont even act like you dont know what you did, You wretch" Apollo told Mirba, with what was genuine anger.
"As I'm told, Your child was the one who started the altercation. There were witnesses. You can't talk your way out of this!" Apollo exclaimed as three more men appeared under a spotlight.
"Gah What a joke. I refuse to stand here and be insulted. Come on bell, We're leaving." Hestia said and made to move.
"Ahh, You intend to ignore your child's wrongdoings? Dear Hestia?" Apollo said with a sickening smile.
"You've left me no choice! As the head of the Apollo Familia, I challenge you to a war game!" The crooked man exclaimed to the audience
An excited wave of cheers and applause came from the room.
"And if we win this Clash, Then Bell Cranel and Mirba Tuganis will belong to us!" Apollo finished with the most sickeningly perverted facial expression.
"What?!" Hestia exclaimed, Not believing her ears.
"And if I win, I will take everything.. every asset, Every Resource you own and you're banished from Orario for all of eternity." Ichigo said, With his arms crossed.
It was Apollo's turn to be flabbergasted. Everyone in the room was even more electrified.
"T-That's not.." Apollo began, But was Cut off with;
"I guess you know you're gonna lose, Right?" Ichigo taunted.
Apollo's face morphed into fury, his skin taking a shade of red only achieved from fury, but his confidence was unbroken, as deluded and perverted he was, Strong was his familia. There was no way he would lose, he thought.
"Fine, I accept your Condition, God of death. But heres my FINAL Condition. You are in NO way allowed to Help." Apollo said smugly.
Ichigo shrugged and said "Whatever."
Hestia hadn't agreed to this whatsoever, But...If Ichigo was with her, She had a better chance of winning.
Pulling off her glove, She threw it at Apollo's face, and said "We accept.